Their movie ended, and they had to hurry to clean up the small amount of popcorn that Nayeli had accidentally spilled when she'd hurried to cover her eyes before the infamous "you chose poorly" scene.
With that chore completed, and only minutes to spare before the clan woke for the night, it was time to truly start their "day" as they hurried to the courtyard. Because of the nocturnal nature of their family, the kids took their classes (and magical training where necessary), at night.
Once greetings had been exchanged with the clan, both Liam and Nayeli broke off to join the rest of the younger castle members.
"Good evening, Elisa," Goliath said, placing an arm around her shoulders. "How did your morning at court go?"
"Surprisingly well," Elisa admitted, "though I'm not sure that my presence there was really needed. I wasn't called to the witness stand at all, so I was just an observer in the whole thing."
"I am certain that you being there was a comfort to those who needed support the most," Goliath said with a gentle smile.
"I hope so, Big Guy," Elisa said with a sigh, leaning into his side. "But between a truly odd dream, having to be in court, and a mini movie marathon with the kids, I'm a little worn out at the moment."
Goliath frowned. "What did you dream of that would cause you distress?"
"Not… distress. I think that's too strong of a word," Elisa admitted. "It just left me feeling a little uneasy, that's all."
"Would you tell me what you dreamt?" Goliath asked. "Perhaps speaking of it will help."
"Maybe," Elisa admitted. "Tell you what. You go do your patrol, and when you get back, I'll tell you, alright?"
Goliath nodded, kissing the top of her hair. "It is nearly time for us to go," he said, dropping his arm and standing straight. "Barring any emergencies, I shall return soon."
Elisa waved goodbye, and the clan began their individual patrol routes over their island protectorate.
"Elisa," Skyler called out from the double doors that led from the courtyard to the great hall. "Violet is here and asking if she could talk to you."
Elisa frowned and hurried toward the castle doors.
"She seemed kind of upset, Elisa," Skyler said. "I asked her to wait in the library."
"Thanks, Skyler," Elisa said, and turned in that direction.
Elisa found Violet pacing in front of the fireplace.
"Hey, Vee," Elisa said softly, so she didn't scare the younger woman. "What's going on?"
"I need some advice," Violet burst out. "I'm sorry to bother you with this, but… you're one of very few people who know the situation and…"
"Violet," Elisa interrupted. "Let's sit down, and you can tell me, but I need you to take a few deep breaths for me." The woman looked on the edge of a panic attack, Elisa thought, noting the rising color in the woman's face and rapid breathing.
Having had a few herself, she recognized the signs.
Violet all but fell into a chair and closed her eyes. She took a deep breath, let it out slowly. One, then another, then another until she felt a little more steady.
She opened her eyes and saw Elisa nod at her.
"Alright," Elisa said. "Now, start from the beginning and tell me what's going on."