Emperor Alardus and Empress Arielle sat in the grand hall of the palace, surrounded by opulent decorations and the air of regality. The room echoed with their hushed voices as they engaged in a deep and thoughtful discussion. It was a rare moment of tranquility amidst the bustling affairs of the empire.
Emperor Alardus, a tall and dignified figure with a commanding presence, leaned forward on his ornate throne. His piercing blue eyes were filled with wisdom and a hint of weariness, reflecting the weight of his responsibilities as the ruler of the vast empire. His silver hair, neatly trimmed, added to his distinguished appearance.
Empress Arielle sat beside him, a radiant beauty with flowing locks and a regal bearing. Her gentle smile exuded warmth and compassion, complementing her husband's stern demeanor. She was known for her intelligence and unwavering support for the emperor, guiding him with her keen insight and diplomatic skills.
The grand hall, adorned with exquisite tapestries and gilded chandeliers, created an ambiance of elegance and sophistication. Sunlight streamed through stained glass windows, casting vibrant hues across the room and illuminating the golden accents that adorned the walls.
As they conversed, the emperor and empress addressed matters of great importance to the empire. Their discussion touched upon the welfare of their people, the stability of the realm, and the challenges that lay ahead. They debated policies, weighed the consequences of their decisions, and sought to find the best course of action that would benefit their subjects.
The exchange between Emperor Alardus and Empress Arielle was characterized by a mutual display of esteem and regard. The Emperor placed a high gratuity on the Empress's sagaciousness and frequently consulted her on matters of state. Her soothing words acted as a salve for his troubled spirit, offering reassurance and encouragement during periods of turmoil.
Their discourse was not limited solely to political affairs, and they also delved into their aspirations and ambitions for the empire. They envisioned a future marked by prosperity, justice, and unity. Moreover, they delved into perhaps the most pressing topic of all, their beloved daughter.
「 Empress Arielle 」
"Don't you think that she is too young, dear?"
「 Emperor Alardus 」
"I know, love..."
"But she has a wild spirit inside."
"I just want her to be safe."
"I can never forgive myself if something had happened to her back in Cardinal Peaks."
「 Empress Arielle 」
"Well..."
"She did ask me about her Ki card the other day."
「 Emperor Alardus 」
"She did?"
"What was it about?"
「 Empress Arielle 」
"She asked about her emblem..."
「 Emperor Alardus 」
"Looks like our daughter has been taking her classes seriously."
「 Empress Arielle 」
"Connie is a bright child."
"And like you said..."
"She does show maturity beyond her years, despite her petite figure."
The empress chuckled softly, her cute little princess playing in her mind.
"If you think now is the time to bestow her Battle Regalia..."
"I, as the Empress and as her mother, have no objection."
Emperor Alardus nodded, his gaze fixed on a distant point as he considered the weight of their decision.
「 Emperor Alardus 」
"You're right, Arielle."
"Connie has shown great potential and maturity beyond her years."
"Perhaps it is time to nurture her abilities further."
Empress Arielle reached out and placed a comforting hand on her husband's arm.
「 Empress Arielle 」
"Our daughter is strong-willed and determined, just like her father."
"I believe she is ready to take the next step in her journey."
Emperor Alardus let out a deep sigh, his eyes filled with a mixture of pride and concern.
「 Emperor Alardus 」
"Very well, my love."
"Let us prepare for the ceremony and present Connie with her Battle Regalia."
As they finalized their decision, a sense of anticipation filled the grand hall. The future of the empire rested not only on their shoulders but also on the shoulders of their young and promising daughter. They knew that guiding her on the path of leadership would be a delicate task, but they were resolved to support her every step of the way.
Together, Emperor Alardus and Empress Arielle stood up from their thrones, their figures bathed in the warm glow of the sunlight streaming through the stained glass windows. Hand in hand, they walked towards the palace's grand entrance, ready to embark on the preparations for the significant event that would mark Princess Connie's journey into a new chapter of her life.
The empire's fate intertwined with the hopes and dreams of its rulers, as they shaped not only the present but also the legacy they would leave behind for their daughter and the generations to come.
◈◈◈
The day of the ceremony arrived, and the palace was adorned with banners, flowers, and detailed designs that reflected the grandeur of the occasion. The grand hall, where the ceremony would take place, had been transformed into a breathtaking spectacle. A red carpet led the way from the entrance to a raised platform at the center, where Emperor Alardus and Empress Arielle stood, radiating regal authority.
The hall was filled with esteemed guests, including nobles, advisors, and members of Court de Tremaux, each dressed in their most resplendent attire. The air was thick with anticipation and excitement, as everyone awaited the arrival of their beloved princess, Arra Noir Henriette de Corronoet.
Soft music floated through the room, played by a talented orchestra positioned near the platform. The melodious tunes added to the ambiance, creating an atmosphere of elegance and grace.
As the guests settled into their seats, the doors swung open, and Princess Connie entered, escorted by courtiers dressed in ceremonial robes. She wore a gown befitting the occasion, adorned with delicate embroidery and sparkling gemstones that caught the light and accentuated her youthful beauty.
The princess walked gracefully, her eyes shining with a mix of nervousness and determination. Her parents watched her with pride, their expressions a mixture of love and encouragement. As she ascended the platform, a hush fell over the hall, and all eyes were fixed upon her.
Emperor Alardus stepped forward, his voice resonating with authority as he addressed the assembled guests.
「 Emperor Alardus 」
"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests..."
"Today, we gather here to honor our beloved daughter, Arra Noir Henriette de Corronoet."
His words echoed throughout the hall, capturing the attention of all those present.
"The Princess has shown exceptional courage, wisdom, and dedication."
"Today..."
"On her sixth birthday, marked the day that she completed her training and has proven herself worthy of receiving her Battle Regalia."
The audience erupted into applause, an indication of their admiration for the young princess. However, murmurs that she was too inexperienced to receive the Battle Regalia circulated.
Empress Arielle stepped forward, her voice both gentle and commanding.
「 Empress Arielle 」
"Arra Noir Henriette de Corronoet."
"You have demonstrated remarkable qualities, both as a daughter and a princess."
"Today, The Tremaux Dynasty bestow upon you the Battle Regalia, a symbol of your readiness to embrace your destiny."
The empress extended her hand, holding the Battle Regalia, an intricately crafted set of armor and weapons, symbolizing power, responsibility, and the duty to protect the empire.
Princess Connie approached her mother, her eyes shining with a mix of gratitude and determination. She knelt before Empress Arielle, who carefully placed the Battle Regalia upon her, piece by piece, as a ceremonial gesture.
As the last piece of the Battle Regalia was secured, the hall erupted in applause and cheers, a testament to the princess's newfound status and the collective faith in her abilities.
Emperor Alardus stepped forward once more, pride evident in his voice.
「 Emperor Alardus 」
"Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you, Princess Arra Noir Henriette de Corronoet!"
The hall thundered with applause and cheers as Princess Connie stood tall, donning her Battle Regalia. Her parents embraced her, their hearts filled with love and hope for the bright future ahead.
The ceremony continued with feasting, music, and celebrations that lasted well into the night. It was a joyous occasion, marking not only Princess Connie's coming of age but also the unity and strength of the empire under the guidance of its beloved rulers.
◈◈◈
「 Babah (reflecting) 」
"So..."
"The Battle Regalia in other words is..."
"A Gear."
"I wonder if Connie can use the other emblems I unlocked with Zanno?"
Babah's thoughts drifted towards the potential of Princess Connie's Battle Regalia and the other emblems he had unlocked with Zanno. The notion of combining their powers and abilities intrigued Babah.
"If Princess Connie can use the other unlocked emblems with her Battle Regalia, it could greatly enhance her capabilities!"
"The power and versatility she could wield would be unparalleled!"
Babah's mind raced with ideas, envisioning the princess harnessing the unique strengths of each emblem to overcome the challenges that lay ahead. The thought of her wielding such power filled him with exhilaration.
「 Babah (contemplative) 」
"But I must also consider the threat that comes with such power."
"She hasn't summoned her eidolon yet."
"I wonder how Mr. Bunny Rabbit will react when he senses my presence within the princess."
Babah recognized the need for a careful balance, ensuring that the princess's newfound abilities were honed to face the threat of the Lord of Anguish, Raf il-Cul.
「 Babah (determined) 」
"One thing for sure..."
"Princess Connie will need guidance and training to wield the emblems effectively and responsibly."
"I must devise a plan to train and guide Princess Connie, so she can fulfill her potential."
Babah's determination to guide Princess Connie on her journey grew stronger. He understood the significance of her role and the responsibility that came with it.