He stepped down the stairs ahead of me. “We’re not that far from the divide.”
The tavern was silent as we passed it and stepped back out the door.
In hours we’d be in Estlen.
Our horses were already saddled. Fyn braced me as I climbed up on Ivy, his gaze and mine intertwined as I settled.
“They’re waiting for us up ahead.” He led the way down the quiet morning street.
We passed the wagons that carried more ore before I saw the glittering golden wall that shone between this world and the one I came from.
Its magic kept out those who didn’t belong—the fae’s defense from my kingdom’s hunger for war. Lioran gave his magic to build it, and ever since, it responded to his command. Without him opening the gate, I’d never be able to pass through into the human realm again.
The divide swayed in the wind as Fyn rode closer to it. I looked back at the fae village and the forest that held the starlight, before I slowly led my horse forward.
“Your Highness.” A warrior bowed his head to me. The others followed. “I’m Edward. This is my party. We’ll see you safely to the palace in Estlen. Our men have made the journey before. You’re in good hands.”
I looked to Fyn for his approval.
“They are my men and will give you added protection in Estlen,” Fyn said.
I led my horse behind his, clutching her reins too tightly until my nails poked into my palm.
The golden light was broken in a section of the divide. The human realm was visible on the other side.
Fyn gestured the group ahead of us. I held my breath, clutching the satchel under my arm as we passed underneath the gate.
When we had safely crossed, a man brought his horse before us on the other side. “You must be the Lord Chancellor. I am Lord Remus, the king’s Seneschal. It is an honor to finally meet you.”
“It is an honor to meet you as well.” Fyn’s shoulders squared back. “My men and I will escort Princess Ashlyn through Estlen.”
Lord Remus bowed his head. “Your Highness, we are pleased to receive you as our guest.”
I lifted my chin. “I am most eager to see your kingdom.”
“Will we be at the palace by nightfall or have preparations been made for the princess’s lodging?” Fyn asked.
“If you can all ride through the day, we should make it just after the sun sets,” the lord replied. “My men are just up ahead on the path, and they will provide added protection for the princess’s escort.”
“I am grateful, thank you, Lord Remus.” I tried not to let my nerves show. It seemed like an impossible feat when my fingers trembled. “I will require rest before I meet the prince.”
“Your maid will be ready to receive you,” Lord Remus said. “You may rest and prepare as you require before meeting the prince in the morning. He expects you’ll be too exhausted for an audience when you arrive.”
I was relieved to hear it.
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
ASHLYN
Iwould never get used to riding for so long. Nor would I get used to Fyn observing me as if I might break.
For all we knew, I still could.
An unsteady warmth remained long after I stole from the stars. When it started to settle, exhaustion only gripped me harder until I saw the palace.
Twin spires were tipped with gilded iron.
Orange and violet surrounded it as the last of the sun’s light leaked over the mountains.
