Chapter 117: We have all the time in the world

With the healer's instructions in mind, I gently roused Lydia from her slumber. "Lydia," I murmured softly, brushing a hand against her cheek. "It's time to wake up."

She stirred, her eyelids fluttering open slowly. For a moment, confusion clouded her gaze, but as her surroundings came into focus, recognition dawned in her eyes.

"Aurelia?" she whispered, her voice hoarse with sleep. "Where are we?"

"We're in my room," I replied gently, helping her to sit up. "You're safe now."

Memories of our escape from Zeke's castle flooded back to her, and a shudder ran through her body. "Zeke," she murmured, her voice trembling. "He... he..."

I reached out, grasping her hand firmly in mine. "He won't hurt you anymore," I assured her, my voice firm. "He is dead."