The grand hall of the Dreadthorne castle, with its towering pillars and the flickering light of torches, served as a symbol of the power and legacy of its inhabitants.
It was here that Esther, cloaked in the authority and grace befitting her station, made her silent procession back to the heart of her domain.
As she approached, Thorin, surrounded by his vassals, stood stoically, engaged in discussion, but suddenly stopped as she got close enough.
His voice, aloof yet laden with unspoken urgency, cut through the murmurs of his council, "Is it done?" he inquired, his gaze briefly intersecting Esther's path.
The vassals, sensing the gravity of the moment, bowed their heads in deference, their whispers fading into silence.
Esther, without breaking her stride or meeting his gaze, responded succinctly, "It will be soon." Her voice was devoid of emotion yet carried undeniable confidence.
