Chapter 2: What Is It You Desire, Hero?
Noah walked through the stone halls of the castle, flanked on both sides by the armored knights.
The clanking of their metal boots echoed off the floors, a tense atmosphere settling between them.
No one said anything, both Noah and the knights aware of the gravity of this particular situation.
He wasn’t particularly worried. He had dealt with powerful businessmen and politicians who thought they could strong-arm him into deals before.
This was just a more medieval version of the same game.
The massive double doors at the end of the hall swung open, revealing the throne room.
Golden chandeliers hung from the ceiling, but instead of LED lights, there were candles on them. Hung on the walls were torches, which provided most of the lighting, illuminating the space.
Running from the door to the other end of the room was a long red carpet that led to a golden throne.
Seated upon it was a man with a thick white beard, a heavy crown resting on his brow. His blue robes were embroidered with gold, his expression one of regal authority.
To his left, nobles lined the walls, their curious gazes fixed on Noah. Servants stood motionless, waiting for orders, while guards kept their hands on the hilts of their swords, ready to act if necessary.
Noah took in the sight with interest, calculating the possible outcomes of this meeting, before focusing on the man’s eyes.