[ By now, Yelena has grown so accustomed to the king's brand of self-flattery that she barely notices it. His threat, however, registers loud and clear. She thinks carefully on her next words because what the king takes away from this conversation will affect everyone in her party. ]

How would that solve your problem? Rumors about you preceded our arrival and could well outlive our exit. The doubt was cast on you, not us. Turning us away would only leave you most exposed when you can least afford it.