On Envy's command, the tired boys went to work, fitting themselves in attire. Both were too spent to be amused by the appearance of one another in the uniform. The atmosphere too grim.
Taris and Envy carefully dressed Aera. Thanks to Taris and his magic, nearly all of the bruises on her skin were gone, nearly all over her wounds sealed and faded. But to Envy, as he held her and moved her so she could be gowned, she looked like nothing more than a ragdoll. She hung limp and breathed slowly, making no noise and putting up no fight. It made his chest hurt. He didn't like seeing her like this. His fire-filled Treasure.

When they were ready, they wrapped her in a blanket and, with Taris carrying her, got her downstairs. Envy stood by the door, looking for the boys on their return with the carriage. Aera opened her eyes, though she didn't seem to be awake, or even aware. But she stared at Taris above her, fixated on him, her eyelids low.

"They're back." Envy said, turning to glance for a moment at the two elves. "Do you think it's safe to take her out?" He asked. In all honesty, he was unsure. He didn't think that his kin would come after them so soon, but if they really wanted revenge, the time would be now, while they were weak and separated from their resources.