Journal Entry 77

23.09.2026

I did it again. I broke royal protocol, and I would not change a thing.

Perhaps my choice of setting—right in front of the Royal Palace in Oslo—was not one of the best decisions of my life. But damn, it felt good for Jonas and me to act as we had in our youth, even if only for a few brief moments.

Yes, my dearest journal, letting my antics get the best of me in front of the press during a photo shoot may have been a little extreme, but we only live once, right?

To be fair, I blame Jonas. I mean, he started it by straightening my bow tie in front of everyone. I swear that man wants every picture to be perfect. So, to return the favor, I decided to straighten his. Then the boy in me took over, and I untied it instead.

Needless to say, Jonas burst into laughter, as did the photographer, the press, and the other guests waiting to be photographed before the private event.

We made the news this evening in a splendid way. I am sure the European tabloids will have a field day tomorrow with images of my antics. However, it is the people of Dorstenland I care about most. Once again, they will see their beloved King Jonas as a real person, rather than an unapproachable monarch.

Tonight, the tension that had been building between Jonas and me finally broke.

Tomorrow, we will return to Eberbach.

On Friday, we will leave for our long-delayed fishing trip, where we will decipher the rest of the cryptic message—alone.

Unfortunately, I can sense the storm clouds gathering again, just as they did before our lives were turned upside down.

This time, Jonas and I will be prepared.

I will not lose anyone else in my life—especially my children and Jonas.