When the castle gates came into view, a rush of worry twisted in her chest. She could sense it even before the words were spoken: Alia, Queen Lana, and King Paul were all waiting, their anxious aura spilling across the courtyard, mingling with the courtiers and guards who had gathered, whispers of fear and speculation brushing the edges of the tense air.
The carriage rolled to a halt, and River almost leapt out, her legs trembling with a mixture of fear and anticipation. Heiko mirrored her urgency, though his hand on her back was a grounding presence, reminding her to take measured steps even amidst the storm of emotion.
As they entered the throne room, Alia’s sharp gaze softened immediately upon seeing them, relief and worry colliding in her expression.
“You’re back,” she said simply
