"Whether that's the cause or not, she shouldn't remain out here. Right now she needs complete rest somewhere quiet, where we can continue observing her. If this is delayed exhaustion or emotional shock, allowing her body to recover naturally may be the best treatment we can offer."
Sharath nodded immediately.
"We'll return to the Royal Quarters."
Dakota didn't hesitate.
Carefully adjusting Takoda against her chest, she rose to her feet, instinctively tightening her embrace when someone offered to carry the little girl for her.
"I'll carry her."
No one argued.
The peaceful afternoon came to an abrupt end as the group quietly turned back along the shaded path they had followed into the orchard.
The cheerful conversations that had accompanied their walk earlier had long since disappeared, replaced by anxious silence as they made their way beneath the towering fruit trees.
