Chapter 260 The words came quietly this time, but not from Nolan—from Eliza. She stopped Lucian and Hudson just as they were about to leave and asked, “And what about Isabelle and your son…?” OU% (+50) Lucian, already sweating through his collar, bowed quickly. “As soon as I return, I’ll have Isabelle’s contract delivered. I’ll also make Hudson write a dismissal letter to formally release her from his household. Traditionally, only wives received formal release letters, not concubines. But today? Today, convention could go to hell. Lucian was terrified–terrified that if he made even one more misstep, it wouldn’t just be Hudson who was ruined, but the entire Bradford family. Eliza arched a brow. Seeing how cooperative he was, she didn’t push it further. “Good. Just make sure it arrives promptly. I won’t wait forever.” Lucian let out a breath of relief, grabbed his son, and fled the scene as fast as dignity would allow. Once Nolan had dealt with the rest of the corrupt officials involved in Isabelle’s case, Eliza turned to him with a playful smile and said, “Thank you for standing up for me. I’ve got nothing to repay you with… except maybe praying for your good fortune every single day.” “I wouldn’t mind daily prayers from the Holy Lady,” Nolan teased, smiling faintly. Then, remembering something, he glanced at her and asked, “What about Isabelle? What are you planning to do with her?” Eliza leaned her chin on her hand and shrugged. “I haven’t decided.” She sighed. “Once her contract arrives, let her go. We’re not the same anymore, and we never will be.” But the moment the words left her mouth, a tear–choked voice called out behind her. “Liza…” Eliza turned. There, at the door, stood Isabelle–pale, teary–eyed, barely held back by two Black Flag guards. She didn’t try to come closer. She just stood there, looking utterly heartbroken. “You… You’re leaving me again?” Eliza froze for half a second–but then her face hardened. Her voice turned ice–cold. “Don’t make me sound like the heartless one. You do remember who betrayed whom, don’t you?” Isabelle opened her mouth, but no excuse came out. “I already told you I don’t hate you anymore,” Eliza cut her off, irritation flashing in her eyes. “How many times do I have to say it?” But Isabelle couldn’t believe that. She didn’t want Eliza to stop hating her. If Eliza still hated her, then at least she stil‘ mattered. She bit her tongue–literally–to stay sharp, to keep from crying harder. Then she forced herself to say, “Even so… this time, I owe you. You saved me and helped me get my contract back. That means… I’m yours now.” Both Nolan and Renee gave her a look. 1/3 Chapter 260 Eliza’s brows twitched. “What do you mean ‘yours‘? Don’t get ideas. I helped you on impulse. If it had been anyone else begging me that night, I still would’ve stepped in. This has nothing to do with you personally.” “But I have nowhere else to go…” Isabelle’s voice broke as tears slipped down her cheeks. “Liza, you’re all I have left.” Her voice dropped to a lethal whisper. “I may have saved you, but don’t forget–you’re also the one who tried to kill me. If I’m still willing to speak to you civilly, it’s only because you once saved me, too. But keep pushing, and all you’ll get is the side of me that remembers why I should hate you.” That hurt more than Isabelle expected. She had wanted Eliza to hate her, to care enough to be angry. But Eliza? She just wanted to be done. Isabelle’s shoulders drooped. “Alright then. I’ll go.” She looked at Eliza one last time… then let her eyes flick toward Nolan and Renee with a glint of something unreadable. Another one, she thought bitterly. But that’s fine. This isn’t over. Not long after Lucian returned, the contract and a hastily written release letter arrived. Eliza gave them to Isabelle, who left without another word. But not without a tail. Eliza sent Tina to follow. When Tina returned, Eliza asked, “Well?” … Read More “Than Your Daughter 260” »
Category: Than Your Daughter
The moment those words left Nolan’s mouth, Lucian scrambled to his feet, clutching the accounting ledger to his chest, and ran off to “handle things.” But while he left, a dozen trembling officials remained kneeling outside, not daring to move an inch. “Why are they still here?” Eliza asked, raising an eyebrow. Nolan replied casually, “Too noisy. I told them to kneel there until I’ve finished my business. Then I’ll deal with them.” His tone wasn’t loud, but just loud enough to drift to the doorway–where the trembling officials heard every single word. Several of them shivered even harder, cold sweat soaking their collars. If they’d known offending Nolan meant kneeling for hours with death hanging over their heads, they’d never have let Lucian drag them into this. “Quick–go get Mr. Jenson Pearson! If he doesn’t come plead for us, we’re all dead!” someone whispered in a panic. Soon enough, Jenson did arrive–but not for them. “Your Grace. Your Highness,” Jenson greeted with a glowing smile, walking right past the shivering men at the door without a glance and stopping before Eliza to bow. Eliza smiled lightly. “No need for formalities. Please, rise.” Nolan said nothing, so Eliza gestured invitingly. “Come, have a seat. You wouldn’t happen to be here to plead for anyone, would you?” She said it half–jokingly. Jenson quickly waved his hands. “No, no–nothing gratitude.” of the sort. I’m not here to plead. I’m here to present a small token of At his signal, servants came in carrying large baskets–basket after basket of something earthy and fragrant. At first glance, Eliza thought it was medicinal herbs. But on closer inspection, she realized they were actually seeds and seedlings. Jenson explained, “We owe you so much, Your Grace. If not for your prayers, the rains wouldn’t have come and saved Plutonville. I’ve long wanted to thank you, but things have been so chaotic. Once I heard you’d be passing through again, I quickly gathered what I could.” He motioned for the servants to place the baskets at her feet. “Please forgive the imposition,” he added with a nervous smile. “I didn’t know what you might like, but I heard you enjoy growing medicinal herbs. So I collected every species grown in Plutonville, seeds and seedlings both. I hope… they suit your taste?” Eliza raised an eyebrow. “This is starting to look like a bribe.” Jenson panicked. “No! Absolutely not. Most of this didn’t even come from me. After word got out that Your Grace likes to grow herbs, the people of Plutonville began donating what they had. I merely delivered them on their behalf.” That changed ev The teasing smile faded. Eliza stood and walked over, examining the gifts basket by basket. When she finally turned back, her expression was sincere. “These are wonderful. Please tell everyone–I’ll take great care of them.“Jenson’s face lit up. “As long as you’re pleased!” 1/3 09:20 Mon, 21 Apr Chapter 259 Jenson’s face lit up. “As long as you’re pleased!” 80% He’d been worried the information he received was wrong. Growing herbs? It seemed so… unorthodox. But clearly, he’d chosen well. He thought to himself, “She grows herbs… and studies medicine. Truly a kind–hearted soul.” What he didn’t know was that Eliza didn’t just grow herbs–she also cultivated poison. Once the gifts were delivered, Jenson didn’t even look at the officials at the door, who were now trying to signal him with increasingly desperate glances. He offered his farewells and left cleanly. The ones left behind? Still kneeling. Still frozen. Not a soul dared to stand. Even the slightest movement would earn them a cold, soul–crushing glance from Nolan–and none of them could withstand that kind of pressure. It was only after Nolan finished reviewing every account and secured a tidy fifty million dollars in “military compensation” from the Bradford family that the matter was declared “resolved.” Well–mostly resolved. Hudson, dragged back out in the end, looked like a bloated corpse. He’d passed out hours ago from the pain. And no one dared treat him. Without Nolan’s word, even applying a bandage would’ve been courting death. They let him bleed, kept him barely alive, only treating him when he was seconds from dying. Just enough to keep him breathing. The Bradford family was furious, but they didn’t dare say a word. After all, Hudson had tried to force Eliza in the street. Anyone who wasn’t utterly stupid knew this punishment was getting off easy. Lucian was just about to drag his broken son home when Nolan’s voice rang out again: Lucian froze. He shoved Hudson back down and dropped to his knees once more. “Your Highness… is there still something else?” Hudson, who had already been beaten into a pile of meat, was trembling so violently his fat was quivering. Nolan sat at the table, his fingers idly tapping the armrest. His gaze was flat as a blade. “You,” he said, pointing at Hudson. “Come here.” Hudson nearly fainted. … Read More “Than Your Daughter 259” »
Chapter 258 As soon as they returned to the inn, Nolan practically shoved Eliza through her door and said sternly, “Get in there and sleep. Now. You’ve barely recovered–what do you want, a relapse?” “Alright, alright, I’m going!” Eliza didn’t dare argue. 51% After everything that had happened tonight, she was honestly exhausted. The moment she stepped inside her room, her limbs started to go heavy with fatigue. Just as she was about to close the door, she paused and asked, “What about those two downstairs…?” “I’ll handle them.” Nolan reached out to gently smooth her hair, then pulled his hand back quickly and added, “Go to bed. Tomorrow you rest. We’ll leave for Hasen City the day after.” +5 They had originally planned to depart in the morning, but tonight had clearly thrown that out the window. Nolan made the call without hesitation–and Eliza, happy to sleep in another day, had no complaints. Once inside, she changed clothes, collapsed into bed, and slept straight through until noon. Meanwhile, Hudson–now one hand short–had been tossed into the firewood shed like a sack of trash. The next day, Eliza was woken by a loud gurgle in her stomach. She blinked up at the ceiling, dazed. “I’m starving.” “You should’ve gotten up sooner to eat,” Tina said, appearing at the door. Eliza dragged herself upright, sore and sluggish. A sharp chill lingered in the air as she began dressing. “What time is it?” “Just past noon,” Tina replied. “No wonder I’m so hungry.” Eliza finished dressing, smoothed out the bedsheets with practiced efficiency–and right on cue, there was a knock at the door. Eliza immediately understood. “Renee? Let her in.” Tina opened the door, revealing a freshly dressed Renee holding a basin of steaming water. She peered inside, eyes sparkling with anticipation. “Your Grace! You’re awake! I brought your wash water!” “I am. Perfect timing–I was just about to go get some myself,” Eliza said, accepting the basin with a smile. As she washed up, Renee lingered nearby and asked nervously, “Your Grace… may I stay by your side? As your maid?” “You can stay with me,” Eliza said, still smiling. “But you don’t need to be my maid to do that.” Renee shook her head stubbornly. “I want to. You saved my life and took me in. I have nothing else to repay you with. If you’d let me serve you–cooking, cleaning, anything–I may not be as good as a proper housemaid right now, but I’ll learn. I swear, I’ll become the best maid you’ve ever had.” Eliza looked at her determined little face and found it hard to refuse. “Alright then. You can give it a try. But since I’ve taken vows, I don’t believe in master–servant ties. No contracts. If you ever want to leave, you’re free to go.” Renee looked a little disappointed at the “no contract” part. If she had one, she’d officially belong to Eliza. She could follow 1/3 15.24 Sun, 20 Apr Chapter 258 her forever. But Eliza wouldn’t bind her. 251% Still, she buried her disappointment quickly. Even without a contract, she’d stay by Eliza’s side–until she truly became “hers.” Renee beamed at the thought, then busied herself around the room, determined to take over every single chore Eliza might need help with. When Eliza finally came downstairs, she had a shadow trailing behind her. Nolan was already seated in the main hall, surrounded by a mountain of account ledgers. At the door, a whole group of people were kneeling quietly. He looked up at the sound of her footsteps. “Awake? Good. Come eat. I had them keep your meal warm.” He looked up at the sound of her footsteps. “Awake? Good. Come eat. I had them keep your meal warm.” “Thanks.” Eliza sat down, and steaming plates were brought in immediately. Since she was the only one who hadn’t eaten, everything was placed before her–and she didn’t waste a second. While Eliza ate, Renee stood at her side, dutifully filling her bowl. There were only three dishes, but that was by design. Nolan knew she didn’t like waste, so he only had her three favorite dishes prepared. In no time, the food vanished. Then, Renee handed her a cup of coffee–quickly brewed from boiled water. The flavor was a little off, but Eliza didn’t say a word. She could feel Renee’s tension, so she simply patted her hand. “Don’t worry. These little things take time. You’ll of it.” get the hang She’d experienced both extremes in her life–being served by a dozen maids, and doing everything alone. In truth, she didn’t really care. But Renee did. That girl had set her own bar sky–high. Eliza finally looked up from her cup and gestured toward the kneeling crowd. “Bradford’s people?” Nolan nodded. “Not just them. Some local officials too.” “Officials?” Eliza raised a brow. “What are they here for?” “To plead for mercy,” Nolan said, his voice coated with disdain. … Read More “Than Your Daughter 258” »
Chapter 257 It started with one shout, and within moments, the rest followed. A wave of people dropped to their knees, heads bowed in unison. The streets echoed with the same cry, “Greetings, Your Grace!” 351%© +5 Eliza paused. “This woman is badly injured,” she said, her voice calm but resolute. “I cannot stand by and do nothing. I’ll be taking her back to the inn to treat her wounds. If your young master wants her, he’s welcome to come find me later.” “Strip her. Let Mr. Bradford have a good look.” “Yes, ma’am!” Not a single guard dared question her. Instead, they scrambled aside to clear the way, eyes shining with awe. Seeing their obedience, Eliza motioned for Tina to help lift Isabelle. She turned, just about to leave–when a wheezing, panting voice called from behind. “Stop right there!” Hudson Bradford came waddling after them, red–faced and gasping, jabbing a fat finger toward the scene. “You useless pigs! Why the hell are you all kneeling?! Get up and grab her!” But the guards remained on their knees, silent. By the time Hudson and his steward caught up, he squinted toward Eliza. When her face came into focus, his eyes lit up with unrestrained lust. “Well, well, didn’t expect this little whore to have such a pretty savior,” he said, leering. “Now that’s what I call a woman. Don’t just stand there–grab her too!” The kneeling guards all looked up at once, their glares sharp enough to cut glass. The steward, drenched in cold sweat, leaned in and whispered frantically, “Sir, I–I think that’s the Holy Lady…” Apparently, he had seen Eliza before. One glimpse, and his eyes had gone wide with horror. “Holy Lady? What Holy Lady?” Hudson snorted. “All I see is a beautiful woman.” “Mr. Bradford, please–you mustn’t speak to her like that,” the steward nearly begged. Hudson had been living in a haze of comfort and debauchery during the drought in Plutonville. While others suffered, he lay on a mountain of silken pillows in his ice room, surrounded by women, refusing to step foot outside. He hadn’t even heard of the Holy Lady’s arrival, let alone what she’d done. But the steward knew. And now that he realized who this woman was, he was desperate to avoid disaster. He subtly signaled to the other servants to go fetch Mr. Bradford Sr. at once. “No!” Hudson’s jowls quivered with rage. “A beauty like this falls into my lap, and you want me to walk away? Get them! Grab both of them! Or I swear I’ll have your heads chopped off!” “Sir, please! That’s Her Grace, the Holy Lady of Walden, personally appointed by His Majesty himself!” Hudson rolled his eyes. “Don’t give me that crap. I’ve never even heard of a Holy Lady of Bortenland.” The Bradfords ran Plutonville like their private fiefdom. Hudson in particular had always gotten whatever–and whoever- he wanted. When he asked for a noble lady from Hasen City as a concubine, his father bought him one. Isabelle had turned out to be a disappointment–bastard–born and average–looking–and had the nerve to resist him. 1/3 15:24 Sun, 20 Apr N N Chapter 257 But now, this woman… Hudson’s gaze devoured Eliza. “This is the kind of woman worthy of me,” he purred. 51% He slicked back his greasy hair, puffed out his chest, and smirked at her. “Saving Isabelle in the dead of night… what are you, her friend?” He licked his lips. “I’ll make you a deal. Serve me in her place, and I’ll let her go. How about that?” Eliza didn’t even glance at him. She reached out to steady Isabelle, leaving Tina’s hands free. Hudson’s face twisted with rage. “You dare ignore me? Fine, let’s see how long that smug face lasts. Useless pigs, why are you still kneeling?! Want me to start chopping off heads?!” He kicked one of the guards square in the chest, then shouted, “If you don’t bring me that woman, I’ll have every one of you executed!” “I don’t want others. I want her. Hudson stomped his foot, his flab jiggling violently. At last, under Hudson’s relentless threats, the guards began to rise to their feet. Eliza simply smiled. “Do what you must,” she said lightly. “It’s your job, after all.” Whether they could live with the consequences–well, that was another matter. Tina stepped forward, unsheathing her sword in one smooth motion. Her masked gaze swept over the guards and finally locked onto the bloated man behind them. “Cut the snake by striking the head,” she said coldly. As she readied to strike… “Get them! I said grab them!” Hudson’s shrill command rang out just as a flash of silver tore through the air. A blade came flying and with a sickening chop, severed the hand he’d been pointing with. “Sir!” … Read More “Than Your Daughter 257” »
Chapter 256 “After them don’t let them get away!” “I don’t care if you have to turn all of Plutonville upside down–find those woment Overnight, the entire city was thrown into chaos. 451%8 Rumor had it the concubine Hudson Bradford had just brought home had run off. So in the dead of night, guards from the powerful Bradford family could be seen scouring every alley and street corner, Eliza and Isabelle were running as fast as they could, but they couldn’t outrun the sheer number of pursuers. As the sound of boots and shouting drew nearer, Eliza grabbed Isabelle and ducked into a narrow alleyway, “Clear up front, nothing behind either.” “Search it all. Mr. Bradford gave the order–bring them back no matter what. If they resist, beat them within an inch of their lives.” The guards fanned out immediately. Eliza crouched behind a stack of crates, peeking out just far enough to monitor the situation. No one had come their way- yet. She exhaled silently, heart still pounding. If Tina hadn’t drawn most of the Bradford men away earlier, they wouldn’t have made it this far. Even now, plenty of guards were still hunting Isabelle. They could only hide and pray Tina returned soon–because at this rate, it wouldn’t be long before someone found them. “Liza…” Isabelle coughed weakly, clutching her mouth to stifle the sound. “You actually came back for me… She collapsed against the alley wall, exhausted and bruised from head to toe. Her legs could barely keep her upright after the chase. “Don’t overthink it,” Eliza replied, her eyes still locked on the alley’s entrance. “I just couldn’t stand seeing the Bradford dogs swaggering around like kings. If Hudson had just killed you outright, I wouldn’t have lifted a finger.” Isabelle managed a breathless laugh. “So you did hear me crying for help. And you did care enough to come.” “Alright…” Isabelle coughed again, harder this time. And then… Eliza smelled it. Blood. She whipped around. Under the dim alley light, she saw Isabelle’s hand trembling–drenched in crimson. Eliza’s expression darkened. She seized Isabelle’s wrist, fingers flying to her pulse. She doubled over, coughing another mouthful of blood. Isabelle wheezed out a laugh. “So cruel… I thought nuns were supposed to be merciful. Serenity, how did you turn out so mean?” Her tone was scathing. Her movements rough as she began applying medicine to Isabelle’s wounds with all the gentleness of a hammer. Isabelle gritted her teeth, face slick with sweat from the pain—but she didn’t complain. She knew Eliza was angry. Maybe because of what she’d said just now… or maybe because of everything in the past. 1/3 15:24 Sun, 20 Apr NN Chapter 256 She kept her silence, quietly watching Eliza work. Once Eliza had finished dressing the wounds, she frowned. “Where’s your maid? I haven’t seen her.” “Dead,” Isabelle said flatly. Eliza’s eyes narrowed. “Dead?” 51% “The night I was delivered to the Bradford estate… Hudson tried to force himself on me. Aria stepped in to protect me. He beat her to death.” Her voice was calm. Too calm. Like it didn’t matter anymore. Eliza stared at her for a long second, but said nothing. Just then–footsteps. Loud. Fast. Headed straight into the alley. Eliza tensed, eyes flicking toward the entr. 97 “There’s another alley here–search it!” The Bradford guards were getting closer. Before Eliza could move, Isabelle suddenly spoke. “Liza… I can’t run anymore. But you c for me. You really did. That’s enough. I won’t drag you down with me.” And before Eliza could stop her–Isabelle stood up and ran. “What was that?” “Wait–stop right there!” … Read More “Than Your Daughter 256” »
Chapter 255 In the pitch–dark courtyard behind the Bradford estate, several servants circled around Isabelle, torches flickering as they lit the scene. She’d tried to run again, but they’d dragged her back, and now she knelt at the center, bruised, bleeding, and barely able to stay upright. Hudson Bradford, their young master, was hurling insults at her as if she’d just cost him everything. “You little whore. You think you’re still some highborn lady?” he growled, jabbing a pudgy finger into her forehead. His voice was thick with rage, his face flushed. “You’re nothing but a bastard. A side–branch scrap from the Henderson family. You know how much your precious father sold you for? Ten thousand dollars. Ten thousand! You think your sorry face is worth that much? Don’t flatter yourself. A top courtesan’s worth more than you.” Isabelle clenched her teeth, then forced herself to lift her head. Pain throbbed through every bone, but her eyes burned with defiance. It lasted only a second. Then she dropped her gaze, forced a trembling smile onto her bloody lips, and rasped, “Hudson, if I’m such a disappointment, why bother forcing yourself on me? Think you overpaid? Go get your refund from dear old Father. Or better yet–try buying my legitimate sister. She’s the real lady, isn’t she?” Hudson let out a snort, face twitching. “Oh, I’d love to. But she’s a proper noblewoman. I’m not exactly worthy.” His words might’ve been dismissive, but the way his eyes gleamed made it clear–he wanted her too. He just didn’t dare. Marrying off a bastard daughter to curry favor with the Chancellor? Easy decision. But no one had expected Isabelle to fight back–let alone try to run. Now Hudson’s pride was bruised, and he wanted blood. “I’ll give you one last chance,” he sneered, his thick lips curling. “Serve me tonight, and maybe I’ll let you live. Otherwise- Before he could finish, Isabelle spat in his face–blood and all. She let out a wild, broken laugh. “Kill me if you want, you fat pig. I’ll never touch you. Never.” “Whore!” Hudson roared, his body shaking with fury. “Then die!” At his command, the servants raised their clubs and brought them crashing down. Blow after blow landed on Isabelle’s body. Her bones screamed. Her vision blurred. Blood ran down her face, yet she never begged. She bit down and endured, each hit feeding her resolve. “Serenity, should I step in?” Eliza didn’t answer. She simply watched. The beating only stopped when Hudson’s steward stepped forward, voice low and cautious. “Sir… that’s enough. She’s still Fletcher’s daughter. If she dies, it’ll be hard to explain.” Hudson spat again on Isabelle’s broken form. “Lucky bitch. I’ll let you live–for now.” The servants lowered their clubs. Eliza, finally, shifted her gaze. “Let’s go, she murmured to Tina. “She won’t die. Our work here is done.” She turned to leave. She wasn’t here to save anyone. She’d taken vows, learned medicine–her only intention had been to prevent a death. But now, as she took her first step away. He crouched beside Isabelle and brushed a sweaty hand over her cheek. “You won’t serve me? Then serve them. My boys deserve a reward for dragging your sorry ass back.” 1/2 94% +58 Chapter 255 One of the servants grinned and bowed. “Much obliged, Mr. Bradford.” Isabelle’s heart stilled. Her blood ran cold. “You wouldn’t dare,” she whispered. “I own you,” Hudson said. “I’ll do whatever I damn well please.” The servants chuckled as they closed in. “First time with a noble lady. What a treat.” “Please,” Isabelle gasped. “Don’t.” “Strip her. Let Mr. Bradford have a good look.” They lunged. She screamed, kicked, fought–but she was too weak. Their hands grabbed at her clothes, clawing and tearing. Then–just as they were about to rip the last of her dignity away, every torch around them died at once, plunging the courtyard into darkness. “What the hell?!” Hudson roared. “Who put out the lights?! Get them lit–now!” No one moved. Then came the thuds. Grunts. Cries of pain. Hudson’s steward collapsed. Another servant fell, then another. Hudson backed away. “Who’s there?! Who dares—” A brutal kick struck his back. His body lifted off the ground and slammed into the dirt with a grotesque thud. He screamed like a dying hog. Isabelle lay still, bloodied, broken. But she waited. Then–fingers found her wrist. A low voice whispered, “Come on.” The voice was disguised, softened. But Isabelle knew it instantly. Even half–dead, even in the dark–she knew. Letting herself be pulled up, she limped forward, pain screaming with every step. But she didn’t stop. They ran through the shadows, the flames in the distance growing closer with each step. … Read More “Than Your Daughter 255” »
Chapter 254 94% 658 The moment Eliza sensed someone enter her room, she didn’t rush out. Instead, she stayed hidden within her pocket farm, listening quietly for any signs of trouble. Tina was right outside. If the intruder meant harm, they’d be dealt with before they took a second breath. But oddly enough, Eliza waited a good while… and heard nothing. No struggle, No sound of resistance, “Strange…” she murmured. “Could it be someone I know?” The room remained still–until suddenly, a lamp flared to life. The flickering flame lit the darkness… and exposed the uninvited guest. “Renee?” Eliza sat up in surprise as she spotted the figure huddled in the corner. “What are you doing here?” The girl who had been left in Kane’s care was now in her room. Renee’s voice trembled. “I… I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to disturb you, I just didn’t want to stay with Mr. Valencia, so I snuck away. I came to find you.” But that wasn’t what shocked Eliza most. Her eyes narrowed. “How did you get past the guards downstairs?” Nolan had stationed Black Flag soldiers outside. They rotated shifts through the night–yet Renee had slipped in unseen? A chill crept through Eliza’s spine. Could this girl be more than she seemed? As if reading her suspicion, Renee quickly stammered, “Please don’t be scared. I swear I don’t know any tricks. I’ve just always been… well, invisible. If I keep quiet and control my breathing, people don’t notice me.” It was how she’d escaped the county magistrate in Caslig County–just staying small and unnoticed. Eliza raised an eyebrow. “Is that so?” Renee nodded eagerly. “I can show you! Just turn around. Then look back again.” Curiosity piqued, Eliza humored her. She turned away… waited a beat… then looked back. “Renee?” she called. “I’m here” Renee’s voice came from right beside her. Eliza flinched in alarm as the girl reached out and tapped her shoulder. Renee had pulled up her hood and wrapped her face in cloth, blending into the shadows so well she was practically invisible. If she hadn’t spoken, Eliza wouldn’t have noticed her at all. Tina raised an eyebrow. “Not bad.” Coming from Tina, that meant a lot. “But,” Tina added flatly, “to a shadow guard, this is child’s play. Still, she was born with it–no training. That’s rare.” Tina didn’t say the rest aloud, but Eliza heard the implication anyway. って 4.念 94% (+58) Chapter 254 This girl… was made for the shadows. Renee, hearing only the compliment, puffed her chest up with pride. Eliza couldn’t help but laugh. “Alright, Miss Sneaky, you’ve got some talent. But why sneak in here?” Rence bit her lip and looked down. “I didn’t like the way they looked at me.” Eliza blinked. “What kind of look? Didn’t Kane take proper care of you?” “He did,” Renee said quickly. “He gave me a place to stay, even apologized. But their eyes…” She paused. “They all looked at me like I was some pitiful thing. Even Mr. Valencia.” Eliza’s gaze softened. Renee had learned the truth about Seth. After everything she’d endured, the girl was raw, sensitive to every emotion–every glance. Pity. Disgust. Blame. She saw it all. And she hated it. “That’s why I left,” Renee continued. “I couldn’t stay there anymore. I didn’t know where else to go. But I remembered your eyes, the day you saved me… you didn’t look at me like that. You didn’t see a burden. You looked like you cared.” She lowered her voice. “So I ran. I chased after you for two whole days and nights until I finally made it to Plutonville. I was scared I wouldn’t be let in, so I slipped inside.” “I didn’t mean to wake you. If I’d known, I would’ve waited outside until morning.” Eliza looked at her for a long moment before finally sighing. “Alright,” she said. “If you don’t mind living simply, then you can stay with me for now. Once we return to Hasen City, I’ll be going back to the nunnery. Life there is quiet. Plain. You might not be used to it.” But Renee’s face lit up with joy. “I don’t mind at all! I can live anywhere, eat anything, do any chore. I just want to stay with you.” Eliza smiled. “Alright then-” … Read More “Than Your Daughter 254” »
Chapter 253 94%1 +58) Half an hour later, Eliza and the rest resumed their journey. The road ahead was smooth, and in just two days, the convoy arrived back at Plutonville, stopping once again at the same rest point they had used before. After dinner with Nolan, Eliza returned to her room, planning to finally get some proper sleep. She had just laid down when she suddenly bolted upright. “Oh my God–I completely forgot about him!” Without another word, she rushed into her pocket farm. It had been days since she last thought about Dylan–the poor man she’d drugged and tossed into the pocket farm’s attic like some inconvenient luggage. She finally remembered. As she stepped into the attic, she saw Dylan sitting idly inside the iron cage, so bored he was literally playing with his own fingers. He had no way to get out, and no one to talk to. If not for the unknown potion she’d stuffed him with, which left him strangely full, he might’ve starved to death days ago. At the sound of movement, Dylan immediately looked up from his corner. When he saw Eliza approaching, his eyes lit up. “Eliza? It’s you? You’re the one who locked me in here? Is this your secret base or something?” Dylan had spent the first few days fantasizing about catching whoever locked him up and giving them a beating they wouldn’t forget. But now that the culprit turned out to be Eliza, all of that indignation vanished into thin air. She narrowed her eyes and asked coldly, “Do you remember who drugged you?” Dylan’s expression darkened instantly. “It was Anthony. I know exactly what he was trying to do.” Just because he refused to go along with their plan to manipulate Eliza, they had drugged him by force. Even though he’d run away from home, they were still brothers–nearly twenty years of blood ties–and this was how they repaid him? Disappointment simmered in Dylan’s chest like a slow–burning fire. He glanced at Eliza nervously, afraid she might think less of him because of this. “Eliza, I swear, I’ll never stand with them again.” She gave him a brief look, then turned away, her face unreadable. Seeing her so calm and distant, Dylan panicked. “I mean it! I know I was stupid before–listening to all their lies–but I’ve figured things out now. I swear I have.” Eliza asked coolly, “Do you remember anything that happened while you were drugged?” “I do,” Dylan nodded. “It’s a bit fuzzy, but if I really think about it, I can recall most of it.” Dylan’s face turned an ugly shade. “So they were really trying to turn me into an idiot?” In no time, Eliza had finished mixing a bowl of medicinal broth and walked over to the cage. “This will help your brain recover. Drink it if you want. If you don’t-” 1/3 94% 58) Chapter 253 Before she could even finish the sentence, Dylan reached through the bars and grabbed the bowl. “I’ll drink it, I’ll drink it!” The last thing he wanted was to turn into a fool–Eliza already barely tolerated him. If he lost his mind completely, she’d probably never even look at him again. Eliza raised an eyebrow, then turned back to mix a second bowl. As she worked, she asked casually, “So… do you still want to go back?” Dylan didn’t hesitate. He shook his head firmly. “I told you–I’ll go wherever you go. “You don’t need to rush into that decision,” Eliza said. “This could be your chance to return to the Stonor family. All you have to do is pretend you’re still drugged. Act like you’ve lost your memory, and they’ll welcome you back with open arms.” Dylan slammed a fist into the wooden board inside the cage, his voice hard and low. “I can’t. I won’t. I don’t want to go back. I just want to stay with you.” Eliza sneered. “And what’s so good about staying with me?” Dylan looked at her earnestly. “It’s good because it’s you.” His voice caught slightly. “Please, Eliza–don’t make me leave. If you don’t want me bothering you, I’ll stay at the foot of the mountain. I won’t come near without your permission. I swear.” He still thought they were back at Saint Grace Nunnery. He had no idea Eliza had already taken him to Plutonville and Noganlul. Eliza glanced at him again, then said quietly, “Fine. Do what you want. But one thing, Lord Dylan—” “Yes?” he asked eagerly. “Don’t call me Eliza.” Dylan froze. She looked at him coolly and added, “I’m no longer the Lady Eliza of the Stonor family.” He paused, then asked hesitantly, “Can I… call you Liza?” “No,” she snapped. Without another word, she shoved the second bowl of medicine into his hands. … Read More “Than Your Daughter 253” »
The moment the words left Nolan’s mouth, Eliza fell silent.. 念94% (+58) She stared at Renee, a complicated look clouding her expression. No one had expected it–but this frail girl in front of her… was Seth’s sister. But here she was. Alive. Just barely, Eliza asked softly, “Have you been hiding this whole time?” From the look on Renee’s face, it was clear she didn’t know that Seth had already returned. Sure enough, Renee nodded. “You guessed right again.” She offered a weak smile, but the pain on her thin, hollow face quickly broke through. Maybe it was because Eliza had just saved her, but in this moment, Renee let her guard down and started to speak–slowly at first, then pouring it all out. “I was captured,” she whispered. “I refused to obey him, so he locked me up. No food. No water. I was starving–I had to eat dirt just to stay alive. My stomach’s been aching ever since.” She clenched her fists, swallowing hard against the memory. “Eventually, they let me out, and I ran. But when I got home… my parents were already dead.” Her voice cracked. “And those people… they kept looking for me. I couldn’t go back. I hid wherever I could. Now and then I’d hear things. About the plague. About how bad it was here in Caslig County. I didn’t dare come out.” She blinked back tears. “But then I heard Holy Lady was coming… that you would pray for us and drive the sickness away. I was scared I might already be infected, so I snuck out to see you. But before I could even reach you, someone showed up–bad people. So I ran again.” Eliza instantly understood. The “bad people” Renee mentioned were likely the same local enforcers Kane had stationed to keep order. It was entirely possible that one of them had taken part in what happened to Renee’s family. She must have recognized someone. Renee went on, her voice small and trembling. “I was hiding so long… I hadn’t eaten in days. My stomach hurt so much, I thought I’d die. I really thought I wouldn’t make it. But then I saw you…” She looked down at the little bottle of medicine she clutched in her hands. “Maybe it’s what you gave me, but the pain–it’s gone. My belly feels warm. I feel… better.” Her eyes were wide with gratitude. She looked at Eliza as if she were a divine miracle. “Don’t worry,” she said earnestly. “Seth’s been living in Plutonville–he’s strong. He’s always protected me. Once I find him, I’ll tell him what you did. We’ll find a way to repay you, I swear it.” Eliza looked at the girl’s hopeful smile and didn’t know how to respond. After a moment’s hesitation, she finally asked, “Rence… do you have any other family? Anyone besides Seth?” Renee shook her head. “No. My mom once told me that we fled to Noganlul as refugees. Whatever relatives we used to have, they’re gone. It’s just been the four of us.” But now, of course, she was the only one left. Eliza’s chest tightened. She gently took Rence by the arm and led her back to the carriage. “Wait here for me, alright? I won’t be long.” 94% (+58) Chapter 252 Then she walked off with Nolan, stopping a short distance away. Even after they were well out of earshot, Eliza lowered her voice as if the weight of the words themselves demanded silence. “She can’t stay here.” Her tone was firm, but heavy with sorrow. “She was kidnapped,” Eliza continued. “Even if nothing happened to her, her reputation is ruined. And with everything that happened here–her brother killing the county magistrate, the outbreak that followed… it doesn’t matter that it wasn’t her fault. People will still blame her.” She glanced back toward the carriage. “Someone will say it was because of her that her parents died. That Seth died. That half the city died. They won’t care about the truth. They’ll need someone to hate.” Nolan’s jaw tightened. “She can’t go to Plutonville either. Seth’s gone. And if she goes alone, who will take her in?” There was a pause. “Leave her to Kane,” Nolan said finally, his voice cold with purpose. “This is his territory. His men failed to protect her. This happened on his watch. He should be the one to make it right.” Eliza turned, eyes lingering on Renee. She knew Nolan was right. It was the best–and only–option they had. After a long breath, she nodded. “Alright. We’ll leave her to Kane.”
Eliza had no idea what kind of chaos was unfolding within the Stonor family at that very moment. They didn’t depart until the last of the infected had recovered and the epidemic across Noganlul was fully under control. As they prepared to leave, Kane personally came to see them off, finally finding a free moment after being swamped with logistics for days. “Your Grace, don’t forget those two shipments of medicine I ordered!” Kane reminded eagerly. Eliza chuckled. “Don’t worry–1 haven’t forgotten.” The carriage slowly began to roll out of the county gates. Exhausted from the past several days, Eliza turned away from the view and was about to lower the curtain to get some rest. But just as her gaze swept over the distant burial site near the road, something caught her eye. There, among the ash–gray remnants of the mass grave, lay a body. Eliza’s first thought was that it must be another poor soul who didn’t survive and had just been brought out for burning. But the next second, the “corpse” moved–barely, but unmistakably. Her heart jolted. But when she looked again, there was no more movement. ‘Am I just seeing things?‘ she wondered. Maybe she was too exhausted–maybe she was hallucinating. Still, the nagging feeling wouldn’t go away. As the carriage drove farther, Eliza couldn’t help but glance back. This time, what she saw made her heart skip a beat. “Wait–stop the carriage! Stop right now!” she shouted. That wasn’t a corpse. It was someone alive. Certain of what she’d seen, she grabbed her medical case, jumped down from the carriage, and ran toward the mass grave. Nolan, already sensing something was wrong, had spurred his horse forward ahead of her. After confirming there was no immediate danger, he waved her over. “She’s just a little girl,” Eliza said as she knelt beside the frail figure. “How is she this thin?” Up close, Eliza saw that the girl lying there was gaunt to the point of deformity–nothing but skin and bone, caked in grime and blood, with dried vomit around her lips. Eliza immediately donned her mask and began a meticulous examination. One thing after another, she ruled out every sign of the plague. Her diagnosis shocked even herself–she wasn’t sick. She was starving. Eliza glanced at the girl’s tattered clothes and suddenly understood. She uncorked a small bottle of diluted spirit water and gently trickled a few drops into the girl’s mouth. Within moments, the girl stirred. “Hurts… it hurts so much… my stomach… she moaned softly at first, curling up. But then, oddly, the pain began to ease. Realizing something was different, the girl slowly blinked her eyes open and looked up at the two figures besida ha- 1/3 94%0 Chapter 251 “Where am I?” she asked weakly. “Who are you?” The girl’s eyes settled on Eliza’s face. She was quiet for a moment, then asked, “Are you the Holy Lady?” The moment the words left her mouth, she tried to sit up–but her body couldn’t follow. She coughed violently and vomited blood before collapsing again, pale as a ghost. “Hey–don’t move!” Eliza quickly caught her. “Nolan, I need my needle kit.” Nolan handed it over at once. With swift, practiced hands, Eliza inserted several needles to stabilize the girl’s internal bleeding, then slipped a pill between her lips and gave her another sip of diluted spirit water. Only then did some color finally return to the child’s face. Eliza asked gently, “Your stomach’s been in trouble for a long time, hasn’t it? Have you gone without food or water for days? Or eaten things like dirt or tree roots?” The girl’s eyes welled with tears as she stared at Eliza. “You… you really are a goddess, aren’t you? You saved the whole county, and now you’ve even figured out that I once ate mud to survive…” Eliza chuckled softly. “No goddess here. Just someone who knows a bit of medicine.” She continued kindly, “You still can’t eat regular food right now, but that pill I just gave you will help rebuild your stomach. One a day for ten days. After that, you’ll be able to eat normally again.” The girl clutched the medicine bottle tightly, her eyes brimming with gratitude. “Thank you…. I don’t know how to repay you… Before Eliza could react, the girl suddenly pushed herself upright and knelt on the ground with a thud trying to kowtoW. “Whoa, no need for that!” Eliza hurried to stop her. “You’ll hurt yourself. Take it easy” She gently held the girl up. “What’s your name? You’re from Caslig County, right?” The girl nodded. “Yes. I’m from Caslig County. My name is Renee.” … Read More “Than Your Daughter 251” »