The morning sun rose high over Nexus Kingdom, gilding the vast Coral Palace in hues of amber and pearl. The air itself seemed to hum with anticipation—the day before Princess Eloisa's coming-of-age was not only about her celebration, but about the delicate dance of kingdoms. For this day marked the arrival of honored guests from the Feltogora Empire.
It was not the Crown Prince who came, as many expected, but the Empire's second son and daughter—royalty in their own right, bringing with them the weight of another throne's shadow.
The courtyard of the Coral Palace bustled with activity as soldiers stood in polished formation, their armor gleaming in the sun, and attendants lined the path with banners fluttering in blue and white. Nobles gathered discreetly at the sides, curious yet cautious, their eyes fixed upon the gilded carriages that rolled in through the coral-gate.
The lead carriage bore the sigil of Revazkerio: a silver phoenix rising from a crescent moon, embroidered upon velvet banners that trailed in the breeze. Its wheels rolled with silent precision across the marble pathway until it came to a slow halt before the grand steps.
From within stepped a figure tall and composed—Prince Althurd Max Lavezki Revazkerio. His hair was a pale shade of blue, catching the sunlight like the surface of a clear lake, and his eyes, silver as tempered steel, swept calmly across the awaiting court. Clad in formal attire of deep navy trimmed with silver, he carried himself with quiet authority, each movement deliberate, each breath measured.
Behind him, the second figure emerged: Princess Aquila Faye Lavezki Revazkerio. She moved like the shimmer of moonlight on water. Her long hair cascaded in silver-purple waves, styled with delicate flower pins that caught the light as though woven with starlight itself. She wore a gown the shade of twilight, its skirts flowing as if spun from mist, embroidered with patterns of flowers of different kinds. Where her brother's presence was calm and grounding, hers was ethereal, like a dream brought into the waking world.
Queen Elisha stepped forward to greet them. Her gown was modest compared to theirs, yet the way she carried herself—dignified, serene, and regal—needed no jewels to remind anyone of her station.
"Your Highnesses of Revazkerio," she spoke with a soft yet commanding tone, dipping her head slightly in courtesy, "on behalf of the Kingdom of Nexus, we bid you welcome."
Prince Althurd returned the gesture, bowing with noble restraint. "It is our honor to stand upon Nexus soil, Your Majesty. We thank you for the warmth of this welcome."
Princess Aquila curtsied gracefully, her skirts fanning like waves. "Indeed, Queen Elisha. The Coral Palace is more breathtaking than words could prepare us for."
A faint smile touched Elisha's lips. "The sea is Nexus' pride, and so it reflects upon our halls. Please, allow me to escort you both to the Guest Palace. His Majesty awaits you for luncheon, though I must apologize that it cannot be sooner."
Althurd inclined his head respectfully. "There is no need for apology, Your Majesty. The sea teaches patience, and so too do we practice it."
With that, attendants moved to carry their belongings, while Elisha led them across the sunlit courtyard.
·___________·
The Guest Palace was no mere lodging. Built as a mirror of the main Coral Hall, it was designed to leave dignitaries breathless. Its marble floors gleamed like moonlight, and its walls carried the same coral motif that gave the kingdom its signature charm. Arching ceilings painted in delicate ocean scenes gave the impression of standing beneath waves. Windows framed the sea, where the horizon stretched endlessly, reflecting light into every corner.
Althurd paused briefly upon entering. His sharp eyes studied the coral-carved pillars and glasswork that scattered sunlight into colors. "You have spared no effort, Your Majesty. This hall itself is a testament to Nexus' grace."
Aquila let her fingers trail over a polished coral inlay, smiling faintly. "It feels as though the sea has followed us indoors. Truly… it is unlike any palace we have seen."
"I am glad it pleases you," Elisha said warmly. "Rest here until luncheon. Servants will attend to all your needs. His Majesty and the royal family will greet you properly when the hour strikes."
"You honor us, Queen Elisha," Althurd replied, bowing once more.
·__________·
The great dining hall of the Coral Palace glittered beneath sunlight filtered through ocean-blue glass windows. A long table stretched across the chamber, set with plates of porcelain rimmed in gold, goblets of crystal, and silver cutlery polished to perfection.
King Stewart entered with Queen Elisha, followed by the royal twins, Prince Steven and Prince Elijah, their youthful features barely hiding mischief. Princess Eloisa followed, radiant in her light-blue gown, a symbol of her soon-to-be debut.
But one seat remained empty.
The King's brow furrowed ever so slightly. Leaning toward the butler at his side, he whispered, "Where is Zuleika?"
The butler bowed low, whispering back, "…Fishing, Your Majesty."
A muscle twitched at the King's temple. He inhaled sharply, then exhaled, forcing his composure back into place. "…Of course she is."
Before the matter could press further, the royal guests entered. Althurd and Aquila glided into the room with elegance, and all stood in acknowledgment. The exchange of bows and curtsies passed in perfect formality before they were seated.
King Stewart raised his goblet slightly. "It is an honor to receive Your Highnesses in our halls. May this meal be the first of many in friendship."
Althurd inclined his head. "We thank you, Your Majesty. The honor is ours."
Eloisa leaned forward curiously. "If I may… forgive my boldness, but we had expected the Crown Prince to join us. Might I ask…?"
Althurd's expression remained calm, though a faint shadow crossed his gaze. "My elder brother regrets deeply that he could not attend. Matters of state bound him to Revazkerio. As second son, I come in his stead, with all respect owed to this occasion."
"It is most gracious of you," Stewart replied smoothly, though curiosity flickered in his eyes.
Aquila broke the slight heaviness with a gentle smile. "I assure you, Princess Eloisa, our family holds this ceremony in the highest regard. Even in absence, our brother's heart is with us here."
Eloisa blushed faintly and bowed her head. "That comforts me, Your Highness."
The meal proceeded, lavish dishes set before them: roasted lamb, spiced vegetables, breads still steaming from the ovens, and fish seasoned with herbs. Yet one absence was keenly felt by the King, whose thoughts betrayed him now and again—Fishing… She had to be fishing now of all times…
·____________·
By the Sea
Meanwhile, far removed from royal formality, Princess Zuleika sat in a modest wooden boat rocking gently upon the waves. Her sleeves were rolled to her elbows, her dark hair tied back, and her crimson eyes narrowed in fierce concentration at the line bobbing in the water.
Beside her sat Captain Rhys, one of the royal knights, who looked as though he'd rather face a battalion of Empire soldiers than be stuck fishing with the princess.
"Your Highness," Rhys muttered, wiping his brow, "the luncheon has already begun. The King will not be pleased."
"Shhh!" Zuleika hissed, waving him off without looking. "You'll scare the fish. Do you want our guests to eat dried-up market fish, or the freshest catch of the sea? Hm?"
Rhys groaned softly, pinching the bridge of his nose. "It is not my place to argue, but… perhaps it is also not your place to fish—"
"Ha!" Zuleika tugged her line suddenly, sending a spray of seawater over both of them. She held up a wriggling silver fish, triumphant. "Not my place? Tell that to this beauty! This one's going straight to the palace kitchens!"
Rhys, drenched and exasperated, muttered under his breath, "The King will have my head…"
Zuleika grinned, completely oblivious to the chaos she'd left behind at the palace. She tossed the fish into the basket already brimming with her catch, her heart light and her laughter echoing across the waves.
"Now then," she said, resetting her line, "let's see if I can beat my record before sunset!"
And so, while dignitaries from the mightiest empire sat in polished halls of coral and silver, Princess Zuleika fished happily beneath the open sky, utterly unaware of the storm her absence was about to stir.