Chapter 10 - A New Dawn
A year had passed since the stranger from the wilderness stepped through the palace kitchens and touched the frozen hand of a forgotten princess.
The kingdom of Richmond had transformed. The heavy, oppressive atmosphere dictated by the old Inquisition laws had melted away, replaced by an era of openness, balance, and renewed prosperity. The ancient wild magic no longer threatened the realm; instead, it pulsed gently through the soil, ensuring bountiful harvests, clear rivers, and a lasting peace that stretched across all neighboring provinces.
In the sunlit royal gardens, bees buzzed lazily through beds of blooming white roses and lavender.
Princess Evelyne walked along the stone pathway at a brisk, effortless pace, her silk skirts swishing softly against the grass. She stopped by the edge of the crystal fountain, leaning down to trail her fingers through the cool water, feeling every ripple, every splash, and every sensation with absolute clarity.
Footsteps approached from behind, familiar and steady.
Strong, warm arms wrapped around her waist from behind, pulling her gently back against a solid chest. A chin rested comfortably on her shoulder.
“You’re walking too fast again,” Rowan murmured, a teasing smile playing on his lips.
Evelyne leaned back into his embrace, turning her head to press a soft kiss to his cheek. “I spent twelve years sitting still, Rowan. I have a lot of ground to make up for.”
“Well, you have the rest of our lives to cover it,” Rowan replied softly, burying his face in her dark, fragrant hair.
From the arched doorway of the palace terrace, King Alaric watched them with a cup of spiced wine in his hand, a deep, contented smile resting on his face. Behind him, Captain Darius stood at attention, though he was smiling too—having finally traded his perpetual scowl for a quiet, protective pride over the reunited royal family.
There were no more chains. No more fears. No more hidden secrets in dark archives.
May you like
Just the warm sunlight, the rustle of the garden leaves, and two souls who had crossed worlds to find each other, now walking hand in hand toward a bright, unending horizon.
And they lived happily ever after.
