At noon, sunlight filtered through the stained-glass windows in the dome of the Duchy of Roland's palace, casting scattered patches of light across the ornate carpet. A faint mint fragrance filled the palace, dispelling the midday heat.
The ruler of the duchy, Grand Duke Karim ben Hassan, sat upon the gilded throne, his face showing a slightly sorrowful, contemplative expression.
At that moment, the faint clinking of armor came from outside the hall. Two armored guards escorted a robed envoy into the palace.
Grand Duke Hassan immediately straightened in his seat, replacing his previous expression with one of solemnity.
The envoy walked to the center of the main hall, bowed slightly, and saluted. His voice carried the distinctive arrogance of Aldo's nobility. "Grand Duke Kalim, I am Ben Eliot, here as an envoy under orders from Sir Colin, lord of the Watchers Legion."
The grand duke waved to the side. "Esteemed envoy, you must be tired after the journey. Please, sit!"
After thanking him, Aldo Envoy sat down, and a palace attendant immediately brought over tea that gave off a rich fragrance.
After some polite courtesies between host and guest, Aldo Envoy quickly got to the point.
"Your Majesty, I have come to remind you of a matter concerning the dignity of all humanity. Your country is a city-state primarily inhabited by humans, yet you have submitted to the barbaric Grassland Orcish. Is that not a disgrace to all of humanity?"
"Our country hopes that Grand Duke Your Majesty can reclaim the glory of being human and join Aldo in resisting the orcs!"
The moment Eliot finished speaking, the duchy's ministers who had come to accompany the reception began to stir. Some looked angry, but Grand Duke Kalim raised a hand to signal for silence.
The grand duke slowly rose