As the chariot came to a stop at the palace gates, the group disembarked, each of them lost in their own thoughts.
The city had shown its beauty, its strength, and its secrets—and Adrian knew that, for all the tranquility on the surface, there were deeper currents at play.
"Thank you for the tour, your Majesty," Adrian said as they walked back into the palace. "It was... enlightening."
Alannah nodded. "There will be a council meeting tomorrow morning. I hope you'll be able to attend. There are some matters that require the attention of the special advisor to the queen."
"Of course," Adrian replied. "I'll be there."
Queen Alannah's gaze lingered on him for a moment before she turned and headed back into the castle, her long gown flowing behind her like a shadow.
