Something about it felt wrong, as if trouble had been waiting beneath the surface.
She was led into the throne hall, and the moment she stepped inside, the weight of the room pressed down on her. The atmosphere was thick and suffocating, as familiar faces turned toward her. Thalia and Verity were there, their expressions shifting into shock the moment they took in her appearance, and Rosalind became suddenly aware of how she must look. Her gown still damp in places, dirt clinging to the fabric, small tears along the edges, and her hair far from properly arranged. She hadn't been given the chance to fix herself before being brought back.
Lady Evelina stood nearby with disapproval written across her face, while Claire remained unbothered. Sabine, however, barely masked the irritation in her eyes, and even through her composed expression, it was obvious she was displeased. There was something darker beneath it too, as she would have preferred Rosalind not return at all.
