In the early hours of the morning, Joel was the first of the guests to meet with the king.
"Your Majesty. This humble servant greets you," Joel said, bowing his head. "I brought you wine I have been storing for seven years," he said, revealing the bottle.
It was no secret that the king was a man who liked to drink.
Edward motioned for one of his advisors to take the bottle from Joel.
"There is never a visit where you come without something good. This is why I keep inviting you," Edward laughed, motioning for Joel to come forward.
"You are too kind. Has Lord Hastings come to greet you? His presence was missed this morning," Joel said, his intentions known only to the king.
Edward rubbed his beard. "I not long ago sent a servant to check on Lord Hastings and his wife. It was rude of them not to join you for the feast I prepared."
