The marble-floored hall, covered with a crimson velvet carpet, was filled with nobles who looked eagerly toward a monocled man standing in the center of the room.
"Count Evander, welcome to the Kingdom of Pelestria. It is an honor for us to receive your visit as an envoy from the Astrion Empire," King Garlan said warmly, trying hard not to appear overly eager.
Count Evander was no ordinary noble. He was one of the nobles most trusted by Emperor Julius.
Receiving Count Evander would make several smaller kingdoms that might harbor ill intentions toward them think twice.
Would it not make Pelestria appear as though it had close ties with the Empire?
Count Evander could read everything simply by observing the movements and expressions of those around him. Yet his own expression did not change. He was accustomed to it. Calm as still water.
"Thank you for the warm welcome, Your Majesty." Count Evander bowed with proper courtesy.
