The lands beyond the sun

Good morning to you too mother

I awoke to the gentle murmurs of Anah and Erell, my loyal handmaidens, as they fluttered about my chamber. The first rays of dawn streamed through the tall windows, casting a golden hue on the tapestry-covered walls.

"Good morning, Princess Francesca," Anah said, her voice as soft as a summer breeze. She pulled back the heavy velvet curtains, allowing more sunlight to flood the room. Erell, ever the perfectionist, was already laying out my attire for the day.

"Morning," I mumbled, rubbing the sleep from my eyes. I sat up, and Erell was at my side, offering a steaming cup of herbal tea.

"You have a busy day ahead, Your Highness," Erell said, handing me the cup. "First, you'll meet with the council to discuss the upcoming festival."

"And don't forget the tea with Princess Mera and Princess Nazia," Anah added, her tone barely masking her distaste. The two princesses were known for their haughty attitudes, and our gatherings were more of a test of patience than a social event.

"Ah yes, my favorite part of the day," I said with a sarcastic smile. Anah and Erell giggled.

After finishing my tea, Anah and Erell helped me dress. Today's gown was a deep sapphire blue, adorned with delicate silver embroidery. They braided my hair, weaving in strands of pearls, a symbol of my royal status.

As I stood before the mirror, adjusting my tiara, a sudden noise caught our attention. The window creaked open, and Meena, my closest friend, tumbled in, his face flushed with excitement.

"Meena! You scared us!" Erell scolded, but her stern expression quickly softened into a smile.

"Sorry about that," Meena said, brushing off imaginary dust from his clothes. "I couldn't resist. I had to tell Francesca about the latest news from the market."

"Really, Meena, one day you're going to get yourself in serious trouble," I said, but I couldn't help grinning. Meena always had a way of brightening my day.

"What's the news?" I asked, curiosity piqued.

"There's a traveling bard who arrived last night. His stories are supposed to be incredible! I thought we could sneak out later and listen," Meena suggested, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

"That sounds wonderful, but you know how busy I am today," I replied with a sigh. "Council meetings, tea with Mera and Nazia... the usual royal duties."

"Maybe later tonight then," Meena said, undeterred. "I'll wait for you by the garden gate."

Before I could respond, the door to my chamber swung open, and my mother, Queen Althid, entered. Her regal presence filled the room, and I immediately felt the weight of her disapproval.

"Francesca," she began, her voice stern. "What is Meena doing here? And why, for the love of our kingdom, did he come through the window?"

"I just wanted to share some news with Francesca, Your Majesty," Meena said, bowing respectfully. "I didn't mean to cause any trouble."

"Your methods are inappropriate, Meena," Queen Althid said, her tone softening slightly. "Next time, use the door like everyone else."

"Yes, Your Majesty," Meena replied, bowing again before quickly exiting through the now open door.

"Francesca, you must focus on your responsibilities," Queen Althid said, turning her gaze to me. "You have a duty to this kingdom, and you must take it seriously."

"I know, Mother," I replied, lowering my head. "I'll do my best."

"Good," she said, her expression softening. "Now, let's go. The council is waiting."

As I followed my mother out of the room, I couldn't help but glance back at the open window, wondering what adventures awaited beyond the confines of the palace. But for now, duty called, and I had a kingdom to serve.