Damien's eyes wandered across the hall as he watched and waited. He avoided taking part in the festivities of the feast by his seat of divine authority. Nobody would question the king remaining in his throne for so long without interaction at all with the court. After all, nobody was high enough in his favor to dare speak with him. At least, not with the same familiarity that was reserved by Lucius or Evelyn. Neither would Damien care much for most of his subjects in his court. Many of them were figureheads; placeholders to prevent rivals from infiltrating the court. Through Evelyn's intel, Damien knew each and every one of them infinitely well before or during their stay in his court. If they turn out to be more than he imagined, then it came down to whether or not they would be recruited... Or destroyed.

Again, this was not the case at all for many of them. The lot of these courtiers were simply leeching nobles trying to get ahead of the rest in Arthroyeaux. Damien could almost feel disgusted if he did not have so much of a use for them, as much as he hated to admit it. Regardless, time began to pass quickly. Before long, Damien saw it fit to conclude the feast and dismiss the court for the hour of rest. He stood to his feet and clapped his hands for attention, which was raptly delivered.
[B]"My dearest subjects, it has been a good feast, but now I believe is the time to retire!" [/B]He announced. [B]"However, I will not conclude without one final toast!" [/B]He went on, picking up and raising his cup to the court. The courtiers responded likewise, waiting for his call. [B]"To good health!" [/B]Damien toasted, before drinking from his cup. The rest of the court reiterated his words, and followed suit. The foolish mimicry of the courtiers almost made Damien snort mid-drink.

Finishing his cup, Damien laid his vessel to rest and then headed off without another word. The courtiers then slowly found their own way to their bedrooms, either drunk with wine or distracted by conversation. Damien made a detour off his path to his bedchamber however, and headed towards the library, intent on meeting his contact and making the proper arrangements in person. A small smile tugged at the corners of his face, but he stilled his expression each time he passed flashes of torchlight.