She emerged a short while later, completely transformed. The dark royal gown had been replaced by a plain, simple brown tunic and thick traveling leggings.
She had tied her striking silver-white hair back in a tight knot to avoid drawing unnecessary attention from passersby.
She watched me quietly as I finished preparing for the journey, checking the weight of my weapons and packing our basic supplies with practiced, military efficiency.
"I've gathered all the money," she informed me in a low voice, holding out the bulging leather pouches.
"And I've changed my clothes exactly as you instructed."
Our eyes met briefly before she quickly looked away, a faint, guilty blush creeping across her pale cheeks. "I... I know I've caused you immense pain and suffering," she said softly, her voice laced with deep regret.
"And I know that trust won't come easily after what happened. But I promise you, Landra, I will do everything within my power to assist you in finding your remaining family. I never intended for them to be destroyed like this."
Lilia hesitated at the doorway for a brief moment, then added in a pleading whisper, "And someday... if you ever change your mind... please save this country. At least save the innocent people trapped in it."
I simply listened to her speak, not saying a single word in response.
Then I grabbed our traveling cloaks, throwing one at her. "Let's go before more of his lapdogs show up. I don't like wasting my energy killing useless small fry."
As we walked down the dark, secluded pathway leading away from the cabin, I opened the leather pouches to check our funds.
The moment I peered inside, I was truly shocked.
Did royal guards actually get paid this much in the game's lore? There was a dazzling total of at least ten shining gold coins and a few silver coins nestled inside!