Emberflame Ridge Aftershock

She expected him to lead her out onto the plain but Warbone stuck close to the mountains on their left, following the range's natural curve. Wildfire spotted the forest off in the distance and felt a twinge of relief. It wasn't too far away. Her ribs were aching awfully and she just wanted to sit still and get some rest. She wondered how much her companion's willow bark would help with the pain.

"If you're not particularly into medicine, then how do you know this works?" Wildfire wondered as she ambled along in the male's shadow. "Did you just randomly decide to chew on a willow one day, then discover its magical healing properties?" There was a slight teasing note in her voice, though it faded quickly as the very act of inhaling and exhaling was becoming incredibly uncomfortable. She needed to save her breath.