Chapter 17 - Arrival at Meridian
The neutral city of Meridian was a sprawling metropolis of white marble and lush gardens, situated halfway between the frozen northern mountains and the warm southern coast. Banners of various trade guilds fluttered in the autumn breeze as the royal carriage from Frostpeak rolled through the grand gates, escorted by a formidable guard of elite Lycan warriors.
Lord Alistair and a delegation of southern nobles stood waiting on the grand marble steps of the summit hall, wearing polite, fabricated smiles that didn't reach their eyes.
As the carriage door opened, Stellan stepped out first, his towering frame and fierce aura instantly silencing the surrounding courtiers. He turned, offering his hand to Giselle.
Giselle emerged wearing a magnificent gown of deep midnight-blue silk embroidered with silver frost crystals, the platinum crown resting regally upon her snow-white hair. Her crimson eyes swept over the southern delegation with cool, unyielding authority.
"Welcome, Your Majesties," Lord Alistair said, bowing low with exaggerated reverence. "We are deeply honored that you accepted our invitation to seal eternal peace between our lands."
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"Save the pleasantries, Lord Alistair," Stellan growled softly, his hand resting casually near the hilt of his sword. "Let us get straight to the banquet hall. We have matters of state to discuss."
As they walked inside, Alistair exchanged a dark, knowing glance with one of his guards. The trap was set.
