As the scheduled meeting with the king drew to a close, the courtiers began streaming out of the throne room one after another, their hushed murmurs echoing faintly beneath the high arched ceiling.
The scent of burning incense lingered in the air, mingling with the smell of autumn that drifted in from open windows.
Lord Falein Tomar was among those in attendance. He moved with the quiet dignity befitting his station, the sound of the other court members growing distant as he stepped out into the wide corridor.
He had only just begun to make his way down the long passage when he noticed someone fall into step beside him.
He turned slightly and found Laheir walking leisurely at his side, hands clasped behind his back in his usual composed manner.
