Freedom's Price

Melody.

The sun hung low over the horizon, casting long shadows on the cobblestone streets as I walked through the town. The air was thick with the scent of fresh bread and the distant calls of market vendors, but today, everything felt muted, as if the very earth knew something was about to change. I felt it too—the weight of the new law I carried in my hands, the weight of the truth I had to share with these people who had been crushed by Julia's reign for so long.

Rowan had already spoken with some of the guards, easing the way for me to approach the townsfolk, to tell them the truth. As I moved through the crowded streets, I caught glances of curiosity, suspicion, and even fear. They had every right to be wary. After all, who was I to them? Once a sister to their queen, now spouting treasonous whispers to any who would entertain me.