As Lord Stormlow led them toward the far end of the ballroom. Situated atop a slightly raised dais sat the Seat of the Crown, a magnificent set of high-backed chairs carved from dark, polished oak that seemed to drink in the light of the chandeliers. The wood was intricately inlaid with silver filigree, swirling into patterns that mimicked the storm clouds of Noctharis.
The efficiency of House Stormlow was on full display as they approached. While the central chair had been prepared for the prince, it was obvious that a second, equally grand chair had been added only moments ago. The velvet cushion was still settling, and the silver-threaded falcon banner of the Stormlows had been shifted to make room for a drape of royal blue silk that now fell perfectly behind the new seat.
Despite the suddenness of Ilaria's arrival, the arrangement looked as though it had been planned for weeks, a testament to the household's legendary discipline.
