A few hours earlier,
"Don't hold so many expectations; they will only lead to disappointment."
On the deck of the elven ship, King Rathagun stood, watching the Holy Land's shore draw nearer. "How can I not be elated when I'm about to see them? You don't know how much I longed to see them all these years… I'm sure they'll understand."
"He's the Pope," Avanss warned his elder brother. "He won't roll out the red carpet for you. You're an enemy in Sol's eyes—No matter what, he has to treat you like one."
King Rathagun sighed, but the smile on his face didn't disappear, "I still can't help but feel hopeful. He's my blood, Avanss… He's my… son."
Avanss shook his head and stopped trying to warn his brother. He could only hope that Sylvester wouldn't be too hard on him.
…
