In a clinic close to the site of the attack, Leo leaned against the wall, staring at the floor. Lucian sat on a cushioned bench, his fingers drumming against the armrest, his face etched with concern.
Duke Alric sat beside him, his back stiff, his face stern.The only sound was the rhythmic tick of a pendulum clock. Alric had issued an emergency decree across the Caulem domain, rallying adventure guilds, soldiers, and vassal houses to scour the region for Vivien.
The patient room door opened, and a maid stepped out, her expression cautious as she faced the trio's intense gazes. "The Duchess is conscious," she said softly.
Alric rose, his voice steady but commanding. "Stay here, both of you. I'll speak with her." He walks into the room, the door closing with a soft click.
