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"The pitcher of ice water smashed into Mara before she could even raise her hands. / Chapter 18 / 19

Chapter 19 - Justice Served

Malakor, terrified by the raw divine power radiating from his niece, scrambled to pick up the dropped dagger. "No! I will not lose to a servant girl!" he shrieked, lunging at Mara with blind rage.

Before he could reach her, Captain Vance stepped between them. With one swift, decisive stroke of his longsword, Vance shattered Malakor’s weapon and pinned the traitor lord to the stone wall, his blade pressed firmly against Malakor’s throat.

"It’s over, Malakor," Vance growled coldly.

The remaining mercenaries threw down their weapons and surrendered as King Alistair’s men secured the mountain peak.

The moon finally passed over the sun, ending the eclipse. The bright, warm light of the sun burst back through the clouds, bathing the mountain in golden rays.

The golden flames around Mara slowly subsided, and she landed gently back onto the stone floor. Exhausted but triumphant, she looked around the altar.

Celeste lay crumpled against the stone pillar, her dark magic completely broken, her silver gown ruined, weeping in utter despair as royal guards placed heavy iron shackles on her wrists.

King Alistair rushed forward, pulling Mara into a fierce, tearful embrace. "Aurelia! My brave, beautiful girl..."

"I'm okay, Father," Mara whispered, hugging him tightly. "It's finally over."

Vance walked over, sheathing his sword. He looked at Mara with an expression of pure admiration and deep affection. "You were magnificent, Your Highness."

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Mara stepped away from her father and walked straight up to Vance. Without saying a word, she reached up, pulled him down by his collar, and kissed him deeply right in front of the King and the entire royal guard.

The knights erupted into cheers and whistles. King Alistair smiled warmly, shaking his head with fond approval.

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