"Long live the Queen!"
The final echo of the people's cry still clung to the stones of valkoron when the horns sounded again, announcing the end of the coronation. Aurelia felt the weight of those words settle on her shoulders....not crushing, but heavy enough to remind her that her life was no longer hers alone.
Not even an hour after the coronation rites had ended, preparations for the banquet were in full motion. The Storm Lord had ordered it himself: a night of celebration to welcome his new queen.
And when Valerian commanded, the realm obeyed.
******
Virelia burst into life that evening. Lanterns hung from every corner, their golden flames casting a festive glow on the streets. Musicians stationed in the plazas played lively tunes that invited even the most stoic merchant to tap his foot. Banners bearing the royal crest danced in the wind, and from the taverns came laughter, the clatter of mugs and voices raised in excitement....or worry.
