"Princess Kamara, you have arrived?" His soft tone belied the hard man he is.

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"I hope your journey was smooth?" As he asked, he came out of his chair and walked towards her.

"Yes, it did. Thank you, Your Majesty." She outstretched her a glove-covered hand.

He took the hand and kissed the back of her palm. "I'm glad."

With all protocols observed, there was nothing more to say. Silence ...