The queen leaned lazily on her throne, her head resting against her palm, expression vacant and eyes half-lidded.
The scent of aether and perfumed incense hung heavy in the air, making the entire chamber feel more like a drugged haze than a place of governance.
When Silas stepped into the hall, Anna and Malrik right behind him, the queen's eyes slowly drifted in their direction.
"Who are they?"
She asked, her voice thin and disinterested, like she was reading lines she'd grown tired of.
Silas gave a shallow bow, sweat already starting to form on his brow.
"My Queen… these two are special guests from the temple. They have been assisting me with personal matters."
The queen blinked at him, clearly losing interest before the sentence even ended.
"Hmph. Temple matters. Fine. Sit down. Or stand. I don't care."
Silas exhaled in relief, then motioned discreetly for Anna and Malrik to stand behind him.
