"Child, do not refuse me," the King said in a voice that would not allow refusal. His voice was gruff and loud, like a general giving command to an army, yet his eyes held warmth as he held the hand of his wife on the table. "You have done a great service not only to the kingdom, but also to our family. We, Ivanovs, do not normally let ourselves be indebted to another, but we value sincerity and friendship, what more a life-saving grace. Speak, what do you want? In the name of the King of Megaris, I will grant you anything you desire as long as it is not about asking for the throne or bringing harm to this kingdom."
"Thank you, Your Majesty, but I desire nothing. When I saved the Queen, I didn't do it for any reward and neither did I save her because she is royalty. It wasn't much effort, and I would have done it for anyone. I need no reward," Esther replied politely with her head lowered in front of the King and the Queen.