The welcome

A lot of flowers and beads are being thrown at us. Horses are provided for the royals, with Flora and Maxim leading the way as Prince Malo, Emperor Sinbad, and I follow behind. The rest of the entourage trails behind guarded closely. There is much waving and smiling as the songs and celebrations continue.

We finally make it to the castle walls where the King of Cai, Maxim and Malo's father, and my own father are waiting for us. Flora dismounts her horse and immediately runs to our father, her joy evident. I dismount and head toward my father as well but keep my distance until he calls me in for a hug.

"Emperor Sinbad," the King of Cai announces loudly, drawing everyone's attention, "It's great having you here."

"The pleasure is all mine, King Mako," Sinbad replies, taking a respectful bow.

My father releases Flora and turns to me, his eyes softening. "Daniella," he says warmly, opening his arms. I step into his embrace, feeling a sense of comfort and home.

After our embrace, I step back, allowing the formalities to continue. Sinbad and King Mako exchange pleasantries, their conversation filled with the kind of diplomatic warmth expected at such gatherings.

Flora stands by Maxim, who looks both proud and relieved to have her by his side. Prince Malo watches the scene with a calm demeanour, his eyes occasionally flicking towards me. Despite our earlier conversation, there's a sense of unspoken understanding between us.

"Welcome to Cai, Princess Daniella," King Mako says, his voice carrying authority and kindness. "We are honoured to have you here."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," I reply, curtsying slightly.

The crowd around us continues to cheer, the festive atmosphere lifting my spirits despite the underlying tension. The gates behind us close, signalling the end of our journey and the beginning of a new chapter in this grand celebration.

As we move towards the castle, I catch a glimpse of Vider among the guards. Our eyes meet briefly, and I feel a rush of emotions—curiosity, frustration, and something else I can't quite name. This journey has been full of unexpected moments, and I can't help but wonder what lies ahead in the days to come.

The grand entrance to the castle is adorned with banners and more flowers, a testament to the kingdom's celebration of the royal wedding. The hall is filled with dignitaries, nobles, and courtiers, all gathered to witness the union and to welcome us.

"Princess Flora, Prince Maxim," King Mako announces, his voice booming through the grand hall, "we welcome you to your new home."

The crowd erupts in applause as Flora and Maxim step forward, their smiles radiant. I stay slightly behind, still processing the grandeur of the occasion and my place in it.

My father places a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "You look lovely, Daniella," he says softly. "Remember, this is as much your celebration as it is theirs."

I nod, forcing a smile. "Thank you, Father."

As we proceed further into the hall, I catch sight of Sinbad and Malo engaging in conversation with some of the nobles. Sinbad's presence commands attention, his aura of authority and charm unmistakable. Malo, on the other hand, exudes a quiet strength, his demeanour steady and composed.

I take a moment to breathe, trying to steady my nerves. The castle's grandeur, the overwhelming number of people, and the underlying political tensions all swirl in my mind. I decided to find a moment of solace, excusing myself from the immediate festivities to the corner of the ballroom. 

"Princess Daniella," a familiar voice interrupts my thoughts. I look up to see Prince Malo approaching, his expression warm yet curious. "Why are you hiding in the corner?"

I offer a small smile. "People are scary, Prince Malo. It's a bit overwhelming, don't you think?"

He chuckles, nodding. "Indeed. But you should enjoy the afternoon. After all, it's not every day we get to witness such a grand event."

"I'm trying," I reply, my smile wavering slightly. "It's just...a lot."

Prince Malo studies me for a moment, then nods understandingly. "If you ever need someone to talk to, you know where to find me," he says gently, before giving a slight bow and moving back into the crowd.

I watch him go, grateful for his kindness. Just as I'm about to retreat further into my thoughts, another voice breaks through the noise.

"Princess Daniella," Emperor Sinbad says, his tone light but with an undertone of concern. "May I join you?"

I nod, gesturing to the empty space beside me. "Of course, Emperor Sinbad."

He stands next to me, his presence commanding but not overbearing. "You seem far away," he observes, glancing at me with those ember eyes that seem to see right through me.

"I'm here," I reply, though my voice lacks conviction.

Sinbad raises an eyebrow, a small smile playing on his lips. "Physically, perhaps. But your mind is elsewhere."

I sigh, looking out at the dancing couples. "It's just a lot to take in, surprised miss Motan hasn't yet popped up to remind me of my duties."

He nods, understanding. "I can relate. The weight of leadership can be heavy, especially when it feels like you have to live up to everyone's expectations."

I glance at him, surprised by his candidness. "You don't seem like someone who doubts himself."

Sinbad chuckles softly. "Everyone has doubts, Princess. It's how we handle them that defines us."

"Your majesty," I call out after a while, breaking the silence.

''You can call me Sinbad princess,'' he says.

''If you call me Daniella,'' I say with a smile then face him,'' This may sound rude but why aren't you married.'' He looks down at me expressionless as if I just told him I killed his dog. For a long minute, we look at each other in silence.

"Well, well, well," says a voice from behind us. A tall man with tanned gold skin and brown eyes walks towards Sinbad and me. "It's been a long time, Sinbad."

"I see your voice is still as annoying as ever, Ali," Sinbad replies with a grin. I can't help but giggle at their banter, which makes Sinbad laugh too.

"Still making dry jokes, I see," says Ali playfully. "And who is this beautiful lady?"

"Princess Daniella of the far south," I say, extending my hand for a handshake.

"Sultan Alibaba of the Arapersian Empire," he responds, shaking my hand. "I assume that's your sister getting married soon?" he asks, pointing at Flora.

"Yes," I reply with a smile.

"Are you next in line?" he asks, glancing at my ringless finger.

I pause, searching for an answer. "We'll see what the future holds," I say.

"I don't think you should get married just yet," Sinbad interjects. "You have a lot of potential that shouldn't be wasted in marriage."

"Don't take advice from someone who's chased away all his suitors," Alibaba says, pointing at Sinbad with a grin.

"Chased away?" Sinbad scoffs, but there's a twinkle in his eye. "I prefer to think of it as setting high standards."

"You mean impossible standards," Alibaba retorts, making us all laugh.

"What do you want Sinbad? I mean in a wife" I ask, intrigued.

He pauses, looking thoughtful. "I want a partner who understands me, challenges me, and stands by my side. Someone who sees the world not just as it is, but as it could be and also very beautiful, generous, kind and knows her schools of magic."

His answer surprises me with its depth. "That's... a good answer," I admit.

"High standards indeed, good luck with the last bit," Alibaba teases.

"Are you married, Alibaba?" asks Sinbad teasingly. "I'm yet to receive a wedding invite."

"If I get yours first," Alibaba retorts.

"You'll be waiting forever, then or if things go well you might get in about a year," Sinbad replies with a chuckle.

Alibaba laughs, shaking his head. "Well, it looks like neither of us is in a rush to settle down."

"Some things are worth waiting for," Sinbad says with a grin.

I can't help but laugh along with them. Their banter is infectious, and it makes the grand, formal atmosphere of the afternoon feel a bit more relaxed and human.

"I'm surprised you're not married yet, Alibaba," I say. "You seem like you'd be quite the catch."

"Thank you, Princess," Alibaba replies with a bow. "But believe it or not, am in it for love."

"Wise words," I say, nodding in agreement. "It's better to wait for the right match than to rush into something that doesn't fit."

"Exactly," Alibaba agrees. "And until then, there's plenty of adventure to be had."

Sinbad claps a hand on Alibaba's shoulder. "Speaking of adventure, I heard your latest escapade took you to the Eastern Isles. How was it?"

Alibaba's eyes light up with excitement as he launches into a tale of his travels, and I find myself captivated by his stories. The morning continues with laughter and conversation, and for a while, I forget about the pressures and expectations awaiting me.

Eventually, the time comes to return to our duties. As we prepare to head to our chambers to prepare for the official ceremonies, I take a deep breath, feeling more at ease.

"Thank you for the company, gentlemen," I say. "It was a pleasure."

"The pleasure was ours, Princess," Alibaba replies with a charming smile.

Sinbad nods in agreement. "Indeed. We'll have to do this again sometime."

As I walk away to join Flora and the others, I glance back and see Sinbad and Alibaba still deep in conversation. 

The rest of the day promises to be busy and filled with formalities, but I'm grateful for this brief respite and the new friends I've made. It reminds me that even in the midst of duty, there's always room for a little adventure and camaraderie.