The morning sun filtered through the high windows of the former Rhelgar estate, painting everything gold—the velvet drapes, the polished stone floor, even the line of kneeling bodies at the foot of Allen's throne. They were perfectly still, heads bowed, the markings on their skin catching the light like ceremonial tattoos. Elira stood just beside them, dressed only in her collar and a chain that trailed down between her breasts. She held a scroll in one hand and a switch in the other.
Allen sat sprawled in the throne like it was molded for him, shirt open, muscles relaxed, but his eyes were sharp. Behind him, Rinni sat on the armrest with her legs curled, nibbling on a skewer of fruit, while Fina leaned against the wall with her arms folded, watching the display with a contented smirk.
"Names," Allen said, voice lazy but commanding.
Elira stepped forward and unrolled the scroll. "From left to right: Mira, Brin, Calla, Tessa, Niva."
