Princess Mary received a colourful welcome from a cuddly green dragon when she arrived for her latest public engagement. The Danish royal, who was paying a visit to Legoland, was greeted by the company's friendly mascot when she arrived at the popular theme park.
Having received a pair of Tasmanian Devils as a wedding gift from her homeland, the 34-year-old is no stranger to dealing with unusual characters. The amicable fellow who shuffled forward to shake her hand in Billund seemed more concerned with making a good impression than breathing fire, though.
And a group of local school children who also turned out to meet the VIP guest seemed just as excited. The girls had dressed up in fairy costumes for their encounter with the pretty royal, while the boys were sporting elf outfits. The princess opted for a rather less fantastic ensemble, with a printed white coat and grey skirt in keeping with her stylish reputation.
Meanwhile, thousands of miles away in her Australian homeland Antipodean royal fans are looking forward to the mum-of-one's latest trip home. Crown Prince Frederik will accompany Mary and their little boy Christian when they take a break Down Under next month.
Rumours that the couple are expecting a second baby have been quelled by representatives for the family, however. "I simply have no idea," said Lis Frederiksen. "I wouldn't know until we have an official announcement and we don't."