In the Magnificent Royal Council Chamber
The council chamber—with its lofty ceiling adorned in exquisite wood carvings and golden chandeliers—stood ready. Soft light streamed through stained glass panels depicting the kingdom's history, casting gentle glows across the gleaming marble floor. The royal advisors had gathered around a large round table crafted from aged mahogany, each seated in an armchair upholstered with gold-trimmed silk.
Sir Aire, the Defense Advisor with neatly trimmed white whiskers and sharp eyes, was arranging tactical maps at the front of the table. Beside him, Sir Hoban—the kingdom's Treasurer, known for his meticulous attention to detail—pored over documents with an abacus resting at his elbow. Sir Jairum, the Foreign Affairs Advisor, elegant and fluent in foreign tongues, spoke in low tones with Sir Kylo, the Legal Advisor who always kept a thick volume of laws at his left hand.
At the far end of the table, Sir Emmen—the Advisor for Food and Food Security—was explaining this season's harvest conditions to Sir Roble, the Community Advisor who maintained close ties with the common people and often brought word directly from the farthest corners of the realm.
Suddenly, everyone rose hastily as the chamber doors swung wide open. King Erico Roses II entered with steady strides, clad in deep purple royal robes with gold accents and a modest crown befitting his station. His face was grave and contemplative, as if still turning over the contents of the recommendation letter he had just discovered in his desk drawer. After taking his place in the central chair at the table's heart, he raised his hand slowly.
"Please be seated, my advisors," King Erico declared in a voice that was firm yet commanding. "We have matters of great importance to discuss together today."
After all advisors had resumed their seats, King Erico fixed each one with a deep, searching gaze.
King Erico: "My dearest council members, before we address other matters, there is an issue we can no longer postpone. Reports from the western and southern regions reveal increasingly troubling conditions—a brewing crisis of food security and finance."
Sir Emmen (sighs deeply): "Yes, Your Majesty. I visited several villages in the west last week. An unusually long dry season has parched our rice fields and gardens. Regional grain reserves are running low, and food prices have risen nearly 40% in the past month alone."
Sir Hoban: "This is directly impacting both the people's finances and the kingdom's treasury. Revenue from agricultural taxes has plummeted sharply, while we are forced to allocate more funds to procure supplies from other regions. The kingdom's financial reserves will not hold out long if this continues."
Sir Aire: "Your Majesty, I fear unrest will erupt if we do not act swiftly. Several outlying administrative posts have already reported crowds growing unruly as hardship deepens."
Sir Jairum: "I have reached out to neighboring kingdoms to inquire about potential aid or food supply trade. However, they too face similar challenges and can only offer limited quantities at steep prices."
Sir Kylo: "We must review our market regulations and distribution systems immediately. There are reports that some large merchants are hoarding stocks to drive prices even higher—this violates existing laws."
Sir Roble (speaking softly but firmly): "The people are beginning to doubt our ability to protect them, Your Majesty. Many complain that aid never reaches its intended recipients, or is distributed unfairly by local officials."
Sir Jairum: "I have a proposal—deploy a special task force with representatives from each of our departments to conduct on-the-ground evaluations. We need an accurate picture of how severe the situation truly is, and to identify flaws in our distribution networks."
King Erico: "An excellent proposal, Jairum. Furthermore, we must urgently revise our annual budget and redirect funds from non-urgent construction projects to address this crisis. Hoban, prepare a draft budget allocation within two days."
Sir Hoban: "As you command, Your Majesty—I will work directly with my team."
King Erico: "Emmen, what concrete steps can we take to boost food production in the long term? Perhaps we need to develop new irrigation systems or introduce drought-resistant crops?"
Sir Emmen: "Precisely, Your Majesty. I already have several proposals for agricultural technologies we can implement. We only require sufficient funding and manpower to see them through."
King Erico: "Very well—let us assign duties clearly. All actions must be carried out with full transparency, so the people know we are fighting alongside them. We will not allow this crisis to undermine the kingdom's stability or the people's trust in us."
ROYAL ADVISORS' ACTION PLAN
Sir Emmen – Advisor for Food & Food Security
1. On-the-Ground Deployment
Visit the 5 most severely affected regions within 1 week to survey soil and agricultural conditions, and form field working groups with local farmers.
2. Short-Term Solutions
Distribute fast-growing, drought-resistant crop seeds (such as corn and sweet potatoes) to affected villages within 3 working days.
3. Long-Term Plan
Prepare blueprints for small-scale irrigation systems at 10 strategic locations within 2 weeks, along with farmer training programs for modern agricultural techniques.
Sir Hoban – Treasury Advisor
1. Budget Review
Complete budget reallocation within 2 days – redirect 30% of funds from palace and garden construction projects to food aid and staple food subsidies.
2. Price Controls
Coordinate with major merchants to set maximum prices for essential goods, and offer tax incentives to those who sell at affordable rates.
3. Financial Oversight
Establish an audit task force to ensure aid funds reach their intended targets and prevent misuse.
Sir Aire – Defense Advisor
1. Supply Convoy Security
Deploy troops to escort food aid deliveries to affected regions, preventing theft and unrest.
2. Field Support
Use military personnel to help build temporary storage facilities and small irrigation systems in remote areas.
3. Security Monitoring
Conduct regular patrols in markets and populated areas, and coordinate with village leaders to address issues before they escalate into unrest.
Sir Jairum – Foreign Affairs Advisor
1. Trade Negotiations
Contact the 3 nearest neighboring kingdoms within 1 day to agree on barter trade – exchanging local textiles and handicrafts for rice and wheat supplies.
2. International Aid Requests
Send letters requesting unconditional aid to regional peace organizations, focusing on food supplies and farming equipment.
3. Global Best Practices
Request information on how other kingdoms have managed food crises, to adapt successful strategies to our conditions.
Sir Kylo – Legal Advisor
1. Law Enforcement
Investigate merchants who hoard stocks or raise prices arbitrarily – legal proceedings will be completed within 1 week to serve as a deterrent.
2. Temporary Regulations
Draft interim rules for price controls and essential goods distribution, to remain in effect until conditions improve.
3. Legal Capacity Building
Provide training to local officials on how to implement regulations fairly and correctly.
Sir Roble – Community Advisor
1. People's Communication
Hold open meetings with communities in each affected region to hear grievances and suggestions directly, and explain the kingdom's planned actions.
2. Volunteer Mobilization
Organize community volunteer groups to help distribute aid and support families in greatest need.
3. Social Impact Monitoring
Report daily updates on the people's social conditions to the king, including health and education issues affected by the crisis.
…
HOW KING ERICO MONITORS CRISIS RESPONSE PROGRESS
King Erico has established a Special Coordination Task Force that will convene daily at 8:00 AM in the small council chamber to report on developments:
- Each advisor must submit a brief daily log detailing progress on their assigned duties
- As task force chair, Sir Hoban will compile a daily summary to be delivered directly to the king before evening
- The king will make surprise visits to affected regions every 3 days to ensure reports align with on-the-ground conditions
- A dedicated information board has been installed in the royal hall to display crisis response progress transparently for all officials
- Every week, the king will hold a full advisory meeting to assess progress and adjust strategies as needed
IN THE ROSES FAMILY HALL
The warm, cozy family hall—with plush armchairs upholstered in soft-colored silk and wooden tables adorned with fresh blooms—served as the gathering place for the Roses family members.
Eivana Zacarya Roses, the family's graceful and caring matriarch, sat in the main chair, skillfully drafting the tea party menu. "I think we should serve scones with our homemade strawberry jam, plus cheese tarts with fresh mint from the garden," she said, jotting notes in a small ledger.
Seraphina Roses sat beside her, helping to select the teas to be served. "What if we blend Japanese green tea with rose herbal tea from the backyard garden, Mother? It'll be wonderfully refreshing for an afternoon in the grounds."
Andrew Roses II entered carrying a bouquet of freshly picked red roses, placing them at the center of the table. "I've already checked the garden spot—the area under the big banyan tree is most comfortable. I'll have the staff arrange canopies in case of cloudy weather."
Xevac Roses, who had just finished reading the royal gazette, approached with a friendly smile. "I can help organize background music—maybe a folk choir to sing classic kingdom songs? It'll make the atmosphere much livelier."
Eivana looked at her children with a loving smile. "Perfect, everyone. I want this event to be a joyful time for us all—after so many busy weeks with kingdom affairs, we need a moment to come together as family. Are there any special friends or guests we should invite to join us?"
(They all exchanged glances, then turned toward Seraphina, who was seated at the writing desk. Together, they walked over to her.)
ALL OF THEM: Hey Seraphina—what are you working on there, hmm?
Seraphina Roses: Oh, so you're curious about what I've been writing! Hehe!
ALL OF THEM: Hmm… Please tell us what you're jotting down…
Seraphina Roses: Alright, I'll explain everything—so listen closely…
(Then Seraphina Roses detailed the contents of her notebook with care and precision.)
Seraphina began her explanation…
DETAILS OF THE ROYAL GARDEN TEA PARTY – NEW GUESTS
VENUE & DECORATIONS
- The main location remains under the large banyan tree, but the area has been expanded with additional tables arranged neatly along garden paths overlooking the golden koi pond
- Each table features a unique tablecloth color tailored to the visiting kingdom—incorporating their signature hues as decorative accents
- Kingdom name signs mark every table, complemented by native flowers from each realm as centerpieces
- A large bell-shaped canopy covers the main area, while spaces for citizen representatives use simpler yet comfortable shelters adorned with local wildflowers
- Garden walkways are lined with small candles and miniature kingdom flags to guide guests
MENU & BEVERAGES
- Teas: In addition to our original selections, traditional teas from each visiting kingdom will be served (including herbal blends from Kenlard, fruit teas from Frillen, and spiced teas from Abeille)
- Food:
- Our core menu remains, with the addition of specialty dishes from various realms (traditional Kenlard shortbread, Frillen fish pies, and Abeille fruit salads)
- A buffet-style setup allows guests to choose dishes to their liking, with attendants on hand to assist with serving
- For non-tea drinkers, fresh fruit juices and mineral water infused with fruit slices are available
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
- The Roses Royal Orchestra will perform traditional melodies from each visiting kingdom as a mark of respect
- After the meal, a folk song exchange session will let each realm showcase their distinctive tunes
- The table games area has been expanded to include traditional pastimes from different regions, plus spaces for younger guests to share stories and experiences
LIST OF ATTENDING GUESTS
PRINCESSES & PRINCES FROM VISITING KINGDOMS
- Kingdom of Kenlard:
Prince Elward Kenlard, Prince Sucréso Kenlard, Princess Essia Kenlard
- Kingdom of Frillen:
Prince Fronz De Frillen, Princess Anni Frillen, Princess Anne Frillen
- Kingdom of Abeille:
Princess Kanaya Abeille, Princess Pluie Abeille, Princess Liorca Abeille
- Kingdom of Hachtolf:
Prince Albert Hachtolf, Prince Joshep Hubler, Princess Veier Hachtolf
- Kingdom of Elinburge:
Prince Thomas Elinburge, Prince Fredric Elinburge, Prince Hosters Elinburge
- Kingdom of Zewilste:
Prince Noman Zewilste, Princess Clarissa Zewilste
- Kingdom of Darken:
Prince Asorver Darken, Princess Amness Darken
- Kingdom of Old Hanks:
Princess Soena Hanks, Princess Kamili Hanks, Princess Famila Hanks, Princess Lonesa Hanks
- Kingdom of Victoria:
Crown Princess Rachangel Victoria, Princess Devangel Victoria, Princess Sharphine Victoria
EMINENT PROFESSORS
- Professor Alven Wayner – Royal School Lerois
- Professor Diane Bane – Royal School Lerois
- Professor Helbert Mugenata – Public High School
RETIRED MILITARY OFFICERS
- Colonel Arcus Dhorne
- Major Jefron Blackwood
- Lieutenant Colonel Sofia Lauresa
CITIZEN REPRESENTATIVES
- Dos Liem (Farmer representative for all regions)
- Jovan Peil (Leading merchant representative for major cities)
- Gary Laren (Trader representative for coastal areas)
- Osvina Qiero (Women's business collective representative)
- Lapin Deaners (Rural youth representative)
- Cobert Pattinson (Small-scale fishermen's community representative)
…
(Meanwhile in the meeting hall)
Having concluded the final discussion on regional oversight and task allocation, King Erico rose to his feet and fixed his advisors with a firm yet appreciative gaze.
"Thank you for your hard work and valuable insights," said King Erico, nodding to each advisor in turn. "I approve all the oversight measures we have agreed upon. Every region must be closely monitored, and do not hesitate to report any developments—whether good or bad—directly to me. We must show the people that the crown stands with them through this crisis."
The advisors stood as one, receiving the king's decision with respect. Sir Aire spoke first: "We will carry out our duties with all devotion, Your Majesty. The people and the realm are safe in our care."
With that, King Erico bid them farewell and departed the council chamber with steady steps, heading toward the family hall to join the tea gathering that had been prepared.
…
As King Erico reached the doors of the family hall, he heard a lively commotion from within. Without knocking, he pushed the door open gently—and his expression immediately shifted to one of disbelief.
The usually neat and orderly hall was in complete disarray. Flowers that had once been arranged in vases were scattered across tables and floors. Books and papers were strewn across the large tabletop, several sheets having been blown onto the marble floor. Armchairs were pushed out of place, and a basket of flowers meant for garden decorations had tipped over in the corner.
Amidst the chaos, Seraphina stood atop a small chair, explaining something with animated gestures to Andrew, Xevac, and Eivana, who stood gathered around her.
"So if we arrange the decorations to match each kingdom's colors like this—" Seraphina held up a sheet of paper with a sketched design, but suddenly froze as she saw the open door. Her eyes widened and her face registered shock.
Instantly, Andrew, Xevac, and Eivana turned toward the entrance. Everyone scrambled to their feet—Seraphina quickly climbed down from the chair and hastily tried to straighten her clothes.
"Your… Your Majesty!" Eivana spoke with a slightly trembling voice, attempting to push a displaced chair back into place. "We did not expect you to arrive so soon…"
(King Erico stepped into the room slowly, his eyes scanning every messy corner. His lips were set in a firm line and he said nothing at all—his expression was cold and questioning, leaving the entire family feeling slightly uneasy.)
Then he stood in the middle of the room, folding his arms across his chest, and spoke just one sentence in a flat yet meaningful tone: "I could almost believe a storm had swept through this hall."
Needless to say, upon hearing this, Andrew, Xevac, Seraphina, and their mother Eivana sprang into action to tidy everything up at once:
- Andrew immediately gathered the scattered papers from the floor, arranging them neatly on the table
- Xevac lifted the overturned flower basket, cleaned up the spilled soil, and rearranged the still-intact blooms
- Eivana straightened the shifted vases, returning them to their original positions and wiping small stains from the table surface
- Seraphina cleared off the chair she had stood on, brushing dust from the upholstery and placing it back in the correct spot
In less than fifteen minutes, the family hall looked as neat and orderly as usual. Everyone then stood neatly before the large table, with Seraphina stepping forward as their spokesperson to explain what they had been discussing.
After taking a deep breath to steady herself, Seraphina stepped forward and began to explain in a clear yet respectful voice:
"Forgive us for the mess you found, Your Majesty. We were discussing and planning something very important for the upcoming garden tea party—something we were actually preparing for you as well."
She then arranged several sheets of paper neatly on the table, showing the sketches and notes they had made:
"We want the tea party to be more than just a regular family gathering—it should be a valuable opportunity. Here are the points we have been discussing:"
(Seraphina explained what the four of them had been working on, while King Erico listened attentively.)
1. Seating Arranged by Guest Kingdom
"We plan to organize seating areas according to the signature colors and symbols of each visiting kingdom. This is a sign of respect, and will also make it easier for guests to interact with others from their own or different realms. The sketches you saw earlier are for this arrangement."
2. Experience Exchange Program
"After tea, we want to hold a session where professors can share their knowledge with young princes and princesses, while citizen representatives can speak about real conditions on the ground—including how the crisis response efforts you are leading with the advisors have impacted them."
3. Welcoming Goodwill from Other Kingdoms
"Several visiting realms have expressed interest in providing small forms of aid, such as crop seeds or specialized expertise. We are planning how to receive and acknowledge this support graciously, while also discussing possibilities for long-term cooperation."
"We were so absorbed in sorting out all the details that we let the room become messy," Seraphina added with a shy smile, bowing her head slightly. "We did all this because we want the event to benefit not just our family, but the entire realm and our relationships with other kingdoms."
Andrew then added: "We also plan to include a special segment to honor the retired military officers who will be attending, Your Majesty. They have given great service to the kingdom and deserve proper recognition."
After listening carefully to Seraphina and Andrew's explanation, the cold look on King Erico's face slowly faded. He nodded slowly several times, then a small but warm smile appeared at the corner of his lips.
"I see," he said in a much softer tone. "I understand how enthusiasm can make us lose sight of order. What matters is that the purpose behind all this is good and worthwhile."
He raised his hand slowly, pointing to the neatly arranged sketches on the table. "The idea of arranging seating to match each kingdom's symbols is very wise—it will show we value our bonds with every visiting realm. And the experience exchange session you have planned is a clever step. This could be the start of closer cooperation, both with other kingdoms and with our own people."
King Erico then looked at Andrew. "Honoring our retired officers is something we must never overlook. They are the foundation of our realm's strength, and our appreciation will mean a great deal to them."
"Very well—I approve all the plans you have proposed," he continued, rising from his seat. "Please continue your preparations with care. I am confident this event will go well and bring great benefit to us all."
After a few more minutes of discussion on small details—such as time allocation for each session and how to manage guest flow—the king sighed and glanced at the large wall clock in the corner of the hall.
"The clock shows noon," he said, picking up his cloak from the rack near the door. "I must leave now—there is an unexpected meeting with a delegation from the Kingdom of Abeille, who wish to discuss the crop seed delivery they promised. They have arrived earlier than scheduled."
Before exiting, he turned back to the family with a warm smile. "Keep up the good work. I will try to find time to join the event later, before other duties call me away."
With that, King Erico departed the family hall with steady steps, while Seraphina, Andrew, Xevac, and Eivana stood in respect until the door closed firmly behind him.
…
After carefully arranging all matters in the palace, Eivana asked the guards to escort her to King Erico Roses' work chamber. Her body, beginning to round with child, made her steps more careful, yet her face showed unwavering determination.
"The King is reviewing reports from the northern coast sailors, Lady Eivana," the palace attendant said as she opened the door to the meeting room.
King Erico Roses stood up immediately when he saw her enter; his initially serious face softened at once. "Eivana, what brings you here? You should be resting after our discussion earlier, hmm?"
"My health and our child are perfectly fine, Erico," Eivana replied as she sat in the chair prepared for her. "I've come not only to talk about our little one, but also to learn about the kingdom's condition and the commanders you sent to the 'Coldest North'."
King Erico let out a slow sigh before responding. "Regarding our child—the palace physicians say development is as expected. I've already drawn up plans to ensure your safety and well-being even before birth, including selecting the best teachers for him or her in the future."
He then took the large map spread across the table, pointing to the northernmost section marked with frosty letters. "As for the 'Coldest North', I just received word from Commander Gaele. The weather there is more extreme than anticipated—snow has been falling continuously for three weeks and the path to the local tribe's territory is blocked. However, they managed to make initial contact with the Frostweaver clan leader, who seems open to forming an alliance with our kingdom. The commanders are waiting for weather conditions to improve before continuing talks about trading ice fuel and protection from frozen forest creatures."
"What about the troops' preparations? Do they have enough supplies?" Eivana asked with a worried tone.
"All basic needs have been carefully prepared, and I've dispatched an escort unit with additional supplies that will arrive within a week," King Erico explained as he took Eivana's hand. "Your health and our child are my top priorities, but I know you've always cared about the safety of our people and soldiers. That's one of the reasons why you're a great queen."
Eivana nodded with a gentle smile. "We must protect this kingdom together for future generations. I hope the commanders return with good news, and that we can plan a better future for everyone."
After hearing King Erico's explanation about the situation in The Coldest North and the kingdom's condition, Eivana's face relaxed slightly. "Thank goodness—the news from there isn't as dire as I feared. Now, I want to discuss the event plans that Seraphina and the kingdom's nobles are organizing."
King Erico rearranged the documents on his table before responding. "Seraphina came to see me yesterday with a proposal for a royal tea gathering, and earlier in the family hall she explained it enthusiastically with a smile—this might be the first time in the past five years since 'that incident' that she's been able to open up and organize such an event."
"Yes, I've also received a letter from her," Eivana continued. "This event isn't just to celebrate the potential alliance with princes and princesses from other kingdoms, but also to strengthen bonds between the people and the nobles, and to bring new spirit to the entire kingdom."
King Erico nodded slowly. "Seraphina plans to include various activities—folk art performances, warrior skill competitions, and an exhibition of the best products from different regions of the kingdom."
(As King Erico spoke, Eivana interrupted him and looked at all the documents on his table, then began arranging them herself with a sense of responsibility.)
"You must be more careful and keep your documents more organized, my lord. I may be just an ordinary mother, but I know what needs to be done," she said as she tidied the papers.
"Hmm... Very well," King Erico nodded slowly. "Seraphina plans to include various activities—folk art performances, warrior skill competitions, and an exhibition of the best products from different regions of the kingdom. She also suggested we invite representatives from the royal academy to conduct research in the underground chambers and ensure everything runs smoothly."
"I fully agree," King Erico said with a smile. "But we must ensure all preparations are in order—security must be our top priority, especially with your current condition. Seraphina has also shared plans to hold discussion sessions on economic cooperation between the kingdom and the People's Representatives during the event."
"Very well, let's give our full support to Seraphina and her team," Eivana said. "I personally want to help arrange the part of the event related to introducing traditional foods from various regions, possibly including dishes that can be adapted to suit the guests' tastes."
King Erico embraced Eivana's belly with great affection. "Don't overexert yourself, Eivana. I know your drive to contribute can't be stopped. Let's entrust Seraphina with coordinating the main event, while we monitor progress and provide guidance if needed."
"As you wish, my lord," Eivana replied with a warm smile. "May this event mark the beginning of a better future for our entire kingdom and our new friends from the north."
…
(A few days later, word spread throughout the Roses Kingdom that the commanders sent by King Erico Roses had returned and were on their way.)
A cool morning atmosphere enveloped the kingdom's main gate. King Erico Roses stood tall alongside several elite guards; his hopeful face gradually shifted to sternness as he saw the line of soldiers approaching from afar.
The troops from The Coldest North marched in orderly yet sorrowful steps. Five commanders stood at the front, while the sixth—Aeros Smith Roses, King Erico's cousin—pulled a wooden cart carrying a simple yet casket made from rare northern wood. When they stopped right in front of the gate, the entire unit bowed low.
King Erico stepped forward, his eyes sweeping over the commanders' faces—marked with cuts and weariness. "I've been waiting for word from you all. So how fared your mission, and where is Commander-in-Chief Gaele?"
Eleonor Silvio (Gaele's younger sister) stepped forward with suppressed sobs. "My lord... Commander-in-Chief Gaele Silvio 'The Eagle Eye' is no more."
Upon hearing this, King Erico took a deep breath, closing his eyes briefly before looking at the casket. "Tell me what happened."
Jeglar Cantho (replied in a deep voice), "We successfully reached an initial agreement with the Frostweaver clan, Your Majesty. But as we prepared to return, we received reports of a mysterious attack on our camp near Mount Silver Ice. Upon hearing this, the Commander-in-Chief decided to investigate personally to ensure no danger would threaten the trade route we were about to establish."
Connie Mario continued, "At the mountain peak, when we arrived, we found the Commander-in-Chief facing a group of unknown creatures—white-furred like snow, with glowing red eyes and claws that could pierce steel. They attacked without mercy."
Ozur Pathenon added, "During the battle, I deployed the best defensive strategy possible, but the creatures moved with extraordinary speed and could hide within snowstorms. The Commander-in-Chief chose to face the creature's leader alone so we could retreat and protect the treaty documents with the Frostweaver clan."
Torun Pathenon spoke with a trembling voice, "As a master of ancient beasts, I don't even recognize their species. They are not part of the native fauna of The Coldest North that I have ever studied. The Commander-in-Chief managed to slay the creature's leader, but was critically wounded and passed away as we traveled back."
Aeros Smith Roses finally spoke, his eyes filled with anger and grief. "My lord Erico, I swore to protect the Commander-in-Chief. He was a true hero who sacrificed himself for our kingdom and all our safety."
Meanwhile, in a small house near the gate, Eivana and Seraphina stood behind thin curtains, listening to every word from the commanders. Eivana covered her mouth with her hand to hold back her cries, while Seraphina gently took her hand—her face full of sorrow and resolve.
(At the same moment inside that small house, Eivana and Seraphina fell silent and wept uncontrollably upon hearing the news; even Eivana could not restrain herself from going outside.)
Suddenly the door to the small house burst open. Eivana stepped out with small, unsteady steps—her eyes already streaming with tears. Without regard for anything else, she walked straight toward the casket bearing Gaele Silvio, ignoring the sobs she had tried to hold back.
"Oh... Gaele..." she said in a broken voice, before her knees nearly gave way and she had to steady herself by placing her hands on the casket's surface. "You can't just leave like this... you were a second father to me, who cared for me since I was young and had no one else in this kingdom... your grandchild was supposed to see you when they're born..."
Her tears fell onto the casket wood, while all the soldiers and guards present stood in painful silence. King Erico stood not far away, his jaw clenched tight and his hand gripping the sword at his waist firmly. He wanted to speak, but no sound could escape his throat—he knew full well how much Gaele meant to Eivana, even before they were married.
The other commanders bowed their heads; some of them also wiped away unstoppable tears. Eleonor Silvio covered her face with both hands, while Aeros Smith Roses could only stare at the ground, holding back his overwhelming emotions.
After a moment, King Erico lifted his head with a face that had grown stern again, though his eyes still showed deep sorrow. "Everyone!" he said in a strong, clear voice, reminding everyone of his position as king.
"Commander-in-Chief Gaele Silvio's funeral will be held tomorrow morning at eight o'clock, with a royal ceremony befitting a hero. However—" he stared sharply at each of the commanders' faces "—I strictly order that no one is to spread this news, either before or after the funeral. The tea gathering planned by Seraphina, along with Andrew and Xevac, will proceed as scheduled. The kingdom needs peace and unity now, not unrest that could arise from this sad news." The commanders bowed low, accepting the order with full awareness of the responsibility they bore.
King Erico then turned to several knights standing behind him. "You—lift Queen Eivana gently and take her to her chambers. Ensure she receives proper care and plenty of rest. I will come to see her shortly after arranging all matters here."
Two knights approached carefully, supporting Eivana's still-sobbing form as she gazed at Gaele's casket. They gently guided her away from the gate, while King Erico remained standing tall, watching as other knights began carrying the wooden casket into the kingdom with the utmost respect.
…
(The next day, a small yet meaningful funeral was held for the Roses Kingdom's knights and commanders.)
"G...g...Gaele..." (Eivana stammered and wept as she watched the Commander-in-Chief—her adoptive father—being lowered into the ground that would cover his body forever.)
(Seraphina, Andrew, and Xevac, who witnessed this, felt the event should be canceled entirely as they believed the timing was inappropriate. They postponed the gathering, sending various forms of compensation to the princes and princesses from other kingdoms who had been invited—including gold, food, and sincere apologies.)
…