At the eastern side of the royal stable, George and Richard stood together, their expressions unreadable as they arrived quietly.Celine noticed them first and immediately reminded Josephine, "Hurry, greet the king."Both women approached, their voices soft and deferential."Your Majesty, your humble concubines greet you."Richard, ever composed, bowed slightly to greet them. "Your Highnesses, my respects to you both," he said.Richard's warm smile and gentle demeanor always gave an impression of easy going kindness.George's gaze lingered briefly in the direction Jane had disappeared with the horse. Then, he shifted his cold eyes to the two before him."Rise," he said curtly.Celine gracefully stepped back, moving to her position behind him, while Josephine seized the rare opportunity to speak."Your Majesty, are you here to ride as well?" she asked with hopeful eagerness.George didn't answer her. Instead, he walked past without a word, leaving her standing there awkwardly.
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