The Beginning of the Year

December 31, 1695.

The morning sun barely peeked over the horizon when the streets of Elysea began to stir. Vendors were setting up their stalls, city officials oversaw the final preparations for the New Year's Eve festivities, and the town square was already filling with people eager to catch a glimpse of the royal couple.

Inside the Royal Palace, King Bruno finished adjusting the cuffs of his coat while Queen Amélie inspected her reflection in the mirror. She was dressed in a refined yet simple winter gown, lined with fur to ward off the cold.

Bruno glanced at her. "Are you ready for a long day?"

She smirked. "I should be asking you that. You'll have to smile and wave at people all day."

Bruno let out a chuckle. "A small price to pay if it keeps the people loyal."