Aurelius drew a long, shaking breath, forcing composure over fury. “Your return is a blessing, Mr. Chance. What now?

My daughter remains his captive, and Celestia City may already be crawling with his agents.”

“Our top priority is to return to Celestia City and seize the reins,” Jared explained. “I’m sure leuan has already planted snares in the city, so if we delay our return, he will use the opportunity to take control. As for the princess, we can send covert scouts to track her location before coming up with a rescue plan.”

Aurelius gave a sharp nod. “Yes! We’ll do as you say, Mr. Chance! Issue the order to turn back and return to Celestia City!”

The Imperial Guard obeyed instantly. Hooves hammered the packed earth as the column wheeled north and surged toward the city’s northern gate.

Jared and Yuliana rode beside the king, every sense strung tight for the faintest ripple of danger.

Not long after, the golden battlements of Celestia City rose ahead, ablaze with late-afternoon light.