The group rode hard through the fading light, the horses' hooves kicking up snow along the familiar road that led to Ragnar's estate. By the time the stone walls and grand structures came into view, the sky had deepened to a bruised purple. Torches already burned along the battlements, and the gates swung open before they even reached them. Someone inside had been watching and spotted them coming.
Ragnar dismounted slowly, favoring his injured leg. Gonan stayed mounted a moment longer, scanning the courtyard before he turned to dole out orders to his men.
"Find the head of the prince's guard, he will see to the matter of your accommodations." Gonan said to his men and they all moved to do as he ordered.
Ragnar didn't argue. He crossed the yard alone and as he did, he noticed that the ache in his chest was significantly lighter now that he was back home.
