"Since he must be there, we need to leave horses behind," Drayce suggested. The two sped their horses towards the Grand Palace where the other knights took away the horses.
Drayce talked to Jasper who was waiting by the entrance, about to escort him back to his study. "Handle the paperwork for now and put aside those requesting an audience at a later time. I need to leave the palace."
"What? You can't! Where are you sneaking off to—" Jasper was about to nag at him, but then realized something and changed his tone. "I mean, Your Majesty, how long will you be gone?"
"My friend is here," Drayce replied vaguely, aware his trusted aide would understand.
"Ah, like every year," Jasper said with a nod. "Rest assured. I will take care of everything as usual."
Drayce looked at Slayer who was ready to leave with him.
"Wait, are you taking him with you, Your Majesty?" Jasper asked.
"He is Slayer's friend as well," Drayce replied.
