Meanwhile, Kiara and Zion were led through a series of long corridors, their footsteps muffled by richly woven carpets.
The palace was lavish, but Kiara's eyes remained sharp.
Every turn.
Every guard.
Every exit.
A habit forged by caution did not disappear simply because the walls were gilded.
After walking for several minutes, they entered an empty meeting chamber.
The room was spacious and elegantly decorated, with carved pillars, embroidered curtains, and a large circular table at the center.
Kiara and Zion took their seats.
Philip remained standing beside them while a royal knight departed to inform the king.
A few minutes later, the doors opened.
A middle-aged man entered, flanked by two royal knights.
He wore luxurious robes embroidered with celestial patterns, and his long white hair flowed down his back almost to his knees.
Seen from behind, one might have mistaken him for an elderly sage.
