Side Story Chapter 25

Had he truly thought everything would be frozen in time, awaiting his return? He was an arrogant fool if he harbored even an inkling of such hope. Rubbing his throbbing temples, Riftan quickened his pace. All he wanted was to head straight to his room, throw himself in bed, and not move for the next two days.

When he reached the castle, all desire to rest evaporated. He was not in the mood to deal with the commander, who would no doubt barge in to pester him, nor did he want to interact with the other knights. Though he trusted them, he was loath to let anyone see him vulnerable.

Riftan circled the garden and strolled down a secluded forest path. It was a shortcut he had often lugged sacks of charcoal along as a boy. As he followed the dirt trail, he felt his migraine slowly subsiding.