In the following days, the news of the new duke became a hot topic of conversation.
There were numerous speculations regarding the Duke of Reston's sudden decision to transfer the title to his son. However, most people didn't dwell on the matter for long.
Once an adversary of the emperor, the Duke of Reston now found himself in a different position, especially with his daughter as the empress, having captured the emperor's heart. Regaining the title of prime minister seemed a distant dream.
Many speculated that the Duke was attempting to reinsert himself into politics by placing his son in the role of prime minister instead.
Fortunately for him, the gossip surrounding the Duke was overshadowed by even greater news.
In late summer, Theor was officially crowned as the crown prince.
On that day, as per tradition, a grand celebration took place at the Imperial Palace.
Theor, resembling a doll in his newly made blue robe, prepared to attend the festivities.
A maid admired him. "You look absolutely wonderful in that."
Astelle examined Theor closely and asked, "Is it uncomfortable?"
"No!" he replied enthusiastically.
Since entering the Imperial Palace, all of Theor's clothing had been newly tailored, and this latest outfit was a size larger to accommodate his growth.
"You've grown so much in just a few months," Astelle noted, feeling the swift passage of time.
The simple clothes he once wore in the countryside no longer fit him, and he wouldn't be wearing such plain garments anymore.
"Today, you need to stay quietly by His Majesty's side," she reminded him, gently stroking his well-combed black hair.
The prospect of Theor becoming a crown prince filled Astelle with a hint of apprehension.
Theor nodded confidently. "Yes, I can do it. I practiced with Grandfather."
He took a step forward, performing the polite greetings of the nobility.
It was endearing to watch the doll-like child imitate an adult, and Astelle couldn't help but laugh at his earnestness.
Hannah, standing beside her, also chuckled lightly.
Seeing them laugh, Theor paused mid-greeting and exclaimed, "Don't laugh!"
"Of course not! You're doing great," Astelle reassured him, taking his hand.
"Now, let's head to the hall."
• 🍁 •
Throughout the celebration, Theor stood with confidence, receiving congratulations from the nobles gathered beside Kaizen.
Astelle took the opportunity to greet the noblewomen before stepping out onto the terrace for a moment of fresh air.
As she cooled her head, someone approached her cautiously.
"Your Majesty, I hope you've been well."
"Sir, it's been a while," she replied, recognizing Count Ecklen, Seibel's father.
Astelle hadn't seen him since their last meeting in the Empress Palace.
"Sir Seibel has left for the North, and Theor was quite saddened by it."
With Seibel's dispatch, Theor's education fell temporarily to Marquis Carleberg.
Watching Theor through the glass door, Count Ecklen said, "His Highness the Crown Prince displays remarkable resolve in front of others. He will surely grow into a great monarch."
