Chapter 142: The Road To Ordeya

The staff ushers them through a private entrance, bypassing the grand dining hall entirely, and into a velvet-draped VIP room. The walls are soundproofed, the table carved from obsidian and accented with threads of silver. Warm light flickers in crystal sconces, casting a soft, intimate glow.

Asdri takes the seat across from Alix, while Draya sit next to him, silent and watchful. Pyke and Famir are seated farther down the table, sipping discreetly from chilled glasses.

The conversation begins light, flowing effortlessly over wine and delicately plated courses—harmless topics of court rumors, minor skirmishes along distant borders, upcoming festivals, trade gossip.

Alix answers with practiced ease, saying much without saying anything at all. He listens more than he speaks, yet every word he chooses adds a subtle weight to the air. Asdri speaks freely, but his eyes are always studying, measuring, feeling out the shape of the man in front of him.