It had been a week since the grand wedding of Maria and Alfonso.
The echoes of that momentous occasion still reverberated throughout the nation, a testament to the love and unity it symbolized.
However, like ripples in a pond, even the most significant events eventually subside into the river of daily life.
Maria, now settled in the grandeur of Malacañang Palace, had seamlessly adapted to her new role as the Queen of the Philippines.
Her grace, humility, and genuine love for her people had endeared her to the nation. The public couldn't help but admire her commitment to the country and her dedication to her husband, King Alfonso.
Queen Isabella, Alfonso's mother, had chosen to extend her stay in the Philippines, eager to be closer to her son and to witness the nation's transformation firsthand.