The first ray of dawn pierced the mist on the horizon, filtering through the stained-glass windows of the Palace's Rain-Prayer Hall, casting dappled patterns of holy light. Avril and Lucian stood side by side in the center of the hall, facing the newly painted "Image of the Rift" mural—depicted with shattered jade and gold thread, it showed the kingdom's past darkness and rebirth."Your Highness," Prime Minister Gu stood solemnly to the side, presenting a scroll of memorials, "This is the 'Rift Echo Report' jointly written by the Northern and Eastern Ridges. It reveals that the fear left by the Bone-Splitting Rite still plagues thousands of people across the land. It is recommended to establish a 'Rift Healing Institute' to restore both the hearts and the land."Avril's gaze was profound: "Rifts are not only in stone walls but also in people's hearts. Today, we shall issue the 'Rift Healing Edict'—establishing healing institutes and itinerant altars, combining mental healing with prayers, to let souls eroded by fear see the light again."Lucian felt a warmth in his heart: "This act will surely free the people from the rifts and usher in the true dawn of peace."
The Rift Healing Edict
In the noon hall, Avril held her scepter and spoke aloud beneath the stained glass: "All who suffer from the shadow of bone-splitting may receive spiritual purification and holy light baptism at the 'Rift Healing Institute'; itinerant altars will also go deep into the countryside to soothe the people's fears. This 'Rift Healing Edict' shall take effect today—using kindness and sacred blood as medicine to mend the cracks in people's hearts!"Applause mingled with the sound of bells. All ministers and envoys bowed in unison, and representatives of the people offered their congratulations with tears in their eyes.
Whispers of the Night
As night fell deeply, the Spring Pavilion in the imperial garden once again became their haven. Avril had changed out of her royal robes, wearing only a silk nightgown, her snow-white skin faintly visible in the spring light. Lucian removed his armor, draped his cloak over her shoulders, and whispered: "Your Highness, today's edict was like the arrival of holy light, but have you grown weary in your heart?"Avril leaned against his chest, her fingers curling around his shoulder armor, responding softly: "Only in your arms am I free from fear and rifts."
Kisses in the Spring Chamber
He bent to kiss the side of her neck, his fingertips sliding to her waist, lingering between silk and skin. Avril wrapped her arms around his neck, gently undoing the silver clasps on his chest, touching his firm heart.Candlelight intertwined with the sound of the spring, and they merged again. Lucian used his lips and fingers to bring her to the depths of desire; Avril's low moans guided him to the peak of passion. Their breaths and heartbeats resonated in the cold night, transforming into the purest warmth and trust.