15.

It was late evening now, and the sky was blue with shades of dusky pink and purple, and we all watched as the sun set into the horizon.

“How do you think the meeting with the elders will go?” Pearl asked me.

I sighed for the millionth time today. Pearl's question pulled me from my thoughts, and I turned to face her with a heavy sigh. “I wish I could say,” I admitted, frustration lacing my words. “But honestly, I have no idea how the meeting with the elders will go.”

Pearl nodded understandingly, her expression mirroring my apprehension. “It’s scary knowing that your future queen was branded,” she agreed, her voice soft with sympathy. “But whatever happens, know that we're here for you.”

I managed a weak smile, grateful for Pearl's unwavering support. “Thank you,” I murmured, the words a quiet reassurance in the face of uncertainty.

“I'll need all the support I can get.”

“Absolutely,” she said, a smile on her face. “You’ve proven time and time again that you’re a good leader in so