The air around the palace was alive with excitement and tension, as though the very stones of the grand structure hummed with anticipation. The banquet was about to begin. For the first time in what felt like an eternity, the capital's citizens were given the opportunity to witness the emperor's goodwill up close.
The people of Avalon arrived in droves, their curiosity and skepticism evident in their hushed murmurs. Many had never seen Emperor Morris in person, only knowing him through whispers of his rule.
"We can't just blindly follow a ruler we've never truly seen," a man whispered to his companion.
"Exactly," the other agreed. "If we're to place our trust in him, we need to see how he handles things firsthand."
Despite their whispered doubts, they moved toward the palace gates in an orderly manner, ushered along by the stoic guards stationed at every corner.
"Form a single line and proceed calmly," a guard instructed, his voice firm yet respectful. "You will pass through the security checkpoint. Those of you carrying any form of metal, bags, or suspicious items will be detained for inspection. This is per Commander Boyka's orders. No exceptions."
The crowd complied, albeit with some grumbling. Each individual passed through an electronic scanning machine that emitted soft beeps with each person it cleared. Those with metallic objects were pulled aside for further scrutiny, while others were allowed entry into the banquet hall.
"You there!" a soldier bellowed, pointing at a woman clutching a bag. "Stand aside. Bags are not permitted beyond this point."
The woman, clearly agitated, stepped forward. "What do you mean I can't bring my bag inside? All I have is my camera," she argued, holding the bag tighter.
"The rules are clear," the soldier replied, his tone firm. "No bags allowed, regardless of their contents. We are acting on Commander Boyka's orders. Step aside."
Her frustration bubbled over. "This is ridiculous!" she exclaimed. "All I want is to document the event. That's my only purpose here! And yet you're stopping me over some absurd rule?" She muttered angrily under her breath, her grip on the bag tightening as she reluctantly stepped aside.
From a distance, Commander Boyka observed the commotion. His sharp eyes narrowed as he approached the scene with purposeful strides.
"What seems to be the problem here?" Boyka asked, his calm yet commanding voice cutting through the tension.
The woman turned to face him, her expression a mixture of anger and desperation. "They're stopping me from entering," she said, her voice trembling slightly. "All I have is my camera. I'm not here to cause trouble—I just want to document the banquet. And yet they claim it's against your orders."
Boyka glanced at the bag she held and then back at the soldiers. "Is this true?" he asked, his tone firm.
"Yes, Commander," one of the soldiers replied. "She has a bag, and we were instructed to deny entry to anyone carrying such items."
Boyka nodded, his expression softening as he turned back to the woman. "I understand your frustration, young lady. The soldiers are only following my orders, which are in place for the safety of everyone here. However, I see no harm in allowing you entry after inspecting the contents of your bag."
He gestured for her to open the bag, which she did without hesitation, revealing nothing more than a camera and some spare lenses. Satisfied, Boyka nodded.
"Come with me," he said.
The woman blinked in surprise. "Thank you, Commander," she said, quickly following him.
As they passed through the gates, the soldiers saluted Boyka in unison.
"Commander," they said, their voices a chorus of respect.
Boyka returned their salute, then gestured for the woman to follow him further into the palace. The guards hesitated but obeyed his orders, stepping aside to let her through.
Once inside, she turned to him with a grateful smile. "Thank you for what you did, Commander. I truly appreciate it. My name is Laura," she said, offering her hand. "It's an honor to meet you. I've heard so much about you, and I wanted to see for myself the legendary Commander Boyka."
Boyka hesitated for a moment before shaking her hand. "It's nothing," he said simply. "I'm just doing my duty." Without another word, he turned and walked away, leaving Laura to marvel at his composed demeanor.
---
Inside the grand banquet hall, the air was thick with expectation. The room was a masterpiece of opulence, its vaulted ceilings adorned with intricate carvings and golden chandeliers that bathed the space in warm light. Long tables lined with the finest dishes stretched across the hall, and servants bustled about, ensuring every detail was perfect.
At the center of the main table sat Emperor Morris, his regal presence commanding the attention of all who entered. Beside him, Princess Asake radiated grace and poise, her return to the palace filling the hall with a renewed sense of hope.
The hall grew quiet as Boyka entered, his tall frame cutting an imposing figure. The emperor's face lit up upon seeing him.
"Welcome, Commander," Emperor Morris said, his voice resonating through the room. "We've been waiting for you."
Boyka approached the table, bowing deeply before taking his seat near the emperor.
"You have done this kingdom a great service," the emperor continued, his tone filled with genuine gratitude. "Your bravery and leadership will not be forgotten."
"It is my honor to serve, Your Majesty," Boyka replied. "But the credit does not belong to me alone. The soldiers who fought alongside me and the unwavering support of the crown made this victory possible."
The emperor smiled, clearly pleased with Boyka's humility. "Nevertheless, tonight we celebrate your success."
Boyka gave a curt nod, his focus shifting momentarily to Princess Asake, who offered him a warm smile. He quickly looked away, his expression unreadable.
The banquet was minutes away from beginning, and the anticipation in the room was palpable. The emperor rose from his seat, signaling for silence. The hall fell still, all eyes turning to him as he prepared to deliver his opening speech.
Outside the palace, the sounds of the city faded into the background as the night embraced its most important gathering. For now, Avalon stood united, its people looking toward their emperor and his steadfast commander for guidance and hope.
Lights out.