Madeline
I knew what was coming the moment I set my foot in the great hall. Most of the castle's residents were gathered around the tables fairly groaning with food and drink. There were smiles on their faces but the air hung heavy with sandess. The drakness has been spreading through the kingdom slowly but relentlessly and even my mother, the Queen, had to admit that the long-hoped-for change wasn't coming and the letter, that came several weeks ago, was our only resort. I put on my best smile and joined the feast knowing it might be our last meal together.
The castle was quiet when I was dressing myself for the road. Nothing fancy, just some comfortable clothes that would keep me warm and wouldn't constrict my movements if anything were to happen. I was putting on the jacket when the door opened and my mother came in holding a sword that belonged to my late father. She didn't say anything... she couldn't say anything. Her eyes were red and full of tears while she was strapping the sword to my belt. As soon as she was done I gave her a quick peck on the cheek. "Love you", I muttered avoiding eye contact and stormed out of the room and down the stairs towards the black carriage waiting just for me. I knew I had to be brave, but my lips were already trembling...
