The second-in-command knight raised an eyebrow, puzzled by how the princess addressed the grand duke.
Calling Kyren just 'Lord Kyren' didn't seem sufficient. Given his high status as the previous Crown Prince and a member of the royal family, only a few would call him by his first name, and those were typically family members.
"You address His Highness by his first name? You do realise he's the Grand Duke of Gerhard, don't you?" Eric asked, scrutinising the young girl.
Athillia was taken aback by the question, but being a royal princess, it didn't instil fear in her. Perhaps the burly knight was merely curious.
"He introduced himself that way and told me I could continue calling him so. Is there an issue?" she replied defensively.
Eric sensed the boldness in her response. Though young and quite pretty, the girl didn't appear scared of him. Instead, her concern was clearly focused on Kyren's absence.
The second-in-command knight turned toward the admiral, seeking confirmation.
