"Welcome, brave heroes, to the Heart of Iolcus. I am King Pelias, the ruler of this kingdom. Your reputation as valiant warriors precedes, and it is an honour to receive you in my court."
Aria stepped forward, but she did not bow like the rest of them. "Your Majesty, the honour is ours. We are happy to lend our skills in order to help Iolcus."
The King sighed, and the beautiful maiden presented him with a golden silk cloth for him to wipe his face. "Our once-proud kingdom of Iolcus now languishes in the grip of despair. Famine consumes the land, and my people are discontent and malnourished."
"While my palace flourishes with wine, bread, and fruit," Sylvia muttered, and Zane fought to stifle his laughter.
