It took Raiden almost forever to calm his rage, and though it never fully disappeared, when it finally settled, he found himself wanting to suggest they head to the palace and get back home.
Their passage through the palace was surprisingly smooth. The guards never questioned their motives, and the king never requested their presence. It was as if everything had been arranged for them in advance—perhaps by Princess Alora.
The moment they returned to the mansion, Ash had already fallen asleep in Noelle's arms, and she immediately hurried to her room. Meanwhile, Raiden, with Levi by his side, made sluggish movements, his body leaning from side to side in both fatigue and frustration as he made his way to the living room.
When they reached the living room, Alora sat on a sofa positioned to face the door, sipping a cup of coffee.
