A Modern Ballad

Return

Evangeline stepped through the grand doors of the castle, the familiar surroundings suddenly feeling foreign. The hallways, once a haven of comfort, now buzzed with tension and anticipation as whispers followed her every move. Her short, dark hair framed her face in a way that felt both liberating and intimidating. She had fought alongside the rebels, had embraced her newfound strength, and now, as she faced the people of her kingdom, she could feel the weight of their expectations.

"Look who it is!" Lala's voice rang out, cutting through the murmurs. She rushed forward, her eyes wide with a mix of surprise and admiration. "Evangeline! What have you done? Your hair—wow!"

Evangeline couldn't help but smile at her friend's exuberance. "I know, right? It's different, isn't it?"

Lala stepped back, taking in the transformation. "Different doesn't even begin to cover it! You look fierce. Like a queen ready to take charge!"

"Thank you," Evangeline replied, a rush of confidence surging through her. It felt good to have Lala's support, but she could sense the uncertainty in the air. The castle staff and guards exchanged glances, some whispering about her new appearance, while others looked at her with newfound respect.

"People are talking," Lala said quietly, glancing around. "There are mixed feelings about the rebellion and your role in it."

"Let them talk," Evangeline said, her voice stronger than she felt. "I'm done hiding. I want to help our people, and if that means facing scrutiny, then so be it."

As they walked through the hallways, Evangeline felt a mixture of pride and anxiety. She had faced danger and emerged stronger, but now she had to confront the expectations of her position and the people who once viewed her as just a princess.

They entered the royal chamber, and Evangeline was met with the sight of Apollo, who stood with his back to her. He was deep in conversation with Lord Braxton, his silhouette regal against the sunlight streaming through the tall windows. But as he turned, his expression shifted from focused to astonished.

"Evangeline?" Apollo's voice was barely a whisper, a mixture of disbelief and admiration.

"Surprise!" she said with a playful grin, though her heart raced under his intense gaze.

He stepped closer, his eyes scanning her from head to toe. "You look incredible," he finally said, a genuine smile breaking through his serious demeanor. "I hardly recognized you."

"Change can be good, right?" she replied, feeling the warmth of his admiration wash over her.

"Absolutely," he said, his voice deepening. "You're not just a princess anymore. You're a warrior."

The compliment filled her with a sense of belonging, but as she stood before him, she couldn't shake the lingering thoughts of Jacks and the bond they had forged during their time together.

"Evangeline, I need to speak with you about the rebellion," Apollo said, his tone shifting to one of seriousness. "Things are escalating, and we need to figure out our next steps."

"Of course," she replied, her heart pounding. "I want to help however I can."

As they moved to a quieter corner of the chamber, Lala watched from a distance, sensing the chemistry between her best friend and the prince. She felt a pang of worry, knowing Evangeline was caught in a storm of emotions.

"Apollo," Evangeline began, her voice steady. "I've been thinking about what we need to do next. I believe we should reach out to the citizens directly. They need to see that we are with them."