[ she closes her eyes and leans into him again. he may be a man of violence, but his presence is both reassuring and soothing for her. someone capable of defending her, and willing to do so.

and more than that, someone who cares. truly, it takes so little to coax her heart to form an attachment to others, despite the losses she has endured. others might offer her wisdom. but he can offer something no other can: the tenderness of a father.

a belief and a faith in her which few others share. the ability to encourage her to do things others would never think or wish to. because that would be dangerous. yet he does not think so. she leans back enough to look up at him, and slowly nods while biting her lip. emotion is vivid in her eyes, and it is guilt. guilt and grief, a duo of burdens which would crush anyone given time. ]

Yes. Many times. Were I able to back home, perhaps my brothers might.. [ she sets her jaw and tips her chin up. ]

I have come to see how capable women can be in combat. And how invaluable such a skill might be. Yes.