“Madam President, the loyalists have been neutralized.”

Celestina looked up from the stack of reports on her desk, her tired eyes locking with Captain Renz’s. Relief flooded her, but it was tinged with caution.

“Every single one?” she asked, her voice steady but laced with suspicion.

Renz hesitated. “The network is dismantled. Their leaders are either in custody or… no longer a threat. But whispers suggest there might still be individuals operating independently.”

Celestina nodded, her expression firm. “Good work, Captain. But don’t let your guard down. One whisper is all it takes to spark another storm.”

“Yes, Madam President,” Renz replied, saluting before leaving the room.

As the door closed, Isolde stepped forward, cradling Arden in her arms. “You’ve done it, Celestina. For the first time in years, this nation has a chance to breathe.”

Celestina reached out to take Arden, her heart softening as the baby giggled in her arms. “It’s not just about dismantling them, Mother. We have to rebuild everything they tried to destroy.”

With the loyalist threat subdued, Celestina poured her energy into rebuilding the nation. Roads were repaired, schools reopened, and new social programs were launched to support struggling families.

One day, she stood before a crowd of thousands to unveil a sweeping economic reform. Her voice was clear and strong as she spoke.

“We’ve suffered long enough under the weight of corruption and division. But today, we choose to rise. This is not just a recovery—it’s a new beginning for all of us.”

The crowd erupted into applause, chanting her name. For a moment, Celestina felt hope bloom in her chest.

Back at the palace, Isolde met her in the hallway, holding Arden.

“You were incredible out there,” Isolde said, her eyes shining with pride.

Celestina kissed her son’s forehead, her lips brushing against his soft hair. “It’s for him, Mother. Everything I do is for Arden’s future.”

As the weeks passed, Isolde became more than just a mother to Celestina—she was an advisor, a confidante, and a grandmother. She often took on the role of caretaker for Arden, allowing Celestina to focus on her demanding duties.

One evening, while watching Isolde read a story to Arden, Celestina couldn’t help but smile.

“I wish I had this growing up,” Celestina said softly.

Isolde looked up, her expression filled with regret. “And I wish I could’ve been there for you. But I’m here now, Celestina. For you and Arden.”

Celestina placed a hand on her mother’s shoulder. “We’ll make sure he never feels alone.”

The palace felt peaceful for the first time in months. Celestina stood on the balcony with Arden in her arms, gazing out over the city. The streets, once filled with protests and chaos, were calm. Lights twinkled in the distance, and a gentle breeze rustled the banners bearing her administration’s crest.

Isolde joined her, wrapping a shawl around her shoulders. “It’s beautiful, isn’t it?”

“It is,” Celestina replied, her voice barely above a whisper. She looked down at Arden, who was peacefully dozing in her arms. “This is our new beginning, my love. I’ll protect it with everything I have.”

Isolde placed a comforting hand on Celestina’s arm. “And I’ll protect you both. Always.”

Later that night, after putting Arden to bed, Celestina found herself drawn to the box of Dimitri’s belongings she had yet to fully unpack. She sifted through the items, each one stirring bittersweet memories.

At the bottom of the box, her fingers brushed against something she hadn’t noticed before—a sealed envelope. Frowning, she carefully opened it.

Inside was a short, handwritten note:

“Be careful who you trust. There’s still one more who hides in plain sight.”

The words sent a chill down her spine. Her grip tightened on the paper as her mind raced. Who could it be?

Before she could think further, a loud crash echoed through the palace. The sound of hurried footsteps and raised voices followed.

A guard burst into the room, his face pale and his voice urgent.

“Madam President, there’s been a breach!”