"You feeling better now?" Aether inquired gently after Lia had cried for several minutes, his voice soft and caring amidst the tension.
"..." Lia remained silent, clinging to Aether's coat, her face hidden in a mix of emotions and thoughts.
"You do realize I'm a slave, and I need to return to my master soon, or there won't be any food for me," Aether remarked with a feigned sad and hungry tone, trying to lighten the mood with a touch of humour.
"Hehe..." Lia's soft laughter broke through her tears as she lifted her red and teary face, a faint smile forming as she gathered herself.
Aether noticed her eyes, once clouded with emotion, now clear like the sky, their crimson hue shining in the dim light of the corridor, reflecting both vulnerability and newfound strength.
"You truly have wonderful eyes," Aether remarked casually before carefully lowering her to the ground, mindful of her trembling legs due to both physical and emotional strain.
