AVAFather’s smile was wide.Not the measured, controlled expression he wore in meetings or the careful warmth he offered in moments that required composure.Mother's matched it, quieter but no less present."Ava. Kael," father said. "I am pleased to announce that the equalization process between the political families has been formally concluded. Every family, regardless of prior standing or alliance, has been placed at the same starting point under the new framework. The circular structure is in place. No seat above another."He crossed the room toward me.I stood instinctively.The hug he gave me was tighter than I had prepared for, and for a moment I simply held it, because the man embracing me now was not the version of my father I had grown up navigating carefully. This one had arrived somewhere different."This is because of you," he said.Mother came next, her arms wrapping around me from the other side, and I felt the specific warmth of being held by both of them at once, som
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