Then, the slow, rhythmic sound of clapping broke the silence.
It was the Emperor.
He stood up from his golden throne, clapping his hands together with slow, heavy, and genuine admiration. Following his lead, the Empress began to applaud as well. Within seconds, the entire Great Hall erupted into a thunderous, overwhelming standing ovation. The civil officials, the noblewomen, and the Vanguard generals all rose to their feet, the applause echoing off the golden dragon pillars.
The Emperor raised his hand, and the applause instantly ceased as the court bowed their heads.
"Magnificent," the Emperor declared, his voice thick with emotion. "Truly, unequivocally magnificent. You have not only entertained this court, Lady Heena, but you have reminded us of the blood and iron upon which this empire was built."
The Emperor looked at the head eunuch.
