________________________________________________<br/><br/>It was several hours later when Harry was finally allowed into the Great Hall. After their run-in with the prince, Bartholomew had rushed them to what was to be Harry’s quarters, this time guiding them through what felt like a much more direct route. Once there, the advisor had suggested that they spent their time getting dressed for their viewing with the King and Queen.<br/>The comment had once again sent Minerva fuming, seeing as the party had been dressed for their immediate welcome. Harry hadn’t taken it to heart, not minding an opportunity to change out of his travel clothes once it had been suggested that the prince would be attending, too.<br/>When the great doors were finally opened for the viewing, Harry was wearing a cream set with golden beading across the lapels of the shirt, catching the parse sprinkle of golden laurels in his hair. Less impressed by the French, by his side, Minerva had changed from one dress to an identical one in blue.<br/>Once it came to view, the Hall was nothing short of impressive. Walking the length of it towards the three raised thrones and the royal family seated in them, Harry felt miniscule. The ship of the room resembled a refurbished cathedral and so, Harry noted, he figured that the feeling of inferiority the room evoked was intentional.<br/>Unbothered, an easy smile remained on Harry’s lips.<br/>"Your Majesties, the appointed successor to emperor Albus of the Byzantine, Harry Potter," the now familiar voice of Bartholomew announced. "Accompanying him is his governess, Minerva."<br/>Harry stopped several meters away from the throne, Minerva a step behind him. In her hand she carried a bundle wrapped in a heavily embroidered piece of purple silk. It was, however, not until the two Greeks accompanying them set down a heavy travel chest by Harry’s side that he spoke. The sound of the wood against the stone flooring reverberated against the walls, leaving Harry with an almost nonchalant expression, his lips parted in a mute smile as he waited for the silence to return.<br/>“"our Highness," Harry finally said in French, meaning to address the King. He, however, didn’t fail to notice the presence of the Queen nor the prince, though his eyes didn’t linger. Delayed, Harry bowed. “We thank you for your hospitality in inviting us.”<br/>With an even more intentional look of nonchalance, the King raised his chin at the young man in front of him.<br/>"Harry," Lucius greeted. In contrary to his look of skepticism, his voice was smooth and practiced. "We are very pleased to have you. Know, that we consider you an extension of your guardian, the emperor, and your visit is an honor."<br/>Somehow, Harry doubted that, making a corner of his mouth turn upward. Though many a European kingdom respected the Empire, Harry didn’t doubt that the notoriously stern French King was happy to go without Albus’ company. "I will hope that I do him justice."