Ysaryn twisted into a dramatic bow, holding her arms outward as her braid swung. "You have my thanks, Kirai. Continue bringing me fresh fish, and I will continued to make you lovely meals." She flashed a toothy grin once she straightened. And once Kire vanished outside, the elf looked over to Ruli, her expression sobering. 
"[i]You're comparing me to that evil woman?[/i]" She demanded. 
He sighed. "[i]No. Kire. And how you're not like the other one.[/i]"
Ysaryn sniffed, and began to stomp out, only to turn near the exit. Her eyes landed on him. "[i]She told you what I remember? She said she'd discuss it with you, and then you speak about the woman who destroyed Ziad? You think they succeeded in making me one of the[/i] dolls?" Ysaryn asked. 
Ruli shook his head. "[i]I asked her if she thought you were one. She doesn't believe so, nor do I.[/i]" He raised his hands. "[i]We know you're on our side. You're not an enemy.[/i]"
The elf twitched one eyebrow. "[i]If I were, maybe you'll reconsider accepting a prepared dish from me without hesitation.[/i]" She said with a wicked glint in her eye before she wandered off. 

The conversation bothered him. He knew the elf teased about the meal, but the look in her eye when she thought they didn't trust her. He lay awake that night, resting on his back on his sleeping mat. He was exhausted, too little sleep, but unable to manage to claim more. His eyes burned behind his eyelids, when he heard Kire mutter to herself in the dark chamber. His eyes snapped open. 
Ysaryn's low chuckle followed shortly. "Yes. You are." The elf confirmed with a teasing tone. It appeared none of them could sleep. 
Ruli took his chance. "Ysaryn, I'm sorry about earlier." He whispered through the darkness.
Her silence answered him. Somehow, he could tell whatever smile she'd worn while teasing Kire had disappeared from her lips. "Not yet." She answered cryptically, and Ruli frowned.