Islinda's eyes fluttered open and she instinctively reached for the space beside her, where Aldric usually lay. Her hand met only the cold, empty sheets. He was gone.
Only Ginger and Ailee were around to attend to her.
"My lady, you should have this," Ginger said, holding up a small bowl filled with a dark, thick liquid. The smell wafted up, causing Islinda's nose to wrinkle in distaste.
"What is this?" Islinda asked, her voice raspy. She eyed the ugly-looking liquid suspiciously.
"His Highness ordered the royal physician to prepare something to calm your nerves," Ginger replied, her tone gentle but firm.
At the mention of the Prince, the memories of yesterday's nightmare surged forward, causing Islinda to wince. She shut her eyes tightly, as if that could block out the haunting images from her mind. It didn't.
