Inhale Courage, Exhale Fear

One would think almost twenty years of separation might have changed some things, but no. And it stung. It still pained him deep down somewhere where his heart was, startling the healer into doing one thing he was perfectly versed in. Defying authority in his own way.

As the magic settled around them, Ruth attended to Danny, paying his father’s reply little mind for he stabilised the artificer. The gaping wound was beginning to close at a rapid pace as Ruth weaved signs with a dance of fingers. “C’mon Danny.” He’d mutter quietly and the tautness in his jaw would begin to slacken after a few more moments.

Ruth’s shoulders sagged in relief, but he fought against the wave of exhaustion, “Ok… I think… that’s enough,” enough to get him elsewhere and with someone fresh with magic. After checking Danny and tidying him up, Ruth got to his feet, crouching to hoist the man back up. With a timed and deliberate jostle, the shorter elf managed to slide Danny over his shoulders, bearing the man's full weight on himself.

Ruth’s gait faltered but soon recovered again, scoffing, “Gods, you're heavier than you look Danny boy,” turning, but choosing not to meet his father’s gaze. “Enjoy whatever regen you can… it’ll be gone soon enough and we’re still a bit away from the aid station.”