As dinner progressed without any violent outbursts or attempted murders, like the tumultuous meal from the previous night, Kastiel, Rowan, and Kilian joined the royal family at the table. Alaric was not a tyrannical ruler who insisted on rigid adherence to protocol; he allowed Malcolm to sit near Kilian, and even permitted Austin to occupy the crown prince's seat beside the Emperor himself.
Austin's eyes sparkled with excitement as he regaled Alaric with tales of his swordplay lessons under Sir Galahad's tutelage. The Emperor listened attentively, nodding along as Austin spoke animatedly. Every so often, Alaric would glance over at Carlton, relieved that his Empress did not appear angry but rather deep in thought as he ate. Alaric found himself growing increasingly curious about what thoughts might be swirling through Carlton's mind.
