Chapter 18: A Perplexing Awakening
After hours of watchful vigil, I felt a subtle shift in the woman's condition. Her eyelids fluttered, a soft groan escaping her lips, and I leaned forward with bated breath.
"She's waking," I murmured to the physicians, who quickly converged around the bed, their expressions tense with anticipation.
Slowly, her eyes opened, and I was once again struck by the mesmerizing depth of their emerald hue. She blinked owlishly, gaze darting around the infirmary before finally settling on me.
"Where...where am I?" she rasped, her voice barely above a whisper.
"You are safe, my lady," I assured her, offering a reassuring smile. "You collapsed in the garden, and we brought you here to the palace infirmary."
The head physician stepped forward, his brow creased with a mixture of wonder and concern. "Lord Damien, may I have a word with you in private?"
I nodded, casting one last glance at the woman before following the physician to the corner of the room.
"What is it?" I asked, keeping my voice low.
The physician's eyes were grave. "Lord Damien, I believe this woman is...more than a simple human."
I felt my breath catch in my throat. "What do you mean?"
"Her condition, the way her life force was nearly drained from her - it is unlike anything I've ever witnessed," the physician explained. "There is a power within her, ancient and volatile, that somehow manifested and nearly consumed her."
I stared at him, my mind racing. "But how is that possible?"
The physician shook his head. "I cannot say for certain. But I believe it would be wise to seek counsel from Christopher. He may be able to shed light on the true nature of this woman."
I nodded slowly, my gaze drifting back to the woman, who was watching us with a mix of curiosity and trepidation. "Then that is what we shall do. I will escort her to see Christopher immediately."
The physician placed a hand on my arm, his expression solemn. "Be cautious, Lord Damien. Whatever power this woman possesses, it is clear that there are forces at work that would seek to exploit it. Tread carefully, and trust no one."
I felt a chill run down my spine at his words, but I inclined my head in acknowledgment. "I understand. Thank you, old friend."
Turning back to the woman, I offered her a reassuring smile. "My lady, the physician and I believe it would be wise for you to seek counsel from Christopher. He is a most learned man, and may be able to shed light on your... unique condition."
Her brow furrowed in confusion, but she nodded. "Then I shall go to him. But..." She hesitated, a hint of vulnerability flickering across her features. "Will you accompany me?"
I felt a warmth bloom in my chest at her request, and I inclined my head. "Of course, my lady. I will be honored to escort you."
For in that moment, I knew that my fate had become irrevocably linked to hers. Whatever mysteries surrounded this woman, I was determined to uncover the truth – and protect her, no matter the cost.