The number of people gathered inside far exceeded my expectations.
Not only were the Emperor's children present, but dozens of nobles and other high-ranking officials had also been invited.
And unlike the capital's residents, who had welcomed us with applause and enthusiastic cheers, the people here greeted us with cold stares that felt like daggers piercing into our bodies.
"Ah, yes… Now that's the reaction I'm familiar with."
Asterion smiled as he spoke, then casually made his way into the hall, utterly unconcerned by the hostile attention.
The old man was far more accustomed to this kind of treatment than the warm welcome we'd received outside.
Following in his footsteps, I made my way into the hall, letting my eyes wander across the surroundings.
One thing immediately caught my attention.
There were quite a few people with silver hair, both men and women. The oldest appeared to be in their forties, while the youngest were still children.
