“Oooh…!”

The nobles could not hide their awe as they entered the Great Golden Lion Hall. This was a place where only a few selected figures were normally allowed, including the officials of the imperial castle, including the royal knights, high-ranking nobles of the empire – those with similar status to the high lords – and those with great contributions to the empire receiving an audience with the emperor.

As such, although the nobles were long-term residents of the capital, only a small fraction of them had ever entered the Great Golden Lion Hall.

The hall was a symbol of glory and awe for all of them.

“Long time no see, Sir Narros.”

“Oh! Sir Shane! How have you been?”

“This must be our first meeting since Malpas, right? How has everything been for you, Viscount Strin?”

Nobles could be found greeting each other and exchanging pleasantries all over the hall. The capital was humongous and numerous nobles resided in it. As such, many of them were unfamiliar with each other. The grand banquet was the perfect opportunity for them to meet new faces and expand their social circle of influence.

In addition…

“Your Excellency...