In the smoky, dim-lit chamber, the queen lounged across her velvet-draped throne, the lingering fragrance of too many perfumes still clinging to the air.
Her skin shimmered with the residue of aether, but the glow around her eyes was dimmer than usual.
The chamberlain shifted anxiously near the foot of the throne, hands folded, eyes carefully lowered.
"Your Majesty. Do you wish for the guards to pursue the disrespectful pair? I can have them taken care of before nightfall."
He said with quiet formality.
The queen waved a lazy hand, her gaze distant.
"No. Not yet. Leave them for now."
The chamberlain blinked.
"As you command, but… if I may, Your Majesty—"
"I said no. Everyone out."
The queen interrupted, her voice still smooth but with an edge of finality.
The chamberlain bowed and signaled the rest of the attendants. Silks rustled and boots echoed as one by one, they filtered out of the room until only the queen remained.
The heavy doors thudded closed behind them.
