Valyne followed the palace steward down a polished hallway lined with gold veined marble and anxious silence. Her footsteps echoed lightly behind the servant's, her long robe brushing against the stone floor like a whisper of mischief. The corridors were grand and reserved. Adorned with deep red banners and the polished crests of House Vellgard. It smelled faintly of citrus oil, parchment, and barely concealed tension.
The doors ahead opened with theatrical ceremony, of course they did and she was ushered into a throne room that was far more understated than she had expected for a city known for its gilded name. No towering columns or gem inlaid flooring. Just authority wrapped in quiet discipline.
Two women occupied the chamber.
