The morning sun didn't just rise; it exploded over the mountains, flooding Athena’s apartment with a brilliant, blinding wash of gold. The moment the light hit my eyelids, I sat bolt upright in bed, my heart instantly launching into a frantic, joyful sprint.
Today was the day.
Before I could even throw the heavy blankets off, Athena crashed through the bedroom door. She was already fully dressed in her formal warrior leathers, her dark hair woven into an intricate royal braid, and her eyes were bright with a manic kind of energy.
"Wake up, Your Majesty!" she cheered, dropping a heavy silver tray laden with fresh fruit, pastries, and tea onto the bedside table. "The sun is up, the scouts report completely clear borders, and you are getting married today!"
I let out a breathless laugh, r
