The rest of the journey was a haze. The King insisted they travel through the night, refusing to stop at an inn. The carriage remained silent, Azrael and Sevastian were deep in thought while Elysia lay unconscious, her head resting on Azrael's thighs. His gaze never left her.
---
A soft groan escaped Elysia's lips as she stirred, her hand rubbing her eyes. She blinked, adjusting to the brightness around her, and realized she was in the King's chamber. Memories of the battle surged back, and she bolted upright from the bed.
Her eyes scanned the room until they landed on Azrael, who stood by the door, his posture rigid and his hands resting at his sides. Without hesitation, Elysia rushed toward him, wrapping him in a powerful hug as tears streamed down her cheeks.
