The golden light of dawn spilled over the winding forest road as the carriage rolled steadily forward, pulled by four powerful black horses. Around them, the rhythm of hooves and wheels beat a steady tempo on the dirt path, accompanied by the occasional call of birds overhead. A handful of elite guards rode ahead and behind, alert and silent, eyes scanning the surroundings.
Inside the enclosed carriage, the air was thick with quiet tension.
River shifted slightly in her seat, wincing just a little. Her legs and back still ached from the previous day’s long journey. She wasn't used to being off her feet for so long—definitely not stuffed into a carriage, no matter how lavishly cushioned. She stretched subtly, trying to ease the stiffness, while her eyes wandered to the male seated across
