The following day, Lirael held a gathering with her council and representatives from each of the kingdom's districts. She addressed them openly about the changes and the path forward, dispelling rumors and reaffirming her commitment to transparency. Her honest words stirred the crowd, inspiring many and even softening the skepticism of some of the older nobles.
In the days that followed, there were whispers of discontent, but the majority of the kingdom began to rally around their queen. Aiden, meanwhile, worked behind the scenes, dispatching loyal soldiers to maintain order and ensuring that the supporters of Lusarus's regime had no opportunity to sow discord.
One evening, as Aiden reviewed reports from his stationed allies across the kingdom, a familiar figure entered his quarters—Lirael, dressed in a simple cloak, her expression resolute yet weary.
"Aiden," she said, her voice soft yet unwavering. "There's something I need to ask you."
