The rhythmic creak of the palanquin, carried steadily by four sturdy bearers, matched the gentle sway of Lord Marius's thoughts. He sat comfortably, his posture relaxed for the first time in years.
A faint smile played on his lips as he gazed out at the passing scenery, the lush greenery and bustling roads of the city reflecting the lightness in his heart.
The bearers, disciplined and silent, had no idea that their lord's mood was unusually buoyant, a rare sight for those accustomed to his serious demeanor.
Marius leaned back against the cushioned seat, closing his eyes for a moment as the memories of the past washed over him.
The years had not been kind, burdening him with the weight of secrecy and guilt. He could still see little Orion, no more than six or seven years old, standing at the estate gate. His tiny fingers gripping the cold iron bars, his bright eyes wide with curiosity and longing as he watched the outside world.
