Gerard and Delilah stood side by side in the grand hall of the castle. Around them, their loyal companions, their expressions mirroring a mix of anticipation and determination, all except for Harry, who, for all intents and purposes, had no flesh on his bones to make a facial expression.
Before them, still seated upon her majestic throne, sat Queen Quinne Nexum.
Gerard cleared his throat, his voice steady as he addressed the queen. "Your Highness, I do apologise for leaving abruptly before. I had other matters to attend to, as I'm sure you're aware."
"I do understand. Although, matters of the heart can sometimes distract us from our goals, can they not?"
"They can, but of goals, I wish to discuss the future. I stand before you with my companions to seek any information you can provide regarding the Idegen. Our encounters with them have been minimal, and their presence threatens the very fabric of not just this realm, but all realms."
