Bianca's face hardened with urgency, the sudden shift making Helena's stomach clench with worry.
"What's wrong? Has something happened?" Helena's eyes darted around their surroundings, searching for threats in the shadows.
"Don't interrupt me—just listen," Bianca cut her off, words tumbling out in a desperate rush. Time was running short, and she could sense their pursuers drawing closer.
"When I tell you to run, sprint toward that direction as fast as you can. Someone's waiting there for you. You'll be safe."
Her finger stabbed toward the village. Bianca couldn't accompany her mother—not in her condition. She'd remain here under the royal warriors' protection until Gideon arrived.
Helena couldn't be here during the fighting. Bianca knew her mother too well—she'd throw herself into danger trying to rescue Mordred.
Though Helena cherished Bianca above all else, Mordred remained her son. The past months had forged new bonds between them.
