The palace was still sleeping when the first whispers began circulating through the noble districts of the capital. Dawn had barely brushed the horizon with pale gold when the early couriers hurried along the cobblestone streets, carrying sealed letters whose contents would decide the empire's future.
While the city stretched awake beneath a gentle morning mist, far above its awakening bustle, I sat at the window of my private study, observing the quiet world below. The air smelled faintly of parchment, ink, and the lingering aroma of the jasmine tea I hadn't touched.
Though the night had been long, my mind was far from weary.
Last night's meeting with the Royal Guard captains had solidified my foundation. It was one important stride—but only the beginning. Nobles who had spent decades plotting in shadows would not surrender simply because a princess dared to stand tall.
I knew it.
They knew it.
