Just as everyone was lavishing praise on General Skorobo, Grand Patriarch Belinsky made a "follow me" gesture to Wang Zhong and walked toward a corner of the garden.
Wang Zhong followed without hesitation, while Ludmila glanced at the two men and chose to stay put.
The Patriarch's guards spread out and formed a security perimeter, and the nobles attending the banquet occasionally glanced over but quickly averted their eyes.
The Crown Prince also occasionally looked toward his close friend, his face flashing with confusion, probably because he couldn't understand why the Grand Patriarch would have anything to discuss with his friend, who had never been known for piety.
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No sooner had Wang Zhong reached behind the Grand Patriarch than he heard him say, "Do you really have to ruin my stew?"
"Well, that was the only place with an open flame."
The Patriarch shook his head and changed the subject, "You've fought well these past few days. Any particular moments stand out to you?"
