Instead of leading Eman to the Imperial Throne Room, the Imperial Knight Captain escorted him to one of the palace's quiet balconies overlooking the magnificent royal gardens.
The morning breeze carried the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers, while rows of carefully trimmed hedges stretched across the vast courtyard below. Marble fountains sparkled beneath the afternoon sunlight, and colorful birds occasionally landed among the flowering trees before taking flight once again.
Standing near the balcony's stone railing was the Emperor himself.
His back was turned as he silently admired the peaceful scenery beyond the palace walls.
The Imperial Knight Captain stopped several steps away before respectfully bowing.
"Your Majesty, he has arrived."
The Emperor slowly turned around.
The moment his eyes landed on the young man standing behind the Knight Captain, a faint but genuine smile appeared on his face.
"Eman."
Eman bowed respectfully.
