[Capital City of Solmere—Thorenvald Estate—Later —Night]
The carriage rolled to a stop in front of the Thorenvald estate—elegant stone walls, golden lanterns, and that faint air of "old money meets ancient drama."
Alvar had already peeled off toward his own mansion.
I slumped back in the seat, stretching my arms above my head until my joints popped. "Haaaah… finally. That was the longest journey of my life. My spine has officially filed for divorce."
Zephyy, perched on my shoulder, flicked his tail and peered out the carriage window with a huff. 'Master… I was expecting a grand welcome. Trumpets. Rose petals. Maybe a chorus singing your praises. Why is there no one here?'
I stifled a yawn and pushed the door open as one of the estate knights hurried forward, bowing as he held it for me. 'Because, Zephyy, I'm not some prince who expects fireworks when I come home.'
'But you could be,' Zephyy argued, ears twitching. 'You have the charm, the power, and the posterior of—'
