Reality Check

The moment Henry was sure that Princess Marie was securely sitting down in her chair, he bowed at his waist for the king. 

He could feel his heart pounding away in his chest for a much different reason than before when the princess was hanging onto his arm. He racked his brain for something intelligible to say. 

"Your majesty," Henry somehow found his voice. 

"Rise," the king said to the knight who was still bowing for him. 

He took a moment to size up Henry considering the peasant was honored as someone the king could trust. His interest grew since he had seen the young man carrying the Chemoian sword. 

Now that he showed up with his daughter in tow, he had no choice but to acknowledge the peasant knight once again. 

"Thank you for your contribution to the war," the king said, his greyish-blue eyes piercing Henry.