"Where is my daughter?!" Duchess Aveline's voice echoed through the marble halls of the Royal Hospital as she stormed in, her dress trailing dramatically behind her. Servants scattered out of her path, their eyes wide as they watched the fiery duchess make her entrance.
In one of the private rooms, Eleanor sat upright in bed, startled by the commotion. The door swung open, and before she could process what was happening, her mother was at her side.
"M-Mother?" Eleanor's voice trembled, caught between surprise and dread.
"Eleanor!" Duchess Aveline exclaimed, her face a mix of relief and anger. She cupped her daughter's face, examining her intently. "How are you? Are you hurt? That woman—how dare she lay a hand on you!"
Eleanor forced a small smile, her hand reaching up to steady her mother's trembling fingers. "I'm fine, Mother. Truly, there's no need to worry anymore."