The king nodded graciously at Ophelia and Diana's greeting, his eyes scanning over the rest of the group and within seconds Nivel and Erica grabbed both Julian and Ezekiel's heads forcing them to bow before the king.
"It's an honor to be in the presence of the royal family," Both Erica and Nivel said.
"Rise, my loyal subjects, and your young companions as well."
As they straightened, Julian caught a glimpse of the princess. Francine's gaze was darting between the members of their group, her eyes sharp and assessing.
For a brief moment, her eyes locked with Julian's, and he felt a chill run down his spine.
"Oh… is that you Ophelia?"
Although the king was standing right in front of her, his eyesight had deteriorated significantly over the years. He was too proud to be seen as some doddering old fool in glasses, he stubbornly refused to wear them at public functions, much to the quiet exasperation of his family and advisors.
