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Middle predor wrote:

On more regal occasions- like weddings, or the huge balls sometimes thrown- the Great Hall could fit a huge selection of the nobility of all three kingdoms of Predor- no small feat, as Middle Predor alone held thousands of nobles of varying ranks- and would be laid out with a huge feast.

But this was just a small gathering, and so a large portion of the hall was empty, with just a smaller table laid out and the King himself seated at the far end on a -rather modest considering the wealth of the palace around him- high-backed chair. He stood as the delegates entered, and Duke Wyman bowed. "Your Highness, the State Secretary for the Connfederacy, the Ambassador to the Kingdom, and their entourage. Gentlemen, the King."

King Albin nodded slightly. "A pleasure to meet you again, gentlemen. We've had a lunch prepared for your arrival, if you'd care to join me?"

Following etiquette, the Columbians made their way to give their respects to the monarch, much as any would give their respect to a person of higher authority. Though there was a difference in its execution, it was courtesy, and they would not slight a foreign power for senseless reasons. And thus, they resorted to follow as Predorian tradition demanded. Once they have been introduced, Tunt and Laszlow reiterated their full names and responsibilities.

“Of course, Your Highness,” came simultaneous responses once the King had invited them, the State Secretary and the Ambassador taking their designated seats for the lunch. Tunt silently considered the placement of their seating—a political strategy as important as gerrymandering or the scrupulous dealings of congressional lobbyists—but resolved to ignore it for now.

Once they’ve settled, the State Secretary broke the silence. “We thank you, Your Highness, for your hospitality and inviting us for a generous lunch. Our treatment, so far, has been exquisite. We truly grateful for this opportunity to visit the Middle Kingdom.”