The massive doors of the throne room opened slowly.
Philip entered first, followed by Aciel and Xylia. Simon and Leiam remained a few steps behind them, their expressions calm but their eyes constantly moving.
The throne room was even more imposing than the rest of Montreal Castle. Tall windows stretched from the marble floor almost to the ceiling, allowing afternoon light to pour across the polished stone. Golden columns supported an intricately painted ceiling, while enormous royal banners hung between portraits of former kings and queens.
At the far end of the room stood the throne. And seated upon it was Queen Beatrice.
Aciel stopped several feet away. For a moment, mother and son simply looked at each other.
Then Aciel bowed his head. "Your Majesty."
Xylia curtsied. "Your Majesty."
Simon and Leiam followed with respectful bows.
Beatrice's expression softened.
"Welcome to Vostrea, my son."
