#Chapter 140: Settled Happiness

Ember Three months after the ceremony, Clara launches herself onto our bed at dawn shouting that the butterflies are back. Kaine groans into the pillow, I sit up too quickly, and the nausea I have been ignoring rolls through me hard enough that I have to breathe before I answer, though Clara notices nothing because she is already demanding breakfast, the garden, and confirmation that butterflies prefer princesses who finish their eggs. At breakfast, Alexander listens to her entire theory about butterfly loyalty while Kaine reviews border reports and Lila reminds me that I am greeting the trade delegation this afternoon. Three months ago I would have reached for a sword before a diplomat's hand. Now I ask which envoy is most likely to test me, and Lila's smile turns sharp. "Lord Veyr mistakes courtesy for weakness," she says. "Then I won't be courteous for long." Kaine hides a smile behind his cup. Clara asks if diplomats are like wolves who forgot how to growl, and Alexande