Chapter 48: That should be punishment enough for his crimes

ITHRA I relaxed on the tree and finished off the remains of my roasted meat.  I couldn’t lie. Zadok was one hell of a cook. It made me wonder just how many things he excelled in.  My eyes raked over his sturdy back as he stood watch a few metres away from me.  He felt my gaze and said without glancing back, “Done having dinner?” He stated. “Yes, thank you.” I find myself replying. We shared a moment of silence before I spoke again. “Do you plan on staying there all night long?”  “Someone’s got to keep watch.” He answered with a shrug. “You can go to bed.”  I resist the urge to say something rude. “If you are staying awake, why can’t I?” A brief and tired sigh left Zadok’s lips. For the first time, I saw his shoulders sag. How tired was he?  “I don’t have enough strength to bicker with you, Ithra.” He said, finally turning around. “Go to bed already. We have a long day ahead.”  I pouted my lips, maintaining silence. A thought breezed into my mind, and I spoke again. “You know, the last