The older man helped Illiam out of the cart. Elric looked a little older than Duke Cowley, now that Illiam had gotten a closer look at him. His graying beard resembled the spines of a hedgehog. The man had taken Illiam’s arm in his and escorted the younger man towards the throne room. 

“Do not fear, Illiam.” Elric said in a calm tone as if he was trying to sooth a child. “The king is not a horrible man, despite what you have likely heard. No harm will come to you.” 

“That is not what I fear, Elric.” Illiam replied, locking his eyes on the grand doors at the end of the hall.  

 The guards at the door opened it when the pair drew near. Sitting on the throne was a man with a scarred face and a crown upon his head with a nest of short hair that resembled the color of an apricot’s skin. Well maybe a little lighter than an apricot’s skin. He looked young once Illiam got close enough to see clearly. Likely in his early twenties or late teens if he was to guess from appearance. 

“My king, Illiam Cowley has arrived.” Elric bowed. 

Illiam looked between the older man and the king before following suit. 

“You may stand.” The king spoke. “I hope the journey has not been too tiring, Illiam Cowley.” 

“It was not my king.” Illiam said as politely as he could. Although that was an outright lie, Illiam knew the moment he could lay down he’d pass out.

“My apologies that I was not able to greet you at the port, I was far too busy with matters here.” King Henry stated. He stood up from the throne and walked to stand face to face with Illiam. The king was a little less than a head taller than him, but his shoulders were far broader. He was far more physically fit than the physician, a fact that was obvious from the way his clothes fell onto his frame. Looking up at the king’s face the scars were even more visible, but what caught Illiam’s attention was the slight difference in color in both of king Henry’s eyes. 

“You are far more beautiful than I had expected.” The king said, out of decorum Illiam was sure. It’s been a long time since he had looked at his face but he knew he would not describe it as beautiful. Unless the king was under the impression that Illiam looked like a monster that had clawed its way out of the bogs. 

“Thank you for the flattery my king, but I’m sure that you have seen many that are far better on the eyes than I.” 

 The king’s reaction mystified Illiam, he looked genuinely confused at Illiam’s words. 

“That was not idle flattery,” The king’s eyebrows knitted, “You must be exhausted, Elric please escort Illiam to his quarters. Also do not forget the council meeting before the evening meal.” 

“Yes my king.” Elric bowed once more and gestured to Illiam to follow him out of the room.