Mending What's Broken

The young woman had been dozing very lightly when Paladin approached, and she stirred when his voice rang through the alcove. She was careful not to move too quickly, even though she'd been slightly startled. It had been a painful learning process, but she'd regretted moving too quickly too many times now to do it to herself again. Propping herself up on her elbows, she smiled back at Paladin as she nodded to him, bidding him to enter. She was glad he was here; his presence was always welcome, and his gentle tone was soothing.

The effects of her last dose of pain-relieving herbs had long worn off, and she was hardly able to sleep without them. She hoped that she would be allowed some more, but he had informed her that her doses were to be gradually tapered off. Thus, they’d be farther in between. She wasn't sure when she was due for some more, but she looked forward to another dose. What she didn't look forward to were the treatments. Sometimes they were painful, and she wondered if it was necessary, but she had certainly begun to feel better. She trusted in Paladin's abilities, so she wouldn't question it, even if it hurt.

"Anything for the pain, or do I have to wait?" she asked with a wink, tilting her head as an amused grin formed on her face. She'd finally gotten used to being here, accustomed to his check-ups with her, and felt more comfortable being herself. Of course, she braced herself for the times where he'd still find a way to surprise her, to make her heart pound anxiously - normally she'd do anything to avoid feeling that way, but somehow she didn't mind it when Paladin caused her stomach to flip and her skin to burn.