Chapter 54. Wives and Concubines

CYRUS

My consciousness slowly trickles into me and the sight of Alastair tapping my cheeks and pressing my chest greets me. On registering my consciousness his face brightens up and a smile spreads on his jaw.

“Welcome back, Cyrus,” he intones. I look around, having found myself in a gray tent-like enclosure, lying on a soft feathery mattress. I see some Germanium seeds on a plate beside me serving as illumination, as well as a clay pot of water.

“What happened?” I wonder aloud, stretching my hands and bidding him to pull me up since I do not feel an iota of Ill health or weakness within.

“We had a serious episode of an earthquake. I was rushing you to safety before you fell and went unconscious.” He helps me up to my feet.

“Oh, forgive me. That seems to happen from time to time since I came here.” I place my palm on my forehead, feeling my temperature. It seems normal.

“You are alright?” he asks.

“Of course. I just thought I would have a fe