Chapter 39 - Effects of Descent

The expansive house was bathed in a gentle glow from the setting sun, which illuminated the expansive hallways. With Cyrus holding Aryana tenderly in his arms, the imposing stone walls felt colder now. Despite her recent collapse, he appreciated the resilience she possessed despite her light, delicate form. His brow was wrinkled in anxiety as he looked down at her. He said, "What happened back there?" he asked, “Why did you fall all of a sudden?” Aryana laughed softly, as though nothing were wrong “I was just hungry, Cyrus," she lied, “After our long travel, I must have dozed off, and when I woke up, I was trying to make my way to the kitchen" Cyrus's concern lessened, but not entirely, as his lips formed a tiny smile "The kitchen? Aryana, it is on the opposite side of the estate. You ought to have called on a maid” Her voice was almost playful as she laughed softly "Ah, I see. Maybe the next time, I'll call for one. But I appreciate you saving me from my epic search for f