“Elara!” Another voice boomed, snapping me out of my daze.

I rushed down the stairs, only to stagger back as a palm collided with my cheeks.

Hands wandered into my hair and my back hit the rail. I pushed the attacker, my breath uneven as I realized it was the imposter.

“You! You attacked my daughter!”

She slapped me again, grabbing my hair, while I tried to keep my gaze on Elara, wondering if she was fine.

“I didn’t touch her— we need to— I—” I tried to form words in between choking on my blood.

The deranged woman was pulled off me and I came face to face with...