The palace buzzed with activity from the break of dawn. Servants scurried through the halls, carrying lots of fabric, trays of food, and freshly picked flowers. Musicians rehearsed in the gardens, their melodies floating through the air. The excitement was palpable, and for good reasons. Today marked the formal presentation of Elenor as the future queen of the Lycan Kingdom. Elenor stood in her chambers, staring at her reflection in the tall mirror. Her dress, a flowing gown of ivory and gold, shimmered in the sunlight streaming through the windows. The intricate embroidery along the bodice and sleeves reflected the care and attention that had gone into its creation. Former Queen Lena, ever the watchful mentor, adjusted a stray lock of Elenor’s hair. “Perfect,” Lena said with a satisfied

