The nobles and The commoners

The day had finally arrived—the day before the coronation of Prince Alexander. The entire kingdom was filled with celebration and anticipation. The palace was decorated with banners and golden drapes, and laughter echoed in every corner.

Alexander was nervous. Tomorrow, he would become the king. The weight of the entire nation would soon rest on his shoulders.

Inside his dressing room, Alexander stood in front of the mirror, trying on his ceremonial attire. He had also arranged luxurious outfits for Eidrin and Romero—his two most trusted companions.

Eidrin: “You don’t have to do this, my prince. I’d rather wear something simple. We’re just guards, after all.”

Alexander: “No. I want both of you to wear these. You’re going to accompany me tonight. At least let me have you by my side.”

Eidrin: “You don’t need to stay with us today. This is your night—you should be with the other royals.”

Alexander: “I’d rather be with you two than anyone else. You both know me better than anyone. You’re not just soldiers... you’re my best friends.”

Eidrin: “But… Xander...”

Romero: “Eidrin, if the prince wants us by his side, we stay by his side. His word is our command. And anyway, we’re not just ordinary guards—we’re his personal protectors.”

Eidrin: “Fine. I don’t have a choice when both of you agree.”

Romero (changing the subject): “So... Xander, do you think there’ll be any beautiful girls at the celebration?”

Alexander: “Of course there will be.”

Eidrin (annoyed): “Romero, is there anything else you ever care about?”

Romero: “Well...”

The palace glowed that night, lit by thousands of lanterns and magical ornaments. It was more beautiful than ever before. Joy and laughter filled the streets. The people of Francia celebrated their soon-to-be king.

Three kings from the allied nations arrived—King Trimur, King Karakos, and King Lasar. They represented the Twelve-Nation Alliance, in which Francia was also a part.

King (Alexander’s father): “I’m truly honored to have you here. Thank you for coming.”

Karakos: “How could we miss such an event? After all, we’re all part of the same alliance.”

King: “Will the Emperor be joining us?”

Trimur: “No. He said he was too busy and sent us in his place. You know how he always avoids public appearances.”

Lasar: “The others are busy too. If everyone came, the attention would shift away from your son. That’s why just the three of us are here.”

King: “That’s perfectly fine. I appreciate your presence. Giorno, take our guests to Alexander.”

Giorno: “Yes, Your Majesty.”

Giorno, a distant member of the royal family, was envious of Eidrin and Romero. Like many nobles, he disliked the favoritism they received from the king and prince.

As he led the kings through the corridor, they spotted Alexander standing with Eidrin and Romero.

Giorno (thinking): They’re still clinging to him? Even tonight? I’ll make sure they learn their place soon.

Lasar: “Who are those two standing with him? Are they royals?”

Giorno: “No. They’re just guards.”

Karakos: “Guards? With four nations guarding this palace, why does he need personal bodyguards now? They seem unnecessary.”

Trimur: “Is the prince truly so humble that he spends such an important night with common soldiers?”

Giorno: “Yes. He’s too soft-hearted. And those two are just taking advantage of it.”

Trimur: “I see…”

The kings approached.

Karakos: “Prince Alexander, how are you? We’ve met before, haven’t we?”

Alexander: “Yes, I remember. It’s an honor to meet you again. Thank you for coming.”

Trimur: “We are happy to be here. But may I ask, why are you still with your guards? Tonight, you should be with your family and important guests like us.”

Lasar: “They’re distracting you. Don’t let them hold you back.”

Alexander: “No, it’s not like that. They are—”

Eidrin: “It’s fine, Prince. Go ahead and enjoy your evening. We’ll take some time off. Let’s go, Romero.”

Romero: “Alright.”

Alexander tried to stop them, but the two had already turned and left. They walked to the quiet back side of the palace, where the sounds of the celebration couldn’t reach.

Romero: “Are you upset, Eidrin?”

Eidrin: “Not really. There’s nothing to be upset about.”

Romero: “Don’t lie. I know you too well.”

Eidrin: “Okay… I felt a little insulted.”

Romero: “Does it really matter what they think? We don’t live to prove ourselves to them. We live to stay true to who we are. And we know we’re more skilled and loyal than any of them.”

Eidrin: “Thanks for saying that... but still, I don’t feel great. I told you and Alexander many times—we don’t belong by his side at events like this.”

Romero: “Forget them. Let’s enjoy the night our way. A little drink, some dancing… and maybe find a few pretty girls.”

Eidrin: "You never change."