Book II - Ayla - Escaping I

Godefray sat on the mattress with Ayla across his lap. Her throat hurt badly from all the screaming she did. But her body—Gods, her body—was a constant source of pain. Even Godefray avoided looking at it most time. Except for her face, her skin was full of cuts and bruises. After Galian used the five Soul Eaters, her body hurt more than usual, and her hands twitched badly.

Godefray leaned her head over his left shoulder, tucked some hair behind her ear, and picked up one of the vials. “When we return to Nordmar, I will teach you how to wield a sword properly. After that, I will stand next to you while you take Myrthana from Galian and King Amul.” He opened one of the vials. “But first, you must drink the potions Eluvene left for you.” Ayla blinked. She didn’t want more potions or torture. Or anything else. She just wanted to close her eyes and rest. She deserved that much. Godefray cleared his throat. “You know, when Rhobart took you to Nordmar, I disliked you very much. I thought the