“You have done well, my son. Without you there, I am afraid the battle would not have been won.”
“I am glad I could be of service, Sire.”
A frown appeared on the bearded man’s face. “Franz, I was terribly sorry to hear of your dear mother’s death. Out of respect for you, I will try not to call on you again until your mourning period is over.”
“Thank you, Sire.”
Just then, The Pink Child walked in. “Sire, I have a message for The Magician.”
“You have my permission to give it to him.”
“Thank you, Sire,” she said with a slight bow, and turned to hand the scroll to Franz.
The Mighty Zeus nodded to The Pink Child. “You have done well. You may take your leave now and go to TheLand of Play.”
“Yes, Sire!” she said with a big smile.
Franz was about to unroll the scroll when the Mighty Zeus said, “Don’t open it yet, Franz.” With a gentle rustling of his tunic, he rose from his throne. “I would have you walk with me. We need to talk.”
“Is something troubling you, Sire? Have I…?”