Chapter 142: Rules Written for All to See
Lyria's POV
Even from this distance, her presence was unmistakable.
She inclined her head slightly, her posture flawless, her expression composed beyond reproach.
"My husband has spoken," she said, her voice clear and measured as it carried through the veil, "and I believe he has addressed the concerns that have arisen."
There was a quiet authority in her tone.
One that did not waver.
"As such," she continued, "it now falls to me to present the rules by which this selection shall proceed."
"I trust," she said, "that all candidates involved will pay the utmost attention."
The Queen did not allow the silence that followed her last words to linger for long.
"The first rule," she began, her voice carrying with calm authority, "is that all candidates are to remain within the palace grounds for the duration of the selection."
I stilled, my attention sharpening despite the steady weight in my chest.
