After eight long hours—
Claaang!
The massive decorated doors of the great hall groaned as they swung open. From between them entered a woman of striking beauty, her presence almost luminous. She wore a flowing blue gown that revealed her bare shoulders and slender arms, the fabric rippling like water with every step. The instant she crossed the threshold, her sharp gaze swept across the chamber until it found its mark—her lord. A soft, knowing smile curved her lips as she began to walk toward him with graceful confidence.
At that very moment, Hedrick remained seated heavily upon his throne beside the map platform. His vast frame seemed carved from stone, yet his eyes were distant, unfocused, as though his soul were wandering in another realm. Each breath that escaped his chest was long and measured, betraying a weight that pressed far beyond mortal concerns.
