"In that case, we'll take our leave, Princess Elina."
The two guards bowed respectfully to her.
Elina gave a small nod. "Very well, and thank you."
"You're welcome, Princess," they replied with courteous smiles.
With that, the two guards turned and left, leaving Elina alone at the door to Ragan's workspace.
"Huft..." Elina took a deep breath and was about to knock when Ragan's indifferent voice came from inside.
"Come in, Elina. The door's unlocked."
Elina was slightly surprised but said nothing. She slowly turned the doorknob and stepped inside.
She found her father standing with his back to her, gazing out the window at the sky.
Suppressing her anxiety, Elina quietly closed the door behind her and walked over to him.
"Good afternoon, Father," she greeted respectfully, tugging at the hem of her dress and bowing her head.
Ragan turned around, his indifferent expression softening slightly.
"You're looking more and more like your mother," he said.
