@bcyerisch
"You are not at all how I imagined you.” It wasn’t the most auspicious way to greet someone, but Mary did not at all intend the words rudely - quite the contrary, her voice was filled with quite obvious delight, almost a mirth that was uncharacteristic, her heart speeding up. She had had decorum bred into her from birth, but sometimes life presented unique, exciting opportunities even a princess of two kingdoms could not deny - and to meet Elisabeth, a dear friend she had only known by words for years, was one such delight.
“I suppose I don’t know how I imagined you,” she offered, as if to cover up for her prior exclamation. “Your Grace - I never thought I might see you in person, but now that I am, it is a wonderful honour.” Her smile was genuine as she approached the Duchess, who was so perfectly regal. Mary had her hands clasped before her, and she felt not unlike a girl again. “What happy circumstance or coincidence is it that brings us together at once?”