King Xavian took one last look at the palace behind him. The towering gates were still and solemn, as though holding their breath for what lay ahead. He took a deep breath, tightening his grip on the reins. A sense of duty and urgency flickered in his gaze as he turned he back, his expression hardened, and he nudged his horse forward.
With a shared determination, Kaelix and the others fell in behind him, and the rhythm of hooves began softly before building into a determined thunder.
Together, they rode with a fierce purpose, leaving the familiar stone paths of the palace behind and heading out toward the unknown.
Palace guards and a few servants who hadn't been assigned to the mission watched them depart, murmuring among themselves as the group disappeared from view.
Near the entrance, a particular female servant, a curious spark in her eyes, approached one of the remaining guards, who stood tall and stoic.
