Summer might just be Cassander's favourite season. It was always spring; summer was too warm. But that was before his dearest joy came into the world and made it warmer.

"Even the sun wishes to see you..." the newly appointed king coos as he lifts the babe out of her crib, the light from outside sneaking a glance into her bed from the window. Cassander had half a mind to banish every musician in the kingdom, for no instrument could compare to the giggling of his daughter.

He felt as if he understood his own father better. A gem for each child felt like an unnecessary gift when he was little and received a diamond. However, now, not even all the jewels in the world felt like enough for his Meleia. He can't even tell how dark her eyes will turn and he would still make the color of them the new flag.

Cassander lets the small princess rest against his shoulder, cradling her close with both arms. Babies are much smaller than he last remembers. Then again, he was much smaller too when he held his youngest sister. If Meleia grows up to be as beautiful as Helena, Cassander will have to pick up a sword again.

"I can't decide if I should thank you more for existing or your mother for having you..." the king ponders even if the little thing in his arms doesn't understand him. Though judging by the creak of the door behind him, there might just be someone coming who will. "What do you think, Meleia? Should we honor your mother with a week's worth of games or a new garden?"