"It is our honor to meet you in person," the king expressed sincerely.
With a gracious nod, Maxieno replied, "You're welcome. Go back to your place, Your Majesty. Tonight, let us all revel in the rapture of the banquet." His words prompted King Khaleed to rise from his kneeling position. The other Thebis people also followed suit, including Princess Zohra, who took the seat next to Arielle.
Suri, who had just arrived in the grand hall, politely greeted the guests from Thebis and then took the seat between Rowan and Prince Naweer.
Prince Naweer, who had been watching the princess' arrival, stood up and pulled a chair beside Rowan for her to sit on.
"Your Highness, thank you," Suri said to Prince Naweer.
The young man didn't smile, but anyone in the room could clearly see the flush coloring his earlobes. Prince Naweer simply nodded and settled back in his seat, maintaining a dignified demeanor.