Outside the castle, yet still within its paved courtyards, rows of elegant canopies had been erected—each sheltering nobles from the afternoon sun.
Beneath the silken covers, tables glittered with polished silverware, crystal goblets, and platters of delicacies whose rich aromas perfumed the air. The hum of laughter and soft music wafted over the gathering, mingling with the clink of wine-filled cups.
Closer to the elevated platform—where the hosts of the celebration would sit—only the most prestigious noble houses were permitted to occupy seats. The hierarchy was clear: the nearer one's canopy to the dais, the higher one's station.
Farther out, however, sat barons and viscounts from lesser domains, some of whom looked almost out of place. Their garish dress and coarse manners drew subtle glances and hushed whispers. They carried the air of those still learning courtly etiquette, or worse—those unaware it existed.
