Ronan arrived at the Ashbourne mansion just as the afternoon light began fading.
Lucia received him near the entrance.
She looked composed at first, but when she saw him properly, her expression shifted.
There was worry in her face. It was restrained, but it was still there.
"Young Master."
Her voice was softer than usual as she looked over his body. She had surely heard about the duel, and was looking for any injuries.
Ronan smiled easily.
"I'm fine, Lucia. The healers handled the worst of it."
She did not fully believe him. Her eyes lingered on the faint bruises still visible along his jaw, and the slight shift in the way he moved. But she did not press.
"Lord Vulcan is waiting."
Ronan nodded, and Lucia led him deeper into the estate.
The silence felt heavier than usual as the two of them walked down the corridor.
