Chapter 74: Let me in
The toll it had taken on his body was immense, far more than he’d expected, but there was no time to rest or complain. He clung to Nyx’s shoulder for support as she carefully guided him down the long spiral stairway leading from the upper wall. Another soldier noticed their struggle and rushed over without being told, quickly wrapping Lucas’s arm around his neck as the two of them helped him descend the rest of the way.
When they finally reached the horses, Nyx mounted first and then reached out, steadying him as he hoisted himself up behind her with what little strength he could gather. He leaned into her back, breath shallow, barely able to keep his eyes open as they galloped through the chaotic streets.
They rode through the city and reached the castle....The moment they dismounted, Nyx took him under the arm again, her movements swift and graceful despite the exhaustion she surely felt. Lucas’s feet barely touched the ground as she helped him through the towering double doors of the castle.
Servants scurried out of the way, their faces frozen in a mixture of concern and fear, and guards gave them curious looks as they passed, but no one stopped them. They could all see from Lucas’s pale face and trembling hands that this was not a moment to get in the way.
When they entered the central corridor, Lucas lifted his head and spoke, his voice low but insistent.
"Take me to the Seer’s chamber."
Nyx turned her head slightly, confused by the request. Her brows furrowed, but she didn’t argue. She had grown used to Lucas’s unpredictability, and more than that, she trusted his instincts...even when they seemed irrational.
Without a word, she changed their course, leading him through the winding upper halls of the eastern wing.
"Wait here," he said softly, turning to her. "Please."