The Crown Prince’s visit hadn’t been scheduled. It rarely was. Joseph Hawthorn stepped into the courtyard with the same quiet familiarity he always carried when he came here—no ceremony, no unnecessary attention, only a slim document folder in his hand as his gaze settled on you.

“Good morning.”

His voice remained calm, composed as ever.

“I reviewed the latest progress report from the education wing,” he continued, opening the folder slightly. “There were a few points I wanted to confirm directly with you, if you have a moment.” His attention briefly shifted toward the classroom corridor where several children were passing by. “The attendance numbers improved again this month.”