Thanks to Liora, the guards who had so rudely driven Fiona away earlier now stood pale-faced as she returned—this time with the daughter of their master by her side. Their rigid stance betrayed their unease. They fumbled to open the gate, bowing stiffly as Liora led Fiona inside by the hand.
Fiona glanced down at the warm grip on her fingers before raising her gaze to Liora's face. She could not quite understand why the daughter of the wealthiest merchant in the capital had been walking the streets unescorted, without even the slightest disguise, amidst such danger. But whatever the reason, it had worked in Fiona's favor. At the very least, she was now inside the Elvan estate.
"Please, wait here. I'll fetch a physician for you at once," Liora said gently.
