"Young Lord Kraven," the Count said warmly. "It has been far too long. I trust you have been well?"
Julian bowed his head slightly, maintaining Kraven's persona while his mind worked rapidly. "Well enough, Count Azmed. I apologize for my earlier surprise. The years have… blurred some memories, I'm afraid."
The Countess offered a polite smile, though her eyes held a hint of calculation as she observed him.
"We are delighted to be here. The journey from the county was smoother than expected."
Lady Elara remained slightly behind her parents, her hands clasped tightly in front of her. When Julian's gaze returned to her, she lifted her eyes again for a fleeting second before looking down once more. That expression of self-doubt tugged at something in him. She looked like someone carrying a heavy burden... perhaps the weight of a long-arranged betrothal to a man with Kraven's notorious reputation.
