The salty ocean breeze swept across the Grand Port of Aethelgard, carrying the cry of seagulls and the rhythmic crashing of waves against the stone docks.
For the first time in years, the port was truly alive. Merchant ships with colorful sails were docked in neat rows, while workers moved efficiently to load crates of clear glass and fine white paper. The starving, fearful capital of the past was gone, replaced by a thriving city breathing new life.
Standing at the edge of the royal pier, Stephanie looked out at the vast, endless ocean. She didn't wear a heavy crown or an extravagant gown. Instead, she wore a simple but elegant midnight-blue dress that moved beautifully with the sea breeze.
Suddenly, a warm, heavy fur cloak was draped over her shoulders.
Stephanie didn't even need to turn around. The comforting heat and the faint scent of embers told her exactly who it was. She leaned back slightly, her shoulders resting against Revista's solid chest.
