Chapter 71: Road to Gorthmorde
The morning sun hung soft and gold over Valerius's manor gates, the air crisp with the last faint chill of early spring.
The courtyard hummed with quiet, formal warmth—no harsh goodbyes, only the quiet respect of people who'd stood watch together through shadow.
Lord Valerius stood at the gate, his posture stiff but his expression softened, no longer sharp with suspicion.
He clasped Theron's forearm in the noble fashion, then turned to Hannah, dipping his head in genuine courtesy.
"Your group has turned a rot in my lands into something I can mend," he said, his voice steady.
"If you ever need aid on your road north, send word. My doors—and my knights—will answer."
Hannah nodded, her hand resting lightly on Bess's bridle.
The mare stamped a hoof, already eager for the road, her coat glossy from stable care.
"Thank you, my lord. We'll not forget your kindness."
