Chapter 91 Return Of The Old Allies

• The following days felt like a breath held in suspense. Elandor’s streets, once alive with the sounds of laughter and music, now echoed with hushed conversations and rumors. Tensions rose, not only because of the impending threat from Elden Ravoth and *The Sovereign’s Hand* but also because the hearts of those closest to the royal family were becoming fractured. Ariella and Kael could feel the strain of it in the air, thick and heavy.
• Ariella stood on the balcony overlooking the palace courtyard, watching the kingdom’s people go about their daily lives. There was so much to protect now, so many lives that depended on their strength, and yet the kingdom felt fragile. Her thoughts were interrupted by a familiar voice.
• “Lost in thought again, Ariella?” came the smooth, baritone voice of **Varric Stormhammer**, the burly dwarf whose loyalty to the crown had never wavered. He had always been a constant presence in their journey, providing counsel, strength, and sometimes, much-needed humor. His rugged face broke into a knowing grin as he joined her on the balcony.