A Year Later
The atmosphere in the imperial palace of Cedore was quite light and fun despite the buzzy hallways and halls.
In one pavilion in the west of the palace, Iria was having a chat with the Empress of Cedore, Amina Francia, the wife of her uncle.
The Empress was a kind-hearted and beautiful woman despite being in her early 40s. When Iria's mother left Cedore, she was already married to Kalos Francia for a year. She knew the late mother well and as such, she cared for Iria and loved her like her own child.
"Your uncle is helpless, Iria," the Empress said with a sigh. "Today is his 44th birthday and the whole palace is busy for the celebration party to be held tonight but... even now, all he does is having a meeting with the officials."