Aria's pov

　　"I don't know if I'm ready for this," I admitted, my voice barely a whisper.

　　She pulled back, her expression serious. "You are. I've seen you handle everything life throws at you with grace and strength. You'll make a great queen."

　　Her words gave me a measure of comfort, and I nodded, drawing strength from her confidence in me.

　　The night wore on, and though I was exhausted, I forced myself to stay engaged, knowing that this was ...