The King's Return

The gates of Arundelle loomed high, their intricate carvings gleaming under the pale winter sun.

Seraphina felt a wave of relief wash over her as they passed through, the familiar sights and sounds of her home wrapping around her like a warm cloak. Her moment of solace was short-lived, however, as Marielle approached hurriedly.

"The King is waiting for you, your Highness," Marielle said, her tone laced with urgency.

Seraphina frowned, her heart skipping a beat. "He knows?"

Marielle hesitated, then lowered her gaze. "I'm sorry, your Highness. We could not hide it when he inquired about your absence."

Before Seraphina could respond, Marielle took her hand, leading her towards the castle.

Kael followed close behind, his steps steady yet silent. The weight of his presence brought her a small measure of comfort amidst the growing dread. Halfway to the throne room, she turned to him, her expression stern but her voice soft.

"You should go and rest, Kael. You've earned it."

Marielle interjected quickly, "He is also summoned, your Highness."

Seraphina's stomach churned, but she merely nodded and continued onward.

The grand doors of the throne room swung open before them, revealing a vast chamber adorned with banners of deep blue and silver. The marble floor gleamed, and the towering columns stood like silent sentinels. At the far end, on a gilded throne, sat King Alden.

Her father looked far better than when she had left him. His cheeks, once hollowed by sickness, now had a healthy flush. His piercing gray eyes remained as sharp and unyielding as ever.

As Seraphina approached, she dropped into a low curtsy. "Father," she greeted, her voice steady.

"Seraphina," he replied, his voice though softened by relief, carried a stern edge. "You've returned."

"I have," she answered, rising to her feet. "I trust you are feeling better?"

"Better than I was when I learned my daughter had ventured into enemy territory without my permission," he said, his voice rising slightly. "Do you have any idea how reckless that was?"

Seraphina straightened her shoulders. "I do, Father, but it was necessary. The information I gathered could prove invaluable."

"Necessary?" King Alden's expression darkened. "You risked your life, Seraphina. Do you think that's a decision you can make so lightly?"

"I didn't make it lightly," she countered. "But as your daughter and the princess of Arundelle, it is my duty to protect our people. I could not stand idle while an opportunity presented itself."

The King's eyes narrowed, but he seemed to relent, if only slightly. His gaze then shifted to Kael, who stood silently behind her.

"And this," he said, his voice dripping with suspicion, "is the nameless servant with no memory?"

"Yes, Father," Seraphina replied. "His name is Kael, and he saved my life on the journey."

King Alden's eyes bore into Kael, who remained impassive under the scrutiny. "What if he is the one who harmed you? What if this is all a ruse?"

"He wouldn't," Seraphina said firmly. "He has proven himself loyal."

The King shook his head, a bitter laugh escaping his lips. "You are too naive, my daughter. I will interrogate him myself."

"Father—"

"Guards!" the King barked, cutting her off.

Two armored guards stepped forward, seizing Kael by the arms. He did not resist but glanced at Seraphina, his expression unreadable.

Her fists clenched at her sides, but she forced herself to remain composed.

"Father, I have already interrogated him."

"What if he is lying to you?" King Alden's tone was icy. "He needs to be tortured to reveal the truth."

Seraphina's insides began to shiver, but she kept her posture composed. Bowing deeply, she said nothing further and left the throne room. Her footsteps echoed in the long corridors as she made her way to her chambers.

Lydia, her maid, was already waiting for her. Without a word, she helped Seraphina out of her travel-stained garments and into a steaming bath scented with lavender. The warm water soothed her aching muscles, but her mind remained restless.

After her bath, Lydia carefully tended to her injuries, unwrapping the bandages and cleaning the wounds. Seraphina winced as the cool salve touched her skin, but she bore it without complaint. Once her wounds were re-dressed, Lydia began combing her hair, her fingers deft and gentle.

"You look worried, Your Highness," Lydia remarked softly.

Seraphina forced a small smile. "I am."

Lydia hesitated before asking, "Why, if I may?"

"For Kael," Seraphina admitted after a pause. "He might get killed. Father won't trust him the way I do."

Lydia's hands faltered for a moment before continuing their task. "You trust him?" she asked, surprise evident in her voice.

Seraphina nodded, her gaze distant. "He has risked his life for me. That is not something a man with ill intent would do."

"You've always had a gift for seeing the good in people. Perhaps the King will come to understand."

"I hope so, Lydia. For Kael's sake."