The chambers reserved for Monarchs within the Celestial Palace rarely knew disorder. They were spacious chambers, built of polished stone and ancient metals, adorned to accommodate rulers who considered themselves pillars of the continent. Heavy tapestries muffled outside sounds, crystal chandeliers cast a soft glow across the walls, and tall windows opened onto hanging gardens reserved only for the most prestigious guests. Everything in that section of the palace existed to reinforce status, stability, and control.
That night, however, Aelyra's room knew none of these things.
