Ramón cursed the weather for it slowed them and stung their eyes. Even the horses felt the discomfort. Approaching noon, clouds covered the sun and the temperature dropped. Their cloaks were whipped about their bodies, providing hardly any warmth. Ramón welcomed the wild weather for it kept his mind from worries about Benae and the reception awaiting them. With luck the pigeons sent to announce their visit had reached Wildecoast but the king would not expect Benae to arrive accompanied only by him. There would be questions. Finally they reached the cliffs of Wildecoast and were within sight of the king’s seat, a lonely keep that sat atop a rocky hill overlooking the ocean. The town spread out around the castle and a high stone wall gave protection. They pushed their horses into a canter and soon reached the outer gates of the city. Kingdom soldiers were on guard in their red livery, the golden Zialni crest on their left breasts and on their shields. Ramón and Benae stopped, pulling down the scarves they had used to protect their faces.
