Chapter 136

Maxi felt her throat constricting. She could not believe this cold farewell was happening.

Riftan brusquely turned away from her and walked out of the basilica. It was as if the intimate time they shared aboard the ship had all been a lie. The knights waiting nearby gave her curt nods and followed their commander.

Ulyseon was at the rear. He paused at the entrance to offer her a final, confident reassurance. "We will return to take you back to Anatol, my lady, so please do not worry."

Maxi accompanied the clerics out of the church to see them off. At the foot of the steps, dozens of baggage wagons and armed soldiers filled the square. The Livadon and Remdragon Knights stood to attention at the front. A brisk wind flapped at the banners, and Maxi felt her heart hammer against her ribs.