Under a Dimmed Sun [UNCENSORED]

SII: Chapter XLVII: A Turbulent Night [18+]

Weeks have passed, as they stand on the Navarre castle grounds, they are filled with a sense of awe at the grand beauty of the castle's architecture. Despite its age, the castle still holds an air of grandeur and strength, its walls standing tall and proud against the passage of time. The sun glints off the polished stone, creating a brilliant display of light and shadow. The castle's banners flutter in the gentle breeze, adding a touch of color to the overall atmosphere. The servants and knights are all taking a rest, and the courtyard is filled with the sound of chatter and laughter as they enjoy their much-deserved break.

As Albert entered the great hall, he was taken aback by the splendor of the room. The walls were covered in intricate tapestries, and the floor was a polished marble that glimmered in the lamplight. At the far end of the room, on raised dais, were the Navarre King and Queen, flanked by their attendants. Albert approached them, bowing deeply in respect before offering a polite greeting. The King and Queen, dressed in fine silks and jewels, returned his greeting with gracious smiles.

Alice and the other servants stand quietly behind Albert, ready to provide assistance when needed. Despite their less prominent role, their presence is palpable and their loyalty to the Mohn family is evident. The King and Queen take note of them, clearly impressed by the efficiency and dedication of the Mohn's servants. The atmosphere in the hall is charged with a sense of anticipation as Albert and the Navarre royalty begin their conversation.

Albert: "Your Majesty," he began, "I am Albert, second son of the Mohn family. It is an honor to finally meet you again."

The Navarre king looked at Albert with keen eyes, studying him for a moment before responding. "Ah, Albert," he said with a small smile. "I have heard of you from my wife and your father. I trust you are here in place of your father?"

"Yes, Your Majesty," Albert replied, his voice firm yet respectful. "My father is detained with business at the moment, and he asked me to come in his place. He sends his deepest apologies for not being able to make the journey himself."

The Navarre king nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I understand," he said. "Fathers are often very busy with their work. I am pleased to see that your father trusts you to represent him in his absence."

After the introduction, Albert and his subjects were led to separate rooms in the castle to rest before the banquet. Alice, the other servants, and the escorts were given separate guest rooms for their own use during their stay, while Albert was given a more opulent room befitting his station. After freshening up and taking a moment to themselves, the group would gather in the castle's grand hall to take part in the evening's celebrations. As they made their way through the halls, the sound of music and chatter could be heard echoing off the stone walls, adding to the anticipation of the night's festivities.

As the group entered the grand hall, Alice's eyes widened in awe at the opulence before her. The room was lit with hundreds of candles, their warm glow casting dancing shadows on the walls and floor. Noblemen and noblewomen in finely tailored gowns and richly embroidered suits mingled with the servants, creating a vibrant atmosphere of chatter and laughter. Everyone was dressed in their best attire for the important occasion. Alice, however, was dressed in a modest gown, one that was neither too fancy nor too plain, giving her the perfect camouflage to blend in with the crowd.

As Albert entered the hall, he was a sight to behold. His golden hair shimmered in the candlelight, and his piercing meadow green eyes roamed the room, taking in the opulence of the surroundings. He stood tall and proud in attire befitting a Castilian noble, a finely tailored doublet and breeches that marked his status and wealth. The women in the room couldn't help but notice him, their eyes following his every move as whispers of admiration floated through the air. The ladies in the room were all dressed in their finest gowns, their faces adorned with cosmetics and paints to make them look even more attractive. They whispered to each other, their eyes fixed on Albert as he made his way through the room.