Meanwhile…
Everyone in the inner palace was kept on the hop with the matters on hand. One particular place was the royal court, where ministers and people in power discuss the state of affairs. Despite attending court meetings without the presence of the emperor, it didn't stop the greedy cutthroat individuals from trying to get the upper hand and control over everybody else.
Joaquin remained silent around the long table where they gathered. His expression was dark, hands intertwined in front of his lips. He barely had sleep last night, and all these loud yelling and arguments filling up the temporary court hall were making his head hurt. They weren't helping him in any way.
