(Lina)
As I left the royal court, I couldn't help but feel relieved. I had done it. After so long, justice was finally in my favor.
With my heart racing, I made my way down the hall, pushing open the palace doors and stepping outside. There, waiting for me, was Kieran.
He was leaning casually against a pillar, looking up when he saw me approach. He pushed off and walked over, his eyes searching mine as if he already knew I'd succeeded.
"So?" he asked, his voice low, but there was an edge of excitement there.
"It's over," I said, unable to stop the grin that broke out on my face. "Elara and Nicholas are finally going to face justice. They're both going to be banished."
Kieran broke into a wide smile, and before I knew it, he swept me up into his arms, lifting me slightly off the ground as he kissed me. His kiss was full of relief and pride, and I felt my heart pound even harder. This was my victory, but it was one we shared.
