It was a long-lost warmth, carrying dust and the scent of flowers, yet it could not truly dispel the lingering chill within her.
She stood on the steps for a moment, took a deep breath slowly, and finally exhaled the long-pent-up oppression.
Her back slightly relaxed, a subtle easing that one could only feel after surviving a catastrophe.
Then she silently boarded her family's carriage.
The door gently closed, the curtains fell, and the wheels rolled over the white stone road of the Imperial City, entering the Imperial Street.
She slightly tilted her head, watching the streetscape recede outside the window.
The Imperial Capital remained as prosperous as ever.
Streets and alleys were bustling with people, knights marched forward bearing flags, and vendors shouted about steaming hot soups.
Noblewomen in brocade dresses strolled and chatted with small dogs in tow, while children jumped and chased kites.
