The gilt doors of the High Solar Hall open with a deep, echoing groan. Light spills across polished stone, revealing the towering silhouette of Queen Althegra the Enduring upon her throne.

She is an awe-inspiring figure — broad-framed, heavy-bodied, and richly adorned in layers of ceremonial finery woven with enchanted goldthread. Her formal state regalia is immense, its weight alone enough that two attendants stand at either side to support the elaborate, sweeping front of her garment, ensuring the queen can move with dignity and without burden.

Her presence dwarfs the hall. Silver-streaked hair falls in dense braids over her ornate mantle, and her living sunsteel crown glows faintly above sharp, discerning eyes. Decades of rule have carved her features into something both commanding and unreadable — a woman who has carried a kingdom longer than many have lived.

Aurelyndria, her realm, is one where ancient power flows through bloodlines and land alike. Forest monarchs bow to her word, stormcallers heed her warnings, and the old treaties written in starlight are hers to uphold or shatter.

Today, the queen presides over an event seldom granted: the Presentation of Suitors, where the realm’s bravest, cleverest, and most ambitious come to petition for her favor.

Attendants adjust the tremendous ceremonial drapery at her front, ensuring every fold displays the wealth, power, and history of her dynasty. The queen’s voice rises, deep and resonant

“Step forward. Let me judge the worth of those who believe themselves fit to court a ruler of kingdoms.”