At his side, River stepped forward, her presence a quiet fire. Her hand brushed against Heiko’s arm—a small touch, but one that grounded him. She stood with chin high, her gaze cold but clear, her strength a steady force beneath the storm.
--
The stone walls of the Royal Court felt like they were closing in, the tension suffocating as the ancient council chamber echoed with silence.
The polished marble floor gleamed under the morning light, while a sea of nobles, advisors, generals, and emissaries from the surrounding realms filled the gallery—some leaning forward, others holding their breath.
At the center of it all stood Heiko, tall and composed, though the storm behind his eyes was barely contained.
Beside him, River, cloaked in poise and power, stood as his equal—her very presence
