"Rise."
At Xeron's command, I straightened up.
He then gestured toward the empty space right beside his obsidian throne, signaling for the three of us to take our places next to him.
A collective wave of silent shock rippled through the hall, and dozens of sharp, surprised gazes locked onto us. To be allowed to stand at the absolute apex of the court beside the Sovereign himself was an unprecedented honor.
Yet despite the obvious tension, the oppressive atmosphere remained entirely in check; not a single soul in the room dared to open their mouth or protest Xeron's implicit will.
Because they understood: Xeron was officially acknowledging Cathiel's rightful status as the true Sovereign of Nemure. Her bloodline and prophecy carried a weight that transcended court etiquette, and by placing us at his side, he was solidifying her position before the entire realm.
After bowing in gratitude, we moved up the dais to take our spots beside the throne.
