"Your Highness." His address is no less warm. It's not that he finds Nuala less threatening, per se – he knows matriarchy well enough to understand her grace is no indication of softness. But while perhaps his familiarity with that political style should prove ample warning in itself, her particular finesse inclines him to suspend disbelief willingly, to accept her sincerity as much as her political savvy. Today, perhaps, when there are heavier concerns weighing on the back of his mind, he is more willing than usual. (And he has missed her, in a way.)

"Gladly," he responds to the invitation, taking a seat where indicated. Though he does spare a glance to the room – the furnishings, the glass case in particular – he has no desire to pry just now. They have plenty to discuss as it is. "How have you been settling in?"