Mayerling gives Sharon a broad bow, his cloak flaring out to provide the grandeur the gesture deserves. Neither of them gave full names before this moment, a sign of common ground and understanding—that it is not for every person that they meet. Sharon's trust in him is generous, even should it be a test.

"Johan Mayerling, at your service," Mayerling says. He does not offer her hand a kiss, sure that a kiss from her knuckles, rather than a curtsy, the more likely response.