Rune and Celestia returned after some time, and though Reina and Alys had fully expected them to come back flustered and embarrassed, the reality was nothing of the sort. Instead, both Rune and Celestia carried an anxious air, their expressions quiet and uneasy.
Alys opened her mouth, ready to ask what had happened, but Reina reached out and clasped her hand gently, giving a small shake of her head. The message was clear enough — not now.
"It's getting late. We should head back," Rune said, his tone steady but lacking its usual ease.
"Yes, it is quite late," Alys agreed softly, giving Reina's hand a reassuring squeeze. "I should return as well. Your uncle must be waiting."
They walked together until they reached the market square, where the lamps lit the streets in warm evening hues. Soon, Alys's carriage pulled up. She embraced Reina first, then Rune, holding each a moment longer than usual.
