Chapter 20 - The Choice That Remained Yours
Later that evening, as the grand celebration wound down and the courtyard lanterns flickered under a blanket of starry night sky, Sera stood alone on the high stone balcony overlooking the city.
The streets below were peaceful, filled with the gentle hum of ordinary life, free from the shadow of war, corruption, and tyranny.
Footsteps echoed softly behind her, measured and familiar.
Rhys stepped out onto the balcony, leaning against the stone railing beside her, holding two goblets of spiced wine. He handed one to her.
“Thinking about leaving?” Rhys asked softly, his eyes searching her face with a quiet, lingering warmth.
Sera took the goblet, taking a slow sip as she looked out over the horizon where the mountains met the stars.
“I used to think survival meant running away from the next trap, fighting just to stay alive another day in the dirt,” Sera said, her voice thoughtful and serene. “Now... I realize survival was just the beginning.”
Rhys turned slightly, leaning closer to her, his expression softening completely. “And what does the future look like now?”
May you like
Sera turned her head, her hazel eyes locking onto his with a brilliant, confident smile.
“It looks like a choice, Rhys,” she whispered, raising her goblet to touch his. “And this time... it’s entirely my own.”
