[Meredith].
The guards stationed outside saw me approaching and immediately bowed deeply. "Your Majesty."
They pulled open the massive double doors. I stepped inside alone, leaving Xamira outside with a subtle gesture.
The moment I entered, the atmosphere of the hall shifted. Music filled the air. Nobles and warriors were gathered across the large chamber, drinking, laughing, and celebrating. And then all eyes turned toward me.
Those nearest to the entrance immediately bowed. "Good evening, your Majesty."
I nodded politely as I walked further inside, but my attention was elsewhere. My gaze moved carefully across the hall. Table by table. Face by face. Searching.
My heartbeat thudded quietly in my chest. Then suddenly, a familiar hand gently caught mine.
Draven had already reached me. Without a word, he guided me toward our table. As soon as we sat together, his voice brushed against my mind through the matebond.
"Something is bothering you."
