Outside the grand banquet hall, Lara walked beside Nympha, her slow, measured steps echoing against the polished marble floor as candlelight shimmered across gilded walls. Towering portraits of Westalis's past kings stretched along the corridor, their eyes stern, proud, and eternally watchful. The current dynasty had ruled for over a century, and five grand portraits stood in solemn succession, each framed in ornate gold and silver.
"To be honest," Lara murmured, tilting her head slightly as she studied the painted coronets and armor, "I admire Westalis for their reverence toward cultural history. These walls don't merely display rulers — they preserve legends." Her lips curved faintly. "Truly admirable."
"Indeed, Empress," Nympha replied, her tone warm with admiration. "Westalis possesses a cultural depth far richer than the other three kingdoms."
Lara shot her a warning glance. "Nympha, didn't I tell you? I'm here as an envoy. Watch how you address me. Don't let it slip."
