Chapter 216: Savior I
"Soleia." Her name emerged from Orion’s lips in a breathy whisper. "You’re here. I made it in time."
Soleia froze, half-wondering if perhaps one of the prisoners had powers to cause hallucinations because Orion could not possibly be standing right in front of her right now, holding a bloodied sword in his hand, his eyes staring at her with barely concealed relief. He then marched over to her and grabbed her by her wrist.
"We need to go now. Time is running out."
His grip was firm yet gentle, unlike those times when he had grabbed her in anger and irritation under Elinora’s influence. He tugged her out of the dungeons without explaining further, causing Soleia to splutter in confusion as she hastily followed his footsteps, still wondering if she had somehow stumbled into a dream.
"Orion, what are you doing― how are you even here?" Soleia asked. "You were supposed to be in Nedour! With Reitan! Wait, how is Reitan― is he alright―"
"I came to look for you," Orion said simply. He turned to glance at her, and his bright blue eyes stared at her with undeniable sincerity. "It was the least I could do to make up for my mistakes. Come with me back to Nedour."
Soleia’s heart skipped a beat in sheer shock. But Orion wasn’t done. He quickly took in a deep breath, as if steeling himself for Soleia’s rejection.
"I know you have no reason to leave this place with me, but I need to tell you something. Ralph― Rafael is not a good man. Princess Nessa and I believe he just wants to use you to get the throne. The longer you stay here, the greater the risk to your life."
He gave Soleia another careful glance, as though he expected her to break down into incoherent sobs or start screaming in denial. When her only response was an impassive blink, he took a worried step back.
"Soleia? Are you... alright?"
His caution was so ludicrous that Soleia wanted to snort at the incredulity of it all. Orion seemed like he actually cared about hurting her feelings, and he wanted to ensure she was fine.