|| Penelope ||
The grand hall of the Goldenrealm palace was a vision of opulence and splendor, its towering ceilings adorned with shimmering chandeliers that cast a golden glow over the assembled guests. The air was thick with the scent of blooming flowers and the faint, metallic tang of magic, a reminder that this was no ordinary gathering. Tonight was my mating ceremony, a night that was supposed to be the pinnacle of my life as the princess of the Goldenrealm. But as I stood outside the hall, my hand resting on the cold, ornate door handle, I knew that this night would be anything but ordinary.
I took a deep breath, the weight of my gown pressing heavily against my chest. The fabric was exquisite, a cascade of silver and gold that shimmered like moonlight on water, but it felt more li
