"Trust isn’t handed out—it’s earned, step by painful step."
The morning I left the castle, the skies were heavy with the promise of rain. The air carried a weight I couldn’t shake, pressing against my chest as I adjusted the strap of my satchel. The journey ahead wasn’t just about crossing distances—it was about crossing the chasm I’d created between myself and the kingdom I had sworn to protect.
“Asher, you don’t have to come,” I said, turning to face him. His expression was calm, but I could see the worry etched in the lines around his eyes.
“And leave you to wander into the unknown by yourself?” He shook his head. “Not a chance.”
I sighed, knowing it was futile to argue. “This is something I have to do.”
“And I’m not stopping you,” he replied, his tone steady. “I’m just making sure
