12: TWO SIDES OF A COIN

RAVEN

I didn't get far. Bile rose up the back of my throat and I gagged, spilling my stomach's content into the nearest flower pot I could find. My body gave out and I crumpled to the floor, my breaths coming in ragged gasps as I emptied my stomach until I could no longer move. Closing my eyes, I lowered my head in an attempt to catch my breath. A gentle hand rubbed my back in circles. It was comforting. Judging by the situation, I had a feeling that King Aries had somehow found his way to me to comfort me.

After what felt like an eternity, I opened my eyes and turned to look at the king. He handed me a water bottle, his gaze soft with concern.

"Are you feeling better now?" He asked after I'd rinsed my mouth. I nodded in response and he brought me to my feet, his hand lingering on my waist, to support me.

"Come with me. You need to get examined by the healers," he stated, and I let out a sigh.

"It's probably just something I ate," I told him.

"I don't doubt that. Even so, you