"Why are you telling me this?" The Dryad swallowed hard. "Are you trying to scare me?"
"I'm trying to reassure you." He took a deep breath, checking the strength of his life force and testing his ability to focus. "You're the perfect patient, Althika. If anyone can survive this, it's you.
"Are you ready to begin the second step of your treatment?"
"What about my baby?" She asked, placing her hands on her swollen womb to protect it.
"I won't even come close to him." Lith replied. "He'll be safe. You have my word."
Althika used her breathing technique to check on the small life growing inside her, and her heartbeat steadied after listening to her son's.
"I'm ready." She nodded. "Do I need to close my eyes again?"
"Meln can no longer interfere, but I'd rather you not watch. As Lady Yaga said, let's avoid pointless stress."
"Okay." The Dryad leaned her head against the pillow and closed her eyes, trying to convince herself she was just about to take a nap.
