The northern wind stopped hurting once the towers of the Silver Moon Court appeared above the frozen peaks. My blood recognized the old wards before the gates came into view, and each step toward them became easier.
Silver-armored guards knelt along the road as soon as they saw my face. Asher held my hand and stared up at moonstone walls, luminous paths, and gardens that still bloomed in the heart of winter.
High King Aldric waited halfway down the grand staircase instead of making us climb to him. Five years had put more gray in my father's hair and deeper lines around his eyes.
He pulled me against his chest before I could offer an explanation for my absence. He smelled of pine resin and the old magic of the court. Then he crouched in front of Asher and studied his face.
Tears ran fr
