Chapter 27: The escape

"Mia, we have to leave now," Gale said. He did not mean to hurry Mia but his legs had turned into roots and were extending in the ground. If they swelled in Somnium any longer, he would not be able to guarantee that he could still help her leave.

"Bryan, goodbye." Mia whispered. The memories of her saying her last goodbye to her baby brother flooded her, sending more tears streaming down her face. She was still shaking and choking back her tears when she fell into Gale's embrace. It was warm and comforting.

Suddenly, she felt herself falling, together with Gale. She felt their bodies hit water, which splashed all around them. Gale was holding her tightly, afraid that she would get hurt. She kept her eyes tightly shut, and gripped into Gale more tightly than ever.

Then, it was as if something mysterious and strong had been broken, and she was liberated.

She opened her eyes and drew a deep breath. The light hurt her eyes, and the scent lingering in the air was so familiar. She knew that she was back in the castle, in her room, on her bed.

"My Queen," she heard a shriek. Emily Harper came into view, grabbing her hand.

"My Queen," Emily cried out again, this time full of relief.

"How is Gale?" Mia uttered, remembering the moments before she awoke.

"He is in another room. He saved you. I will go check on him later. The physician Clement is with him, he should be fine. For now, take care of yourself first."

Mia nodded, gesturing Emily to come nearer. Then, she hugged Emily. Although she was Queen, but Emily had always been more like a sister and a friend.

"I saw Bryan," Mia said. The rest of the words need not be said. She just needed the longest hug ever.