The Valeidio procession finally reached the kingdom's borders as the dense forest began to thin, revealing the familiar landscape.
The group's pace slowed, and the sound of hooves on dirt softened as they approached.
Ella was the first to spot them, standing near the edge of the border where she had been anxiously awaiting their arrival. Her heart leaped at the sight of the familiar faces, but her relief quickly gave way to frustration.
Her gaze immediately locked onto her brother Theo, riding near the front of the group. As soon as he dismounted, she rushed toward him, her emotions boiling over.
"Theo!" she called, her voice trembling with a mixture of relief and anger.
Theo turned just in time to see her before she barreled into him, her fists pounding against his chest.
"Why didn't you take me along?" she demanded, her punches weak but filled with frustration. "Why? You know I'm as worried about Eirik as anyone else!"
