The palace of Luminareth had been grown, not built, and it wanted every visitor to understand the difference.
Myrasyn led them up the last living stair with her fresh crown of braids and her restored dignity, and the moment her foot touched the palace terrace, horns of shaped heartwood sang out across the canopy.
Two full columns of royal guards stood in polished pale armor along the approach, ears high, spears grounded in perfect unison.
"Announcing Her Majesty, Myrasyn, Queen of the Elves!" a herald called from the terrace steps. "And her honored guests! The Son of the First Elf, Beloved of the Requiem, Conqueror of the Continent, Quinlan Elysiar! The Granddaughter of the First Elf and Princess of the Eternal Tree, Rosie Elysiar! Lady Seraphiel and Lady Kaelira of the Holy Son's family! Head Maiden Isveth of the Faith!"
