The morning was cool in the Estorian capital. King Noor IV stood strong outside the main palace gates. He felt the weight of his kingdom and his son's unsure fate heavy on his shoulders.
Eric and Alina were already with him. They looked a mix of nervous. The Queen, Isadora, stood on the other side of the King. Her eyes showed she hadn't slept well.
"I still don't understand your decision to have me stay here, Noor," the Queen said, her voice low, with a hint of worry. "My place is by your side, by Eric's side, especially now."
The King managed a small, reassuring smile as he looked at his wife. "Isadora, my dear," he said gently, "the situation in our kingdom is not stable enough for both of us to leave. There are unresolved matters. You need to manage everything in my absence. Your strength, your wisdom, will be vital here."
