The heavy carriage ground to a smooth halt near the snow-dusted cobblestones of the palace courtyard. Servants bowed respectfully in the crisp night air as the carriage doors swung open.
Valex stepped out first, his leather boots crunching against the fresh layer of white, and turned to help Odesse step down. Kael and Cara followed, dismounting gracefully and taking their places in front of the royal couple.
Odesse turned to Cara with a gentle, glowing smile. "His Highness and I will not be going inside just yet."
Valex glanced toward his commander, his amber eyes softening with genuine appreciation. "So you will rest tonight. You both must be exhausted."
Kael immediately straightened his posture, his hand resting near the hilt of his sword out of sheer muscle memory. "Where are you headed, Your Highness? I shall accompany you."
