Within the main hall of the North Sea Dragon Palace, the Aquatic Folk brought out dish after dish. Almost every one of the dozens of tables seated a single guest, with no more than two at any table, and few people paid much attention to the food.
Of course, before the banquet began, those present had already exchanged a few words, so certain matters were already known to them.
Outside, the feast had long since begun, and the atmosphere was lively.
But the clamor outside seemed distant here in the main hall. Everything within appeared particularly refined-or rather, somewhat dreary and oppressive.
Elegant, gentle music filled the hall, where a beautiful dragon maiden danced gracefully at its center, accompanied by dancing girls of the Aquatic Folk.
With a thud, one of the dancing girls beside the dragon maiden fell to the floor. A companion helped her up, and all the dancers, including the dragon maiden, stiffened slightly as they looked toward the Dragon Lord at the head of the hall.
This was already the second time a dancer had fallen. It was not that they lacked skill, but that they were far too nervous. The pressure left them unable to breathe.
Ya Ci shook his head slightly and finally spoke.
"Enough. You may all withdraw!"
"Dragon Lord..."
The dragon maiden below bit her lip slightly, as though she wanted to say something more. But seeing the Dragon Lord's calm expression, she could only lead her companions in a bow with clasped hands before they hurried away.
The musicians to one side were also at a loss. Ya Ci glanced at them and waved his hand. As though granted a pardon, they all rose, bowed, and withdrew.
For a moment, the entire hall fell silent. The livelier the feast outside became,