After being cooped up inside the palace for almost ten days, for the very first time since my wedding day, I finally step out to the main entrance of the palace gates.
Waiting directly in front of me is the Imperial State Carriage of Eryndor. It is breathtaking—crafted from lacquered dark ironwood, with its sharp edges bound in heavy brushed steel.
Upon each door gleams the royal crest: a bold crimson shield bearing a radiant golden sun pierced by a sword, topped with a brilliant gold crown. The tall crystal windows shimmer faintly with magical protective sigils, veiled from the inside by deep, luxurious navy velvet curtains.
Every single servant and guard in the grand courtyard bows deeply before me as I approach. Kaelen steps forward, smoothly pulling open the heavy carriage door, and offers me his gloved hand.
I take it, carefully balancing the massive weight of my imperial gown, and climb inside. He closes the door securely behind me with a solid click.
