That Prince Is A Girl: The Vicious King’s Slave Mate Novel

Chapter 379: As the doors creaked open, Em's hand grabbed hers, her anxious eyes reflecting the same fear that gripped Aekeira. Linking their fingers, Aekeira mouthed, "It's going to be fine."

They stood at the center of the court, surrounded by lords, high-ranking officials, and nobles, their eyes heavy and assessing.

Aekeira's gaze immediately found Grand Lord Vladya, seated at the right of the king. He was as stoic as ever, his attention solely on the parchment he was writing on, never once sparing her a glance. Contrary to what Emeriel had said, Aekeira knew he had been avoiding her all week. She had felt it-the deliberate absence, the cold distance. And it hurt.

Aekeira had thought they were making progress. After the day they spent together in his chambers, when he had shared a piece of himself with her, she had dared to hope. Maybe, just maybe, he was letting her in. But now, it was clear. He wasn't. In fact, he had withdrawn from her completely.

Was it the feral madness yet again? Or had he decided a mere human wasn't worth it?

Aekeira wished she could say it hadn't bothered her, but the truth was, she had been obsessing over the reasons, trying to justify his silence, his avoidance.

Maybe their paths simply hadn't crossed?

So why hadn't he spared me a glance here? Not even once?

"We are gathered here today to make a decree," the grand king's voice rang out over the court. "For too long, these two souls have been bound in chains, denied their freedom and dignity. Today, we acknowledge their dedication and service to Urai. By the power vested in me by this court and in the presence of these witnesses, I hereby declare that the bonds of their enslavement are broken."

Aekeira heard the words, but their meaning didn't sink in. Bonds of enslavement are broken. Bonds of enslavement… broken?

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A quick glance at Emeriel confirmed her sister was just as confused.

"From this moment forth, you are free women, no longer subject to the will of another," the grand king continued. "May you walk with your heads held high, knowing you are equal in the eyes of this land and its people. Go forth, live your lives as you choose, and may you find peace and happiness in your newfound freedom."

"We are free…?"

Her throat clogged, tears stinging her eyes. Aekeira blinked frantically, struggling to process what she had just heard. Had she heard it right?

Could it be real?

The room, the faces, the grand king-there was no way this was a dream. Emeriel pressed closer, squeezing Aekeira's hand.

We. Are. Free.

"Let this act serve as a reminder that good deeds can be rewarded, and this court stands in support of new beginnings. Once done here, a troop awaits to safely take you back home." The grand king finally stared at them. "The future is yours to shape. Be free, be strong, and may you find joy in the days ahead."

Happiness surged through Aekeira, so powerful it held no bounds. She could feel it radiating from Emeriel as well. Her sister's face broke into a wide smile, and before she knew it, Emeriel was in her arms, and they were hugging passionately.

"Free, Keira!" Emeriel mumbled into her shoulder.

"Yes, we are, Em."

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