The matter with the Thorin's gold.

The way she used their names directly, avoiding their royal titles made it seem as if they had an incredibly close relationship. The lucky halo on her head was already working over time, arousing feelings of pity for her from the noble lords in the court.

Unfortunately for Emmah, the king was not one of those being influenced by the lucky halo. He was wearing a thumb ring that Elarin had given him. The ring had come from Sigrid and it kept the king from being influenced by outside magic forces, especially the lucky halo.

The doors opened and prince Benjamin breezed in, talking at the top of his voice. "Lady Emmah, there is no need for you to be weighed down by guilt for doing the right thing. All you did was inform the king about what you were told and what you witnessed. If it is true that these things are facts, I am sure that the king will reward you.