Then come on. There's one particular stop off I should make first.
[It hasn't escaped his attention that Hayame is getting stares, if not pointed questions yet, so he leads her through to a long hallway, in which there are marble-carved depictings in the walls of past battles. He explains they show notable points in Almyran history, either from some more ancient past -- battles amongst ancient Almyran desert or plains tribes, many also on horseback -- or subduing foreign enemies. Though he doesn't mention it, perhaps he'd intended the jarring contrast on purpose, by hanging that tapestry where he did.
Regarldess, through the hall is a set of double doors flanked by guards, who bow and open the way for the two to proceed. In the room is vast throne room with a high ceiling and tall columns topped by marble wyverns, staring down with gold-leafed eyes at those seeking an audience. A long rug leads to the throne, and the sun hits at just the right angle through the latticed windows of the hall that it scatters a pattern of stars and shadow across the floor.]
It seems less exciting to bring you to the throne room right away, but I'm actually looking for my retainer. [Claude explains to Hayame, casting his gaze around. A few guards are standing to attention, but none of them seem to be who he's looking for. He addresses the one closest--]
Hey, since Nader isn't around, can you do me a favour and spread the word? Hayame here may look different, but she's an honoured guest, the same as everyone else I invite here. I expect her to be treated as such.
[The guard, who had been gawking at Hayame a little, flusters and bows rapidly.] Yes, Your Majesty! We're honoured to receive you, m-my lady!
[Khalid looks exasperated.] I've told you before, you don't have to call me...
[Then again, maybe the king of this world is more formal? ... Nah, probably not, but he decides not to complete that complaint all the same. He has no idea how Hayame will take such deference addressed to her, though, given she was only just used to getting such treatment as a Shardbearer.]
no subject
[It hasn't escaped his attention that Hayame is getting stares, if not pointed questions yet, so he leads her through to a long hallway, in which there are marble-carved depictings in the walls of past battles. He explains they show notable points in Almyran history, either from some more ancient past -- battles amongst ancient Almyran desert or plains tribes, many also on horseback -- or subduing foreign enemies. Though he doesn't mention it, perhaps he'd intended the jarring contrast on purpose, by hanging that tapestry where he did.
Regarldess, through the hall is a set of double doors flanked by guards, who bow and open the way for the two to proceed. In the room is vast throne room with a high ceiling and tall columns topped by marble wyverns, staring down with gold-leafed eyes at those seeking an audience. A long rug leads to the throne, and the sun hits at just the right angle through the latticed windows of the hall that it scatters a pattern of stars and shadow across the floor.]
It seems less exciting to bring you to the throne room right away, but I'm actually looking for my retainer. [Claude explains to Hayame, casting his gaze around. A few guards are standing to attention, but none of them seem to be who he's looking for. He addresses the one closest--]
Hey, since Nader isn't around, can you do me a favour and spread the word? Hayame here may look different, but she's an honoured guest, the same as everyone else I invite here. I expect her to be treated as such.
[The guard, who had been gawking at Hayame a little, flusters and bows rapidly.] Yes, Your Majesty! We're honoured to receive you, m-my lady!
[Khalid looks exasperated.] I've told you before, you don't have to call me...
[Then again, maybe the king of this world is more formal? ... Nah, probably not, but he decides not to complete that complaint all the same. He has no idea how Hayame will take such deference addressed to her, though, given she was only just used to getting such treatment as a Shardbearer.]