The day after their arrival dawned upon the kingdom, casting a soft golden hue across the castle grounds. The usual calm was replaced by a flurry of movement as the staff bustled about, preparing for the gala. The halls echoed with hurried footsteps and muffled conversations as everyone rushed to meet the day’s expectations.
Ruby sat on the edge of her bed, staring out the window. The soft rays of sunlight did little to lift her spirits. Her body ached from the long day of travel back to their kingdom, and sleep had eluded her the previous night. Her mind had been restless, tangled in thoughts of the responsibilities that awaited her. She sighed deeply, knowing she could not afford to slack today. The gala honoring the soldiers' families was an important occasion. The King would attend la
