Hajin stood among the vault displays with both eyes fixed on the King.
The old man had given him land before a hall full of nobles, then led him behind a door built to survive wars.
'One reward was already enough trouble for me, and now a private conversation is coming.'
Mana moved through Hajin's pathways in a slow, careful circuit. He did not reach for the Chain, but he kept track of the nearest weapon rack.
The King had survived decades of court politics, assassinations, and wars at the border. A man like that did not arrange a private meeting because he enjoyed sightseeing.
'The King also knows something about Mother, so making this man angry would be expensive.'
"Tell me what kind of deal you are talking about," Hajin asked while keeping his voice flat.
The King gave a quiet laugh and turned toward an aisle of crystal cases.
