Chapter 17

"Ysabel, hmm...?"

Aleric mumbled, the name a soft question hanging in the air as he studied her frail form. The delicate lines of her face, pale and drawn but with an underlying strength that hinted at resilience. He saw the tremor in her hands, clutching the hem of the tunic she's wearing with nervousness.

"Why don't you eat first, Ysabel? You must be starving," He held out a bowl of steaming soup, the rich aroma of herbs and broth filling the small space.

"Take your time," He instructed, his brow furrowing slightly. "And try not to upset your stomach." He paused, a thoughtful expression on his face, then rose to his feet, the movement fluid and graceful despite his imposing size.

"We're leaving already? Man, I thought we'd finally hear the good part," Hector grumbled, his voice laced with playful disappointment. He rose from his seat, and was the first to leave the tent, his footsteps muffled by the thick canvas.

"Stay with her, Elvin," Aleric commanded, casting one last look at Ysabel before lifting the tent flap and disappeared.

Ysabel's gaze followed him, lingering on the spot where he'd stood. The bowl of warm soup remained untouched in her hands, its comforting warmth a stark contrast to the chill that still clung to her bones. A cough broke the silence, and she turned to see Elvin, his eyes intently watching.

"Eat while it's still warm," He prompted softly. "It'll help you feel much better."

With a trembling hand, Ysabel cautiously lifted the spoon. The rich, savory aroma of the soup, a symphony of vegetables and tender meat, filled her senses, her stomach rumbled with eagerness. The first spoonful was a revelation, a burst of flavor that danced on her tongue, a taste she hadn't experienced in what felt like a lifetime. She ate with a fierce intensity, oblivious to everything but the delicious food. Before she knew it, the bowl was empty, leaving her with a sense of profound satisfaction and a strange pang of longing. Her eyes snapped up to meet Elvin's as she heard his soft chuckle.

Heat rushed to Ysabel's cheeks. She'd been so engrossed in devouring the soup that she hadn't noticed Elvin watching her.

"I would gladly give you a second serving," Elvin said, his smile warm and genuine, "but Sir Aleric is right. We can't risk upsetting your stomach. I'll bring you a snack later."

"Oh, uhm, thank you… Elvin," Ysabel stammered, clutching the empty bowl. Her voice was barely a whisper, but her eyes, shining with gratitude, met his gaze. Despite her shyness, she felt a surprising warmth emanating from this strange boy.

Elvin shrugged, as if it were nothing. He took the bowl and the small tray, leaving only a pitcher of water and a tin cup. "Rest for now, Ysabel," He said. "I'm sure Sir Aleric will summon you once you're able to stand."

"Is… is he…" Ysabel began, her voice trailing off. A torrent of questions swirled in her mind. Is Aleric a good man? Will he cast her out once she's recovered? What kind of person is he, really? Should she be wary?

Elvin watched her for a moment, his expression unreadable, before glancing towards the tent flap. "You just need to tell him the truth," He said, his voice low and steady. "He'll appreciate that. He's… kinda stubborn, but his judgment is always for the good of others. So don't worry." He turned and left without waiting for a response.

Ysabel was alone again, her fingers fidgeting nervously. She was profoundly grateful to these people who had saved her life. She pressed a hand to her leg, to the spot where she remembered a deep, gaping wound. To her astonishment, the pain was gone, replaced by a dull ache. She pulled the pants up and saw that faint redness were left behind.Her feet, which had been almost unusable, were only slightly bruised, injuries that would heal within a day or two.

Ysabel knew the state of her body before – she had been on death's door. Only one explanation made sense: the miraculous healing power of life magic. Her heart pounded in her chest, a frantic drumbeat against her ribs.

"I'm more deeply indebted to them than I ever imagined," She whispered, a profound sense of awe washing over her.