During the nearly two-hour carriage ride, neither Rowan nor Zalyric spoke a word. Rowan kept his mind occupied by quietly watching the passing scenery with plain expression while Zalyric focused on reading through the reports Dravaris had handed him earlier. Outside, Dravaris rode beside their carriage, keeping a sharp eye on their surroundings.
But then, the carriage suddenly jolted to a stop that made Rowan lurched forward, bumping into the side panel while Zalyric instinctively steadied himself with one hand on the window frame.
"What's happening?" Zalyric demanded, pulling the curtain aside and peering out.
"Your Majesty, please remain inside the carriage. We will handle this," Dravaris replied firmly as he swung down from his horse. His hand moved smoothly, drawing his sword from its sheath with a sharp metallic sound that cut through the tense air.
