The room was filled with an unspoken tension as the Grimknights exchanged glances with the unfamiliar group seated on the other side of the grand table. Each faction sized up the other, their expressions ranging from wary curiosity to silent challenge. The air felt heavy, thick with the weight of anticipation, until King Fredrik finally broke the silence.
"Since we are all here, I believe it is time to begin," the king declared, his voice smooth yet commanding.
Elric furrowed his brows. "Begin what, exactly?" he asked, his tone cautious.
The king chuckled heartily, his laughter echoing through the high ceilings of the grand dining hall. "The feast, warrior. Let us all enjoy the bounty before us!" He gestured to the extravagant spread of dishes that adorned the table—roasted meats glistening under golden candlelight, baskets of freshly baked bread, rich stews that sent up mouthwatering aromas, and an array of fruits and delicacies worthy of royalty.
