The celebration poured out into the lobby and beyond, the crowds in Helix Park joining the festivities despite the swirling snow. Victory and vindication warmed the air better than any holiday heater could manage, while the city itself seemed to pulse with newfound energy.

But Juniper barely noticed the expanding celebration. Her world had narrowed to the feeling of Daniel’s arm still around her waist, the sound of Sophia’s continued whooping, and the knowledge that sometimes, just sometimes, justice found its voice and sang.

The sword she’d carried for so long felt lighter now, its weight transformed from burden into badge of honor. The battle was won, but as she caught Daniel’s eye again, she knew their story was far from over.