In the days that followed their victorious homecoming, there was joy and rejuvenation. The realm was teeming with life, but the curse had cast a shadow over it before. For hours on end, Caden and Elara met with advisers, commoners, and nobility to make sure that everyone had a say in the reconstruction of the realm.
Elara became intimately involved in the day-to-day operations of the kingdom, applying her wisdom and empathy to inform choices that would serve everyone. She was soon admired by the populace not just as Caden's queen but also as a self-sufficient leader. A flurry of changes resulted from her influence; trade prospered under her watchful eye, healthcare was enhanced, and education was increased.
But even with all of their obligations, Caden and Elara never failed to find time for one another. They frequently skipped the formal obligations of the court to spend intimate time together in the castle grounds or on nocturnal strolls across the town. Their love grew stronger every day as it was put to the test by hardships and tempered by time.
When they were sitting in the castle's private gardens one evening, Elara couldn't help but think back on how far they had come. The blossoming blossoms were illuminated by the moonlight, and the fragrance of jasmine growing at night was carried by a gentle wind.
Elara leaned her head on Caden's shoulder and whispered, gently, "I never imagined it would turn out like this." "I never gave thought to what would happen after I came here; I was too busy saving you."
With a smile, Caden put his arm around her. "I didn't do it either. Still, I'm happy it did. My life would be unimaginable without you.
Elara raised her head and met his gaze, emotion glistening in her eyes. And, Caden, I can't fathom a world without you. We'll deal with whatever comes our way together.
As Caden moved in to give her a gentle kiss, they lost themselves in one another, and the outside world faded. Their greatest strength, which had seen them through the worst of circumstances, was their love for one another. It would now lead them towards a happy and hopeful future.
Caden held Elara's hand as they withdrew, his countenance growing grim. "I've been wanting to ask you this question."
Elara arched an eyebrow; her interest sparked. "What's that?"
Caden got up and helped her up onto her feet. He guided her to the middle of the garden, where a softly bubbling fountain was located. There was something magnificent about the way the moonlight played on the water's surface.
"Elara," Caden said in a passionate voice. "Since the day you entered my life, you have only ever brought love and light." You've supported me through everything and given me hope when I didn't have any. I don't want to be apart from you for another day.
Excavating his pocket, he extracted a little, well-crafted ring. A single brilliant sapphire, matching the color of the night sky they both cherished, was placed on a plain silver ring.
Will you marry me, Elara? Caden queried. His tone was hopeful yet solid.
Elara glanced at the ring and then back at Caden, tears welling up in her eyes. She uttered a thunderous "yes" in a whisper. "Yes, a thousand times over."
When Caden placed the ring on her finger, they both chuckled and gave one another a heartfelt hug. They would never forget that moment, which held the promise of an unending future full of love, companionship, and opportunities.