Seven years later.
We were on our way to Roham for the third time in the past seven years. Although Yurick had been leaving more frequently. The idea of two nations united was already common knowledge—no one questioned that Neopolita was officially ruled by the king who, years ago, invaded the land and took villages, farms, towns, cities, and its prince. Moreover, Akasia was officially annexed after a grueling four-year war. The territory was difficult to penetrate; the Battle of Brizida lasted only two months, but entering the forest took six months before reaching the first city. The march was arduous, with encampments set up as they patiently awaited any slip, trench warfare, bombers equipped with new technology. But my grandfather was prepared; he was no reckless man. His resources were essential, yet each year his cities fell, until the capital was reached. The enormous walls posed a problem even for the most skilled strategists, and I struggled to devise plans that would be less risky to breach the walls before the army.
We had flying capabilities and could have bombed the capital, but my grandfather also had an arsenal that hindered progress. However, by the end of the year, during winter, Yurick managed to break through the great wall's defenses, invade the capital, and behead the king before everyone. No member of the royal family was spared—except my mother. I pleaded for her life; she bore no fault for the king's follies. She was sent to another country, banished from her lands, stripped of her titles. I couldn't say goodbye, nor did I want to—I was busy with diplomacy, infrastructure issues, and even some uprisings.
During that time, Yurick needed to go to Roham. I knew eventually we would leave Neopolita and live in the capital of the country. This preparation took seven years; we were now moving permanently to Roham. The entourage was vast, including Lara and my most loyal soldier, who stood by me through every hardship. Although I had visited my husband's homeland before, I would never get used to the intense heat. The desert was immense; we had to cross it to reach the first city where we would stay for several days. Saying goodbye to Neopolita was sad, but I had been preparing myself for it for a long time. At some point, I had to let go. I was sovereign of three nations now, constantly reminding myself that it was not just one people, but I would care for three distinct cultures and languages. Planning all this gave me a feeling of victory. Even though I hadn't witnessed my grandfather's downfall personally, knowing he had lost his head gave me a strange sense of satisfaction. The victory was sweet, and this time I had effectively contributed as a war strategist. No one could take that taste from me.
"—Daddy, look." Eriendel pointed toward the sand dunes. A nomadic group was approaching. We were in the main carriage. These people had been following us gradually; Yurick took precautions outside.
Eriendel was now seven years old, sharp and bright, and she would grow into a keen and strong warrior. We still did not know her secondary gender, but that didn't matter. She would inherit all three lands, becoming the primordial queen and sovereign—the Empress. Her hair was tied in braids, her eyes bright yellow with delicate features like mine. Her dark skin bore some bruises—not from training, but from the mischief and tree climbing that often left her marked. The best instructors traveled with us, as I wanted her education to be exemplary. Yurick planned to provide trusted war instructors once we arrived at the capital.
"—Don't worry, my love. Your father is taking care of this, okay?" I stroked her hair. The girl didn't seem worried—only curious about what was happening outside.
"—Could they be desert bandits? Papa told me stories about mercenaries who roam at night, robbing royal carriages and killing for gold," she said, still watching the horizon.
"—Is that so? I'll have a very serious talk with your father about those stories." I sighed, a bit worried about potential bandits. But we had a large battalion with us; it was unlikely they would try anything. They might wait until we were more vulnerable—usually during shift changes or rest periods—but even then, there was an obvious disadvantage.
We spent some time in Akasia, shortly after my grandfather's defeat. We had to manage the treasury, remove the nobles from power, redistribute lands, assign regency among our own, and most importantly, engage with the population. I took on the responsibility of diplomacy—talking, making plans to reassure the civilians and keep everything under control. We faced several revolts, but they were contained during the year we stayed there. We returned to Neopolita once we had minimal control over the palace, especially the soldiers who had laid down their swords and sworn loyalty to the king of Roham. We needed to ensure their oaths were genuine. So, the work was only beginning.
Jamal had disappeared. The alpha conducted thorough searches across every city in Akasia, hoping to find him again. Yet, it was as if he had never set foot in that land. The theory was that he had traveled far north searching for something, but nothing was ever confirmed. I hoped he would not resurface; we couldn't underestimate the danger his existence posed, so we stayed vigilant for any sign of him.
"—Darling." Yurick appeared, opening the carriage door, his clothes dusty and heavy. We had to protect ourselves from abrasion, sun, and dehydration. The crossing was always difficult. "We'll stop near the mountains—there's a sandstorm coming. Those bandits will likely take advantage and attack when the sands turn our way."
"—I knew it!" Eriendel said excitedly. Yurick laughed, while I frowned at her. He coughed lightly upon noticing my mood, sat beside our daughter, and pulled me into his lap.
"—What's this story about merciless mercenaries?" I asked, pretending irritation. The elder just smiled awkwardly, shooting a disapproving glance at our daughter.
"—Just some silly desert tales, darling." He said as if that settled it. I was tired from the journey and decided we could talk more once at the castle. I closed my eyes.
"—How could I stay mad at you, love?" I ended up smiling, reflecting on our bond. I never thought I could love someone as deeply as I loved that man.
Of course, there were conflicts—mostly ideological—about how to treat prisoners or civilians, disagreements over torture methods, and punishments like death or exile. There were heated debates and even intense fights over these seven years, but I finally established a method of punishment that wasn't solely physical: a place where war criminals or others could serve time according to their crimes, then return to society. The death penalty was not entirely abolished—some crimes were unforgivable—and on that, I agreed with Yurick.
Our relationship had always been passionate and intense, especially when it came to intimacy. We had to be careful, especially with our daughter. Sometimes we spent entire days in our chambers simply feeling each other's presence with such intensity it was almost overwhelming. Yurick was never gentle—and honestly, I preferred it that way. I liked his strength. He knew me well, my desires, and how to lead me while keeping my body completely vulnerable. How could I resist? I could only say we shared an extraordinary connection I never imagined having with anyone I would marry. The travels we undertook, our family moments assured me our daughter would grow knowing she was treasured, loved, and valued. Yurick gave me that. It was more than a political marriage.
I fell asleep thinking about the past, the most important moments. How troubled Yurick had been in the early months of war, unable to wield a sword and lead his army. Each new letter calmed his heart—even if they weren't always the answers we wanted—but at least they gave him enough confidence to remain in Neopolita as king. When he traveled to Roham, I found myself alone but steadfast in handling every new challenge. I did it not just for the king, but for myself and my thirst for leadership.
"—Darling." I heard Yurick's voice. I opened my eyes; we had stopped near the mountains. The sandstorm howled outside, with stones banging against the carriage, which was reinforced to withstand harsh weather. I sat up beside him, stepping out of his arms. Eriendel was sound asleep on the soft front seat. "I'm going out to scout with some guards."
"—Just be careful—I don't know how you'd see anything in this storm." I said, rubbing my eyes.
"—Don't worry, I know this desert well." The alpha wrapped cloth around his face and stepped outside, letting some sand into the carriage.
It seemed our lives were constantly surrounded by danger. It reminded me of one of the civil wars we faced in Akasia, when Yurick thought it wise to jump into the crowd swinging his sword, cutting those who opposed the king. Soldiers could have done that, leading the charge, but the grand king needed to risk his life and show the people his strength and power. I was so angry I didn't speak to the alpha for a week. How could he put himself in danger so often? Even small battles were risky. But apparently, the elder craved the thrill—his sword thirsted for enemy blood, and his body sought combat. I had grown accustomed to these fierce displays of strength.
I heard strange noises outside. I grabbed my sword; I had learned a bit of combat from Yurick.
"—I want to go with you." Eriendel said, waking.
"—No. Stay here. I'm just going to check." I said gently, removing the cloth covering my face, stepping out, and quickly closing the door behind me. There were some bandits, but I couldn't see them—until something approached me; the sword nearly cut my clothes. I ducked swiftly. I didn't need to use the weapon I had in hand. The alpha grabbed the mercenary, threw him to the ground, drove his blade into the neck, then tossed the body aside with indifference. He pushed me back to safety.
"—Didn't I say you should wait here?" he asked calmly, brushing sand off his clothes.
"—I thought they might be close." I answered, doing the same with myself.
"—I want to fight too." The girl said excitedly. We both looked at her and said a firm "no" at the same time, making her shrink back.
"—You're not ready yet, daughter." Yurick softened his tone.
— And I hope you never have to use a weapon in your life. — I sighed deeply. — Are we free at least?
— Yes, my dear. We got rid of them all, now we just need to wait. — The king said confidently. That eased my mind, even though the desert climate was weighing on me, at least human dangers would no longer be a problem.
The rest of the journey went more smoothly. We stopped in the city of Shirram, which was practically an oasis—truly a paradise. We were able to resupply and rest before the long trip to the capital, Yashirai. Eriendel was excited to bathe in the crystal-clear waters; that area was reserved exclusively for the royal entourage, giving us privacy. Yurick found it fitting to share some more daring caresses, though he stopped when he noticed our daughter's curious gaze. Two days later, we were back on the road—the rest was enough rest, and resupplying the caravan was vital, especially the horses and camels, which could not be exhausted.
After nearly three weeks traveling through Rohian territory, we finally reached the capital. Nearby were volcanoes on archipelagos that we planned to visit later. The heat was unbearable, but at least I could enjoy the thermal springs around the area. This was my new home, and I had to get used to it. A ceremony would be held in honor of the king's entourage, and he would be the main honoree—after all, he was now part of the people's everyday life, their new king.
Roham's castle was not beautiful, yet it managed to be spectacular, especially considering it was one of the most impenetrable fortresses on the continent. Its fortifications were exemplary—not designed for grandeur, but for irrefutable defense. From its walls to every brick, the positioned ballistas and the patrol routes of soldiers were all crafted to withstand any invasion. I was always amazed by its sheer scale. There was still much to do in that country; omegas were not well regarded, and I planned to change that. As king of this land—though my role was different from Yurick's—I still held strong leadership and the people needed to see me that way. Though mindsets had slowly shifted over the past seven years through our interventions, now that I would live in the capital permanently, I would have to make every effort to be recognized by every member of society—from local nobles to the lowliest vassals.
Those thoughts faded as we were in our room. Spacious and well-ventilated, I needed to bathe and rest. Eriendel was full of energy and refused to sleep, as if she'd eaten handfuls of sugar. Her room was next to ours, decorated in green—her favorite color. I asked Lara to take her to the garden and burn off some energy before dinner; she could play until then.
I stepped onto the balcony. The view was magnificent—I could see the entire city below. The castle sat atop the mountain, with the city in the lower area, allowing me to take in almost its entire scope, including the sea on the far side, the archipelagos shaping the landscape, and the looming volcano that Yurick always joked would one day destroy the whole continent. Though I thought it was just a story to scare children, it was impressive how that mountain rose, visible for miles.
As I admired the view, I felt strong arms wrap around me in a tight embrace. I closed my eyes for a moment, breathing in his familiar scent. He kissed the nape of my neck, then my lips with the usual passion—but this time, it was calm, as if he wished to savor the kiss that lingered between us before settling beside me, gazing at the horizon.
— Did you imagine that by leaving this city you'd conquer the world and my heart? — I asked with a soft smile.
— Actually... — Yurick smiled, as if reflecting on his journey up to this moment when we enjoyed the glory of his victories. — No. My actions were utterly desperate. Today I can walk the streets and see my people fed, but back then, I saw starving souls, children desperate for a piece of bread. Even sharing what little we had in the castle, we couldn't meet the needs of the people. Your father didn't respond to trade letters or attempts at bridges between us; diplomatic relations became more complicated because of the former king. When I left, it was in pure despair. But I gained confidence with every farm raided, village taken, and city won—we could send whatever small spoils this war brought.
He paused briefly; we often spoke about the war, the conquests, the past. I took his hand, stroking it gently.
— I knew the king of Neopolita was foolish and incompetent, but the letters I received spoke of a sharp, overlooked omega prince. I grew curious about you, and when I arrived at the capital, I already planned to marry you. Before that, I intended to kill the entire royal family as I did in Akasia. But as stories about you reached me—how the people saw you with such respect—I decided you were meant to be my husband. I knew I had won; relief washed over me. I didn't need days trying to breach the walls before the final moment. My first thought when I saw you in that throne room, crown upon your head... — Yurick touched my cheek gently. — How handsome, imposing, a true leader—and that I would make you mine, and mine alone. — He leaned in, kissing me tenderly. — And now I have you just for myself, so all I ever wished for I've conquered.
— Congratulations, you've won my heart and two great kingdoms. — I said sweetly. — Admit it was harder to have me, wasn't it?
— Of course. — He squeezed me lightly. — My hardest moments involved you. When I thought I'd lost you to poison, I didn't think of war or politics—I only wished you wouldn't die. I'd never been so desperate, not even in the fiercest battles. And when I thought I'd die in Brizida, what saddened me most was the thought I might never say 'I love you.' Seyrim, you were in my thoughts every moment. — Yurick's sincerity flushed my face; my heart raced. It was amazing how this man still moved me deeply, even after seven years.
— I admit I never thought I could love you. I was aware of my desires—how your scent, your body, and your presence stirred me—but I thought our marriage was strictly political and would be no different. You showed me this union could be different. Even married to a king, I could lead, care for my people, be active—not just a royal ornament. And you trusted me fully, even when you disagreed with the course of the war, you placed your trust in my hands. That meant everything. — I knew how important Yurick had been in every moment. — And we will make our kingdom grow, care for our people.
I rested my head on his shoulder, gazing once more at the city.
— You are my family, you and Eriendel. I feel loved, and no matter where we are, Yurick will be our home, because you're with me. I love you, my king. — I squeezed his hand, not looking away from the horizon. I knew the alpha's eyes were on me; he always looked my way. Seven years of noticing his glances and touches—I was admired, cherished, and desired deeply. I felt loved and cared for.
— My love, after everything, there's no resisting you. — He pulled me into his arms, surprising me, guiding us gently toward the bedroom. I chuckled softly. — I know you're tired, but I promise I won't be too rough.
— You're always bold, and that's exactly why I enjoy being with you, my dear. — I rested my head against his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart so deeply. I had longed for him ever since we left Neopolita. Akasia was finally ours, and now Roham too. I wasn't just a king of one nation as I once dreamed, but held three realms under my care—and a loving husband. It was more than I ever imagined having. Is this my happy ending? Then I gladly accept it, even knowing there is still much of the story yet to come.
— The End —