"How can I not remember my child?" the old man pleaded, his voice trembling as he met Princess Vixara's gaze. Tears welled in his eyes, adding to the sincerity of his plea.
A stunned silence descended upon the hall, broken only by the faint rustling of silk gowns and the occasional cough. Then, a soft, incredulous laugh escaped Princess Vixara's lips. It grew, gaining momentum until it erupted into a burst of controlled laughter that echoed through the chamber.
Whispers and murmurs rippled through the crowd. "Has she lost her mind?" one courtier hissed. "Is this some strange jest?" another questioned.
Vixara wiped away a single tear, a playful glint in her eyes as she addressed the bewildered audience. "Forgive my amusement, but the absurdity of this situation… it simply tickled my funny bone."
The old man's face contorted in confusion. "My daughter," he stammered, "why do you mock me?"
