Several of the kingdom's most powerful lords stood gathered near the center of the room, their voices low as they exchanged quiet speculation about the sudden summons.
Servants had been dismissed, guards had been doubled outside the doors, and the king himself had ordered that only a select group of council members attend.
No one knew exactly why but everyone suspected the reason was not pleasant.
Lord Damien stood near one of the pillars, his sharp eyes scanning the room with careful patience. His posture remained perfectly composed, though the faint tightening of his jaw betrayed a small measure of irritation.
Beside him stood Lord Valor, who appeared far less calm.
Valor's hands were clasped behind his back, his fingers twitched restlessly as he glanced occasionally toward the large doors at the far end of the chamber.
"This is unusual," Valor murmured.
Damien did not look at him, "the king rarely summons a meeting without explanation."
