章 176: Problem on the horizon

Alpheo walked side by side with Jasmine through the royal gardens, their steps slow and unhurried amidst the vibrant greenery. The late afternoon sun cast a golden hue over the lush landscape, illuminating the carefully tended flowers and the sprawling trees that stood as silent sentinels around the garden's edge. 

Servants and slaves, scattered throughout the garden as they went about their duties, paused at their approach. Heads bowed low,as the royal couple walked through them

Their footsteps crunched softly along the gravel paths as they passed a gardener trimming a hedge, who quickly set down his tools to kneel. A few kitchen hands hurriedly scurried to the side, their eyes never daring to rise from the ground as they bent in deep bows. Even the soldiers standing watch by the garden's walls inclined their heads, respectful and silent as Alpheo and Jasmine continued their stroll.