It's been a month since Athenia came into my life, and I can honestly say it's been the best month of my reign. She wasn't just sunshine in the castle, she was a tiny, brave warrior that had walked into my life and changed it in every way possible. The quiet halls of Northenglades now echoed with her laughter, and the gardens, usually a place of solitary reflection for me, were now filled with the squeals of a child discovering the magic of blooming roses.
"Mommy, can we braid flowers into my hair today?" Athenia asked, her blue eyes sparkling with anticipation.
I smiled, my heart melting as it always did when she called me "mommy." I scooped her up in my arms, the silken threads of her black hair tickling my face. "Of course, my little princess. We'll make you the most beautiful flower crown Northenglades has ever seen."
The month of July was traditionally Princess Initiation Month in Northenglades, a celebration of young princesses and their future roles. This year, I hadn't planned anything. I was still finding my footing as queen, navigating the treacherous political landscape, and the idea of a princess celebration felt hollow when so many of my people struggled. Plus, I didn't want to force Athenia into anything, considering everything she had been through.
But Athenia, in her innocent, perceptive way, surprised me. "Mommy," she'd said over breakfast one morning, her tiny voice barely a whisper, "Can I be a princess too? Like you?"
My heart constricted. "Of course, you can, my love. But it's a lot of work, Athenia. Are you sure you want to?"
She nodded fiercely, her eyes shining with determination. "I want to help people, like you do."
And that was that. Plans were set in motion. I spoke to Torrance, who surprisingly was onboard with it and allowed it. If anything, he was over the moon!
The days that followed were a whirlwind of etiquette lessons, royal history recaps, and public speaking practice. Wilson, my most trusted bodyguard and a father figure, helped Athenia with swordplay and self-defense, knowing she had to be prepared for anything. I focused on teaching her the importance of kindness, justice, and the responsibility that came with power.
"Remember, Athenia," I told her one afternoon as we practiced our curtsies in the ballroom, "being a princess isn't about pretty gowns and fancy parties. It's about serving your people, protecting their rights, and making Northenglades a better place for everyone."
She nodded seriously, her small face etched with concentration. "I understand, Mommy. I won't let you down."