The sun had yet to rise fully, but the horizon shimmered with hues of crimson and gold. Kaelin stood at the edge of the Highstone Cliffs, wind tugging at the loose strands of her hair. Her long cloak billowed around her, the weight of the past days settling into her bones. Behind her, the kingdom slowly stirred. Before her, the world threatened to change.
“Your Majesty,” a voice said gently behind her.
Kaelin turned to see Liora, her most trusted advisor and friend. Liora’s violet eyes were weary, but alert.
“You’ve barely slept.”
Kaelin smiled faintly. “Sleep feels like a luxury these days.”
They stood in silence for a moment, watching the morning light creep across the sky.
“There’s news from the eastern border,” Liora said finally. “Our scouts intercepted a message. There’s moveme
