More footsteps echoed from the courtyard.
Several slaves rushed inside, breathless and wide-eyed.
Among them was Daisy.
Sienna counted again.
The number rose to fifty.
Every female slave had returned safely.
That realization eased the tightness in her chest, if only by a fraction.
But Tiara was still absent.
So were Wood and the men working outside.
The knowledge sat inside Sienna's stomach like a stone.
***
Sienna remained where she was. Every part of her wanted to run to the gate, to the walls, to the front of the danger. But she understood the truth.
With her weakened body, she would only become a burden.
A general who could not lift a sword did not rush into battle.
She turned to Daisy. "Daisy, from this moment onward, you are responsible for everyone here. Do not let anyone wander."
Daisy straightened immediately. "Yes, Mistress."
