*Several Minutes Earlier*
The city guard Liam had sent to escort Elena galloped into the courtyard of the Avanclare estate. His horse's hooves clattered against the cobblestone, stirring the guards stationed at the gates.
"State your purpose!" one of the estate guards barked, stepping forward with a hand on his sword hilt.
The city guard didn't slow down, his voice urgent. "Stand aside! Lady Elena is with me!"
At the mention of Elena's name, the estate guards exchanged glances before stepping aside, their tension giving way to concern as they noticed the young girl clinging tightly to the guard, her face pale and streaked with dirt.
"Open the gates immediately!" one of the guards ordered, and the massive iron gates creaked open, allowing the rider to rush through.
The grand ballroom was alive with soft music and the chatter of nobles when the city guard burst in, his presence silencing the room. His disheveled appearance and the dirt-covered Elena drew gasps from the crowd.
