Three days later, an imperial decree shook the entire realm.
The wrongful conviction of the Grandien family was officially, unequivocally overturned.
Every accusation was erased from the dynasty's ledgers; every historical charge withdrawn.
Though the powerful minister who had orchestrated the purge had long since escaped to the grave, his descendants were stripped of their inherited titles, cast out of their estates, and permanently barred from government service.
Those who had actively participated in the ancient conspiracy were hunted down one by one. None escaped the executioner's block or the penal colonies.
As the news spread through the capital like wildfire, the heavy gates of the Imperial Prison ground open.
Caelith stepped out into the open air. The brilliant afternoon light struck her eyes like a physical blow after days spent in the dim, windowless dungeons. She stood on the threshold for several moments, blinking against the golden glare.
Then, she saw him.
