Follow Adella’s recommendation

“The princess seems to know what she is talking about,” says Stewart, “and I judge it wise to follow her advice in this matter.”

He looks at Adella, thoughtfully, stroking his chin. “What say you, Sister Dearest? Would you be willing to accompany me to assist me in understanding the language and the culture?”

Adella’s eyes grow wide in surprise, and she is about to rush over and embrace her brother, when she remembers that, for Mayweather’s sake, she must maintain decorum. “That will be most acceptable,” she manages to respond. The excitement in her eyes is all that betrays the formality of her words and manner.

“And I think one attendant for each of us will be sufficient,” continues the king.

“One attendant? For each of you?” Mayweather asks in astonishment. “Your Majesty’s tender years may not have prepared you for the dangers that lurk in the outer provinces. Perhaps if I were to accompany—“

“Tender as my years may be,” Stewart interjects, “I believe I can handle traveling within my own kingdom without a bunch of nursemaids. You heard the princess: transparency and openness is highly valued by this community, and the more who accompany me, the less trustworthy I will appear.”

Mayweather is unconvinced, and the king takes a softer approach. “Lord Mayweather, if my reign is to be remembered for anything, it will be this bold, new venture to establish normal relations with the magical community. If I can only accomplish diplomacy with a gaggle of professional advisors, future hisotorians will judge me as being an incompetent puppet, ill-prepared to sit on the throne.”

Mayweather nods, doubtfully. “As you wish, Your Majesty. Although, I would be less than ‘open’ and ‘transparent’ with you if I did not confess that the thought of the two of you being so unprotected troubles me greatly. It is not for any lack of intellect or courage that I fear for you — it is for your personal safety. Would you at least consider consulting with Master MacTavish for his counsel about magical practices and how to defend against them?”

Stewart considers this suggestion to consult with the ancient librarian who is in charge of the king’s personal, secret archives. MacTavish has been his — and Duncan’s — tutor ever since their parents decided that it was unproductive and unwise to continue to employ women for the princes’ education. Once they turned 18, MacTavish began educating them in the matters of the secret archives, but by that point, both boys had grown bored with studies and were not the best of students.