The Prince's Arranged Marriage
Chapter 25: The Last City

Chapter 25: The Last City

The night after their tour of Frostford was tense. Lucien barely spoke during dinner, his mind still occupied with everything he had seen—the struggling miners, the skilled blacksmiths, the unspoken worries on the faces of the citizens. Even as they sat at the grand dining table in their temporary residence, the air between him and Alexander was thick with unresolved tension from their earlier conversation.

Alexander didn’t press him, though he stole a few glances in his direction, as if waiting for Lucien to speak. But Lucien didn’t. He ate in silence, excusing himself early and retreating to his chambers. Sleep didn’t come easily. His thoughts swirled with the weight of responsibility, of duty, of the unrelenting march toward the next phase of their journey.

Morning came with the scent of freshly baked bread and brewed tea wafting through the halls. Lucien rose early, dressing in a crisp navy ensemble suitable for travel. He had barely stepped out of his room when he found Alexander already waiting in the corridor, impeccably dressed as always.

"You’re up early," Lucien remarked, adjusting the cuffs of his sleeves.

Alexander smirked. "So are you."

Lucien hummed in response, unwilling to engage in banter so early in the morning. They walked down to breakfast together, the tension from the previous night still lingering but softened by the quiet companionship of the morning. The meal was brief, consisting of warm pastries, fruit, and tea, and before long, they were on their way to their scheduled meeting with Lady Genevieve.

The meeting room was a sunlit chamber in their temporary residence, with a long polished table and neatly arranged documents awaiting them. Lady Genevieve stood at the head of the table, her posture as impeccable as always. With a composed smile, she gestured for them to sit.

"As you both know," she began, "the first leg of your royal tour is nearing its conclusion. Solara will be the final city in Veridian before we shift focus to the next phase."

Lucien folded his arms, listening attentively. Solara—a desert oasis city known for its stunning architecture and lush gardens. A stark contrast to Frostford’s cold, mountainous landscapes.

Lady Genevieve continued, detailing their itinerary. "Upon your arrival, you will be greeted with a grand procession through the city’s main thoroughfare. The people of Solara are eager to witness your visit. The first official engagement will be a visit to the Garden Palace, where you will meet with Solara’s governor and key officials to discuss trade, water conservation efforts, and the city’s contributions to Veridian’s economy."

Lucien took note of the topics—water conservation would be a significant point of discussion in a desert city. He’d have to make sure he was prepared.

"Following that," Lady Genevieve continued, "you will tour the famed Hanging Gardens, where the city’s scholars will present their latest innovations in irrigation and sustainable architecture. In the evening, a grand banquet will be held in your honor at the governor’s residence, attended by nobles, dignitaries, and esteemed guests from neighboring regions."

Lucien exhaled softly. Another banquet. Another night of carefully chosen words and measured smiles.

Lady Genevieve wasn’t finished. "Beyond Solara, there are key events waiting for you both. Upon completing the first leg of the tour, you will return to the capital for an audience with Their Majesties. They will expect a full report on your travels—progress, concerns, and future recommendations."

Lucien stiffened at the mention of his parents. His father, King Christopher, would no doubt scrutinize every detail. His mother, Queen Alicia, would be more tactful, but no less critical.

"And," Lady Genevieve added, "there will be a formal dinner to celebrate the successful completion of the first phase. It will be attended by influential figures from both Veridian and Avaloria."

Lucien exchanged a glance with Alexander. A public celebration. Another test.

"As always," Lady Genevieve concluded, "your ability to present a united front will be essential."

Lucien forced a small smile. "Of course."

Alexander nodded, his expression unreadable.

The meeting ended soon after, but as Lucien left the room, a feeling of unease settled in his chest. Solara was their final stop in Veridian, but it was only the beginning of the greater trials that lay ahead.

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