As the carriage journeyed towards the palace, Erios' plea echoed in my mind like an ominous warning. His worry was palpable as he accompanied me to the carriage, his concerned eyes watching me closely. I could sense his fear for my safety, and it only added to the unease festering within me.
"Erios, I will be fine. You don't need to worry. I'll return safely," I reassured him, though my words felt feeble against the backdrop of uncertainty that clouded my mission. Alex remained conspicuously absent, as if avoiding me in the aftermath of the previous day's tumultuous events.
"Take care while I'm away," I said, my voice carrying a blend of determination and trepidation as I closed the carriage door. The carriage rumbled to life, setting off toward the palace, leaving Erios and his concerns behind.