Morning unfolded gently across the Kingdom of Ivanova.
Golden sunlight spilled over the pale marble towers of the royal palace and warmed the manicured gardens that stretched across the eastern grounds.
Servants moved quietly along the pathways, tending to flowers and fountains while guards in polished armor stood watch at the gates and terraces.
Despite the beauty of the morning, the palace carried a faint tension.
Word of the messenger's warning had already begun to circulate through the halls.
The name Draco had been spoken more than once.
In the royal gardens, Princess Ariana walked slowly along a path bordered by blooming white lilies her purple dress sweeping the ground she walked upon.
The air was cool and fragrant, and a soft breeze stirred the long strands of her crimson hair as they fell down her back.
Two attendants followed at a respectful distance, but Ariana paid little attention to them.
Her thoughts were elsewhere.
