Out of the Shadows

2 August, 1360. Westerhaven Palace, Islia

"My lady! My lady!"

Camilla was startled out of her drowsy state by Meg's shrieks. She struggled to sit her awkward frame upright on her bed. A couple of moments later, Meg tumbled through the front door of the bedchamber, red cheeked and panting. "The army…" she managed to gasp before she started wheezing, leaning her weight against the door frame.

The entire court had been anxiously awaiting updates almost a week, yet no messages had arrived. Even Queen Celia was apparently praying multiple times a day at the royal chapel, fearing terrible news.

Camilla pushed her aching back against the bed head and stared at Meg in terror. "Is it good news?" she asked, clenching her fists to brace herself.

"Yes!" gasped Meg. "A peace treaty…is signed. Our forces…are returning home…expected here within a few days!"