Then she addressed the knights as a whole, “I do this willingly. No one compels my choice. I would never lie, and I would never allow anyone to force me into anything. Most of you know me and can attest to this firsthand. And please know how honored I am that you are here and that you would gladly save me if I but asked. Though I have never been one of your number, you have long made me feel welcomed and loved. You have been my friends . . . my family . . . and I love you all dearly.” She took another breath, forcing down the emotions that threatened to choke her.

This was harder than she had expected. She hadn’t anticipated the crowd that had tripled, and she certainly hadn’t imagined she would ever see Teshlor Knights weep.

“I also want to take this moment to explain that from this day forth, reading and writing will be legal in the empire. That books and scrolls will be treated with care as the treasures they are. That every member of the empire should be encouraged to learn this miraculous skill and those who excel at it should be held in high regard. A grand building—a repository, a protectorate, and a resource for the public use of books—henceforth known as a library—will be constructed in the center of this city. Anyone who wishes may go there and read anything they like. My personal collection will form the seeds of this book garden that will, I hope, flourish and grow.”

Without turning, she asked. “Isn’t that right, Father?”

“Yes,” she heard him say.

Farilane’s voice grew solid and strong. “Furthermore, the art of magic will no longer be outlawed. This empire was founded with the aid of the magical arts, and it is only by its virtues that we can keep the empire strong and safe. I therefore announce that First Minister Martasen Dray will establish the Imperial Cenzarium Council, which, along with the Teshlor Guild, will advise the emperor and protect the empire.” Again, still facing the square, she asked, “Isn’t that right, Father?”

“Yes,” Nyrian replied.

“And in my absence, I charge both the Teshlors and cenzars with the responsibility of ensuring these things come to pass and beg them to work together to help support the emperor in guiding the future of this imperium. And that . . .” Having completed her demands, Farilane found her strength faltering. “I know I haven’t always been a sparkling example, but please believe me when I say it has been more than a privilege to be your princess. It has been an honor—one that, to my shame, I never gave much thought to, until now. I feel I could have done more. In the end, I am stunned at how ignorant I was and likely still am. My father and brother deserve your loyalty, and this dream we call the empire is worth . . . well . . . sacrificing for.”