Chapter76: The national hero

KELLY THOMPSON'S POV The scent of pine and fresh rainfall greeted us as we approached the gates, a stark contrast to the lingering acrid tang of battle. The royal palace rose before us, its stone walls an emblem of enduring strength. I strode forward, my son Eden at my side, our steps in sync with the soft thrumming of warriors' hearts still echoing victory. "Welcome home, Luna Queen," a chorus of voices hailed as the ironclad gates creaked open. Jason stood there, his formidable frame silhouetted against the torchlight that flickered along the palace's corridors. His blue eyes found mine, and in them, I read a saga of worry, pride, and love-a trilogy that now culminated in relief. Eden rushed ahead, his youthful exuberance momentarily casting off the mantle of heir as he embraced his father. "Kelly," Jason said, his voice a deep timbre that resonated within the stone confines of the palace as he drew me into his arms. "Jason," I whispered, allowing myself this fragment of solace in hi