At three in the afternoon, Ron arrived at the Jadeite Pavilion as scheduled.
The courtyard today seemed unusually quiet, even the usually chirping Crystal Songbirds had quieted down.
The exotic flowers, once blooming brightly, now had edges tinged with a subtle darkness, as if touched by some indescribable force.
Franka, as always, was waiting at the door, dressed in the heavy long gown that remained unchanged throughout the seasons.
"Wizard Ralph, His Highness is waiting for you in the reception hall."
The voice of the half-dragon maid was as steady as ever, but Ron's special perception allowed him to detect its subtle changes.
Through the "Hermit's Knowledge," he discovered that Franka's muscles were in a state of slight tension.
Her breathing was slightly hurried, her left hand unconsciously tightening and then loosening, a typical reaction when facing uncertain threats.
