As Neonidas prepared to return to the Duchy of Oreoned, Allea bid farewell, setting off for the capital. Avelina's growing influence in the royal court unsettled her, compelling her to return and see what was happening.
Meanwhile, Neonidas was ready to depart from Hindonpon with Elenora, Celeste, and Cassandra. Empress Velriona, on the other hand, would remain for a while, resting at the emperor's summer palace by the lake.
Before leaving Hindonpon, Neonidas climbed to the highest point in the city one last time, gazing upon the lands he had conquered. These lands were now under his rule, yet he had no intention of staying. The empire was a grand throne, and Neonidas' ambitions were too magnificent to be confined to a mere duchy. This was only the beginning.
