Crossing the Border (Rania) novel Chapter 266

**He Asked Me to Leave My Dreams, So I Decided to Make Him One of Them by Mira Lorian**

**Chapter 266**

Rania turned to Eli, her curiosity piqued about Karin, the healer residing in the palace. She wanted to know more about Karin’s expertise with plants and how they could be beneficial.

“Ah, my queen, are you familiar with the Red Scale leaves?” Eli inquired, her previous hesitance evaporating, replaced by a spark of enthusiasm that warmed Rania’s heart.

“Indeed, I am,” Rania replied, nodding thoughtfully. “When combined properly with Green Leaves, it can alleviate fevers. Though it’s uncommon for shifters to fall ill, it can be especially useful for children still developing their healing abilities.”

“Yes, yes,” Eli responded eagerly, but Rona nudged her gently with her elbow, a subtle reminder to maintain decorum. Eli lowered her head, a sheepish smile playing on her lips. “I apologize, my queen.”

Rania chuckled, finding the exchange delightful. “What do you have to apologize for?” She began to meander through the greenhouse, taking in the lush greenery surrounding her. Though the space was modest, her gaze fell upon a particular plant that stood out, vibrant and well-cared for. “Have you been tending to this plant?”

Eli shifted nervously. “Yes, my queen,” she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper.

“This is a Dragon Seed,” Rania remarked, gently brushing her fingers over the plant’s leaves, instantly recognizing its significance. “Is there a specific reason you’ve chosen to nurture it here?”

Eli glanced at her sister, as if seeking guidance on how to respond. This hesitation puzzled Rania; why would such a simple question provoke fear?

“Hanna is sick,” Eli admitted softly, her eyes downcast. “My daughter is unwell.”

Rania’s heart tightened. “How old is she? Dragon Seed can bolster vitality, but it’s not suitable for a child.”

“She is six years old,” Eli replied, her voice tinged with worry. “Dragon Seed is the only plant that grows easily, and I could only acquire its seeds.”

“Six years old?” Rania mused, stroking her chin thoughtfully. “She’s too young to consume Dragon Seed.” Her gaze sharpened as she scrutinized Eli. “And how old are you? You seem far too youthful to have a daughter of that age.”

“I am… twenty, my queen,” Eli stammered, her cheeks flushing crimson as she bowed her head, her chin nearly touching her chest in embarrassment.

Twenty! And she had a six-year-old daughter!

Rania’s mind raced as she calculated the timeline, disbelief washing over her. Eli must have been pregnant at thirteen! How could anyone allow such a thing to happen to a girl so young?

A surge of anger bubbled within Rania. Maximus had been right all along, and she despised that reality. It was a bitter truth she wished to deny—that the women in this realm had endured such horrific experiences.

“What kind of illness does your daughter have?” Rania asked, concern lacing her tone. “Is she doing alright now?”

“She is… fine,” Eli replied, but Rania could sense the uncertainty in her voice. There was a hesitation that spoke volumes.

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