As dawn pierced the cold mist, the walls of Lachlian and the distant mountains glittered in the first sunlight. After months of storms and hidden currents, a turning point had finally arrived. Queen Avril and Lucian stood side by side on the eastern terrace of the palace, with the reconstructed Snow Slope Path beneath their feet and the newly reopened Silver Oath Square, where crowds had gathered, ahead of them."Lucian," Avril turned, her dark eyes like stars, "the storms have been many, and they have always cut at my heart, but now the people's hearts have returned, and we shall see the rainbow after the snow."Lucian took her hand and said solemnly: "Your Highness, you have melted the ice with your faith, and now the dawn is no longer far away.
Silver Oath Square
Following in their footsteps, a thousand Silver Oath Knights and civilian guards lined up on both sides. In the center of the square, the new "Snow Slope Path" was surrounded by hundreds of birch trees, symbolizing resilience and new life after enduring ice and snow. Avril ascended the platform, dressed in a golden-threaded ceremonial robe, holding the Royal Flame Scepter, and announced loudly:"Today, the wind and snow have ceased, the hidden currents have subsided, and the kingdom will usher in the 'Post-Snow Light Years'—from now on, we shall live up to trust, never forget loyalty, and people and guards alike will share peace and prosperity. This order takes effect immediately!"The responding gongs and drums thundered, and colored ribbons fluttered in the wind, like thousands of snowflakes drifting in the air.
Pact of Peace
After the celebration, Avril walked down the steps and inspected the new regulations posted on both sides of the path with Lucian: winter subsidies, border medical teams, and the "Snowflake Medal" system. People and soldiers stopped to offer their congratulations, and children built small snow sculptures, symbolizing the snow-white angels of peace.A knight presented a small silver badge engraved with "Post-Snow Light Years": "Your Highness, may this badge always protect the people." Avril took it and pinned it to her chest: "Let the silver light and sacred blood shine together, protecting our kingdom for all eternity."
Whispers in the Imperial Garden
As night fell, the Spring Pavilion in the imperial garden was serene. Avril and Lucian sat side by side on a stone bench, with the spring water murmuring softly. She stroked the badge and said gently: "The people are celebrating, and you and I must also make a vow for the new life."Lucian smiled affectionately, put his arm around her waist and hugged her: "I swear that in this life, I will hold my sword to protect you, and grow old with all living beings."
Final Chapter of the Snowy Night
Silk and snow gauze intertwined on the brocade couch, and the candlelight reflected their embracing figures. Lucian kissed her neck softly, his fingertips sliding to the softest part of her snow-white skin. Avril closed her eyes, putting all her fatigue and worries behind her, responding with passionate and tender love.The storms and hidden currents had long since passed, leaving only their breathing echoing in the air. Their bodies merged again, like the meeting of ice and fire, turning all challenges into the deepest oath.