The infirmary had grown quiet, save for the soft sounds of Mira's breathing and the occasional crackle of the hearth fire. Eris sat vigil at the bedside, her hand resting near Mira's, close but not quite touching, as though afraid even that gentle contact might cause harm.
Ryse stood near the door, arms crossed, his expression caught between duty and concern.
"My lady," he said softly. "You should rest."
"It hasn't been that long." Eris didn't look up, her gaze fixed on Mira's face. "I'm not leaving yet."
"I'm sure you barely slept. That takes a toll... "
"I'm fine, Commander." The words came flat, leaving no room for argument.
Ryse sighed but didn't press further. He knew that tone. Knew when Eris had dug her heels in and wouldn't be moved by anything short of divine intervention.
So he waited. And watched. And hoped she wouldn't collapse from sheer exhaustion before she finally admitted she was human.
Mira's eyes fluttered open.
