Eijiro PoV
I led the Kuroichi delegation through the grand doors into the palace, my heart thumping as I tried to keep my steps steady and confident like Father's. The hall sparkled with polished marble and flickering torchlight, the air thick with the scent of roasted boar and fresh bread from the nearby kitchen.
Raiki sniffed the air and smiled. "It smell good."
Kina smiled. "Mama said there's gonna be a lot of yummy food!"
Lady Amaya chuckled, folding her arms. "At least your father had a feast ready for us while we wait."
Alfonso suddenly rushed down the stairs. He had gone to call Mama and Father back down. His face was red, likely from running.
He made a sign, indicating they would be here soon. I smiled and nodded. He faded again into the shadows.
"While we wait, let's eat. You must be starving from the trip," I said, trying to act like Mama whenever she hosted lower nobles from our Grand Dutchy. Although, these folks weren't lower. At least not Lady Amaya.
