Laurenz had been fascinated by the presence of the Archbishop, "You know it is extremely gratifying to see a representative of the Ecclesiastical State here, I remember a time as a child where it was almost unthinkable that a Catholic would attend a ceremony of the Rhandic Orthodox Church, I pray that this spells the end of the centuries of bitter division and a move towards a future of greater Christian fraternity."
"So, how's life so far in Rhand? At least you're not experiencing a war in which the enemies have risen anew from the past, more dangerous than ever haha..."
Life in Rhand continues much according to its ancient traditions, it is blissful if fraught with the difficulties that all states face, primarily the condition of the poor. But does not our Lord tell us that the poor will always be with us?" he pondered the point for a moment before adding "Tell me Archbishop, is it your opinion that the poor should exist in order that we be provided with the possibility of Christian charity in order to merit our souls, or are they a challenge to us to right the wrongs we see on the societal level?"
"I find it quite intriguing, actually," he began, referring to the Prince's question, "that, despite the obvious differences in tradition, I also had the pleasure of noting an intrinsic similarity. I do not say this often enough, Your Highness, but I truly did feel a touch of home during that ceremony." he paused, extending his white-gloved hand. "Duke Magnus Altberg, Heir to Weremark. I'm delighted to make your acquaintance."
Laurenz grasped the gloved hand firmly and shook it. "It is most pleasing to hear that you felt so moved by the ceremony. I have always felt that the Rhandic Church, despite its name and geographical limits, is truly a universal Church with something to offer all... That's not to say that your own traditions and faith are without their particular merits, indeed if our ceremony made you feel a sense of home then your own faith must itself be one with a lot going for it. It is, I must say, very nice to meet you, I do hope you'll enjoy your stay in Rhand, and may it be but the first of many such meetings!"
Laurenz bowed slightly in mock humility towards the Duke. "Our Kingdoms and peoples share much it seems, our love and commitment to our traditions and faith, our ancient and noble royal lines, and the domestic challenges that we both share. I hope, if I am not too presumptuous, to discuss the latter with you later when we have a chance for a private audience?"
Turning to Elena he made an intense eye contact while thanking her for her kind words, having done so and with others attempting to gain his attention he allowed his gaze to linger a moment longer before turning with the slightest flicker of reluctance to continue making niceties.