The third bell's final chime hung in the air, yet the ornate doors remained closed. Alex stood perfectly still, maintaining composed patience despite the unexpected delay. The carefully timed entrance that would mark the beginning of his recognition had been inexplicably postponed.
"Swordmaster Lionhart," a breathless messenger appeared at the waiting chamber's entrance, "the Master of Ceremonies extends his profound apologies. Your entrance must be briefly delayed due to an unexpected diplomatic development."
Before Alex could inquire further, a sudden hush fell over the crowd outside, followed by exclamations that filtered through the chamber's windows. Curiosity momentarily overriding protocol, Alex moved to investigate the source of the disturbance.
