Morning arrived with blinding brilliance over the Meridian coast.
Golden sunlight spilled across the ocean, reflecting off crystal blue waves that crashed rhythmically, against the marble cliffs below the Council Citadel. The entire city of Meridian glowed with ceremonial splendor silver banners draped across high towers, white rose garlands woven through balconies, and thousands of citizens gathered in anticipation of the long-awaited succession.
Inside the Citadel, Elara stood before a towering mirror as stylists adjusted, the final layers of her ceremonial gown.
The dress shimmered like captured dawn light woven from translucent silk threaded with strands of liquid gold. The fabric cascaded around her in elegant waves, embroidered with ancient Meridian crests symbolizing leadership,
