The road to Azure Bay curled like a silver ribbon across rolling hills, each turn revealing more of the coastline's quiet majesty. The royal carriage rattled gently, its frame humming with an enchantment that softened every bump. Wildflowers pressed against the windows, eager spectators to the return of royalty.
Inside, Evelisse clutched Snugglewuff to her chest as they crested the final slope. Her brothers crowded the opposite side of the carriage, peering out with varying degrees of awe and skepticism.
"There it is," Aldric murmured.
Beyond the curve stood the cliffside manor—ancient, pale-stoned, and yet untouched by time. Ivy wove across the arches like veins of green silk. Windows sparkled. Not a speck of dust, not a crack in the foundation. The house stood still, noble, almost waiting.
Seraphina inhaled sharply. Her hand, resting lightly on Aldric's, trembled.
"It's exactly the same," she whispered.
Callum blinked. "Are we sure no one's been living here?"
