Chapter 24

The return journey from the bloody valley felt different to Alexei. Where before he had been energized by righteous purpose, now an uneasy weight settled on his heart. His enemies were vanquished, yet he took no joy in it.

He had led his people to a swift, decisive victory. But the brutality required left a bitter aftertaste, and concerns gnawed at him. Had he allowed vengeance to twist justice too far in the heat of conflict?

Brooding, he gazed at the road ahead winding through sleepy villages and sun-kissed fields, so unlike the bleak valley he left behind. These people knew only peace, not the burdens of conscience now troubling their king.

Katrina's worried face as Alexei had bid her farewell rose in his mind. He wondered if she would still recognize the man returning home to her - hardened, wary, glimpsing darkness in his own soul. But he resolved anew to be the honorable ruler she deserved.

Upon arriving home, Alexei found no celebrating crowds or feasts arranged, only a somber