Nadia had been silent the whole time which made everyone else worry, especially Gwen. Ever since she was escorted back to the Ethalion mansion, she only gave her a small smile and then stayed mute throughout the time. Bundled up with a thick blanket, eyes cast down with a blank expression, the others can't help but sigh.

The doctor had already checked her vitals earlier yet she didn't even give any reaction but just silently let him do whatever is needed. He said that she has no major injuries aside from some small nicks and scratches. They were about to feel at ease when he continued his diagnosis.

"She doesn't seem traumatized to me but her body temperature is surprisingly low, probably from shock. But if it continues like this, it will greatly affect her health. My advice is to rest for a week and keep her warm until her body temperature stabilizes.

"

"Thank you, doctor,

" Conrad muttered in appreciation.

Gwen peered at Conrad.. She had been aware of all his reactions since earlier but said nothing of it. Her brows furrowed ever so slightly, her fingers twisting inside her sleeves. And after weighing everything, she let out a sigh and went to Nadia's side.

'It's useless to think of anything else right now…' was what she thought.

Conrad glanced at the two women, sitting side by side. The other was tepid, while Gwen looked very worried. He retracted his gaze and ordered his subordinates to go and inform the people in House Herman.

Surprisingly, Nathan who he thought wouldn't be able to leave his post had rushed to their home all tense. He ignored everyone in the room and examined Nadia from head to toe and only stopped when he was satisfied that he didn't see any major wounds and injuries on her.

He then cupped both sides of her head with his hands and made her look at him.

"Are you okay? Do you feel well? You don't feel any pain or discomfort, do you?

"

Nadia felt a familiar warmth in her cheeks and her tepid eyes gradually became clearer, staring at the same ruby eyes like hers.

"Brother…

" she whispered.

Nathan frowned. She looked dispirited.

"What's wrong?

"

Nadia bit her lip as moisture gathered in the corner of her eyes. It was strange. She was clearly fine just a while ago, even though a lot of thoughts were racing in her head, and felt different things at once. But she was calm.

Although she was feeling cold. Despite her confusion when she couldn't sense Kuro anymore, nor did she see him. He just disappeared out of the blue when she was inside the carriage heading to the Ethalion mansion.

Even though she's being confused with so many things at once, her mind stays clear. Her surroundings dimmed out of the background until she could only remain sane. It was as if she was in suspended animation. Like she was isolated from the world on a bubble.

She could hear everything but it sounded like noise in her ears.

Seeing her brother in the flesh, worrying over her, all the feelings she held burst forth like a dam. And it made her extremely emotional.

One by one, her tears fell like crystal drops, staining Nathan's gloves. She sniffed and held onto him. Nathaniel immediately hugged her to his chest and let her cry her sentiments out, rubbing her head affectionately.

"Wuuu brother~ I was so scared…

"

Nathan's eyes rippled, and patted her lightly, letting her know that she's safe with him now.

"Mmm, I know… I know… It was scary right?

"

"I thought I was going to dieeee… waaa…

"

"Shhh, it's fine. You're fine.

"

Everyone else in the room watched this scene and felt bad. Something about a woman crying just doesn't sit right with them, and sounding so vulnerable at that. It would surely tug the heartstrings of whoever would hear it.

Conrad and Gwen felt inexplicable. They have never seen Nadia this distraught before, nor have seen her crying. She has always been unyielding even in the face of pressure. Who would know that she also has this vulnerable side to her? And apparently, she only shows it towards her family...

The two looked at each other and reached a consensus. They gestured to the others and they all left the room one after another, giving them space. They stayed outside and dealt with things while they waited.

No one knew how long of a time had passed until the door to the room opened, revealing Nathaniel who was carrying the sleeping Nadia in his arms, all bundled up like an infant. He doesn't look like he's having a hard time at all like he's carrying something light. He met Conrad's eyes and nodded at him, saying everything he wanted to say with just that gesture.

"I prepared a carriage outside and it's ready to leave anytime. Would you be fine on your own? I also sent a few people to escort you home.

"

"Thank you,

" Nathan murmured.

Conrad smiled lightly.

"Glad to help.

"

He then turned towards the duchess.

"Thank you, madam.

"

"Be careful on the road,

" the duchess replied warmly.

After a few more pleasantries, Nathan and the others then left the estate and headed back to the Herman residence.

When they returned, the whole house had calmed down after being thrown into chaos after hearing the news. They waited diligently for their arrival and had prepared everything. The family doctor was also called, and the marquis was already on his way home.

They all knew what to do and went on with their given duties. Nadia was carried to her room by Nathan, the maids made sure that the room was warm and had closed all the windows and even the balcony.

While the doctor checked on her, Nathan gathered all the guards that accompanied Nadia. His face was hard as a block, looking at them with a steely demeanor. Right now, he is not just the young master of the House Herman but the mighty captain of the royal knights.

"Tell me everything that happened. Down to every detail.

"