Chapter 395: The Aftermath Of The Pursuit
Sylvia’s heart raced as the mansion’s gatekeepers hurriedly opened the secure back entrance. Despite Drystan’s instructions for her to wait in her chamber, the noble lady’s overwhelming anxiety made her unable to remain idle.
Determined to seek news, Sylvia sought out the steward, Anryr. He informed her that the knights had gone on a search-and-rescue mission in the forest and that Anna and Kiev had been found. Noah had previously returned and went again with arranged transportation to bring them home. This news brought her a sense of relief.
"Are they the ones coming, Anryr?" Sylvia asked, not yet seeing any arrivals.
"Yes, of course. This secluded path is reserved for emergencies and is off-limits even to the royal guards. It has been open recently only for them," Anryr replied.
Sylvia nodded, anticipation building. Anryr then signalled a servant to notify Ayden and Clara of the knights’ return.
The assistant healer, who had fallen asleep in the treatment room the previous night after attending to Noah, had overslept and only just realised the knights had departed on their mission upon arriving at the backyard. He then went to retrieve the knightess, Clara, to administer her medication.
Though their relationship had grown strained, Ayden continued to attend to Clara professionally. Grateful for his care and wishing to avoid further tension, Clara accepted his assistance without objection.
Soon, the rescue party arrived in two carriages at the back entrance. The gatekeepers quickly closed and sealed the path as they went through, followed by the knights. The guards and gatekeepers then returned to their positions.
Kiev exited the first carriage, followed by Rafe. He then opened the other carriage and went inside. The Mederian Prince carefully lifted the unconscious Anna into his arms, taking her out. Callis and Jessy trailed behind, escorted by the knights, as they walked up to the mansion’s back door.
"Oh, my goodness! What happened to her?" Sylvia cried out in alarm, rushing to her friend’s side.
"Stay back! No one is to touch the lady until it is safe," Drystan warned. "The lingering effect of dark magic could be dangerous."