There’s Nothing Here For You

Chapter 12

Nalani ate with an appetite she hadn’t known she possessed.

The lavish spread of food covered the grand table that had been brought into her room specifically for her. For the moment, the miracle of her revival was a distant concern compared to the gnawing hunger in her belly. She felt as if she hadn’t eaten in days, and each bite seemed to reaffirm her connection to the living world.

Mita sat nearby, silently comforting Nalani.

The mute girl’s watchful eyes followed her every movement, providing a sense of quiet companionship that Nalani desperately needed.

She was grateful for the lack of chatter, for the peace that allowed her to focus on satisfying her ravenous hunger.

When Nalani finally finished her meal, the servants swiftly entered to clear the remnants.

Plates and bowls vanished as if by magic, leaving the room pristine once more. Just as the last wish was taken away, the door opened again, and Bertold, the old healer, stepped in. He carried a tray laden with several glass bottles, each filled with strange, colorful liquids that looked anything but appetizing.

Nalani wrinkled her nose, eyeing the bottles with suspicion. “What are those?” she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity.

Bertold set the tray down gently, his movements were careful not to hurt her by any means. “These,” he began, introducing himself formally with a slight bow, “are elixirs to aid in your recovery, my lady. They will help restore your strength.”

Nalani’s eyes flicked over the bottles again. Their contents ranged from a deep, unsettling green to a vibrant, almost glowing purple. She couldn’t hide her unease. “Do I really have to drink them?”

Bertold’s expression softened, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. “I assure you, they are not as unpleasant as they appear. Each one has been crafted with care, using ancient recipes passed down through generations. They will hasten your healing.”

With a resigned sigh, Nalani reached for the nearest bottle, its liquid a soft, golden hue.

She uncorked it and brought it to her lips, hesitating only a moment before taking a tentative sip.

To her surprise, it tasted mildly sweet, with a hint of herbs that lingered on her tongue.

Bertold watched her with an encouraging nod. “Very good. Just a few more to go.”

One by one, she drank the elixirs, each with its own unique flavor. Some were bitter, others tangy, but none were as terrible as she had feared. When she finished the last bottle, she set it down with a sigh of relief.

“Thank you,” she said, meeting Bertold’s gaze. “For everything.”

The old healer nodded, his eyes kind. “Rest now, my lady. Your body has been through a great ordeal. These elixirs will work their magic, but you must give yourself time to heal.”

As Bertold turned to leave, Nalani settled back against her pillows, exhaustion creeping over her. Mita moved closer, her silent presence a balm to Nalani’s weary soul.

She closed her eyes, feeling the strange warmth of the elixirs spreading through her veins, and allowed herself to drift into a restful sleep, hoping that the worst was behind her.
***
The morning light streamed through the narrow window, casting a soft glow on the stone walls of Nalani’s chamber. She stirred, feeling the familiar weight of her body and the slight ache of muscles that had lain dormant for too long.

Blinking her eyes open, she realized she felt remarkably refreshed. Bertold’s elixirs had kept her asleep for twenty-four hours, allowing her body to heal.

Mita was by her side, her mute maid's face lighting up as she saw Nalani awake.

Gracefully, Mita began to sign, her hands fluttering in the morning light. Nalani watched intently, piecing together the message.

Karyan had come to check on her while she slept, and had even felt for her pulse, as if afraid Nalani might slip away again.

The news did little to warm Nalani’s heart.

The memories of Karyan’s cruel games were still fresh, and any tender feelings were buried under layers of resentment.

She gave a small, dismissive nod, indicating she understood, but there was no need to dwell on it.

Nalani signed back to Mita, asking her to fetch some water so she could freshen up.

As Mita slipped out of the room, Nalani swung her legs over the edge of the bed, testing her strength.

She felt the cool stone floor beneath her feet and the solidity of her surroundings.

It was time to get back to work, to continue her mission.

She stood and moved to the mirror, gazing at her reflection. Her face was pale, but her eyes held a glint.

Nalani began to tidy herself, smoothing her hair and adjusting her clothes. She needed to look the part if she was to continue her goal.

When Mita returned with a basin of water and a cloth, Nalani washed her face and hands, the cool water invigorating her further.

She signed her thanks, and Mita nodded, her eyes filled with concern.

Nalani took a deep breath, steeling herself.

The Mond were ruthless, and Karyan, despite his unexpected gestures of concern, was the cruelest of them all. But she had a duty to her people, a duty to gather information and send it back to Kabar.

Her feelings toward Karyan were irrelevant; she had a mission to complete.

She gestured to Mita, indicating that she needed to prepare for the day.

Mita helped her dress, choosing simple yet elegant attire that allowed for ease of movement. Nalani knew she needed to be both unassuming and observant.

Once ready, Nalani stood by the window, looking out over the sprawling grounds of the Mond estate.

The world seemed peaceful in the morning light, but she knew darkness lurked beneath the surface.

She had to be careful.

As she prepared to leave her chamber, she glanced back at Mita, who gave her a supportive nod.

Nalani opened the door, stepping out into the hall. The air was cool and carried the faint scent of herbs from Bertold’s garden.

She would find a way to continue her mission, to gather the information she needed. Karyan’s actions, his concern, wouldn't sway her. She had a purpose, and she would see it through, no matter the cost.

Nalani moved through the corridors of the estate, her mind was sharp and alert.

Every encounter, every whispered conversation, could hold the key to her success. She was determined to uncover the secrets of the Mond and to fulfill her duty to Kabar.

As she passed by a window, she caught sight of Karyan in the courtyard below. He was speaking with his advisors, his expression seemed to be stern.

Nalani watched him for a moment, then turned away. She had no time for distractions. Her mission awaited, and she would not fail.

Nalani followed the narrow, winding path that led her away from the bustle of the estate.

She stumbled upon a small, secluded garden.

The once-tidy rows of daffodils, hydrangeas, and rose bushes were now choked with wild vines and encroaching weeds.

She moved deeper into the garden, her fingers brushing the petals of a wilting rose.

The place spoke of care and love, now faded into disrepair. Lost in thought, she didn’t hear Karina approach until she spoke, her voice sharp and unexpected.

“I see you’ve found the forgotten corner of our estate,” Karina said, her tone edged with disdain.

Nalani turned to face her, sensing the animosity that had been present from the moment they met. Karina’s gaze was cold, her posture rigid.

“It’s a shame to see such a lovely place left to ruin,” Nalani replied, trying to keep her voice neutral.

Karina’s eyes flashed. “This garden belonged to someone Karyan loved very much. After she died, no one tended to it anymore.”

Nalani felt curious, despite the underlying tension. “Who was she?”

Before Karina could respond, Karyan’s voice cut through the air. “What are you doing here?” he demanded, striding into the garden with an air of authority.

Both women turned to face him. Karina stiffened, while Nalani met his gaze.

“Nalani found the old garden and I was just about to tell her to leave,” Karina said, her voice suddenly demure.

Karyan’s eyes narrowed. “This place is off-limits,” he said sharply to Nalani. “There’s nothing here for you.”
***