[Lavinia's POV — Grand Audience Hall—Continuation]
The great doors of the Audience Hall swung open with a low groan that rolled across the marble like thunder before a storm.
Gold banners hung from the vaults, flashing in the morning light. Torches guttered as courtiers stilled; the hall held its breath. At the far end, Papa sat on his obsidian throne—all shadowed muscle and command. He looked like a mountain whose shadow swallowed lesser things.
I stepped forward and bowed, smiling. "Greetings, Your Majesty."
He inclined his head. "Come here, my dear."
As I moved, I noticed Osric and Grand-Duke Regis standing to one side—polished, reserved, and with the air of two men used to being watched. So that was why Osric had not come earlier: today he stood as the Next Grand Duke in the court's eyes.
I turned, caught sight of Sir Haldor near the door—the captain of my knights—and he was standing like a guard. I paused and called softly, "Sir Haldor."
