It was barely 6 a.m., and the royal family stood assembled in front of the mansion, the sky still painted in deep shades of blue before sunrise.
King Caecilius had insisted on leaving early. His presence was required at the castle for an urgent meeting with his cabinet members. Waiting until sunrise would delay him, and delay was something he did not tolerate. So he and Queen Aella decided to depart before dawn.
The servants stood in neat rows. The air was cool and quiet, carrying the weight of departure.
"Take care of yourself… and your mate," Queen Aella said warmly to Horace.
"And don't forget to come home once in a while," King Caecilius added.
Horace folded his arms lazily. "Alright. I will. You two take care as well. Visit when you're free."
The guard open the door of the car and the queen entered, followed by king Caecilius.
"When my daughter-in-law wakes up, tell her not to be offended that we left so early—"
"Of course she won't be," Horace interrupted.
