In a grand castle deep within the heart of a powerful kingdom, the tall ceilings were lined with golden chandeliers, and the soft glow of candlelight danced across the marble floor where nobles in rich garments were gathered for a special occasion.
The hall echoed with polite laughter, the gentle clinking of wine goblets, and the refined voices of men and women speaking in noble tones.
Long tables filled with roasted meats, fruits, and shining silverware lined the edges of the hall, and musicians in fine clothes played soft tunes that filled the air with celebration.
At the highest table, above all the others, an elderly man with white hair, dressed in regal robes of deep crimson and gold, stood slowly and lifted a shining goblet in one hand.
The chatter slowly faded as the attention of the crowd turned to him.
