The next morning, I woke with a purpose—a dangerous, reckless idea that had been brewing in my mind for days. The palace was a gilded cage, suffocating while I was trying to recover but wanting to know more about this kingdom as their ruler.
[**Good Morning, Karina. Initiating Daily Protocols.**]
"Not now," I whispered as I pulled on the plainest tunic I could find in my wardrobe. It was still finer than anything a commoner would wear, but it would have to do.
[**User Behavior Deviates From Established Patterns. Clarify Objective.**]
"Not today," I muttered, pulling my hair into a simple braid. I'd already planned my route through the servants' passages and into the market. If all went well, I'd be back before anyone noticed.
[**Risk Analysis: Leaving Palace Grounds Unescorted Increases Threat Level By 87%. Compliance Strongly Advised.**]
