The atmosphere was heavy with anticipation. Everyone there was aware of the truth: not all of them could enter.
The Citadel's rules were strict—one key only allowed ten individuals to pass through, regardless of rank or status. And though the Sun Palace was now filled with tens of Expert Rank masters, only a few would follow Magnar into the Citadel itself.
"I have already informed you of the names that will accompany me into the Citadel," King Magnar declared, his voice cold and absolute. "There will be no changes. The decision is final."
His gaze swept over the hall with authority. "The rest of you will remain on standby at the borders of the Central Region, in case the Monarch's side attempts something foolish in Drevon's absence. I believe it unlikely—but it never hurts to be prepared."
The moment his words fell, unrest rippled through the crowd.
"What about us? We also want to enter the Citadel!"
"Yeah, I've served you for years—you can't just ignore that now!"
