Redsand Canyon led by a beating heart

She was apprehensive about being a mother, but she knew at least she had a good example. Her mother had been so fiercely caring and protective, and liked to think she had practice in a motherly role through her role as a medicus… still, it left her apprehensive. She desired to be a good mother, and she worried she would not measure up to the lofty expectations she had set for herself. Perhaps a conversation with the Matrona might soothe her mind, along with some advice that Lady Ruenna might have for her… she had to hope.
 
She hummed in agreement, a soft smile. They would have the Matrona and Imperator’s children to play and grow with. “They will.” She mused back, a warmth in her tone as the realization dawned on her that they would not be raised to be terrified every waking moment of the day as she had been… it was a strange thought to consider. It was all she had known. Playing had not been something permitted, only learning and growing in the craft to prove suitable enough for the soldiers to rely on for healing.
 
They would have freedom. They would have choices… and it meant more to her than words could possibly entertain. She smirked softly at his comment, and even more so as he followed it up with flattery. “Don’t listen to what anyone else says, my love, because flattery certainly will get you anywhere.” She teased lightly because she still found herself not wholly agreeing with his assessment of her. She did not see herself as he did, and could not take the compliment to save her life, her eyes closing as he nuzzled at her neck, pliant to his movements as she simply cherished the embrace.