The grand celebratory fanfare of brass horns was still vibrating through the marble halls of the palace when King Atheron descended the throne steps.
While hundreds of intoxicated aristocrats raised gilded goblets of spiced wine to toast the newly invested Imperial Baron, the aging monarch signaled toward a discreet archway hidden behind the crimson tapestry.
"Walk with me now," King Atheron said in a low, quiet voice that went completely unnoticed beneath the booming chorus of the court orchestra.
"Court banquets are staged to distract vain lords with sweet meats and perfumed flattery, but the true business of the kingdom is settled in the quiet stone below," the King added, motioning with a slight tilt of his head for him to follow.
Hajin exchanged a brief, understanding glance with his companions, falling into step three paces behind the King's flowing velvet mantle.
