The Royal Contract

34

Ten years later, the day had arrived for Princess Sarah's crowning as the heir to Concordia. The palace buzzed with activity as the royal family prepared for the momentous occasion, each member attending to their duties.

In the royal chambers, Miranda and Ben, now showing the gentle signs of age, stood side by side, their hearts filled with pride and anticipation for their daughter's special day. Ben's hair was tinged with silver, Miranda's face carried the soft lines of wisdom and experience.

Miranda stood before a grand mirror, adjusting her elegant gown. Ben he placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. "Can you believe our little Sarah is being crowned today?" he asked, his voice filled with wonder.

Miranda smiled, her eyes reflecting the same pride and a hint of nostalgia. "It feels like just yesterday she was a baby in our arms," she replied softly. "And now she's ready to take on the mantle of heir."

"You look as radiant as ever, my dear," Ben remarked, his voice filled with affection.

Miranda smiled warmly, her eyes reflecting the depth of their shared history. "And you, my love, are as handsome as ever," she replied, her voice soft with emotion.

Benjamin and Miranda exited their chambers, their hearts filled with pride and anticipation for their daughter's crowning ceremony, they made their way to the parlor where their son, Benji, awaited them. He had traveled from Lumina to be part of his sister's special day.

"Mother, Father," Benji greeted them, his voice warm and respectful. "You both look splendid, I can't wait to see our little Sarah take her place as princess of Concordia."

Benjamin and Miranda returned their son's smile, their hearts swelling with pride for both their children. "Thank you, Benji," Benjamin replied, his voice filled with affection. "Your support means the world to us."

Miranda nodded in agreement, her eyes shining with maternal love. "We're so grateful to have you here with us, Benji," she said softly. "Your presence makes this day even more special."

Benji's smile widened at his parents' words, a sense of fulfillment washing over him as he prepared to witness his sister's crowning ceremony. "I wouldn't miss it for anything," he replied earnestly. "Our family may be spread across different kingdoms, but our bond remains unbreakable."

Just then, Sarah, now a radiant young girl of ten, bounced with excitement, her eyes shining with anticipation entered, looking every bit the part of a future queen in her regal attire. Her eyes lit up at the sight of her brother. "Benji" she exclaimed, rushing to hug him. "I'm so glad you're here."

Benji laughed, lifting his sister in a brief twirl. "I wouldn't miss it for the world, Sarah," he said, setting her down gently. "Today is your day. You're going to make an incredible queen."

Sarah beamed up at her brother, her eyes shining with adoration. "Thank you, Benji" she exclaimed, her enthusiasm palpable. "I've been practicing my royal duties, just like Mother. I want to be as wise and kind as she is."

Miranda's heart swelled with love for her daughter as she watched the exchange between Sarah and Benji. "You're already wise beyond your years, Sarah," she said, her voice filled with maternal pride. "And with your kind heart, there's no doubt you'll be an exceptional queen."

"Let us make haste" Ben declared "My baby girl has a crown waiting for her."

With a sense of anticipation hanging in the air, the royal family made their way to the Grand Castle in a grand carriage, the symbol of their lineage and authority. During their ride, a nervous energy filled the air, particularly emanating from young Princess Sarah. Her fingers fidgeted with the fabric of her gown as she fretted about the impending ceremony.