The professionals had been standing along the wall throughout the exchange, retaining a respectful silence. When the moment settled, the group shifted. A tall figure in a charcoal suit stepped forward first, inclining her head toward Kaiden.
"Lord Ashborn. We apologize for the intrusion into your private quarters this evening. Lady Vespera's instructions were to be present for the formal declaration, and we understand that our presence during your family's personal moments was not intended."
Kaiden glanced at the row behind her. Fourteen people. He counted three men.
'Almost all women,' he noted, wondering if this was intentional or if the Shadow Monarch simply attracted loyalty from women.
"It's fine," Kaiden said. "Thank you for being here."
