Starry Celebrations

As King Rodrick and Winston conversed, a sudden commotion disrupted the tranquility of the room. A servant rushed through the grand doors leading to the throne chamber, causing a resounding thud as he entered. Breathless and clearly distressed, he urgently addressed the king, "Your Majesty! Your Majesty!"

Startled by the servant's abrupt entrance, King Rodrick inquired with concern, "What has happened? Why are you in such haste?"

The servant, still catching his breath, knelt before the king and hesitated briefly before conveying the distressing news, "My King, Queen Beatrice has collapsed while strolling in the palace gardens while observing the flowers."

Upon hearing this alarming revelation, a wave of worry washed over King Rodrick's countenance. His voice trembled as he questioned with great urgency, "How is she? Where is she now? Have the healers attended to her?", Every word he spoke echoed his deep concern for the queen's well-being.

The servant, eager to provide information, hurriedly responded, "Your Majesty, the head healer is currently with Queen Beatrice in her chambers. She is resting there."

Overwhelmed by worry for his wife, King Rodrick dashed towards the direction of the queen's bed chambers with frantic determination. Upon reaching the chamber's entrance, he swung the door open without hesitation and exclaimed, "Beatrice!"

Inside the room, the head healer was already at Queen Beatrice's side, tending to her with great care. The queen lay on the bed, her complexion pale, and her breathing shallow.

Rodrick's voice quivered with anxiety as he approached the head healer, seeking answers about his wife's condition. "Is Beatrice okay? Has anything happened to her?"

The head healer focused on her patient but understanding the king's worry, replied calmly, "Your Majesty, Queen Beatrice has fainted, but her vital signs are stable. We are still assessing her condition, but there is no immediate cause for alarm."

The relief was palpable as Rodrick absorbed the healer's words, though his concern remained. He nodded in acknowledgment and turned his gaze back to Queen Beatrice.

Just then, their son, Prince Nathan, burst into the room, his face mirroring his father's worry. He directed his questions to the head healer, seeking answers about his mother's well-being. "Mother, is she going to be all right? What happened?"

The head healer, after completing her initial examination, wore a warm and reassuring smile as she delivered unexpected news. "Congratulations, my King and Prince," she announced, "you are going to have a child and a sibling. The queen is pregnant."

King Rodrick and Prince Nathan exchanged astonished and joyous glances as the revelation sank in. Their concerns for Queen Beatrice's health were replaced with elation at the news of a new addition to the royal family. The room, once filled with anxiety, was now brimming with happiness and anticipation for the future.

With the worry regarding Queen Beatrice's condition resolved and replaced by the joyful news of her pregnancy, King Rodrick and Prince Nathan decided to proceed with the banquet they had planned.

It was a celebration that marked both the successful negotiations with the Casentino Empire and the promising addition to the royal family.

In the days following the dramatic events of Queen Beatrice's fainting and the revelation of her pregnancy, a sense of celebration and anticipation filled the palace.

The news of the impending royal heir had spread throughout the kingdom, sparking joy and excitement among the people.

Invitations were sent far and wide, not only to the nobles who had been present during the diplomatic negotiations but also to other influential figures from neighboring regions. 

The atmosphere was one of jubilation and camaraderie, as the nobles mingled and celebrated the newfound peace between their kingdoms.

As the evening of the banquet arrived, the palace was adorned with opulent decorations. The grand hall was transformed into a dazzling spectacle, with chandeliers casting a warm, golden glow over long banquet tables laden with exquisite dishes and fine wines. Musicians played soft melodies, setting the mood for an evening of revelry.

Outside the palace, Rodrick has assigned servants to give out palace-cooked food to the common people in the capital city, making them part of the celebration.

Nobles from different regions arrived in their finest attire, their garments adorned with gems and intricate embroidery. 

As the nobles took their seats, and the atmosphere brimmed with anticipation and celebration, King Rodrick stood at the head of the grand table, a glass of wine in hand. His regal presence commanded the attention of all those present, and his eyes shone with pride and happiness.

Prince Nathan, dressed in attire befitting a young prince, stood beside his father, mirroring the sense of occasion. 

With a hearty smile, King Rodrick extended a glass of wine toward Prince Nathan, a gesture of camaraderie and tradition meant to mark this significant moment. He intended for them to toast together, a symbol of unity and shared joy.

However, the young prince, wise beyond his years, hesitated for a moment. His brow furrowed slightly as he contemplated the offer. Then, with a touch of uncertainty in his voice, he addressed his father, "Father, should I be drinking? I am just going to be 9 years old in some months."

King Rodrick chuckled warmly at his son's thoughtful inquiry, his eyes filled with paternal affection. He leaned in closer to Nathan and, with a reassuring tone, replied, "Ah, my son, you have a sharp mind. But don't worry. A small glass of wine on a special occasion like this will do no harm. You are my son, and a sip of wine will not change that."

He playfully ruffled Nathan's hair and continued, "Besides, when I was your age, I already started joining these banquets and sampling the wine. It's a tradition in our kingdom, a way to bond with our fellow nobles and celebrate together."

Nathan's uncertainty melted away at his father's words, and he couldn't help but smile. He nodded in understanding and acceptance, accepting the glass of wine from King Rodrick.

Together, father and son raised their glasses, their eyes locking in a moment of shared love and anticipation for the future.

"To the new addition to our royal family and the peace of our kingdoms," King Rodrick declared, his voice resonating with pride and joy.

Nathan echoed his father's words, and they clinked their glasses, sealing the toast that marked the beginning of a memorable and joyous celebration in the palace.

The banquet hall erupted in cheers and applause, as the nobles and attendees joined in the toast, their hearts filled with happiness and hope for what lay ahead.

As the night grew late and the stars shone brightly in the sky, King Rodrick and Queen Beatrice took to the dance floor for a waltz, symbolizing the harmony between their hearts and the promise of a bright future for their kingdom.

The grand banquet became a night to remember, a testament to the power of unity, diplomacy, and the joy that new life brings. It was a celebration of peace, love, and the enduring bonds that held the realm together, ensuring a prosperous and hopeful tomorrow for all.

As the banquet concluded and the guests gradually made their way home, Prince Nathan found solace on the balcony, where he sat alone, gazing up at the starry night sky. The twinkling stars seemed to hold a mysterious allure, and Nathan's thoughts wandered in the quiet moments of the night.

From behind, King Rodrick and Queen Beatrice, hand in hand, approached their son. Rodrick, with a warm and concerned smile, spoke softly, "What is our son doing out here alone, gazing at the sky? Are you well, Nathan?"

Nathan turned to his parents, the corners of his lips curving into a gentle smile. "Yes, Father, I am well," he replied. "It's just that I've been feeling a bit... off lately."

King Rodrick, placing his hands on Nathan's shoulders, shared a knowing look with Queen Beatrice before turning his gaze back to the stars. "I understand, my son," he said in a comforting tone. "These past few months have indeed been challenging, filled with experiences that can shape and teach us about the world and how it operates."

With a thoughtful expression, Rodrick continued, "That's why I wanted to suggest something to you, Nathan. How about taking a little trip, a change of scenery? Perhaps you could visit the Ulaborg Kingdom for a while. Sometimes, a change of environment can help clear your mind and provide a fresh perspective."

Nathan's brows furrowed with concern as he contemplated his father's suggestion. "Father, I appreciate your concern, but I can't help worrying about leaving you and Mother, especially now that she's expecting a child."

Queen Beatrice, overhearing their conversation, couldn't resist chiming in with a reassuring smile. She flexed her arm playfully and said, "Oh, my dear son, don't you worry about your mother. I may be pregnant, but I am as strong as ever. I can take care of myself for a few months, and your little sibling will be eager to meet their big brother without any worries on your mind."

Nathan's face brightened at his mother's words, and he returned her smile. His parents' support and encouragement filled him with a sense of warmth and reassurance.

King Rodrick nodded in agreement, adding, "Your mother is right, Nathan. This is an opportunity for you to explore, learn, and grow. And don't worry about other things like your company or other stuff, I will handle it all here."

Nathan's initial worries began to dissipate, replaced by a newfound sense of hope and excitement. He looked up at the stars once more, his gaze filled with determination. "All right, Father, Mother," he said with a sense of resolve, "I will go on this journey, and when I return, I'll have stories to share and experiences to cherish."

With that decision made, the royal family stood together on the balcony, under the watchful gaze of the stars. They were bound by their love and support for one another, ready to face the future with open hearts and a sense of adventure.