Miguel stroked his goatee with a pleased smile as he studied Alaera. "If I may be so forward, dear lady, King Milaeus hardly did your beauty justice in his letters. I've heard rumors, but nothing yet to describe what stands before me." He stepped forward and took her hand with an oddly gentle, but firm touch that told her he was definitely the leading man. Pressing a kiss to her hand without breaking eye contact, she could see just how intense his own brown eyes were, filled with cunning and majesty. He might've been quite attractive and desirable, but Milaeus had marked him for death in order to take his lands. And whatever Milaeus wanted, he tended to get with little delay.

"Come, I've arranged for tea in my private parlor and a small brunch," he quite boldly drew her hand to his arm and led her with all confidence off to one of the side. She'd met many stern and confident sorts before, but Miguel was like a lion strolling through his territory, king of all he saw. He made his approval of her quite clear as he made sure his servants saw to her every need and comfort, shooting a glare at one who wasn't quick enough for his taste. "I trust your journey went well. Tell me, what has brought the great King Milaeus' daughter's interest to my halls?" He wasn't going to bandy words about it.