The Prince's Arranged Marriage
Chapter 31: Arriving Avaloria

Chapter 31: Arriving Avaloria

The preparations for the second leg of the royal tour to the Kingdom of Avaloria began early in the morning. The palace staff bustled through the halls, ensuring that every last detail was attended to with meticulous precision. Trunks filled with carefully selected attire, gifts for Avalorian dignitaries, and essential documents were carried out to the awaiting convoy. Lucien stood by his chamber window, watching the flurry of activity below, a strange mix of anticipation and apprehension settling in his chest.

He knew this journey would be different. Avaloria was Alexander’s homeland, a place where Lucien would be the outsider. Throughout the first leg of the tour, Lucien had slowly come to terms with his role, but now, stepping into Avaloria’s lands, the political intricacies would be even more delicate. He sighed, running a hand through his hair before turning back to finish dressing.

His attire for the journey was elegant yet practical—an ensemble of navy blue and silver, the colors of Veridia, with subtle embroidery depicting the royal crest. Alexander, ever impeccable, wore Avalorian white and gold, standing as a proud representative of his kingdom. When Lucien met his gaze before departure, there was an unspoken understanding between them: this was another stage of the performance they had to maintain.

The palace courtyard was filled with dignitaries and advisors bidding them farewell. King Christopher and Queen Alicia stood at the forefront, their expressions composed but watchful. Queen Alicia embraced Lucien briefly. "Make Veridia proud, my son."

Lucien nodded. "I will."

King Christopher turned to both him and Alexander. "The success of this tour is crucial for our alliance. Avaloria is opening its gates to you—show them the strength of our unity."

Alexander inclined his head. "We understand, Your Majesty."

With final farewells exchanged, they were escorted to the waiting aircraft. The royal jet, adorned with Veridia and Avaloria’s insignias side by side, gleamed in the sunlight. As they ascended the steps, Lucien cast one last glance at the palace before stepping inside, leaving his homeland behind for the next phase of their journey.

The interior of the jet was lavish yet functional. Deep blue velvet seats lined the spacious cabin, and a long table had been prepared for discussions during the flight. Lady Genevieve was already seated, reviewing notes.

"This journey marks the beginning of a new Chapter," Lady Genevieve said as they settled in. "Valtoria awaits. The moment you step off this aircraft, the entire kingdom will be watching."

Lucien exhaled slowly, feeling the weight of her words. He glanced at Alexander, who remained composed as ever. "How different is Valtoria from Veridia?" he asked.

Alexander’s lips twitched slightly, as if amused by the question. "You’ll see soon enough. It’s... grand in its own way."

As the engines roared to life and the jet began its ascent, Lucien leaned back into his seat, watching Veridia shrink beneath them. The flight itself was smooth, with discussions about their upcoming itinerary filling most of the time. There were meetings scheduled with Avalorian nobles, visits to historical sites, and—of course—grand receptions in nearly every city they were to visit.

Hours passed, and eventually, the pilot’s voice crackled over the speakers. "We are beginning our descent into Valtoria International Airport."

Lucien peered out the window as the clouds parted to reveal Avaloria’s capital. Valtoria stretched out beneath them, a breathtaking sight of ivory spires, golden domes, and wide boulevards lined with lush greenery. The Crownspire Mountains loomed in the distance, standing as silent sentinels over the city. Even from above, he could see the famous Valtorian Colonnade, its marble statues casting long shadows in the afternoon sun.

The landing was smooth, and as the aircraft taxied to a stop, Lucien braced himself. Outside, a grand welcome awaited them—dignitaries, military officials, and a crowd of citizens gathered beyond the barricades, waving Avalorian banners.

Alexander turned to him just before they stepped out. "Are you ready?"

Lucien met his gaze, something unreadable passing between them. "I suppose I have to be."

With that, they descended the steps together. The moment Lucien’s foot touched Avalorian soil, a sinking feeling settled in his chest. It was as if some unseen force was warning him—things were going to be very different from how they had been in Veridia. The next leg of their journey had begun, and with it, a new set of challenges awaited. He had a feeling that something was just waiting to happen, something really bad.

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