The morning court had just convened.
Sunlight streamed through the high arched windows, illuminating the polished stone floor where ministers and nobles stood in orderly ranks. Murmured greetings and restrained exchanges filled the hall, but the sound died abruptly as a eunuch's voice rang through the chamber.
"Your Majesty, a messenger from the Second Region has arrived," a eunuch announced.
"Let him in," King Edward gave permission gravely.
At the king's command, the hall doors were pulled open, and a mud-stained messenger was ushered in under guard. From his appearance, it was clear he had journeyed all night to deliver his news.
He dropped to one knee at once.
"Your Majesty," the messenger said, his voice hoarse from travel, "I bring news from the Second Region waterways."
King Edward, seated upon the throne, leaned forward slightly. "Speak."
