The days felt peaceful across the kingdom of Ednia.
The capital, Amiria, buzzed with activity as preparations for Princess Raelia's wedding to the new monarch reached their final stage — a symbolic completion of the royal succession.
Everywhere in the city, statues of the young King Jonady were being erected.
Some buildings featured large frescoes of romantic scenes between Jonady and Raelia.
In a new square under construction, an enormous statue of Jonady seated on his throne was nearly complete.
A passerby stopped to admire the sculpture and said:
"It truly represents our monarch well."
"Yes," replied his wife, "I'm certain that with King Kaya, Ednia will know a prosperous future."
"Just one more week..."
Even inside Regalia Castle, the atmosphere had changed.
White decorations, symbols of purity and celebration, adorned the palace halls and courtyards.
In his office, Jonady was reviewing official documents with his faithful advisor Kaylen.
"Here Jonady look at this."
Jonady took the paper Kaylen handed him and read aloud:
"Another request to build a statue in my likeness... Isn't this a bit much?"
He appreciated the attention, but felt slightly uneasy. Kaylen smiled, amused.
"Let them be. It's the people's way of showing their support. They want to honor you."
Jonady sighed softly:
"Let them do as they wish..."
A soft knock sounded at the door.
"Come in," said Kaylen without turning around.
Raelia entered, accompanied by Sylena and Nilyna, a striking red-haired woman in a maid's uniform.
Jonady greeted them:
"Good morning, all of you. Is something wrong?"
The two women exchanged a knowing glance with Sylena.
Nilyna gave her a wink, encouraging her.
Sylena stepped forward, blushing and visibly nervous.
"J-Jonady... I would like to us spend more time together..."
Raelia immediately followed up:
"Since there's only one week left before the ceremony, I want you to dedicate this time to Sylena. Get to know each other better. It will strengthen us all."
Jonady began to protest:
"I don't mind, but there's still so much to..."
Kaylen raised a hand, smiling:
"Let me handle the kingdom's affairs while you're away think of it as a vacation a rare luxury for a monarch."
Raelia added with a tender smile:
"The work won't disappear. Relax. Even Mother agrees."
Jonady, surprised:
"Lady Clothilde?"
Raelia:
"Yes. She's the one who gave me the idea."
Kaylen continued:
"The crown owns a seaside villa in Kyosvale Province. Golden sands, sea air, peace... the perfect spot."
Jonady nodded:
"Alright, I accept. Nilyna, you'll escort us."
Nilyna placed a hand over her heart:
"Yes, Your Majesty. I'll protect you, even at the cost of my life."
Raelia approached, kissed Jonady on the cheek, and whispered:
"Good luck. Mother says it's bad luck to see the bride in her gown before the ceremony."
Jonady smiled at the superstition one he knew from his old world too.
He held Sylena in his arms:
"So, are you ready for Kyosvale?"
She smiled warmly:
"Yesss!"
Jonady thought "Lately I've been so absorbed in state affairs... It's time to breathe, to live a little."
He looked at Sylena, moved and radiant:
"Let's get ready. Let's go!"