A Royal Audience (Part One)

Three days later, the innkeeper's voice and that of a stranger sounded outside the residence.

"Lord Kadelo, what brings you here today? Another assignment?" the innkeeper asked.

"I've come to fetch Viscount Teta Xiao. The Royal Palace received his request for an audience three days ago, and according to protocol, the king will see him this morning," the stranger explained.

The conversation made it clear enough: someone from the Royal Palace had come for Romon. Anyone who could run a business on Emerald Street was no ordinary merchant, so the palace visitor was courteous to the innkeeper.

"Viscount Teta Xiao? Ah, he's staying in the residence just ahead. I'll take you there," the innkeeper said with a smile.

"Thank you."

A jumble of footsteps approached, and several people appeared at the residence gate. It stood open. The innkeeper entered first, just as Romon was strolling through the courtyard. Romon turned, saw him, and asked with a smile, "Is something the matter?"

With his sharp hearing, Romon had caught their entire conversation long ago, but he acted as though he had heard nothing.

The innkeeper was a slightly plump man in his forties with a prosperous, dignified face. At Romon's question, he smiled and said, "Viscount Teta Xiao, I was just looking for you. An attendant from the Royal Palace is here to see you."

After briefly explaining the situation, the innkeeper stepped aside.

Merchants who made their living in a place like this knew when to speak and when to keep quiet. That was how they protected themselves from being swept into trouble.

"Greetings, my lord. I am Kadelo, a knight of the royal court, and I have been ordered to escort you to the Royal Palace." As the innkeeper moved aside, a burly knight came into Romon's view. He