Caelum
I left the inn shortly after sunset, and rode alone on my grey gelding. It was rare for me to be out without the escort of my shadow guard, but I found it surprisingly peaceful and just a touch exhilarating. But maybe the excitement was due to the anticipation of collecting my long-awaited bride.
As I approached the main gate, the bored and sleepy guards aroused themselves and stood at attention. “Hey! You there! You can’t come in here! The gate is locked for the night. Come back at first light if you want to enter!”
I smiled and continued to ride toward them. The two young men exchanged baffled glances before they hurried to pick up their pikes and point them in my general direction. “Halt! Didn’t you hear? The gate is locked! You can’t get in!”
There was a slight panic to thei
