The first rays of morning sun crossed the capital's walls, illuminating the bustling Holy Light Square. Colorful banners fluttered in the wind as tens of thousands of commoners, scholars, craftsmen, and merchants gathered, holding bronze plaques inscribed with the "Decree of Universal Participation." They awaited Queen Evelynn's announcement of the next pivotal chapter in reforms. Silver Oath Knights and Holy Temple Guards stood in ceremonial formation, ensuring the assembly remained orderly and secure.
Ascending the dais, Evelynn wore a light gold embroidered robe with the Holy Light emblem at her waist, her gaze gentle yet resolute. She slowly raised the silver scepter symbolizing the "Law of Universal Participation," her voice ringing like morning bells: "Today, I inaugurate the 'Covenant of All People' with you. Henceforth, from the deepest palace chambers to the smallest rural towns, every adult citizen may register proposals at local council halls. Whether regarding taxes, public security, schools, or healthcare, all shall have the opportunity to participate in governing the kingdom. The nation's grand plans begin with loyalty and conscience; the people's good will shall become the twin wings of holy light and law, protecting our shared homeland."
Thunderous applause surged from the crowd as they raised their "Universal Participation" plaques, faces shining with joy and pride. Scholars murmured plans to draft proposals for various regions; craftsmen discussed improving tools and municipal facilities; merchants conferred on revitalizing trade through this opportunity.
After the ceremony, Evelynn and Lucian visited two pilot council halls. In Eastridge's wooden council chamber, villagers gathered around rough long tables. An elderly woman proposed a "Mountain Path Lighting Project," immediately logged by the recording team; a young man suggested a "River Dredging Plan," sparking lively debate among councilors. Evelynn encouraged them softly: "Your voices will become the kingdom's decrees. No matter where you dwell, you are the nation's backbone."
Meanwhile, in Luo Han City's stone council chamber, representatives from each town debated "School Faculty Allocation," proposing measures to recruit talents and reduce tuition fees. Lucian assisted an elderly scholar to sit comfortably and gestured for a child to speak first. "Let them see that nobility and warriors alike value education."
As night fell, the Holy Light Square hosted the "Covenant of All People Night" bonfire gathering. The crowd sang and danced around the flames, their smiles glowing in the firelight. Evelynn and Lucian overlooked the throng from a specially arranged viewing platform, a pair of engraved silver cups filled with rose mead at their sides. Leaning on his shoulder, she whispered: "Through all the storms, I've never walked alone."
Lucian bent to murmur in her ear: "Your Highness, no matter how arduous the new policies, I will shield you from every tempest." He offered her a cup, their lips brushing the rims as the wine's aroma mingled with firelight. She sipped the mead, smiling radiantly: "Let this cup seal our shared vow: to forever covenant with all people, to forever abide in holy light."
By the bonfire, as the crowd clapped and music swelled, Lucian suddenly drew Evelynn into his embrace, one arm circling her waist, the other slipping to undo a golden clasp on her robe. She met his gaze, eyes shimmering with desire and trust. They moved to the private whisper corridor deep in the Fountain Pavilion, where candlelight and firelight formed a tender curtain. Lucian bowed to her neck, fingertips grazing her shoulders and back, heat blooming between silk and skin.
Evelynn wrapped her arms around his neck, her silk robe sliding from her fingertips, shoulders and back half-veiled in the firelight. Lips met softly, exploring long-yearned tenderness; fingers traced the patterns on his chest, feeling the steady throb of his heart. By the dual glow of moonlight and bonfire, they branded the world beyond holy light and royal blood onto each other's skin and hearts on this "Covenant of All People" night.
As dawn approached, warmth lingered outside the Fountain Pavilion. Evelynn woke in Lucian's embrace, resting her head on his chest to murmur: "On this path of rebirth with all people, your presence makes me fear no storm." Lucian kissed her forehead: "Your Highness, I vow to stand with nation and family all my days."
The capital's night and morning merged into the deepest covenant, witnessing their unity with the people as they co-drew the kingdom's future grand vision.