The palace doors creaked open, and Ian stepped inside. His heart was pounding in his chest, but he forced a steady smile, refusing to let his nerves show. The grand hall stretched out before him, lined with banners from six kingdoms, each throne placed in a perfect half-circle at the far end of the chamber. Upon those thrones sat the Queens of the realm, their gazes sharp and regal, their presence almost overwhelming.
Ian stopped a few feet before them and bowed politely. "Your Majesties," he said, voice respectful yet carrying its usual unbothered tone, "I greet you all. I am Ian Grey, Heir to this Empire....though I suspect you already know that much."
The Queens exchanged glances at his words, some with faint smiles, others with curious frowns, before one of them .... the one who had hosted him until now...spoke first.
