By the time I finally tore my eyes from the ancient texts, it was nearing 8 PM. I had spent the entire day buried in these books, trying to find a way to change the archaic law that required me to marry before I could ascend to the throne.
My findings were not particularly encouraging: there were only two paths to altering the law. The first was to become queen and then, with my spouse, enact changes. The second, as a princess, required getting all the council members to sign a new decree.
I put down the last book with a heavy sigh. "This is definitely going to be super complicated," I muttered to myself. The enormity of the task ahead weighed heavily on my shoulders.
As I stood up, a loud rumble from my stomach reminded me that I hadn't eaten much all day. I made my way to the dining hall, hoping to find something to eat. The hall was empty, echoing my footsteps as I walked in. The sight of the vacant room made me feel an unexpected pang of loneliness.
