The King was at the gates of the palace when they arrived. It took them a day and a half to return to the town. Melrose still felt weak even though she had been receiving medicine. She supposed it was the long trip that made her restless.
"Your Majesty," she was about to curtsy but King Vincent was quick enough to stop her. He held her elbow.
"Skip the formality, please. I heard you were injured. How are you feeling?" His gentle voice somehow soothed her uneasiness.
"I feel better, Your Majesty."
The King turned to Lord Knight who was standing close, his expression the same, cold and distant. He didn't bow or did anything. He just looked at the King straight to his eyes as if they were of equal status.
"It's my fault for not stopping Lady Lewis from going back to the village, King Vincent. I failed to protect the lady and keep my word."
