James stood in front of the grand, imposing doors to the throne room, feeling his pulse quicken. This was it—the moment he'd been preparing for. Breona stood beside him, her expression calm but warm as she regarded him.
"James," she said, her voice soft. "Relax. You'll do fine."
James managed a small nod, still awestruck by the splendor surrounding him. The castle's marble floors gleamed beneath him, each crystal chandelier above casting glints of light across statues of past heroes and intricate tapestries. Everything about this place felt larger than life, and now, he was about to meet the High King himself.
Breona noticed his tension and gave him a reassuring smile. "The High King's firm but fair. He's known for his wisdom and, more importantly, for recognizing potential when he sees it. And believe me, if he sees potential in you, then you're on the right path."
