Chapter 40 - THE CROWN OF ASHES AND STARS

As night draped its soft, velvety cloak over the kingdom of Ravencourt, the stars twinkled like silver coins scattered across the sky. The castle shimmered with the glow of countless candles, where nobles, soldiers, and common folk gathered for a coronation feast — not just for a king and queen, but for the dawn of a new era. Kaelith stood on the balcony, the chilly breeze playfully tangling her dark hair. She looked down at the crowd below — her people — and felt the weight of all that had transpired. Betrayal, bloodshed, and sacrifice. Yet, there was also loyalty, love, and redemption. Corven appeared behind her, draping a warm cloak over her shoulders. His hands lingered, fingers brushing against her collarbone, his touch both gentle and possessive. "You should be enjoying the feast, my queen." "I am," she replied softly. "I'm savoring this moment. The quiet… the peace we fought so hard for." Corven turned her to face him, his eyes, once as cold as winter frost, now ablaze with devotion. "I would bleed a thousand times more for this peace — for you." Their lips met in a kiss that spoke of passion long held back, of battles fought side by side, and promises whispered in the dark. When they finally pulled away, breathless, the king rested his forehead against hers. "Ravencourt was nearly lost. But you… you saved it. You saved me." Kaelith smiled, fierce yet tender. "No, we saved each other." Below, the crowd raised their goblets, calling out their names — not in fear or obligation, but in love. A queen once branded a villain. A king who had narrowly escaped poison and treachery. Together, they were stronger than they had ever been apart. As the bells of Ravencourt chimed midnight, Corven took Kaelith's hand and lifted it high. "Let them see us," he whispered. "Let them see that from ashes, stars can rise." And so they did — the king and queen of Ravencourt, once torn apart by fate, now united by love and destiny. The night unfolded, filled with music, laughter, and light — a night to be remembered forever.