As the couple slowly made their way to the throne room, they passed many people going about their business, that stopped in their tracks to bow and salute them. Phoenix had gotten used to this, and politely nodded and smiled in response.
But Astaroth wasn't sure how to react to all this attention. He didn't know if he should salute them back, or just nod, like Phoenix, so he ended up looking at everyone weirdly instead.
"Just nod and smile, you big dummy," Phoenix whispered to him.
"I don't know what I'm doing!" he replied in a hushed tone.
*Pfft!*
Phoenix stifled a peal of laughter, if only barely, and whispered back to Astaroth, "I noticed. Just do like me."
He nodded his head while grumbling at her. Something about her making fun of him.
