rockabye baby

"Please, sister, I can keep a secret. It should only be a woman's joy for now until you're further along. I've chosen a den site near one of the outer pools of the lake - I'd like you stop by as frequently as you can over the next few weeks, or send along your little pet to fetch me," Luce instructed, trying to keep her tone level. Although she was absolutely sick with excitement, there were many trials that a first time mother faced in her pregnancy. It was a tragedy that so often it was an experience one had alone.

Dreamily, Luce imagined herself with child as well, the pair of them raising a brood side-by-side... no matter. She shook the thoughts from her head. There were enough duties for a healer - and auntie - to keep her busy from now until the birth. "But, yes, I have the honey stashed around here somewhere..." Lucretia murmured, sniffing the area before she recalled where she'd hidden it. Ah, yes!

Nearby was a lone, scrappy sapling that clung to the side of the ravine. At its base was a small hollow that Luce had lined with pebbles. Inside lay a few large, flat pieces of honeycomb. With her honey located, she set off along the flat ground at the base of the ravine, searching for the herbs. With some luck, she found some alfalfa lining the steep grade of the ravine. Luce set about pulling it out by the root. With winter so close, she didn't want to risk any chances of the plant withering before it was needed. She would dry it out in her den. "This will help your appetite - no need to think about your figure any longer, at least for a time," Luce said cheekily, bringing the plant near where she had stored the honey. "I was thinking for the valerian root, a heavy paste to rub along your gums. It should act as a fast-acting sleep aid, as well as ease all the headaches I'm sure you'll develop as Empress of a new empire."

+ Collected alfalfa
+ Discussed (1) healing item - valerian root paste for headaches/insomnia