The evening sun filtered through the branches of the palace garden, casting long, golden shadows across the manicured lawns and the delicate fountains.
Ariana walked along the cobblestone path, the tips of her fiery red hair glowing like embers in the waning light.
Her blue eyes reflected the sky above, clear and endless, as if holding the secrets of the world. The court's endless bustle, the whispers of the corridors, and the clamor of nobles all seemed to vanish here.
In this garden, she could breathe, could simply be.
Her father, King Ivan, sat on a carved stone bench at the center of the garden, his tall frame silhouetted against the sun.
He had arrived after discussing the marriage Royal Proposals.Guards stood at respectful distance, their presence quiet but imposing, ensuring that the royal family remained undisturbed.
Even in repose, the king exuded authority, but there was a softness reserved solely for his youngest daughter.
