"Yes, the Queen," the attendant confirmed, bowing slightly.
Noah studied him for a moment, then gave a small nod. "Lead the way."
He turned, and together they left the main corridor, taking a side passage away from the stream of nobles heading towards the feast.
The air grew quieter the farther they went, the distant music fading into muffled echoes.
After several minutes of walking through winding corridors, they stopped before an ornate door carved with the royal crest. The attendant rapped softly twice.
"Your Majesty," he called through the door. "I've brought Noah Webb, as requested."
There was a brief pause before Ines's voice came from within. "Send him in."
The attendant turned the handle, pushing the door open slightly and gesturing towards it.
"Only you, sir."
Noah nodded before stepping into the room quietly, the door clicking shut behind him.
