Of strength and weakness

Hushed objections buzzed like bees near their hive in the wake of Adela's departure from Ludwig's room in the infirmary. However, Adela was already facing another obstacle on her way to her impending march to Kolhis.

Her gaze locked onto Leopold as he entered the infirmary with Arkin by his side. She was halfway toward them when Mathew swiftly moved, positioning himself in her path.

It was predictable that the highest-ranking noble among the Knight's Order would be the first to voice his grievances. But what the knights saw as a mark of bravery, Adela viewed as blatant defiance at the worst possible moment.

An intense glare met Mathew's hesitation, and Adela's warning was palpable in her expression. She was not one to be trifled with under normal circumstances, but with her son missing, her men had better think twice before voicing their thoughts.