The horse trotted carefully along the palace's main path. As they crossed the main gate, the surroundings darkened under heavy clouds that had lingered since the afternoon, hastening the onset of gloom. The atmosphere mirrored the sombre feelings of those present.
Lights flickered along the path, illuminating the scene despite winter's biting cold. Two figures—a man and a woman—were seen riding together on the horse. Behind them, a group of knights, vigilant in their duty, escorted them.
This was the first time a fleeing prisoner was brought back to the palace with such respect. Typically, they would be hauled back with ropes tied to their hands and treated mercilessly for their actions.
However, in this case, none of the Knights of Neblim dared to do that to Anna. When they found her, she was already in the commander's possession, and no one was allowed to approach.
