“Majesty, you made it!” Aston exclaimed in English, as previously instructed to by her parents, for the sake of their Zarconian guests, as she dashed out to meet the royal family. Jumping into Dammen’s arms, she ignored the shocked look on his face at her obvious affection for him. Fortunately, Jenny Tompkins had been waiting to take Arian upon the Altairs’ arrival, so her efficiency and timing were perfect in that the child wasn’t caught in the middle of Aston’s exuberant embrace.

Aston drew back with a wide-dimpled grin and peered up at the giant. “You brought her! Just like you promised!” Moving to Casina, she gave a bright, welcoming...