father-daughter dances are supposed to be more fun

Mal’s eyes closed with a sigh. She was more impaired than he’d assumed, an error, but one he’d monitor in the coming days. Adding the complication of weaning her off would impede any progress, so a balance needed to be found. Yes, though lucid Novella has better judgement. Mal quipped back, a slight grin flickering into life.

His head tilted, eyes again narrowing on her. Then you should have come to me. I am busy, not dead or unwilling to pause and help you, Novella. A promise he had made years before, and one he was not about to break now. I know. I saw. And it disturbed him how little was left of Novella’s tether of control.

They can help, but I’m afraid a large majority of the work will be yours. With my instruction and guidance, of course. It’s why you are home, and not, at home. Wherever he resided had always been open to her, a trusted companion and deputy he relied on, but respected deeply. A safe, familiar environment was what she needed to begin the road of understanding and controlling both her magic, and the demon within.

Mal hummed, a weariness vibrating along with the sound. Not entirely. It’s more complicated this time now your magic has awakened fully. Before, you were merely sensitive, now, with the veil gone entirely, I’m afraid you’ll have to master it to fix it. It would take time, study and training in a way she was unfamiliar with. Reaching over, Mal took her hand in his, wrapping his other over the top of it and the restraint around her wrist. I’ll be with you every step of the way. I’ll suppress the bastard until you are capable of kicking it’s arse on your own. Promise.

@Novella Tilani