The afternoon sun slanted into the main hall of Monte Castle, casting a warm glow upon the dark oak floor.
The scent of pine from the newly lit fireplace filled the air, mingling with the faint fragrance of Snowball Flowers drifting in from the window.
Murphy and Aurora stood side by side at the head of the main hall, with their attendants standing solemnly behind them.
Kaiden stood slightly to the side and behind his mother, striving to maintain a dignified posture appropriate for his age, yet his eyes betrayed the unique curiosity of a young boy.
Annie Peric stood on Aurora's other side. She had chosen a more formal, dark red dress for the occasion. Her hands were clasped in front of her, her fingertips unconsciously tightening.
The sound of hooves and carriage wheels grew closer, finally halting in the castle's forecourt.
A moment later, an attendant pushed open the hall doors, and a figure entered, silhouetted against the light.
