"Alright." Sylvia replied softly, forcing a faint smile. "When we return to our hometown, we'll build a new house. We'll raise some chickens and ducks, plant vegetables. Then I'll find you a good matchmaker."

"Let's talk about that later." Stella stood up. "You should rest now. I'll go ask the doctor about your condition."

Sylvia closed her eyes as Stella turned and left the hospital room.

The moment she stepped into the hallway, two men in black suits approached.

Stella paid them no mind and walked straight to the doctor's office.

Inside, several physicians were busy at work. A female doctor looked up. "Can I help you?"

"I'm Sylvia Savigny's family member."

The doctor set down the medical chart. "I'm her attending physician."

"Doctor, my sister's injuries..." Stella's voice tightened.

"Left leg fracture required surgery. Three broken ribs were stabilized. Mild concussion that needs monitoring. The external injuries aren't severe."

Stella's pupils constricted. Her fingers trembled uncontrollably.

"Will...will she need the metal plates removed later?"

"Of course." The doctor nodded. "At least two weeks hospitalization. No heavy labor after discharge."

"Thank you, Doctor." Stella bowed deeply.

The doctor waved a hand. "Just doing my job."

As Stella turned to leave, she froze in the doorway.

"Let go of my sister!" She grabbed a chair and swung it at the man choking Sylvia. "Help! Murder!"

The man backhanded her across the face. Stella's vision went dark.

She sank her teeth into the attacker's arm. His companion punched her squarely in the face.

Stella collapsed limply to the floor.

"You animals!" Sylvia's eyes bulged with rage. Every wound screamed in agony.

"Move!" The accomplice yanked the man's arm. "She shouted too loud—people are coming!"

The two fled in panic.

Footsteps pounded down the hallway. Sylvia mustered her last strength to scream: "Help..."