Chapter 12 - The Journey North
Three days later, a royal carriage flanked by Captain Darius and an elite guard escort rolled through the northern gates of Richmond. The journey toward the border town of Oakhaven was arduous, winding through dense forests and rocky terrain that tested both horses and men.
Inside the carriage, Evelyne looked out at the changing landscape. For most of her life, the world had been limited to the four walls of her bedchamber and the marble floors of the ballroom. Now, every tree, stream, and rolling hill felt like a revelation.
"Are you tired?" Rowan asked gently, sitting across from her.
Evelyne smiled, shaking her head. "Not at all. For the first time in my life, I feel completely alive. Even the bumps in the road feel wonderful because I can actually feel them."
Rowan reached out, his hand gently grasping hers. The familiar warmth surged through her veins, reinforcing the deep, unbreakable bond they shared. Across from them, Captain Darius sat on his horse alongside the carriage window, keeping a sharp, vigilant eye on the tree line.
May you like
"We are entering the shadow of the Gray Mountains," Darius called out, leaning toward the carriage window. "The local villagers here are deeply superstitious. They haven't seen a royal family member in person for decades, and rumors from Malakor's loyalists have painted a very dark picture of our visit."
"Let them see us," Evelyne replied, pulling back the velvet curtain to let the morning sun flood the carriage. "Fear only thrives in the dark, Captain. We are here to bring the light."
