Page 68 of Eternal Mate

Francesca's reign had ended abruptly after the war, her destructive ways no longer tolerated by the evolving Council or society at large. Lucia had recognized the need for change and wielded her authority to swiftly remove Francesca from her position and dispose of her permanently. The decision was met with rousing acceptance.

Even Nikolai had recognized the necessity of her actions. Having witnessed firsthand the devastation caused by Francesca's thirst for power, he understood the importance of a fresh start. Francesca's removal paved the way for a new beginning, an opportunity to rebuild and forge a new path for the world.

United by a shared vision, the new Upper Council embarked on a collective growth and transformation journey. They acknowledged past mistakes that had allowed the previous Council to degrade in morals so badly to learn from them, understanding that the path to a better future lay in collaboration, empathy, and justice. Grievances were addressed, conflicts resolved, and understanding fostered as they navigated the intricate dynamics of society.

With their collective wisdom and unwavering commitment to harmonious coexistence, they enacted policies and reforms that sought to protect the rights of all, promoting equality and understanding among the diverse supernatural communities.

New laws fell into place with remarkable speed, ushering in a new era of tolerance and the embrace of those that had once been shunned. The world had witnessed firsthand the courage and resilience of hybrids and fallen-blood wolves during the war, and it had become evident that their classification as dangerous was a gross oversimplification of their true nature. The atrocities committed by a few individuals should not define an entire group.

People recognized that it was time to break free from the shackles of prejudice and give these individuals the opportunity to thrive, something I’d been arguing for all of my life.

With the support of the reformed Upper Council, the legal barriers that had once stigmatized hybrids were dismantled. A comprehensive review of existing policies and regulations took place, ensuring that the rights and dignity of hybrids were fully recognized and protected. Gone were the days of discrimination and fear; a new era of equality and understanding dawned.

Some views were slow to change, but that was inevitable for such drastic overhauls in so short a time. This had already gone way quicker and smoother than I had been expecting.

Similarly, the fallen-blood wolves, who had long suffered from the torment of their madness, found salvation in their permanent cure. The Council, in collaboration with the brightest minds from across the globe, had tirelessly worked to expand the production, distribution, and safety of the already discovered cure the now defunct Resistance. Generations of wolves now could look forward to lives free of madness and loss to said madness.

Surprisingly, most of society embraced the new status quo with open arms. It seemed that people were generally eager to rectify past injustices, forge a future rooted in empathy and inclusion, and move on from the healed-over wounds of the war.

Honestly, I couldn’t be happier about this. I’d worried that things could have gone south, instead, but the war had definitely scarred everyone’s minds too much for them to want more conflict.

Now, it was time for the fates of my friends.

Burdened by the emptiness left behind by losing her magic, Marilyn continued grappling with her new reality. The absence of her once potent powers weighed heavily on her spirit and psyche, leaving her permanently broken in certain aspects. However, she found comfort in the unwavering love and support of Johnny, who stood by her side through the darkest of times. His gentle strength and understanding became her guiding light as she navigated the uncharted waters of her existence.

Together, they embarked on a journey of rediscovery, seeking new ways to find happiness and purpose beyond the confines of magic. Parenthood wasn’t a path they were choosing to tread, but their love for one another remained steadfast, a beacon of light illuminating their shared path. They would stay together, even if she aged before he ever would.

Sariel and Johnny kept in touch, of course. They were practically brothers, and their bond would never be broken.

Reese and Atlan, having weathered their own fair share of losses and heartbreak during the war, found refuge in their friendship. Their similar experiences had forged an unbreakable bond that transcended the superficial and mundane. Recognizing the healing power of solidarity, they became roommates, creating a sanctuary where they could heal and support one another unconditionally.

Their days were filled with heartfelt conversations, shared laughter, and quiet moments of understanding. They learned to mend their broken hearts and find strength in vulnerability through their friendship.

Reese, however, remained guarded regarding matters of the heart. The scars Neo had unknowingly left behind made her wary of the potential dangers that could accompany a romantic involvement with a supernatural partner.

Atlan, ever the loyal and protective friend, had become a formidable deterrent to potential suitors. Sariel and I observed their relationship with amusement, placing a friendly wager on whether it would eventually evolve into something more.

Only time would reveal the true nature of their connection, but even so, their bond remained unshakable, providing them both with the support they needed in their ongoing healing.

To this day, I didn’t know what exactly happened between them the day Kiran died that kicked off their relationship. I didn’t think I ever would, nor that they would ever tell me.

As the years passed, the world shed the weight of its past burdens, much like a wounded creature healing its scars. The once-tattered lands began to flourish with renewed life and vibrant colors, a testament to time's resilience and transformative power. The scars of battle, both visible and hidden, served as reminders of the indomitable spirit of those who had stood against the encroaching darkness. They became etched in the annals of history, immortalized as testaments to the strength, resilience, and sacrifice poured into the fight.

In the wake of their triumphs, life carried on with a newfound sense of hope and purpose. Communities thrived, their broken bonds mended under the weight of shared adversity. People gathered to share stories of bravery and unity, passing down the tales of those who had stood as beacons of light in the face of overwhelming odds. The narratives of courage and resilience inspired future generations, a reminder that even in the darkest times, the spirit could rise above and find the strength to prevail.

Within Sariel and my little corner of the world, a tranquil haven untouched by the chaos that once threatened to consume us, I reveled in the profound peace that constantly followed us. After all we’d been through, we deserved it.

Sariel, my eternal companion, stood by my side, his unwavering love precious to me. Together, we embraced the beauty of each passing day and cherished the simple joys life had to offer.

Today, the laughter of my visiting nieces echoed through the air, their infectious giggles filling our hearts with warmth. They were growing into remarkable individuals; Mikaiah was growing into an artist like her uncle Sariel, and Ezmira was turning into a riot of a girl like Ashe.

Auren had joked that his mate was a bad influence. Ashe had argued that variety was the spice of life.

In our little cabin in the woods, we constantly held such family-and-friends meetings. It seemed to be especially important to Sariel that he never lose touch with anyone again.

I felt much the same. I never wanted to have to miss Rebecca and her family again. On top of that, there was my grandfather, Gregory, and his own pack that I was slowly getting acquainted with.

Part of me was cautious about it, but the other part was optimistic. After the murder of my parents, the anticlimactic meeting of my birth parents, and the disaster that had been Tyler, maybe getting more new family members would help me heal.

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