Erinnette stepped in calmly, followed by three girls—each still in their nightwear, hair slightly messy, eyes half-awake but alert.
Lithia, Meira, and Zania.
Despite their appearance, they bowed politely in unison.
"My Lord."
Garius observed them one by one.
"Good. All here."
His voice remained calm but carried an unwavering firmness.
"Why didn't any of you follow your masters?"
Lithia stepped forward slightly, bowing again.
"Master Marcellus said I should stay in the room and rest. He told me there was no need to follow tonight."
Marcellus looked to the side awkwardly, silent.
Meira fidgeted quietly, biting her lip.
Zania kept her head down, avoiding Garius's gaze altogether.
"…Stand behind your respective masters," Garius commanded.
The three moved without a word.
Lithia positioned herself behind Marcellus, hands folded neatly.
Meira moved behind Cedric, stealing fleeting glances at Zania.
