in silks and secrets. The gowns were made of gold-threaded fabrics that shimmered like su

aulted ceiling where glass chandeliers dangled like frozen stars. Velvet drapes the color of wine

t but the cinched waist dramatic, highlighting her hourglass form. Her rich mahogany curls had been pinned back to reveal a striking neck and glowing flawless skin. Her hazel eyes

the palace o

ir sh

uble doors g

Even the drapes se

ilver and black armor lined the entran

g R

a man whispered about like

ined with gold embroidery and a deep crimson inner lining that caught the light with every step. His shoulders were br

that made the room f

n-warmed bronze. And those eyes-a piercing, icy grey, like storm clouds re

rs-was swept partially back beneath a black-gold crown that sat heavy

he wore a deep emerald gown and an elegant smile, though there was sh

aid, voice smooth as

ls stra

amilies, trained, groomed, chosen. But only one among you will stand at my son's side

hoed off the

g said

he hall and sat. His gaze did not waver, his face unr

continued, "you will introd

t shimmered with a thousand tiny crystals. She di

rlords. I've been trained since birth to stand beside a king. I am loyal

she said the last line, even dari

ding into the next. Sweet-sounding, practic

was Lily

gh the room-not spoken, but visible. Heads t

breath

ffs around her wrists glinted under the hall's light. Her hazel eyes didn't wa

y Mereya. My parents... were lost when I was a child. I have been trained i

pa

ule. I seek it to serve. To p

nt, Raven lo

Subtle-but

ully on her. He didn't blink. He didn't smile. But the look was sh

saw

Her heart gave a si

narrowed her eyes, quietly watching the exchange. She lea

's jaw

ched her son careful

buzzed quietly behind painted lips. No on

most beautif