Chapter 30: Hopes high

Eleanor, Lady Mariel, and Sir Cedric arrived at the palace in a tense silence, the weight of the previous events hanging heavily in the air. Sir Cedric led them quickly to the Royal hospital, where Lady Mariel was immediately attended to by the physicians.

"Treat them. The Prince commanded it," Sir Cedric instructed briskly, his gaze flicking to Lady Mariel. He paused only to glance at Eleanor, who still stood by the door, stiff with discomfort.

"Please, Lady Eleanor, lie down. You've been hurt too," Sir Cedric said, his voice softer than before, tinged with concern.

Eleanor shook her head. "I'm fine, Sir Cedric. Really. Lady Mariel is in much worse condition."

"The Prince will scold me if I don't ensure you're treated as well," Sir Cedric replied, his tone no-nonsense. "Please, Lady Eleanor. Lay down."