As Aliya persisted in her interrogation, Cressida, observing the unfolding scene, interjected with a sudden realization.
Cressida: Wait! He might be under a contracted spell. Revealing the truth could cost him his life.
Aliya, momentarily halting, eyed Cressida with a mix of concern and curiosity.
Aliya: (inquiring) What do you mean?
Cressida: (explaining) A spell that binds him to silence. Breaking it might be fatal.
Aliya, absorbing this information, withdrew the knife cautiously, keeping a watchful eye on the blood mage.
Aliya: (addressing the blood mage) Is this true? Speak.
Blood Mage: (grimacing) I can not talk about it. Better pierce my heart and get over with it.
