Chapter 23

By the time the carriage reached the castle, it was already late and dark. Ana could see out the window a small handful of servants who stood waiting. They looked tired and yawned as they held their lanterns for the late arrivals.

Just seeing their tired faces made Ana feel guilty. She would be one of those they had to stay up for. If only she had read the invite sooner, she could have spared them. But she tried not to beat herself up too much for it.

At least we made it. Ana thought. That was the best she could ask for. From outside, Ana felt the carriage shake. The coachman was down from his seat and to their door.

“Your Empress,” The coachman nodded gruffly. He seemed to look neither warm nor cold as he lifted his head. He was one of the few servants who stayed neutral toward Ana.

“About time,” Mykhol went behind her. He seemed anxious to get out of the carriage. Naska nodded alongside.

“I thought we’d never get here,” Naska added and hovered closer to Mykhol.

Ana left first down