The merchant and the lean man led the boys to a grandiose place, instructing them to keep their heads low so as not to offend anyone. Cassian couldn't see the upper part of the surroundings, but the floor in front of his eyes was already luxurious, adorned with intricate patterns and gleaming with cleanliness.
After some time, they stopped in front of a big gate, and the merchant asked in a flattering manner, "When can we go inside?"
The doorman replied, "Wait, the king is busy."
After waiting for what felt like an eternity, they were finally allowed inside. Cassian could feel many voices and gazes on them, but he kept his eyes low, just like the others. As they walked to the front, the merchant instantly kneeled and greeted the king with honor. The lean man kicked their knees, so they also kneeled, their heads bowed in submission.
"Your Majesty," the merchant said with a flattering tone his voice dripping with honey. "I have brought a special gift for you. Here a group of boys that will serve the palace well."
The king seated on his ornate throne, looked down at them with an appraising gaze. His presence was commanding and Cassian could feel the weight of his scrutiny. "Rise," the king commanded with a deep and authoritative voice.
The boys stood up, still keeping their heads low, not daring to look directly at the king. The merchant continued, "These boys have been handpicked for their obedience and potential. They will be excellent palace maidservants, Your Majesty."
The king waved a hand, and a court official stepped forward to inspect them. The official walked down the line while examining each boy carefully. When he reached Cassian, he paused for a moment, his eyes narrowing slightly before moving on.
After the inspection, the official nodded and turned to the king. "These two seem suitable, Your Majesty," he said indicating Cassian and a red-haired boy.
The king nodded in approval. "Very well. They shall be accepted into the palace service. As for the rest," he glanced dismissively at the other boys and said, "they are not needed here."
The merchant bowed deeply, his face showing relief and satisfaction. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I am honored by your acceptance. May I humbly request your approval for my business in this kingdom?"
The king considered for a moment before nodding. "You shall have my approval. Now leave."
The merchant's face lit up with gratitude. "Thank you, Your Majesty. You are most generous."
As the merchant and the remaining boys were escorted out, Cassian and the red-haired boy were left standing in the throne room. A court official approached them and said, "Follow me."
As they were being led from the throne room, Cassian couldn't resist the urge to look around. His eyes wandered over the opulent surroundings until they landed on a young man. There was only one thought that came to Cassian's mind: so handsome and regal. The young man was standing among the courtiers. Their eyes met for a brief moment, and Cassian's heart skipped a beat with the fear of being caught.
The young man, who Cassian quickly realized must be from high status, actually winked at him. Flustered, Cassian tried to lower his head but ended up almost scrambling on the floor, his cheeks burning with embarrassment.
The court official didn't notice his awkward stumble and continued leading them to their new quarters.
Cassian was led to the inner part of the palace and now he could openly look at everything—the intricate patterns on the walls and the golden lining on it. Cassian was sure that it was real gold. The floor was so clean that he almost could see his face on it. They walked down a corridor for some time, and the walls were filled with different kinds of luxurious and elegant paintings. Cassian was sure his ten lives would not be able to afford these paintings or every other object that was placed here. He looked at the red-haired boy, who was equally shocked as him to see the grandeur of this palace. After all, it's jaw-breakingly beautiful. And he felt comforted that he was not the only country bumpkin who had reacted like this.
The courtier in front of them didn't notice the strange behavior of these two. He calmly led them. Cassian noticed how the man walked with confident strides, his boots did not make a single sound on the floor. His back was straight, and with squared shoulders, the man walked confidently. Cassian became immediately awed by the man and, like a little child, tried to impersonate the man in front of him. Squaring his shoulders and with a straight back and puffed-up chest, he walked. The red-haired boy noticed the strange movements from Cassian and immediately understood what was happening. Not wanting to be left behind by Cassian, he also imitated the courtier. Now both young boys could be seen walking like proud chickens behind the courtier.
Finally, after walking through maze-like corridors and beautiful gardens, they reached a different palace. The court official found a young man dressed in a fitted suit and said, "These boys will now work as the king's servants. Train them well."
The Steward replied with a bow, "As you order, Count Rein." The court official nodded and left the boys in the steward's care.
Both boys looked at the Steward in front of them with curious expressions.
"Ahem," the Steward cleared his voice. " What is your name boys?
The red-haired boy replied first, James and then Cassisn also said his name. I am Cassian.
The steward nodded and said, you can rest for today, your training will start tomorrow, and with a stern expression, he continued, It will be your first and last chance to prove yourself in this palace, your decision can lead you to the top or you wouldn't survive to see the next sunrise.
Cassian and James's expressions became stunned then pale, but still, they nodded.
Seeing their pale expression, the steward smiled and said, hehe! Don't be afraid boys, If you behave well, you will have the opportunity to live long.