Chapter 28

• "Welcome to Douderson," the king proclaimed and came forward to dote on Hamund. All ceremony ended as Angelica and her parents reunited. I noticed Uri was not present and thought it was for the best.
• "He is lovely, Angelica," the queen said. Hamund was happily babbling to her, telling her, in his own way, about the horrible trip. It was strange to see the queen babble back and even the king attempted some meaningless drivel. They were infatuated at once. Angelica was beaming with pride which I enjoyed immensely.
• "Come inside," the king offered, "you two can clean up while we get to know our grandson." The keep was older than Southerson's. It had many items along the walls that spoke of its old legacy. I was most impressed with the tapestries that showed battles from long ago. The main hall held portraits of past kings, too many to count in a quick view. Hamund let out a loud shout, happy to be inside. So many new things to see and explore. I could see his excitement as he tugged on the queen's collar and leaned, trying to find the floor. To my surprise, the queen lowered him. She straddled his moving form with her legs and followed lovingly. Hamund was thrilled to be let loose and moved with acuity.