Two days had passed since my conversation at Regalia Palace.
At the moment, I was wearing casual clothes and a small straw hat on my head, carrying a backpack.
I was on a train heading south, accompanied by maids and guards.
Seated at a table in the dining car, Sylena and Nilyna were at my sides.
We were enjoying our meal while watching the scenery roll by through the large windows.
"These salmon pasta are delightful," said Sylena, savoring her dish.
"Honestly, human cooks are true gourmet artists."
Nilyna smiled gently, nodding. "Yes indeed humans are very talented in the culinary arts. It's one of the fields they've always excelled in."
I set down my utensils, curiosity piqued.
"Nilyna tell me about the southern province of Ednia—Kyosval. I've read some reports, but I prefer your personal impression."
She straightened her posture, adopting a respectful tone.
"Yes, Your Majesty. The province of Kyosval is known as the most peaceful region in all of Ednia. Its inhabitants lead simple and serene lives. In fact they're known to have the longest life expectancy in the kingdom. Their lifestyle is in perfect harmony with nature."
"I see…" I replied, eyes fixed on the landscape.
The train was passing through one of those peaceful regions Nilyna had just described.
Farmers had set their tools into the fertile earth, shimmering lakes stretched in the distance, bordered by thick, tranquil forests. A soft breeze caressed the rolling green hills.
Suddenly, the large mirror embedded in the wall across from me lit up. Kaylen's image appeared.
"Yo, Jonady."
"Yes, Kaylen?"
"I contacted the governor of the Kyosval region, Zu Sakiro. He'll be waiting to welcome you personally when you arrive."
"Alright, then Kayl—"
But I was cut off by a rather amusing scene.
Someone suddenly walked into the room where Kaylen was.
It was Sienna she grabbed him by the shoulder and said:
"Come on Kaylen let's have lunch!"
I chuckled softly at the spontaneous scene.
"Sienna, how many times have I told you not to just barge in like that? I'm working," Kaylen protested.
He looked back at me, exasperated.— "Sorry, Jonady."
— "No no, it's fine. Go have lunch with her."
The mirror returned to its normal state, ending the call.
The train continued its journey, and soon, dawn began to break on the horizon. We arrived at the main station of Kyosval.
As I stepped off the train, a red carpet had been rolled out for my arrival. Several guards formed an honor guard. A knight stepped forward and knelt before me.
"Zu Sakiro, sir, at your service."
"Pleased to meet you, Zu. So, Kaylen passed along the instructions?"
He stood tall as a stone pillar.— "Yes, Your Majesty. Allow me to escort you to your estate."
We boarded a comfortable carriage.
After a few minutes along a road lined with palm trees and wildflowers, we arrived at a grand villa.
Built from light stone, it overlooked a white sand beach where waves gently lapped at the shore.
Zu turned to me respectfully.
"This residence belongs to the royal family of Ednia. You'll be at peace here, far from any disturbance. Let me know if you need anything."
"Very well, Zu. Thank you."
He departed with his men, leaving me with Sylena and Nilyna.
We entered the villa. A soft scent of sea air and polished wood filled the space.
Sylena looked around, eyes wide with wonder.— "It's huge…"
Nilyna took her hand with a playful smile.— "How about a nice bath? Raelia told me there's a hot spring here."
"With pleasure!"
As for me, I climbed the stairs to a large room on the top floor.
A wide bay window overlooked the sea the sound of the waves soothed me.
I set down my bag, lay down on the big bed, and closed my eyes.
All I wanted was to sleep.
Thus began my week of rest in the peaceful province of Kyosval a place bathed in calm, far from the responsibilities and commotion of the throne.