Gates of Aschenfall — Noon
The entourage passed through the main gates with panting horses and exhausted riders.
Ten days of forced march had left visible marks on everyone—deep dark circles, dusty clothes, gaunt faces.
But none of that mattered the moment Kaito saw the three queens waiting.
Adelheid was beside them, but she decided to run and positioned herself at the front next to Lilith and Valeria, still with a slight limp from her old wound but with perfect military posture. Her expression was controlled but her eyes revealed pure relief.
Lilith to her right, her dress flowing in the breeze, a smile that mixed satisfaction and something deeper.
Valeria to her left, motionless as a statue but her eyes—normally empty—showed something that might be... anticipation?
Kaito dismounted before his horse had completely stopped.
Adelheid ran toward him—didn't walk, ran—closing the distance in seconds.
"Commander!"
Lilith moved with fluid grace, arriving at the same time.
