Chapter 193: Sugar, Silk, and Subtext
The final poem had been spoken.
And with it, the presentation drew to its quiet close.
There was no dramatic announcement of completion, no sudden release of tension, only the King's composed inclination of his head as he observed the gathered assembly.
"Now that the presentation has drawn to a closure," he said evenly, "the candidates may partake of refreshment whilst the council deliberates upon the matter of the top three."
The words were received without protest.
Rather, they were met with the natural easing of a room that had long maintained its restraint.
The suitors bowed as the King stepped down from the dais before they began moving.
Conversations began. It was low, careful, and subdued, as though even relaxation within such a hall required discretion.
Along the far length of the chamber stood the refreshment table.
