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Chapter 16 - Inside Raimon’s Room: The Calm Before the Celebration

As I entered Raimon's room, the air was thick with the excitement of the impending celebration. The castle was alive with energy, servants bustling about as they prepared for the grand presentation of the new heir to the Flower duchy. Today was no ordinary day; it marked a significant moment in our family's history.

"Raimon, dear, we need to hurry!" I called out, my voice cheerful yet urgent. I was Lucia, the maid assigned to care for young Raimon, and today, I felt an extra thrill coursing through me. The walls of his chamber were adorned with stunning murals, each one telling a story that spoke of our lineage and legacy.

One mural, in particular, captivated me—a grand depiction of the legendary White Dragon, its scales glimmering like ice under the sun, engaged in a fierce battle against our family's first recorded ancestor, a valiant knight clad in intricately designed armor. The scene was alive with motion, the dragon's powerful wings spread wide, casting a shadow over the knight who wielded a radiant sword, forged from the rarest metals of the realm. The fierce expressions on their faces conveyed a struggle between chaos and order, bravery and fear, making the entire scene pulse with history and magic.

"Lucia, do I really have to wear all that?" Raimon's voice broke my reverie, his tone a mix of curiosity and reluctance.

I chuckled softly, kneeling beside him. "Oh, sweet Raimon, today is a day of honor. You will wear the finest garments fit for the heir of the Flower family!"

As I began to lay out the outfit on the bed, I couldn't help but marvel at the exquisite fabric. The robe was a rich sapphire blue, woven with threads of silver that shimmered like starlight. It was embroidered with the emblem of our house—two blooming flowers entwined around a sword, symbolizing our strength and heritage. "This will make you look like a true prince," I said, trying to instill some excitement in him.

Just then, I noticed the other maids, Anya and Merina, entering the room with matching enthusiasm. "Lucia, we've brought the accessories!" Anya exclaimed, holding a delicate silver circlet adorned with tiny sapphires that sparkled like droplets of dew.

"Merina, can you help me with the shoes?" I asked, gesturing to the ornate footwear resting on the floor. They were crafted from the softest leather and embroidered with intricate patterns, perfect for a noble child.

As we worked together, the atmosphere was filled with the hum of anticipation. I could hear the distant sounds of laughter and preparation echoing through the halls, and I knew the castle would soon be filled with the most distinguished guests from across the empire.

"Raimon, sit up straight!" I instructed, brushing his hair gently to remove any stray strands. The little boy fidgeted but complied, his eyes still wide with wonder. "And remember, you'll be introduced to so many important people. They will be looking at you with pride!"

Outside the window, snow continued to fall gently, blanketing the castle grounds in a soft white. The landscape seemed magical, and I couldn't help but feel that it added to the enchantment of the day.

Just then, a soft cooing caught my attention. I turned to see Edward and Gullermina, Raimon's younger siblings, peeking through the slightly ajar door. Their cherubic faces were flushed with excitement, and I smiled warmly at them. "Come in, you two! We're preparing for your brother's big day!"

Gullermina, with her golden curls and bright blue eyes, rushed into the room, her small hands clasped in delight. "Is it true, Lucia? Is Raimon really a prince today?"

I nodded, kneeling down to her level. "Yes, dear. Your brother is becoming the official heir, and soon everyone will know how special he is!"

Edward, slightly older and more reserved, stepped forward shyly. "Can I help?" he asked, glancing at the robe.

"Of course!" I replied, my heart swelling with affection for these little ones. "You can help me hold the robe while we dress Raimon. We need all hands on deck!"

As the three of us gathered around Raimon, I guided them in helping to get him ready. The moment was filled with laughter and joy, each of us playing a part in the celebration that was about to unfold.

With the final touches complete—Raimon adorned in his dazzling outfit, the circlet resting proudly atop his head—I stepped back to admire our handiwork. "You look magnificent, my prince," I said, my voice filled with warmth.

Raimon beamed, his earlier hesitation forgotten, replaced by a sense of pride. "Thank you, Lucia! I feel like I can conquer the world!"

Just then, I noticed a commotion outside the window—the arrival of our parents from the capital. The excitement in the air grew palpable as I turned to the children. "It's time! Let's make sure everyone knows how wonderful our heir looks today!"

As we stepped out of the room, I couldn't help but feel grateful for these moments—simple yet profound. It was a reminder of the bonds we shared and the adventures that awaited us in the days to come.