The King stood before the window of his private chamber, watching Hajin's carriage pass through the palace gates and disappear into the capital.
Behind him, Elias adjusted the collar of his uniform while the carriage wheels faded beyond the guarded courtyard.
"Why did you choose to stay behind today, Your Majesty?" Elias asked, keeping his respectful gaze lowered toward the polished floor.
"There is no need for me to meet him now," the King replied, following the carriage until the last glimpse vanished between the buildings.
"We will meet soon enough," he added, turning away from the window when the road became empty.
He returned to his desk and gestured for wine, allowing another deliberate silence to settle over the chamber.
"What is your current honest assessment of the sixth region?" the King asked, studying Elias's reaction while the servant filled a crystal glass.
