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I’m posting from my current writing WiP, Song and Shadow, a prequel to Song and Sword. It’s a rough draft and I still don’t have an actual outline for it so it’s going to be a fun ride.
This month we’ll get to see Pashevel… well, let’s just say that the ways of a Bard are subtle and sharp.
“Father,” Hierik said. “Pashevel is here as my guest, not as a performer, and although he did offer, it would be discourteous to expect an invited guest to perform.”
The king’s displeasure deepened but he could not speak out against his son’s words, not in front of the assembled nobles, so he nodded. “Forgive me. It was only a desire to hear new music that made me presume upon your talent. That, and having heard many good things about Elven music.”
Pashevel smiled, bowing just enough to claim his place as an equal to the court.
“Your Highness,” he said. “Thank you for permitting me the honor of accepting your son’s invitation to attend his celebration. Rumors of your hospitality have even reached Elven lands, and my father, King Vellindrin, would send greetings and congratulations had he been informed of this occasion.”
Novel Notes 
I like Pashevel … quite a smooth talker ;-)
Very tactful on Pasheval’s part. He’s a diplomat definitely, as well as a bard. Excellent excerpt!