Officials of the Three Departments and Six Ministries occupied their designated positions. The Chief Eunuch waited silently near the throne steps. Scholars and high-ranking nobles lined the periphery in disciplined rows.
At the center, the Emperor Alexander Phoenix ascended the throne.
His presence was commanding, not through overt theatrics but through cultivated authority. His features bore a striking resemblance to his second son, though maturity had sharpened them into something colder and more controlled.
"Grand Secretariat Quenric," the Emperor spoke evenly, his voice carrying across the chamber without strain. "You may begin."
Quenric stepped forward and bowed deeply.
"Your Majesty," he said with measured calm, "Royal Inspectors Deyric and Torric are present to report on a matter of importance."
The Emperor inclined his head slightly. "Let them enter."
