The hologram opened in the Night Kingdom chamber at the south end of the round table.
Vanir's image appeared standing rather than seated. He hadn't had a chair available and hadn't particularly wanted one. The connection was clear enough. Behind his projected form, London was visible through a tall window, grey afternoon light, the kind that made everything look like it had already been argued about.
Erzsabet was at the table. Red hair, tea in hand, the composed expression she wore when she was listening to something she had already partly anticipated and was waiting to see how close her anticipation had landed.
Vlad was in his seat. Arms crossed. The specific posture he maintained when he had decided, before anyone had spoken, that he was going to have strong feelings about whatever came next.
The third seat was empty. As it always was.
Vanir had stopped expecting that to change.
