The wheels of the carriage crunch against the gravel and stone, the sound too loud in the stillness.
Smoke still clings to Emilia's hair and clothes, the sharp scent of burning wood and flesh following her.
Lucas sits across from her with Catherine by his side, while June and the others ride on the horses.
When the palace gates finally open and the carriage stops in Emilia's quarters, Lucas moves first.
He steps down, turns, and holds out his hand, but Emilia doesn't see it.
Then he calls her name softly.
"Emilia."
That seems to reach her.
She blinks once, then again, as if returning from somewhere far away.
Slowly, she places her hand in his. Her fingers are cold.
He helps her down and immediately notices the way she stiffens, and the way her breath hitches when her foot touches the ground.
"You are hurt," he says quietly.
Emilia shakes her head.
"I'm fine."
Catherine steps forward, lowering herself slowly, and walks away with Emily behind her.
