Inside were the Duke and Eldira. Unlike before, Eldira now wore elaborate attire befitting a noble lady as she addressed Sylas.
"Human, welcome."
Sylas noticed something strange in her pronunciation and looked at her. Her cheeks were swollen, suggesting someone had pinched her mercilessly.
"What are you staring at?!"
"Your cheeks."
"…You don't need to look there!"
Her already flushed cheeks grew even redder. Sylas smirked and looked at the Duke.
The Duke's face was calm, contrasting with the earlier look of fury.
"You seem quite lenient with your daughter," Sylas remarked.
"Do I?"
"If it were me, I'd have broken her legs."
"I considered it," replied the Duke. "She'll have more to answer for once we're home."
At the Duke's words, Eldira flinched. Unfazed, the Duke continued speaking to Sylas without breaking eye contact.
