The day of the grand banquet was approaching—a celebration held only once a year to honor the founding of the Aurora Kingdom. It was not merely a feast; it was a symbol of unity, prosperity, and pride for every citizen. Preparations began at dawn, filling the castle and its surroundings with life and motion. The soft chime of bells echoed through the marble halls as servants hurried to and fro, carrying bouquets of golden lilies, trays of polished silverware, and rolls of royal banners embroidered with the emblem of the Aurora sun.
From the balcony of her chamber, Shellia watched as the morning light painted the castle in warm gold. Even from afar, she could see the royal courtyard bustling with activity—knights aligning decorative torches, maids hanging shimmering drapes, and florists arranging wreaths across the pillars. The air was filled with the scent of fresh flowers and the faint sweetness of baked pastries.
