POV: Riley
The morning sun crept over the palace rooftops like a slow, golden tide, spilling warmth across the kingdom. From the high balcony, Riley watched as the first rays touched the city—glittering off rooftops, painting the market stalls in soft color, and waking the bustle of life below.
It didn’t feel real.
The kingdom she used to only imagine in stories… now belonged to her.
She wrapped her fingers around the cool marble railing, steadying herself as the gentle breeze lifted her hair. Merchants were opening their tents in the square. Children chased each other between flowering hedges. Guards in polished armor stood vigilant at the gates. A world she once felt miles away from—now entrusted to her care.
Her heart swelled with quiet pride… and a tremor of fear.
“Enjoying the v
