The prince, for his part, gave no acknowledgment beyond that single flash of resentment. He walked with practiced grace toward the raised dais where the throne stood. He mounted the steps with ease, turned, and settled himself in the smaller but ornate seat placed beside the great throne.
The hall quieted further as he folded his hands neatly on his lap and adjusted his posture, his face the picture of composure. It was no secret why he was there. To sit beside the throne was both privilege and responsibility. It was a lesson, a chance for him to observe firsthand the art of ruling, to watch the Empress command respect, demand loyalty, and weigh matters of the realm.
All eyes returned to the throne. The throne hall seemed to hold its breath as they all waited for the Empress, the supreme ruler of Lechia, to appear.
