The grand doors of the sovereign throne hall stood ajar, revealing a shimmering curtain of crimson blood mist.
Behind that barrier lay the fourth lock of the Ordered Court, sustained by the ancient sacrificial oaths of the royal bloodline.
Any ordinary rebel stepping across the threshold would find their soul classified as royal property, forced to kneel before the dais.
Only a recognized sovereign who refused to claim subjects could walk the corridor without triggering the lethal backlash.
Didi adjusted the frost crown resting upon her brow, her four Shards humming with crystalline resonance around her wrists.
"I will walk the ten paces alone," she announced, her voice calm and devoid of childhood hesitation.
"Every step opens one meter of protected territory for the vanguard," she explained, turning her pale eyes toward Hajin.
"Do not let the crown trick you into claiming authority over others," he warned, his fingers lightly brushing her knuckles.
