-Laelia-
Ladon led me through dark hallways so narrow I had to crawl, until we finally emerged outside through a large statue in the gardens. The statue was positioned close to the palace walls, and I quickly hid in the shadows.
From my hiding place, I spotted the two women sitting further out in the sun, talking quietly. Even from a distance, they looked tired and worried. I just hoped no one had hurt them.
“Can you get them for me, Ladon?” I asked.
Ladon nodded and dashed off. The women noticed him as he approached, smiling when they saw him. I watched as they talked for a moment, then their eyes turned toward me. Mayla and Sivanna quickly got up and ran over to where I was hiding.
“Laelia?” Mayla exclaimed, throwing herself at me, wrapping her arms tightly around my neck, nearly m
