The King and His Confidant

The setting sun sank away, and the king's palace kindled torches that burned through the night, while the gods' draperies fluttered in the night wind. Guided by the royal guards, Gilim headed toward the magnificent great hall. In only a moment, he heard a lilting flute melody and singing voices like sparrows.

The Chief Intelligence Officer frowned slightly and looked at the guard leading him in. The guard paused, hesitated a little, then spoke in a low voice.

"His Majesty is in poor spirits. He drank some refreshing mead and watched the Huastec beauties sing and dance for a while."

The Huastec did not favor clothing and excelled at song and dance. Every year, they always offered up some beautiful singers and dancers in place of tribute in coin and grain. And at the banquets of the great nobles in the capital, Huastec beauties were also greatly sought after.

Gilim nodded silently, seeming lost in thought. He walked solemnly into the great hall, ignored the many graceful women singing and dancing, and strode to the king's presence. Then he bowed gravely, prostrating himself deeply on the ground without saying a word.

"Mm? Gilim, you've come?"

Avet leaned against the throne, tipsy color on his face, though his eyes were still clear. He raised an exquisite silver cup, drank a mouthful of sweet mead, and smiled as he spoke to his most trusted Cihuacoatl.

"Come, take a cup of wine and drink it down with me!"

Gilim's expression was solemn. He bowed again and still made no reply.

Avet's brows furrowed. He glanced mildly at the Chief Intelligence Officer and waved his hand calmly.

"Everyone, leave!"

The singing and dancing stopped at once. The dancers, singers, and musicians all bowed, then swiftly headed out of the hall. Before long, only rows