The guard leading them nodded slightly, confirming Jack's words without turning his head.
They followed him through the palace grounds until the gambling den's noise dimmed behind them.
He led them down a broad hallway lined with crystal lanterns, then up a stairwell to a quieter floor.
At the end of the hall was a large room that had been turned into a high-end bar.
It wasn't crowded like the gambling den below.
The atmosphere here was calmer, meant for private meetings and expensive tastes.
Tables were spaced generously apart.
The air carried faint music from a piano at the far end.
The guard stopped and gestured. "This way, sirs."
Before they entered, he handed each of them a small metal charm, whose surface was engraved with faint runes.
"What's this?" Jack asked.
"An artifact. Master requested you wear them. They will disguise your appearances from prying eyes."
Neo studied the charm for a second, then slipped it into his pocket before activating it.
