POV: Riley
In the heart of the capital city, the streets pulsed with music, color, and life. Bright banners rippled in the warm breeze, laughter echoed between the stone buildings, and the air buzzed with anticipation. Today was the Festival of Unity—a celebration of peace, culture, and the strength of a kingdom brought together under one reign… under their reign.
Riley moved through the crowded marketplace, her steps light as she took in the joy surrounding her. Children darted between the stalls with sticky-sweet pastries clutched in their hands. Bakers shouted the day’s specials, musicians played lively folk tunes, and dancers spun in silk skirts dyed in every imaginable shade.
Her emerald-and-sapphire crown caught glints of sunlight, but she wore it with the comfort of someone who h
