The echo of footsteps followed them through the long marble hall. The torches lining the corridor threw light on the walls etched with storms and thunderbolts ... the sigil of House Stormborne.
Valerian walked with Aurelia's hand still resting in his, his stride steady, his expression unreadable. The guards at each corner lowered their spears in salute as the pair passed.
When they reached the grand staircase that split toward the royal chambers, Valerian turned slightly to her.
His voice softened, almost lost to the hum of the castle.
"Go with them," he said quietly, nodding to a waiting servant. "Rest. We will talk later."
Aurelia nodded. Before they had left Caelmont, he had said that they would speak once they returned to Valkoron.... about everything that had been left unspoken between them.
She clutched the folds of her cloak and followed the servant up the staircase, her veil still in place, Gwen hurrying after her.
