"Did you see the royal servants? They must be important."
Philia tried to ignore the attention. Beside her, Touki seemed oblivious to it all. He was too busy looking at everything with wide-eyed wonder.
They arrived at a large set of ornate doors. Vice Principal Meredith knocked twice.
"Enter," a deep voice called from within.
The doors opened. The office beyond was spacious and filled with bookshelves. A large desk dominated the center of the room. Behind it sat an elderly man with a long white beard and sharp, intelligent eyes.
"Principal John," Vice Principal Meredith said with a bow. "I present Philia and Touki, as requested by His Highness Prince Arthur."
Principal John stood. He was tall despite his age, and his presence filled the room. His gaze settled on the two siblings, studying them with an intensity that made Philia uncomfortable.
"Welcome to the Royal Academy," Principal John said. His voice was warm despite his intimidating appearance. "Please, sit."
