Chapter 504: Homecoming Preparations
[A few moments before...]
As the main gate swung open, a mighty warhorse galloped into the mansion’s compound. It came to a halt before the grand entrance, and Eric quickly dismounted. As always, a stable boy hurried forward to greet him and took the horse’s reins.
Without pause, the knight strode into the mansion, his steps brisk and purposeful, eager to deliver his urgent message.
"Sir Navin! You’re back!"
Anryr came rushing down the stairs, eyes wide with excitement. It had been several days since he’d heard any news from the knight, and everyone in the household was waiting anxiously for updates from the palace. Would it be good news... or something worse?
The hope in the steward’s expression was unmistakable. But before he could say more, the second-in-command knight raised a hand, stopping him.
"I know you have a thousand questions, but we’re running out of time. His Highness the Grand Duke and Lady Raychard are on their way home. Please start the necessary preparations," Eric instructed firmly.
"But... what about the case?" Anryr blurted out, unable to hold back his curiosity.
"Acquitted," Eric said. "There’s a big surprise waiting for everyone and a long explanation to come, but I need everyone to stay calm and not bombard Lady Raychard with questions. She’s still fragile and exhausted from the trial and everything that’s happened. His Highness doesn’t want her disturbed. Give it some time, and I promise I’ll explain everything later."
Anryr let out a deep breath and rubbed his chest in relief.
"Thank goodness! I prayed so hard that nothing worse would happen to her," he said. Then his eyes lit up as another question struck him. "Oh—wait! One last question!"
He looked eagerly at Eric.