First Decree

Silence. I blinked and felt the sudden weight of the crown pressing firmly upon my brow. My fingers loosened, then gripped the golden scepter with actual strength. I tapped the base against the pale surface beneath my shoes—a crisp clack rang out into the quiet air. 'Be still!' I whispered under my breath, testing my voice. It obeyed. I planted both feet firmly, lifted my chin, and claimed this quiet expanse as my own.