Episode VII - The Swan King

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After visiting Carrickfergus Castle and being awe inspired by the shear greatness of the place and the history of it's old kings and inhabitants, I had the opportunity to visit another wonderful place - Carrickfergus Mill Ponds - a realm of nature this time.

There I could only blush as I've stumbled, unprepared, over his royal majesty. He was as surprised as I was - He seamed interrupted and rather embarrassed. I was too early for our photo session!

After introducing ourselves to each other, his royal highness decided that he will carry out his interrupted grooming process...so that he is decent before we embark on our photographic journey... "In the mean time you should wait!", he said.

I felt rather curious and couldn't refrain from pressing the shutter button as the king turned his back on me and continued plucking on his feathers unaware. The view was incredible - I quietly snuck a few frames while the process was underway.

A gentle move and I couldn't proceed any longer as I was quickly spotted. He turned with a gaze that shook the earth around us - Lucky for me, he was ready!

We continued with a few classical, staged profile portraits from different angles. At one point he gently suggested that I should take "a serious looking photo, whilst swimming in the pond". I immediately complied and as he was taking his place, I asked him to choose his own preferred stance - He flexed his wings in an attempt to look ferocious as he raised his neck straight and gave me the fierce look...Typical macho pose, what can I say?!

In the end we were both pleased by our meeting and we decided to split ways, but as he turned his back and left, I asked if I could have one last shot of him. He gently turned his head and...

....That was all I needed!