Not a single dissenting voice rose. The Queen allowed herself a small smile. "Then it is decided."
Her voice rang clear and absolute through the grand hall.
"From this day forth, Lady Seraphine shall be recognized as Duchess Seraphine—Ruler of her own territory, bearing authority equal to the great houses of the realm."
For a heartbeat, the world held its breath.
Then the chamber erupted.
Applause thundered. Goblets were raised. Cheers echoed off marble walls. Some nobles smiled in admiration. Others calculated futures—but none could deny the truth of the moment.
Outside the palace, word spread like wildfire. The capital celebrated long into the night. Bonfires blazed. Music carried through the streets. People toasted a woman they might never meet, but whose impact they felt in every breath of this new age.
And far away—In the Agro Territory—A name echoed across towers, streets, and hearts alike.
Duchess Seraphine. The woman who made the impossible…
routine.
******
