trust them

"I think you should trust them, father." Liandra answered taking Kendra´s hand, and smiled at her father. The King pondered for a while, and said "I am inclined to accept it, Baroness Blackhand, but I have two conditions"

"I am ready to be the bearer of the King´s demand to the Emperor of Nocternia." Kendra said respectfully, and held Liandra´s hand tighter.

"First, such a move is highly unusual to two kingdoms without formal diplomatic ties, Lady Kendra. If we are to take this first step, I expect a Nocterian envoy in my court, and a Luxian envoy in the Nocterian court" Kendra remained stoic

"Second, I expect the Nocterian envoy to be you, Baroness Kendra the Blackhand" Liandra felt her heart jump, for this meant Kendra´s stay would be much longer.

"All your demands are acceptable to the Emperor, Your Majesty." She kneeled, and the King declared "Good. I still want more details on the **** you intend to send into my kingdom, how many, who is going to be in command, and more. We shall adjourn later in my study" With that the King dismissed them from his presence.

Liandra was deeply troubled, for the King´s very last words reeked with falsehood. As soon as she was alone with Kendra she decided to warn her friend.

"Kendra. I don't think father asked to meet you in private to discuss the expedition"

"I agree" Kendra´s voice was stern and resolute

"But I dont think he wishes you harm... he spoke truly when he said he wished our countries to be closer."

"No... he means to take me. And by my Oath, it shall be a night he wont soon forget"