Orryn's POV:
"Has there been any change?" I inquire, stepping into Nadya's tent, even though a part of me already anticipates the response.
Two weeks have slipped by since I regained consciousness, and every account I've perused, intertwined with the stories recounted by those present, feels surreal. The absence of the grievous wound on my back is the only tether to the reality of their words. Without it, I'd dismiss their claims as lunacy.
"She remains the same, my Lord," Vivian answers, her focus unwavering from Nadya as she gently tends to her.
Acknowledging Vivian's words silently, I settle into the chair beside Nadya's bed, attentively observing the caretaking ritual. After she completes her ministrations, I offer a silent nod of gratitude, and she quietly exits. My gaze settles on Nadya, whose tranquil demeanour belies the tumult of emotions roiling within me, the gnawing dread that she might remain in this slumber indefinitely.
Three days prior, the last individual who benefited from her astonishing abilities awakened. We'd clung to the hope that once all were mended, Nadya would rouse from her deep sleep. But still, she remains ensnared in her silent world.
The silence in the room was heavy, interrupted only by the gentle rise and fall of Nadya's chest. The dim light casts a serene glow on her face, emphasising her defined features and the slight frown that occasionally mars her brow, making me wonder what she might be dreaming about.
With each day that has passed, my heart grows heavier with worry and anticipation. I can't help but recall the moments leading up to the calamity, her courage, the power she exhibited, and the sacrifices she made. The weight of my own life, saved by her actions, presses on my chest with every breath I take.
With a deep sigh, I reach out, brushing a stray hair from her forehead. The warmth of her skin contrasts with the cold dread in my gut. Memories of our shared moments, both sweet and challenging, flood my mind. Her stubborn will, her captivating smile, and the quiet moments when just her presence was enough to calm my troubled mind.
I squeeze her hand gently, hoping that she would give a sign, any sign, of returning to the world of the conscious. "Nadya," I whisper, my voice barely audible, "Please come back."
A small pang of jealousy hits me as I consider the tales of her saving others. Yet here she lies, the saviour herself, unable to save her own self from this seemingly endless slumber. It's a cruel irony that doesn't escape me.
I've lost count of the hours I've spent by her side, watching, waiting, and hoping for her awakening. Every slight movement, every change in her breathing pattern sends my heart racing, only to be met with the same tranquil stillness.
The weight of leadership, the responsibilities of ruling, and the expectations of others, they all pale in comparison to the simple, profound desire of wanting her to open her eyes and look at me once more.
Living apart from her was agony, a slow-burning torment that constantly gnawed at my heart. But existing in a world where her spirit lingers in the shadow of unconsciousness is a harrowing ordeal, a fresh hell I never fathomed. Should she wake, I vow to dedicate every fleeting second, every breath, to manifesting the depth of my love for her.
Nadya embodied everything I ever desired. My heart could never hold another in the same esteemed regard as I hold her. No one could ever elicit the emotions within me that she does so effortlessly. I could envision our shared future, radiant with happiness, and the visage of our children, a seamless blend of our essences. But to ensure a secure and peaceful life for our family, I must first confront and end the king's reign.
I cannot bear the thought of bringing our children into a world riddled with cruelty. I am resolute in reshaping this world into one where they can thrive without fear. A sanctuary where Nadya never has to endure the hardships she faced in her past. For her, I'd move mountains, even if it meant claiming the entire world, just to ensure her safety and happiness.
The stillness of the night surrounded her tent, with only the soft rustling of the canvas breaking the quiet. I continued to watch Nadya, the dim light from a nearby lantern playing upon her serene features. Even in this sombre moment, the world outside, with its clamour and unrest, felt distant and muted.
Taking a deep breath, I tenderly held her hand, noting its cool touch against my warm fingers. Leaning down, I pressed a soft kiss on her forehead, whispering, "I'll set things right, Nadya. For us, for our future."
Drawing the tent flap aside, I stepped out into the brisk night air, readying myself for the challenges that awaited. The weight of my determination felt heavy, but it was a burden I embraced willingly. Before venturing further, I threw one last look towards our tent, drawing strength from the memory of her peaceful visage.
As I disappeared into the maze of tents that marked our camp, the darkness seemed to welcome me, symbolising the uncertain path I was about to tread, all driven by an unwavering love.