The king rose from his throne and stepped down the platform until he stood before Julian. "Don't be modest," he said, his tone softer now. He reached out, resting his hand on Julian's shoulder, the gesture both fatherly and heavy with hidden meaning. "Stand."
Julian obeyed, rising to his full height, his posture relaxed but respectful. "Thank you, Your Majesty," he said, offering a faint smile.
Without giving anyone time to recover from the first shock, the king smiled and casually placed his hand on Julian's back, guiding him up the steps of the platform.
Each step Julian took felt heavier, the weight of hundreds of eyes boring into his back. Whispers and gasps spread once again, louder and more uncontrolled this time.
When they reached the top, the king gestured towards the smaller, yet still lavishly decorated throne beside his own—the seat that had always remained empty during court sessions.
"Sit," the king ordered casually, as if it was the most natural thing in the world.
