Chapter 19 - The Return to the Capital
Three days later, the royal procession returned to the capital of Richmond. The streets were packed from end to end with cheering citizens, showering the carriage with white rose petals and autumn leaves.
The dark shadow of the Inquisition had been completely lifted. The old councilmen who had conspired with Malakor were stripped of their titles and exiled to the far northern trade posts, replaced by fair-minded magistrates who understood the true balance of the realm.
Inside the grand ballroom where this extraordinary journey had first begun twelve years ago, the marble floors were polished to a brilliant mirror shine. Tonight, however, there was no fear, no suspicion, and no locked doors.
Grand chandeliers blazed with warm candlelight. An orchestra played a joyful, sweeping melody that drifted out across the palace gardens.
Princess Evelyne stood at the center of the ballroom, wearing her stunning blue silk gown. She wasn't sitting in a wheeled chair, nor was she leaning on anyone for support. Her legs were strong, her spirit unbound, and her heart completely free.
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As the music swelled, a tall, handsome young man in a tailored dark tunic walked toward her through the crowd of cheering nobles. Rowan smiled gently, extending his hand.
Evelyne placed her pale fingers into his warm palm. The connection sparked not out of necessity or survival, but out of pure, unadulterated love.
