Sioni, Ridda and Joseph reached the palace before nightfall, and approached the gate. “Halt! Who goes there!” an official voice drifted down from atop the guard tower.

“It is I, Ridda, of Eldervale with my son, Joseph, and Sioni, of Esten outside of Perbrook.” Ridda called in response. The gates opened and there was much shouting atop the tower.

“Sioni has arrived. Notify the king and queen at once! Fetch the girls father! Hurry, hurry, no time to lose…” Voices melded together, and a figure descended the staircase to meet them. He bowed low, taking Sioni’s hand in his.

“I am Jonas, miss, captain of the guard. Allow me to take you to your father, you must have had quite a journey.” He stood and led her across the courtyard. Sioni started at a peacock that jumped suddenly from the shadow, his nest disturbed by their footsteps.

She glanced fearfully from one shadow tree to the next, apprehensive for some reason. She made it to the huge wooden door before her nerves overtook her and she fainted.