closer than together

The Empress couldn’t help her bright grin as the dainty healer accepted her invitation and moved in closer. To have her so close again was a comfort, knowing their relationship had changed minimally a comfort to the overworked royal. Deathbelle’s light brow spots raised as Io explained her new home, it seemed perfect for the healer and custom built to house everything she needed wherever she needed. The thought of a garden more than appealed to Deathbelle, and she wondered if she might have the time to create her own. Maybe a project for herself and her children? Pestilence seemed slightly interested in plants if not healing.

”You may if you’d like,” She offered up the offending limb. ”Luce has been a bit too busy growing her brood to see to such a trivial injury.” Deathbelle was a capable healer in her own right, and thought she’d cured herself relatively well.

Hannibal didn’t keep from their conversation very long, and Deathbelle was surprised by the sudden nerves that welled up in her stomach at the thought of the Daimyo. The corners of her dark lips pulled back, she loved Iolaire, but Hannibal’s courtship was quickly sweeping her away. ”He was so supportive when I twisted my ankle.” She explained, her voice unable to hide the fondness that was growing there. ”I think.. I think we could really have something.” She offered shyly, knowing that Iolaire wanted nothing but her happiness. Belle couldn’t help but wonder if Io would find the same. She deserved that and so much more.