Chapter 18 - The Eclipse Festival
The news of Queen Rowena’s pregnancy sent waves of ecstatic celebration throughout the entire realm of Aldoria. To celebrate the joyous news and the total restoration of the kingdom, King Kaelen declared a nationwide holiday: The Festival of the Silver Moon.
The capital city was transformed into a paradise of lights, music, and colorful banners. Bunting in blue, silver, and gold hung from every rooftop, and the scent of roasted chestnuts, sweet cider, and blooming night-jasmine filled the cool evening air.
In the royal gardens, thousands of lantern lights floated softly above the clear reflection pools. Rowena walked through the crowds of smiling citizens, wearing an elegant dark midnight-blue gown that gently showcased her subtle baby bump. Nobles and peasants alike bowed with genuine affection, throwing flower petals at her feet.
Isabel Whitmore, dressed in simple linen working clothes, stood near one of the medical tents distributing fresh herbal tea to elderly citizens. When she saw Rowena approaching, she stopped, wiping her hands on her apron, and bowed deeply with genuine humility.
"My Queen," Isabel said quietly, her voice devoid of any past arrogance. "The city is beautiful tonight."
Rowena stopped, watching her half-sister for a moment. She saw the genuine tiredness in Isabel's eyes, but also a newfound sense of purpose and quiet peace that had never been there before.
"You have worked hard in the hospitals, Isabel," Rowena said softly. "The head physician speaks highly of your dedication."
Isabel looked down, tears welling in her eyes. "Working with those who suffer... it made me realize how cruel and foolish I used to be. I am truly sorry for everything, Rowena. I don't expect your forgiveness, but I will spend the rest of my life trying to earn it."
Rowena smiled gently, reaching out to clasp Isabel’s hand. "Forgiveness was granted the day I chose mercy, sister. Keep working hard."
As Rowena walked toward the grand balcony overlooking the city, Kaelen joined her side, wrapping his warm fur cloak around her shoulders to shield her from the evening breeze. He held her close, placing his large, warm hand gently over hers on her stomach.
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"Look at what we built, my love," Kaelen whispered into her hair as fireworks exploded in the night sky, painting the clouds in brilliant bursts of gold and silver.
"We didn't just build a kingdom, Kaelen," Rowena replied, turning her head to kiss his cheek. "We built a home."
