Chapter 60 — Crown of Balance
The Obsidian Throne room bore the scars of war like a warrior's proud tattoos.
Cracks still ran through the black stone walls like veins of lightning. Banners of the Vaelthorn dynasty hung heavy and proud despite the damage. The air carried the faint metallic scent of blood that no amount of incense could fully erase. Yet today, the hall felt different — heavier with purpose, lighter with cautious hope.
Cairis Vaelthorn sat upon the reclaimed throne, a figure of absolute authority forged in fire and shadow. Liora stood at his right hand, radiant and unyielding, the Veilheart Keystone floating gently above her open palm. Its soft twilight glow — a perfect blend of violet shadow and golden light — bathed the entire court in an otherworldly radiance.
Hundreds of surviving lords, warlords, and warriors had gathered. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation and lingering tension.
