The rain continued to lash against the windows, a relentless rhythm that matched the growing unease in Liliana's heart.
"It's raining so heavily," Liliana murmured, looking out at the gray sky. "I hope it stops tomorrow so we can move forward."
"I don't know much about Korellia's weather," Ria replied, checking their gear, "but a storm like this usually doesn't break quickly. It might last for three days."
"We can't stay here that long," Liliana said, her voice dropping to a whisper. "There's something wrong with these people, Ria."
"What do you mean?"
"They aren't just a simple Lord and his aide. Their poise, the way the servants treat them... even the way Keiran watches you. They are hiding something just as much as we are."
"I felt it too," Ria admitted. "I thought it was just my instincts being overactive. But if you see it too, then it's real."
"Staying here is a risk, but leaving abruptly would be rude and suspicious. We leave tomorrow morning, no matter what," Liliana decided.
The Next Morning: Breakfast
The atmosphere at the breakfast table was surprisingly light, at least on the surface.
"Lord Elias, thank you for your hospitality," Liliana began, setting down her cup. "But we would like to take our leave today."
Keiran, who was mid-bite, suddenly choked on his food. "Cough! Cough! Forgive me... but Lady, you want to leave now? In this? It's a deluge out there!"
"We do not wish to be a burden any longer," Ria added, her voice firm. "It is better if we continue our journey."
"Keiran is right," Elias said, leaning back in his chair. "I cannot let two women ride out into a storm like this. It would look as though I'm throwing you out into the mud. What would the people of Korellia think of me then? Besides, you aren't a burden at all. If the rain settles tomorrow, I won't stop you. But for today, stay."
Liliana and Ria exchanged a long, silent look. They were effectively trapped by politeness.
"Fine," Liliana sighed. "We shall stay one more day."
"Excellent." Elias wiped his mouth with a silk napkin. "Since we are stuck indoors, how shall we pass the time? Do you know how to play chess? I would be happy to teach you."
"No need for lessons," Liliana answered coolly. "I already know how to play."
Elias's eyes flickered with interest. "And you, Lady Ria?" Keiran asked.
"I know the rules," Ria said, "but I prefer more... active exercises. Swordplay, archery, or sparring. Sitting still isn't my strong suit."
"Your sister has quite unusual hobbies," Elias remarked to Liliana, a smirk playing on his lips.
"It's not just me," Ria countered, unable to resist a boast. "Lil can wield a sword just as well as anyone."
Elias's gaze sharpened as he turned back to Liliana. A merchant's daughter who could hunt, spar, and play chess? The pieces were starting to come together in his mind.
"I see... Then, Lady Lil, I challenge you to a game of chess. Let's see how you fare," Elias proposed.
"I accept," Liliana said.
"Lady Ria, Keiran, will you join us?" Elias asked.
"I'll just watch," Ria said, stepping behind Liliana's chair. "I want to see how this 'duel' unfolds."