The king's forehead furrowed at the Duke's remark. He sat up, his elbow resting on the table and his fingers intertwined.
"Duke Palank, is there something you like to say or do you have a problem with the announcement?"
"With all due respect, Your Royal Majesty." Duke Palant stood up, straightening out his neatly dry-cleaned red jacket, his imposing aura reflecting his arrogance and pride. "I appreciate the fact that the princess has found her way back home. She is highly loved and respected by everyone seated here and the beloved citizens of Yarkush. Nonetheless, we cannot get too sentimental concerning issues of the throne or kingship. I do not think she is fit to replace our crown prince."
'Excellent!' Prince beamed inwardly while maintaining a straight face as though he was unaffected by the Duke's words.
