The procession moved slowly through the palace.
No triumph accompanied it.
No music.
No ceremonial fanfare.
Only silence.
The Imperial Guards carried Lucas with the greatest care, supporting his body upon a royal bier draped in the colors of Lechia. Every soldier's expression was solemn, and not one of them lifted his head. They marched with measured steps, as though even the slightest jolt would be disrespectful to the man who had given everything for their kingdom.
Behind them walked the five young women.
Lira could barely remain on her feet.
She stumbled several times, her tears blurring her vision, yet she refused to stop following. Between sobs she repeatedly called out to him.
"Xavier… please…"
"You've fooled us long enough…"
"Please wake up…"
Her voice cracked with every word.
Selene walked beside her, one trembling hand covering her mouth as she cried uncontrollably. She could not stop staring at Lucas's still face.
"You promised us…"
"You promised to win…"
