Back at the cabin, the Queen had finished saying her goodbyes. She gave each of the children a hug, then gracefully returned to her carriage.
As the carriage rolled away, Eira turned to Oliver. "Seraphina's still not back. Go check on her."
Oliver glanced at the sun, which hung low in the sky. "She'll come soon. It's only 5 PM."
Eira frowned. "Still… I'll go see her myself."
Keal and Charles stood up together. "If you say so, may we come with you?"
Eira smirked and waved her hand. "Nope. You two will get lost in that forest. It's like a maze if you don't know the way."
The boys exchanged blank expressions, clearly disappointed.
Suddenly, movement caught Eira's eye.
Someone was approaching from the forest path.
Her expression darkened as she recognized them—the Knight Leader carrying Seraphina in his arms, with the little girl walking beside him.
Eira hurried forward. Oliver rushed ahead and took Seraphina from the man's arms.
