The tension that hung over the rest of the Moonlight Palace did not seem to touch the private solar, where the clinking of heavy gold necklaces and the rustling of fine silks filled the air. Azure leaned back against the royal cushions, her sharp eyes scanning the luxury items laid out before her.
The middle-aged merchant bowed low, spreading a shimmering, deep-emerald gown across the velvet table. "Only the finest for the future of this pack, Lady Azure. This silk was imported from the eastern trade routes—woven with real silver thread that catches the light with every step."
Azure ran a manicured finger over the fabric, a slow smirk tugging at the corners of her lips. "It is decent. Tell me, how many bolts of this specific silk do you have left in your carriage?"
"I have three remaining, my lady," the merchant replied quickly, her smile widening at the prospect of a massive sale. "They were intended for the high noble houses in the capital, but—"
