In the hall of the Grand Palace, thousands of candles made from whale fat still burned brightly. The minstrels joyfully danced, pushing the atmosphere to another climax. The rebels threatening Constantinople had been imprisoned, and the shadow of war was about to dissipate. Everyone seemed very happy.
Only a few Greek nobles who hadn't drunk too much noticed that the crusader nobles, originally honored in the hall from Aegyptus, had quietly left at some point.
They led their soldiers, stepping over the holy images made of mosaic tiles in the corridor. Hundreds of iron armors clattered as they marched swiftly.
The hall's infantry soldiers, Night Guard, and Inner Courtyard Guard stationed at strategic passages all became vigilant.
On the towers, crossbowmen and archers aimed at the approaching figures.
"Are you trying to cause trouble by bringing armed soldiers into the palace?"
"These damn Latins, I knew they couldn't be trusted!"
