The Petra envoy was granted an audience on the third day.
Alden's court was arranged with its usual decorum, though the tension was unmistakable. Ministers sat straighter, their expressions carefully neutral. Lucien stood near the king's dais, silent and watchful. His eyes, however, flicked once to the side entrance where Liora stood, partially hidden behind a curtain, as instructed. She was not to be seen, only to observe.
The court doors opened with a solemn creak. In came the Petra envoy, three men and one woman. The leader, draped in deep crimson and layered silver chains, bowed respectfully. Behind him followed the silent figure of a monk, hooded and barefoot despite the cold marble.
"Your Majesty," the envoy began, "we thank you for your reception. Petra extends peace and honor."
Alden inclined his head. "Your gesture is noted. But peace rarely rides with such an armed escort."
