In the opulent meeting room of the royal palace, a group of high-ranking nobles gathered, their ornate clothing rustling as they shifted uncomfortably in their seats. The tension in the air was thick, the atmosphere heavy with barely restrained animosity. At the head of the room, seated on a throne that exuded authority, was the King, his face expressionless as he listened to the complaints being presented before him.
Beside the King, the Crown Prince lounged in his chair, one leg crossed over the other, a sly smirk playing on his lips. His presence was a stark contrast to his father's regal stoicism; where the King maintained a sense of calm, the Crown Prince radiated condescension. His eyes glittered with barely hidden satisfaction as the nobles voiced their grievances. It was no secret that he relished the discomfort of others, especially when it served his own purposes.