Dignitaries from allied kingdoms arrived in waves the next day, their carriages rolling down the long, cobblestone path that led to the heart of the palace. Each kingdom came bearing extravagant gifts and well-wishes for the soon-to-be royal couple, their flags fluttering proudly in the breeze, marking their arrival. Prince Izan stood at the gates, his royal cloak billowing in the wind, flanked by his ever-loyal personal guard, Dillion, who stood at attention, eyes scanning the crowd with practiced vigilance.
Inside the palace, Elian's chambers were filled with the quiet buzz of conversation as he, Niko, Aria, and Orion sat together, watching the preparations unfold from the large windows. Niko was glued to the window, his eyes scanning the procession below, cataloging each new arrival with a mix of interest and excitement.