The carriage wheels crunched over the gravel as they passed through Ravenmoor's gates in the late afternoon. Alina leaned towards the window, her breath catching at the sight of the familiar stone walls and towers.
After six long hours of talking, worrying, and dreaming in the carriage, the castle finally came into view.
Marguerite, Lady Brennan, Evelyn, and Lady Talbot were already waiting for them near the garden gate. Harrington was at the main entrance, and Rowan stood near the stables.
Austin stepped down first and offered his hand. Alina took it without any hesitation as she stepped onto the cobblestones.
Marguerite walked towards them immediately. She stopped in front of Alina and examined her carefully.
"Are you okay?" she asked.
"We both are," Alina replied with a smile. "The king didn't throw us in a dungeon, at least."
"What happened? Did he…"
