{Third Person}
Alexander sat at his desk, a pen still in his hand, papers spread neatly before him. He didn't look up immediately when Jasper entered.
"Your Highness, two hundred royal guards, led by one of His Majesty's personal guards, are here," Jasper reported.
Only then did Alexander's hand pause. "For what?" he asked, though his tone suggested he already knew the reason.
"To escort Your Highness to the banquet."
A faint scoff left Alexander's lips. He set the pen down lazily against the table. "So," he said, leaning back slightly, "they are here to escort me… and won't leave until I go with them."
Jasper remained silent.
Alexander's gaze drifted briefly, unfocused, before he spoke again. "Then let them keep waiting."
He picked up another sheet of paper as if the matter no longer concerned him.
—
Outside, time passed.
The guards did not move an inch. They stood, unmoving, unwavering, their presence pressing against the residence like a siege without violence.
