The door at the end of the secluded palace gallery clicked as the key turned in its lock.
King Alderon stepped into the room first, his velvet-lined cloak brushing against the doorframe. He was followed closely by Harlond, his aide, whose sharp eyes immediately scanned every corner of the dark space before his posture relaxed even a fraction.
"I believe no one has ever been inside except me."
"Of course, Sire. By your order, no one is allowed in here, not even to clean it. I make sure of that."
"Good."
"I still maintain that Your Majesty should be resting in the solar before the evening delegates arrive," Harlond said quietly, his hand resting casually on the hilt of his sword. "The physicians were quite clear about your stamina."
