(A day before escorting Lady Nerina to Nokturna)
I am Javier Bioza, the loyal secretary and friend of His Majesty Augustus of Nokturna. As Sir Biron and I rode through the vibrant streets of Aethorador, I couldn't help but be captivated by the lively atmosphere that enveloped us. The colorful houses, meticulously maintained gardens, and the joyful faces of the citizens made it clear why this country was well-regarded for its prosperity and charm.
"A spectacular sight, indeed," Sir Biron remarked, his usually stern face softening as he gazed out the window. "Aethorador truly knows how to present itself."
"Yes, it's undeniably beautiful," I replied, echoing his sentiment. Even in what might be considered a modest part of town, the beauty was palpable. But as mesmerizing as the scenery was, I reminded myself that our purpose here was not merely to revel in the sights.
That evening, Sir Biron and I made our way to one of the local pubs. The air inside buzzed with conversations and laughter, spilling out from every corner, creating a lively atmosphere that felt infectious.
We took seats at the bar, nodding to the bartender, who recognized us with a polite smile. I looked around, observing the patrons—all appeared relaxed and at ease. This was the perfect environment to gather the information we needed, to gauge the true nature of Lady Nerina, Aethorador's long-lost princess.
Sir Biron ordered us two drinks, and we settled in, listening quietly to the surrounding conversations. It didn't take long before we heard mention of Lady Nerina.
"Did ya hear?" a man at a nearby table said, his voice thick with emotion. "The princess is leavin' for Nokturna soon."
"Aye, she's been a blessing to this country. Always carin' for the people, just like a real royal," another chimed in.
I exchanged a glance with Sir Biron; it seemed Lady Nerina had left a substantial impression on the citizens.
Leaning forward, I casually joined their conversation. "It sounds like this princess means a lot to the people here," I said.
The bartender's eyes lit up at the mention of her name. "Aye, Her Highness is truly remarkable, though most of us didn't know she was royalty until recently."
Sir Biron leaned in slightly. "So she wasn't raised in the royal family?"
"No, she wasn't. It was only recently that she was officially welcomed. His Highness Lysander found her and felt an immediate connection—so he invited her into his home," one of the patrons explained.
A waitress chimed in, "You'll never meet a more kind-hearted person. She worked at the plantation, just like anyone else. Always caring for those around her with a smile. There's talk of her leaving for Nokturna soon. It's a shame, really—she's one of us, and the people love her."
The bartender sighed, wiping down a beer mug. "It's just a pity that Sir Glenn and Lady Nerina won't end up together."
"Sir Glenn?" I asked, feigning innocence. "What's his story with Her Highness Nerina?"
The bartender glanced around and leaned in slightly, as if sharing a precious secret. "Oh, Glenn? He's one of the nobles—a knight in the Royal Knights Order—but not one of those snobby types. He's well-liked, not just by the royals but by the common folk too. He's spent a lot of time with Lady Nerina over the years. You could always find them together during breaks at the plantation or at festivals, laughing and enjoying each other's company. People around here thought they'd end up together for sure."
"They would've made a great pair," the second man added, disappointment lining his tone. "But duty calls, I guess. She's doing what's best for the country, even if it means leaving her heart behind."
The waitress joined in again, a wistful tone in her voice. "I think a lot of hearts broke when they heard she was going to marry the Emperor. Glenn included. Not that he'd ever show it, of course. He's too proud, but you could tell—he cares for her deeply."
I turned back to the bartender. "It sounds like she'll be sorely missed."
He nodded gravely. "Aye, lad. More than you know."
As we prepared to depart from Aethorador with Princess Nerina, I found myself reflecting on the lasting impressions she had made on everyone. The moment I first saw her, she struck me as both captivating and enigmatic. Her beauty was undeniable, her deep red hair adding a touch of wild elegance to her demeanor. She embodied both kindness and a certain untamed spirit that was refreshing.
Now, as our journey to Nokturna lay ahead, I contemplated the new dynamics that would unfold. Her arrival would undoubtedly bring change and challenges—not only for her but also for the empire she was joining.
I glanced at the princess, seated with composed grace beside me, and thought about the responsibilities that awaited her. The integration into a new court, the adjustment to her role as Empress, and the weight of the alliance that had brought her here would not be easy.
With a slight smirk, I mused internally, 'She would be a perfect fit next to His Majesty.' As we entered Nokturna, I couldn't shake off the feeling of anticipation that loomed over us all.