After the grueling training session, Lucian led Aeliana to a quiet corner of the manor's infirmary. The room was dimly lit, the air heavy with the scent of herbs and ointments. He gently helped her onto a cushioned chair, his touch surprisingly delicate for someone who had been so ruthless during their sparring.
"You did well," he said, reaching for a jar of ointment on the nearby counter. "But I pushed you too hard. For that, I apologize."
Aeliana winced as he dabbed the ointment onto the wound on her shoulder. The coolness of it stung at first but quickly turned soothing. She studied his face as he worked, noticing the subtle furrow of his brows and the way his jaw tightened. It was clear he felt guilty, though he wasn't the type to express it openly.
"It's fine," she said softly, her voice breaking the silence. "I need to be ready, no matter the cost. You were right to train me this way."
