Life (3)

The rich, savory aroma of the stew filled the cavern as Aeliana carefully ladled the finished meal into two small cups. She straightened up, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face as a small, satisfied smile tugged at her lips.

"Done," she announced, her tone calm but laced with quiet pride.

Luca glanced up from where he sat, his previously bloodstained hands now cleaned as much as possible, though faint smudges lingered. The scratches on his arms were bandaged, and his face bore no trace of the earlier carnage, save for a faint sheen of weariness.

"Let's see it, then," he said, his dark eyes gleaming with curiosity as he accepted the cup she handed him.

Aeliana settled beside him, the warmth of her own cup radiating through her fingers as she inhaled the fragrant steam. The stew's earthy aroma carried a depth she hadn't expected to achieve with such meager ingredients, but it was there—a testament to her skill.