The courtyard did not return to what it had been before. The comfortable atmosphere had broken and became something of some sort of tense atmosphere.
Something thin had settled between us, like glass no one wanted to admit was there.
Maribel cleared her throat, louder this time, not polite so much as deliberate.
"Elias," she said, folding her arms, "we were considering going into town this afternoon. Though I imagine you would disapprove."
Nero perked up immediately.
[Ah. Negotiation phase.]
Elias did not answer at once. His gaze shifted to me first, assessing in that quiet way that felt more thorough than any physician.
"No," he said finally. "She needs to rest."
Predictable.
Maribel did not agree but continue.
"She has been resting," she replied. Calm. Stubborn. "You cannot keep her inside indefinitely."
Nero gasped.
[Resistance detected.]
Liora glanced at Maribel, not stopping her. That alone said enough.
Ophelia looked up suddenly, drawn by the shift in tone.
