Brynjar watched carefully as Katinka removed her veil to reveal her face. He had always found her a pretty girl and the years had been kind to her so far. Even though he had often flirted with the temptress in the past, he had kept a respectful distant--which was far more than he had ever afforded any other maiden. She expressed concern for his own safety and a grim smile came to his face. Brynjar was known as the best warrior in Byrdain. He had dedicated his life to mastering the art of combat. It was laughable to think the enemy would try to attack him in an honest duel. Of course, none of the Fjellborgan's would dare challenge him at the moment. They were too concerned for their own lives because great shadows of doubt lay upon them.
"There is no guard who could protect me better than myself. If they were truly determined, then I doubt extra guards would detract them. I also doubt they would try and face me." He mulled over her second idea. There would be no poison slipped into his food, but Katinka would not know that.
"I suppose extra tasters would be a realistic option." He hesitated before nodding. "Very well, if it will bring you a measure of comfort then I will have all of the food tasted twice." He didn't mind manipulating her care of him if it meant getting her on his side. Katinka was a fox in the court. She was sly, cunning, and had an ear for picking up whispers behind closed doors. He was confident she would prove to be a good ally as he ascended the throne.
Even still, she was distanced from him. He could sense her sorrow and there was an emotion akin to sympathy for her. "I am sorry Katinka, I know how much you revered my father after he took you in." His words were genuine for once. "He was a great king and I hope to live up to his standard one day." These words were far from the truth, but they still had the sound of genuineness. Brynjar had looked up to his father until he had shown weakness in parlaying with the Fjellborgans. It was why he had snuffed the life from him. It was time a new and stronger king ruled Byrdain and brought back the pride it had lost.