The mansion buzzed with activity as servants rushed to prepare for their departure. Laura watched as Nikolai issued orders, his voice calm but firm. Guards moved with purpose, gathering weapons and supplies. The transformation from peaceful estate to military precision happened in minutes.
"I need to speak with my captains," Nikolai told her, his hand briefly touching her arm. The spot tingled even after he pulled away. "We'll leave within the hour."
Laura nodded, feeling strangely lost now that their moment in the garden was broken. "I'll be ready."
As Nikolai strode away, followed by several of his men, Laura found her feet carrying her back toward the library. If they were heading into danger, she needed to know more about what they might be facing.
The library doors creaked as she
