165 Chapter 165

Maxi bunched the blanket in her fists, wondering just how distraught Riftan must have been to make this sorcerer with nerves of steel uneasy.

Realizing he had said something he should not have, Ruth hastily said, "You need not worry, my lady. You are the hero of this war. Even if Sir Riftan were to get angry at you, the whole of Eth Lene would step in to stop him. And if need be, I'll come to your defense. I've served him for a long time, I doubt he'd kill me."

The attempt at idle chatter barely eased the worry etched on Maxi's face.

Ruth scratched the back of his head. "Come to think of it, I have yet to offer my gratitude. Thank you, my lady. We owe you our lives."

Taken aback, Maxi waved him off. "No need to thank me. I-I am just… glad everyone is safe."

Ruth's lips suddenly twisted into a sad smile. Before Maxi could ask about the reason behind it, he was making his way out of the tent.