The sisters followed their escort through the long corridors of the royal castle, their steps echoing softly over polished stone.
The closer they came to the outer gate, the more the atmosphere changed.
The private, muted quiet of the royal family's wing gave way to the organized movement of a castle preparing for a noble's departure. Servants carried trunks down staircases. Stable hands crossed the courtyard with horses in tow. Knights spoke in low voices as they checked straps, weapons, and the seals placed upon the Rubenhart luggage.
Then Esther saw the light beyond the open doors.
"Outside," she whispered.
The three sisters stepped into the courtyard.
The royal gates stood open before them.
Beyond the gates lay the capital's broad streets, still watched closely by royal guards after the demonic attack.
The Rubenhart carriage waited at the center of it all.
Four horses stood at the front, their breath faintly visible in the cooling evening air.
