At the heart of the capital, lanterns lit up the palace grounds in celebration.
Musicians played joyful tunes, noble families mingled, and servants bustled about carrying golden platters of food and wine.
The war had ended, and with it came the long-awaited peace. The grand banquet hall brimmed with laughter and clinking glasses as the people tried to shed the weight of months of dread.
Crown Prince Mikalius emerged at the top of the grand staircase, flanked by imperial guards.
The room quieted as he raised a hand for silence, his regal presence commanding attention. A smile graced his lips, one of both pride and relief.
"My people, you have endured pain, fear, and sacrifice. You stood strong while our enemies tried to crush our will. But tonight—tonight, we celebrate not just our survival, but our victory."
He began, his voice carrying across the vast hall,
A loud cheer erupted through the crowd.
Mikalius waited for silence again before continuing.
