Serena Feng never considered herself a paragon of virtue, but she was always someone who took responsibility. Facing off against Wendy Summers was her job right now—unless she collapsed, she had to see it through.
Serena opened her eyes and lay in bed for a long while. Once she was sure her body was fine, she got up, dressed, and prepared to return to the capital.
But as soon as she stepped outside, the guards stationed by the cabin blocked her way: "Serena, Ninth Royal Uncle Nolan has ordered that you are not to leave. Please rest well."
"I'm fine now. Tell Ninth Royal Uncle Nolan I can return to the city." In truth, after sleeping, she felt much better. Even the injury to her knee had eased a lot—it was obvious someone had treated it for her.
As for returning to the city, Serena trusted that Ninth Royal Uncle Nolan would have a plan—after all, if she lost, it would be his reputation on the line.
"Sorry, we have to follow Ninth Royal Uncle Nolan's orders. Please rest well, Serena." The guards stood motionless in front of her, blocking her way with a rigidness that was downright infuriating.
Serena had always admired how soldiers carried out orders without hesitation, but now that this strict discipline was being used against her, she realized just how much she hated it.
She knew that without Ninth Royal Uncle Nolan's orders, these two guards would never let her pass—so she didn't bother arguing with them.
"Could you please report that I wish to see Ninth Royal Uncle Nolan?" Nolan surely understood how important tomorrow's duel was. Of course, if he refused to let her return, there was nothing she could do.
The guards exchanged a look and nodded, just about to reply when the door to the neighboring cabin opened. Ninth Royal Uncle Nolan stepped out, and on seeing Serena awake, his face lit up with joy before he frowned and said, "The doctor said you're weak and need to rest. Who let you get up?"