Elizabeth had risen from where she had collapsed. Her ink-black eyes gazed at Ete I, swirling with an indescribable mix of emotions.
Although she had long since resolved to uphold the ideals of Noe VII even after Ete I's ascension, secretly protecting the Path she believed in, she had never imagined the supreme authority of the Church Court would be transferred under such circumstances and in such a way.
Finally, Ete I, dragging his ruined body to the very brink of death, came to a stop before Elizabeth.
He gasped for breath, and slowly, with tremendous difficulty, he once again raised the Crescent Star Crown. With trembling hands, he held the flawless white crown—unstained by even a trace of blood—at his chest.
Then, using the last of his strength, he raised his head and straightened his hunched back ever so slightly. His movements were slow and solemn, just as they had been when Elizabeth crowned him with her own hands.
