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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.
Kurtzen paled briefly at the mention of the breach in protocol but Hierik’s eyes widened. Pashevel gave him a brief wink and he relaxed.
“Prince Pashevel. Thank you, indeed, for gracing us with your presence. And please, send my apologies to your father. I did not think that something as simple as a birthday celebration would be of interest to his Highness.”
“The successor to our neighbor’s throne is of a great deal of interest, Your Highness,” Pashevel replied. “We had no idea of your tradition regarding the Passage, and I do hope that I may be permitted to accompany him, as I am here to learn about your ways. And I would be honored if he would journey to Alur’va’sia with me.”
“A prince should travel his own lands and get to know his own people, but I see no harm in his broadening his knowledge. There is little enough known about your people.”
Pashevel bowed again to the king; straightening he gave Hierik a quick wink and passed into the castle, leaving a stunned silence in his wake.
Novel Notes 
Never underestimate a bard! Loved the snippet…
Especially when said bard is also a crown prince.
So what’s with the wink? That line brought the whole snippet to life.
Hierik is nervous. (His father is pretty much a bully.) Pash was just reminding him that he’s not alone. (Pash and Hierik already made plans for Pash to travel with him.)
I like this bard. Such a good friend.