Homeward Bound

The tall, arched windows of the council chamber cast long shadows across the stone floor as the early morning sun filtered through vibrant banners hanging overhead. I stood at the head of the room, my back straight and unwavering, facing the gathered councilmen.

“The war is over,” I began, my voice steady.
“Alec’s forces have been defeated.”
“Our people can finally breathe freely again.”
“Our work is far from over.”

A murmur rippled through the chamber, but I pressed on.

“For too long, Vespera has been without its rightful rulers.”

I took a moment to meet their gazes.

“My crown has been left to gather dust while the kingdom falls further into chaos.”

I straightened, lifting my chin slightly.

“I intend to return home.”
“James and I will leave today to reclaim what is ours.”

The room erupted in quiet whispers. The eldest councilman, a stout figure with a white beard trailing down to his chest, cleared his throat and leaned forward.

“Your Highness, Vespera has been unstable since the last rebellion.”
“Are you certain the people will welcome you back with open arms so soon after the war?”
“They will.”
“They know me.”
“They remember my father’s legacy, and they know that I will not abandon them.”

I cast a glance at James, who offered me an encouraging nod.

“Vespera is my home.”
“Our home.”
“I will not allow it to remain in ruin any longer.”

Another councilman, younger and far more skeptical, leaned back in his chair, folding his arms.

“It is risky to leave now.”
“You are still recovering from childbirth.”
“Your people might not be as trusting, especially with rumors of complications in your lineage.”

The implication stung, and I felt a familiar surge of judgment. My eyes narrowed.

“I am the rightful queen.”
“My people need strength, and I intend to show them that.”
“My matters are none of your concern.”

James stepped forward, his voice calm but firm.

“I will be by her side, as will our loyal soldiers.”
“The people of Vespera remember what we have done to secure peace here, and they will rally behind Isabella once more.”

The council fell silent, weighing our words. Finally, the elder councilman nodded slowly.


“If this is your decision, Your Highness, we will support it.”
“The road ahead will not be easy.” The crown may not be reclaimed without resistance.”
“I never expected it to be easy.”
“I am ready.”

I turned, and the councilmen bowed their heads as James, and I moved toward the grand wooden doors. Our footsteps echoed in the vast hall, heavy with the gravity of what lay ahead.

“Today,” I whispered to James, my hand finding his hand, “we start home.”

The castle buzzed with activity as we prepared to depart for Vespera. The courtyard, usually a place of calm, had transformed into a hive of organized chaos. Soldiers barked orders, horses were being saddled, and crates of supplies were loaded onto sturdy wagons. The sharp ring of sharpening swords filled the air, mingling with the clinking of armor and the creaking of leather straps.

I stood on the stone steps leading down from the castle’s main hall, overseeing the preparations. The wind tugged at the loose strands of my dark hair, which I had pulled back into a practical braid. I wore a simple but elegant travel cloak, deep blue with silver embroidery along the edges, a subtle reminder of my royal status.

My eyes scanned the scene, watching my most trusted guards check their weapons and inspect the wagons one last time. The tension in their movements was palpable, the weight of the journey ahead evident in every action. A maid approached; concern etched on her face.

“Your Highness, is there anything else you will need for the journey?”
“Everything is in place.”
“Please ensure my son is comfortable for the trip.”
“He will need rest along the way.”

The maid nodded, her gaze softening as she turned to check on the infant being bundled in a small, intricately carved cradle by a nursemaid. My heart tightened at the thought of bringing him into a kingdom still healing from war, but I quickly brushed the worry aside. Vespera was his birthright, and I would ensure it was a place where he could grow safely.

In the distance, James was speaking with his lieutenant, brow furrowed in concentration as they reviewed the maps of our route. His armor gleamed in the sunlight, and though his expression was serious, a calm strength radiated from him. He caught my gaze and offered a brief smile before returning to the conversation.

I descended the steps, the rhythm of my boots steady and purposeful against the stone. I moved toward the wagons, inspecting the provisions. Dried meats, bread, water barrels, and medical supplies, all neatly packed. I nodded to one of the quartermasters, who saluted me sharply before continuing with his work.

I then turned my attention to the horses, stamping and snorting as stable hands adjusted their bridles. One black stallion, proud and striking, was being readied for me. I approached it, running a hand along its sleek neck, feeling the warmth of its muscles under my palm.

“Easy,” I whispered.

The horse tossed its head but settled under my calming touch.

“Your Majesty,” a voice called.

I turned to find Rowan standing nearby. His grizzled features were hardened by years of battle, but his eyes held a deep respect as he bowed slightly.

“Everything is ready.”
“The men are prepared, and the path to Vespera has been scouted.”
“No sign of danger thus far.”

There was always the risk of danger lurking. Alec’s remnants, opportunists, or even betrayal. I could not afford to show hesitation.


“How many soldiers are riding with us?”
“Fifty, Your Majesty.”
“The best of our forces.”
“They will guard you with their lives.”
“I expect nothing less.”

The afternoon sun climbed higher, casting long shadows across the courtyard. The preparations neared completion. Wagons were lined up, horses tethered and ready, soldiers standing in formation.

I walked back to where James waited by the castle entrance, maps now rolled up and tucked under his arm. His face was set.

“Everything is ready.”
“We depart now.”

A hush fell over the courtyard as we moved toward our horses, the soldiers straightening, their eyes trained on us. I swung into the saddle of my stallion, my cloak billowing behind me as I took the reins. James mirrored my movements, and together, we rode to the front of the column, the captain of the guard close behind.


I took one last look at the castle, at the towering walls that had been our refuge during the war. It was not my home. Vespera was waiting. With a swift motion, I spurred my horse forward, James riding beside me. The gates creaked open, and the path ahead lay bathed in the golden light of the afternoon sun.

The column of soldiers and wagons began to move, the rhythmic clatter of hooves and wheels echoing as we departed the castle. I breathed deeply, my heart steady. The preparations were complete. Now, the true journey began.