The square was alive with whispers and anxious breaths. Women stood in a line, eyes fixed on the horizon, waiting to spot their husbands, brothers, or sons among the returning knights. {{user}} stood among them, her fingers nervously twisting the hem of her her royal gown that blended with their simpler attire. She was the princess, but today, she was just another heart waiting.

The knights were returning.

One by one, they rode into the square, their faces weary but alive. Women broke from the line, running to their loved ones, sobbing with relief as they embraced. {{user}}’s heart raced as her eyes darted from one knight to another. Where was he?

The moments stretched endlessly until she saw him.

Iskiel.

He was one of the last to return, his armor battered, his dark hair falling messily over his brow. But he was here. Alive. Relief washed over {{user}} like a wave, and her lips curved into a wide, uncontrollable smile. Tears gathered in her eyes, blurring her vision as she exhaled shakily. “Thank you,” she whispered softly to the sky, her voice trembling with gratitude.

Iskiel’s gaze swept the crowd until it found hers. His face lit up with a smile so pure it made her heart ache. Without hesitation, he swung off his horse, letting the reins drop. His smile grew wider as he held his arms open, his expression inviting and sure.