Electric Blue Rose - Book One. [COMPLETED] Undergoing Edits

Chapter Forty-Eight - The Princess's Kingdom

Jade peeked through the curtains of the balcony. A crowd of thousands of citizens filled every space she could see for miles. Her heart raced, and chills ran through her body. It hadn't been but a few weeks that she discovered herself as royalty, and now, the kingdom would meet an entirely new version of Jade. One they couldn't kick around, one they wouldn't dare diminish. This moment was the first step Jade could take towards making the kingdom better. Topaz and Amorio crossed up to the balcony.

"You ready?" Topaz asked. She smiled and nodded. "Okay, I will start the introduction, and Amorio will bring you out. Don't worry, okay? Everything is going to be great. The kingdom is excited to meet you." Topaz squeezed her arm and smiled before proceeding out. Cheers roared as Topaz made his appearance. "Hello, citizens of Findere! We thank you so much for coming to such an unexpected announcement. So, we know many rumors have circulated about a new addition to the royal family. Well, I'm here to confirm those rumors. Eighteen years ago, I was graced with a daughter I had held for only a couple of days before her mother stole her from me. I worried for all those years, thinking I'd never see her. I worried about the life she would've led, but it turns out she fell into the arms of a wonderful man. He taught her to be humble and kind, and though she is the most beautiful girl to exist. Yeah, I may be biased." Laughs sounded through the crowd. Jade's eyes shone as he continued. "She has brought more happiness to me in these few weeks that we've been reunited than I have experienced since the day she was born. Now that she's been graced back into my life, it's time she enters yours." Amorio grabbed Jade's hand, steadying her. "Citizens of Findere, my daughter, Jade Flora, your princess."

Jade and Amorio took the step forward. Her heart seized in panic, but the cheers and admiration directed at her instantly relieved the panic. Her nervous expression grew into one of happiness. She waved and admired the citizens for who she thrived on providing a better life. Topaz stepped away for Jade to make her way to the microphone. Taking a deep breath, she approached.

"Hello Findere," the cheers roared again, and her smile grew. "Thank you. My name is Jade, and as The Enlightened explained, I've only known I was a princess for a few weeks. It's been quite a time," laughs joined with hers. "I always dreamed of making a difference, being able to help the communities around me. See, I was raised a Serf, and while that kind of lifestyle brings significant challenges, it has allowed me to see where the drift between Serfs and Arcs lies. I hope that I can help mend the relationship with each other. Our kingdom is magnificent, and all it could become is even more magnificent." Thunderous cheers followed her proclamation. Her eyes shone from the acceptance. "I am honored to be standing here in front of you today. It is a feeling that I cannot explain. Thank you for letting me into your lives, even as abruptly as it came. As soon as I finish my studies at Omega 5, I promise to be more involved in all of your lives."

Topaz crossed over to her and spoke into the microphone. "Isn't she magnificent?" The kingdom applauded. Her heart pounded from the attention. It was more than the attention that they gave her, but acceptance. Jade strived for a place to fit in, for somewhere she could find a sense of belonging, but never expected it to be in front of the entire kingdom. "As Jade mentioned, she is finishing her studies at Omega 5. Once her graduation is over, we intend to have the formal presentation of royalty, where of course, the entire kingdom is invited to join the festivities." The announcement got the crowd even more excited. Jade laughed at the reaction. "I cannot wait for you to get to know her the way I have. The next step for our kingdom has arrived."

Topaz crossed to her and embraced her, and Amorio joined in. Jade's eyes shone at them both. "I love you both." Topaz's eyes watered at the statement.

"My life is finally full," Topaz whispered, kissing the top of her head. They turned and gave a final wave before they stepped back into the castle. Jade jumped at the thunderous exclamation from the castle staff and her friends. She smiled and bowed her entire body, feeling the warmth from the acceptance.