They approached the gates slowly, the lady now leaning so heavily on Mei's arm that the servant was practically carrying her. Each step was an act of pure will over flesh. The lady's vision blurred at the edges, dark spots blooming like ink in water, but she pushed forward.
When they finally reached the gate, Mei pressed the call button with her free hand.
Within moments, two gate guards appeared, their expressions shifting from routine alertness to cautious scrutiny.
"Yes? How may we help you?" The taller guard's eyes traveled from the women's faces down to their unusual attire and back again. Despite the odd hour and their disheveled appearance, something in their bearing commanded respect. The way they carried themselves, the calm despite obvious distress, these were not ordinary visitors.
"We need to see the mistress of the house." The lady's voice emerged hoarse but clear, each word carefully enunciated despite her exhaustion. "Tell her it's her mother seeking her."
