Behind the Royal Mask

Epilogue

One year later

The kingdom was not what it once was. The battle that had taken everything from them had also given them a chance for renewal. Since Caelon's death, Alaric had assumed the throne, and though the transition had been hard, the kingdom had flourished under his rule. 

What was once a fractured and chaotic realm was now united, stronger, and more prosperous than ever before. Alaric's leadership had proved invaluable, guiding his people through the difficult years after the war, and even managing the integration of Caelon's kingdom into his own. 

The process hadn't been easy—the internal political tensions were high—but Alaric had remained resolute, earning the respect of his people and allies alike.

It was a crisp morning when Alaric made his way to the castle gates. The rising sun cast long shadows over the courtyard, the air crisp with the promise of a new day. He was ready to face it, as he had so many days before, but this time, there was a sense of calm in him—perhaps because he knew the work would never truly be done, but that was alright.

He was about to leave when he heard a familiar voice. "Going somewhere?"

Cedric appeared at his side, flashing a grin as he crossed his arms.

Alaric smirked and gave a small shrug, his expression mischievous. "Wouldn't you like to know?"

Cedric shook his head, laughing. "You're like a love-struck kitten these days. Always sneaking off somewhere."

Alaric shot him a sharp look, one eyebrow raised in amusement. "Look who's talking," he shot back, smirking as he thought of his best friend's frequent trips to the palace gardens, where he couldn't seem to stay away from Lady Elara.

Cedric's grin widened, but he didn't comment further. "Alright, alright, keep your secrets. You're just as bad at hiding things as you've always been, but now with a crown to match."

Meanwhile, Beatrice was busy with her own work. The construction of a new hospital in the slums was underway over the river was underway. It was a project Alaric had personally overseen, ensuring that it would stand as a symbol of new era.

Beatrice stood at the edge of the construction site, her hands on her hips as she observed the workers. A blueprint was spread out before her, and she marked areas that needed attention. Her eyes were sharp, and her focus was unwavering. She had thrown herself into the kingdom's rebuilding efforts with the same passion she had once reserved for her secretive endeavors.

"Beatrice!" A voice called from behind, causing her to turn just in time to feel strong arms circle around her waist. She stiffened instinctively before the voice whispered in her ear.

"I told you that you should be resting," Alaric murmured, his breath warm against her skin. He placed his chin on her shoulder and looked over her as she directed the workers, his gaze softening as he watched her.

Beatrice hummed, half-annoyed but also amused. "The last I checked, I didn't take orders from you." She gave him a look, but there was no real bite to it. She wasn't fooling anyone.

Alaric grinned, his gaze shifting from her to the workers as they continued their tasks. His fingers brushed her hair away from her face, tucking a stray lock behind her ear. "You've been awfully busy," he said, his voice low and affectionate. "We haven't had much time to spend together lately."

Beatrice sighed and folded her arms, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Well, when you decide to make our wedding last a whole month, it doesn't leave much time for anything else."