The morning after Rantan sent his report, Kael appeared at Elaine's door before breakfast.
"Get dressed," he said, his expression lighter than she'd seen it in days. "Something suitable for riding."
"Riding? Where?"
"Through the kingdom. I want to show you something." He leaned against the doorframe, watching as Mira helped her into riding clothes. "You've been cooped up in the palace too long. It's time you saw what I'm actually ruling."
An hour later, they rode out through the palace gates on matching black horses. Kael's mount was massive, befitting his size, while Elaine's was smaller but spirited.
"Stay close," Kael said as they entered the capital city's outskirts. "Some areas aren't safe for the Luna to wander alone."
The change was immediate and stark. The polished streets ne
