As soon as Lexi reached her father's quarters, she didn't bother knocking. She flung the doors wide open as she called out for him.

　　"Papa? Are you here?" she called frantically as she tried her best to hold back the tears that threatened to fall.

　　Lord Brarthoroz's head appeared around the edge of the doorframe and his frown deepened as soon as he realized the state that Lexi was in.

　　"My daughter," He greeted her with a soft smile as he threw the book he had been reading onto the bed and made his way over to her, "Tell me what troubles you."

　　The combination of his soft, coaxing voice...