***
Fortunately Oliver Pemberton overcame any disappointment he felt at not being selected as Jason’s best man with the maturity and good spirits which had been a hallmark of his friendship with Jason over many years.
‘It’s a royal wedding,’ he said eventually. ‘Royal weddings serve the needs of the royal family and the expectations of the kingdom. Everyone understands that. Having the future king as your best man is a wise move and the appropriate thing to do.’
‘I am glad you understand.’
‘Of course I do wonder, however, what sort of king Ruan might become?’
‘What do you mean?’ inquired Jason.
‘The prince has always had the king to watch his back. He has had servants to do his bidding all his life and his sister dotes on him. He comes across as a little naïve about the real world. I understand his flamboyant lifestyle has not found favour with many of the king’s subjects.
‘Most princes and many of the privileged nobility grow up with a distorted view of reality. I think that Ruan will grow up quickly once has to and he will make a good king. I believe he sees no point in being mature and grown up while the king is still alive,’ Jason explained.