Nearby, Garin, who had been observing the entire exchange with the other knights, elbowed Eli sharply in the side.
"You'd better go look after that girl. She's about to cry," he muttered.
"What am I supposed to do?" Eli retorted, scowling at his companion.
"How should I know? You're her escort! That's your job, kid!" the senior knight shot back, folding his arms.
Eli exhaled heavily, glancing around at the other knights, who were all staring at him with expectant, stern expressions.
"Fine!" the young knight grumbled through clenched teeth.
He reluctantly approached the Bargesian Princess, who now stood with her head lowered, shoulders trembling.
"Lady Athillia… Perhaps you should return to your chamber first," Eli said gently after a moment's hesitation.
"Get away from me!" Athillia suddenly shouted.
Crying, she turned and fled, running towards the courtyard, her sobs echoing faintly in the marble way.
