When Iris and her friends returned to the castle, they were immediately summoned to the throne room where Lord Kieran and his three courtiers were waiting. Iris could hear her heart pounding as she wondered if Melissa was able to leave Shayla unscathed. She didn't think she would be able to bear it if her mentor had to bear Queen Asheera's wrath because of her disappearance.
Relief washed through her when they saw Melissa kneeling a couple of feet away from Lord Kieran. She was dressed in her usual gray armor and didn't seem harmed at all. Iris rushed and gave Lord Kieran a quick curtsy and excused herself as she wrapped her arms around Melissa.
"Oh gods, Melissa. I'm glad that you're alright. I was worried that the High Queen wouldn't let you off the hook."
Melissa patted her back and gave the demon lord an apologetic look for Iris's sudden action. When they parted, she took Iris's hand in hers and smiled.
