Chapter 43: Prepare for War

The sound of hooves echoed across the narrow forest trail as Lenora rode toward her family's estate, flanked by two of Kael's men.

The journey had been uneventful, but her mind raced with conflicting thoughts and emotions.

She knew what awaited her a storm of anger, disbelief, and accusations.

Her father's pride, her brothers' tempers, her mother's quiet but cutting disapproval they were all predictable and yet unavoidable.

As the gates of the Elstrand manor came into view, the guards at the post straightened in surprise.

One of them hurried forward, recognizing Lenora.

"Lady Lenora! You've returned!" His voice was tinged with relief, but his gaze shifted warily to the two men at her side.

"I need to see my family immediately," Lenora said, her tone firm despite the tension in her chest. "Announce my arrival."

The guard nodded and waved her through.