The royal surprise.

"Sir Jonathan," she began, her voice clear and steady, though soft. "I may not have grown up in Selene, but I have come to love this kingdom and its people. I bring loyalty, humility, and a willingness to learn. I am not here to rule alone, but to serve alongside my husband and to listen to the people who make Selene what it is."

Her gaze never faltered, and a murmur of approval spread through the room. "Selene deserves a queen who will give her heart entirely, and I intend to do just that."

The crowd around them nodded in admiration, the initial scepticism melting into respect. Jonathan, momentarily at a loss, opened his mouth as if to counter her statement, but the respect in the room silenced him.

Cyrus's voice then cut through the murmurs, cold and unwavering, addressing Jonathan with a sharpness that made the older man flinch.