Snow Tracks and Stables Secrets (1)

The question hung in the air for a bit, lingering until Mikael finally answered after a pause, "Yes, Your Highness."

Princess Seline sliced through her venison dinner, carving each into bite-sized pieces. The sound of her knife scraping against the plate blended with the lively chatter of her retinue at another table. After cutting a few pieces, she paused and glanced at Mikael.

"I have met your father once," she said, her eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "It was when we were discussing diplomatic ties with your King, during my first visit to your kingdom."

She continued, gazing at Mikael intently, "Back in my land of the North, having white hair is rare. It used to be a sign of royalty."