Bae was hyperaware of Armel's attempts at reining in his jealousy. No matter how much he failed, she could sense his effort. For the most part, his protectiveness was unnecessary though. Six of the seven men around her were not hers. She knew it just from talking to them and so she kept them at a slight distance.

She enjoyed talking to them, however. Prince Hisoka and Prince Blake were highly entertaining, keeping her laughing for most of the morning. Prince Oliver and Percy were keen ...