Reina returned to the Aurelius estate instead of making her way to Ryujin, she sent Nox ahead to inform others of her return.
It had been a while—too long—since she had last seen her father and brother, and a quiet longing pulled her homeward first. She wanted this moment. Before the world demanded her again.
After a long, cleansing bath that washed away the dust of travel and the remnants of Yggdrasil's deep-rooted mana, Reina dressed in fresh clothing—simple yet dignified. She tied her white hair loosely, letting it fall like moonlight down her back, and stepped out of her room.
The hallways felt different.
More footsteps. More hushed discussions. The faint clinking of armor.
Prince Trials, she thought.
Of course the estate would be busier than usual.
As she descended the staircase, several servants caught sight of her. Their eyes widened—surprise, relief, a hint of joy. Reina lifted a finger to her lips, a small secretive smile forming.
"Not a word," she murmured.
