A dead silence fell over the banquet hall, as if even the floating crystal chandeliers had dimmed.
"A spy?"
"H-how is that possible?"
"His Majesty suspects there's a traitor among us?"
After the initial shock, suppressed, panicked whispers spread rapidly among the nobles.
Every face beneath the fine clothing was etched with disbelief and suspicion. The glances they exchanged were filled with scrutiny and distrust.
The once cheerful and relaxed atmosphere vanished, replaced by a cold suspicion that spread like a plague.
Amidst the commotion, Prince Lucius shot to his feet, his aged face contorted with rage.
He jabbed a trembling finger at Sean, who was still kneeling on one knee, his voice so shrill it nearly broke.
"Nonsense! Utterly absurd! You base soldier, how dare you spread such malicious rumors at a sacred Royal Palace banquet, in front of all these loyal nobles! You defile the wisdom of His Majesty Morne and shake the very foundations of the Kingdom!"
