The royal palace stood at the very center of the city, rising above the surrounding districts as both a seat of power and a symbol of authority.
High stone walls enclosed the palace grounds, while tall towers and fortified halls overlooked the city in every direction. From its elevated position, the palace commanded clear views of the major districts, markets, and harbor.
Within the palace, deep inside a private chamber sealed against scrying and intrusion, the king sat at a long table with a handful of his most trusted aids.
He appeared to be a late middle-aged man sporting a full head of crimson hair and ruby-red eyes. A simple golden crown rested upon his brows.
This was the ruler of the Ignisra Kingdom, Maximillian Fireborne. He was also Anna's father.
Beside him sat a young man who bore a striking resemblance to him. This was the Prince of the Ignisra Kingdom, Marlow Fireborne. He was Anna's elder brother.
