Septimus looked at Diao Chan and her friend, almost nodding until she mentioned he had come far too early.

"I-I d-did," he stammered nervously, "Oh no... I knew that I would m-make a mess of this..."  His eyes widened in horror as he blushed.  "Forgive me, my Lady, I did not know when I was supposed to arrive.  My sister merely gave me your message and told me I was to come here to Huawan as soon as possible..."

He took a few deep breaths to calm himself.  "Sorry you had to see that.  I shouldn't have panicked in that fashion. I have rarely left the Imperial Capital my whole life, so I may be a bit..." he paused, searching for the right word, "Less than adept at this sort of thing.  Please forgive my error, Madam."

The prince put down one of his suitcases and put his hand over his heart, giving Diao Chan a polite, if somewhat slight, bow.