The ending is a happily-ever-after… sort of. For one, Cabbarus is out of power, the king is ruling again, and his family has been reunited. Yay, right? However Mickle isn't exactly keen on staying put in Marienstat to take up her duties as heir to the throne, though she's definitely in a better spot than before, back when she was an urchin. But at least she's still got Theo.
Or does she? Theo's discontent, as well. He doesn't really have a place in the new administration, so Dr. Torrens, who becomes the new chief minister (that's one happy ending for the rebels—a friend in power), suggests he travel the kingdom to see what the people want. Is this a triumph for democracy? Not quite, since Westmark remains a kingdom—but the people's wishes will definitely get heard more going forward. Theo agrees to the mission, but only once he finds a firm place for himself when he comes back—by Mickle's side.