The wind stirred softly as pale snow drifted down, settling upon the ground in muted silence. It traced a solemn path behind the departing entourage as they left the mansion and set out for Port Braska.
Though the distance was not great by measure, the journey felt unbearably long… longer than any road they had ever taken.
Every gaze was downcast. Every heart carried a quiet sense of doom. And yet, they rode on.
This was their final duty—an escort borne not only of obligation, but of loyalty and gratitude.
Although Kiev initially declined the offer, he ultimately agreed after King Kyden formally requested it. Full courtesy and royal respect had been shown, and the king's firm insistence left no option but to accept.
The escort comprised both the Knights of Gerhard, led by their second-in-command, and the royal knights, personally overseen by the king himself.
