What he thought of them? That was a difficult question to answer. Certainly the King was a nice fellow and he had explained a lot regarding the background of his nation, but looks can be deceiving. He did not know what to believe.

"Perhaps we should not judge a book by its cover", said the journalist.

Argenworth shook his hand gently, as was the custom in the Core to do so to strangers and acquaintances. He was surprised by the firm grip of the King when he reciprocated the gesture. Did this monarch consider himself a friend to Argenworth so quickly?

The journalist gave a soft smile in return.

"Thank you, Your Highness. I appreciate that you took your time to speak to a commoner such as I. May the odds be ever in your favour"

As security escorted him out, the Ryccian and Stoinian delegations departed for the inside of the palace. They proceeded to the guest dining room.


"Ah, I must apologize if the décor is ancient for your tastes. This furniture has existed for generations here, as you may imagine", said the Emperor.

"Personnel culinaire, commencez à servir les plats!", commanded the Emperor in French.

Immediately, servants from the palace entered the room and began to deliver the plates. For the King, a vegetable soup had been served as a first meal. It was proper Ryccian etiquette to commence with a soup dish. The servant commented.

"Your Majesty, this is a Acaltbury soup prepared with the freshest and most exquisite vegetables and herbs imported from the planet of Juno. It is served for your pleasure"