By the time she crested the final rise, her once immaculate coat had gathered the dust of many roads she paused only briefly upon the hillside, her pale green eyes sweeping over the valley below. A river wound lazily between the grasses, sheltered by rolling hills that broke the cruel bite of the steppe wind. It was a good place and she exhaled a quiet breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding.

His howl reached her a heartbeat later; camp will be made here until the season turns. For the first time since her arrival, something inside her settled. The healer descended at an unhurried pace, ears lowering respectfully as she approached the gathering camp. She dipped her head deeply, the gesture carrying all the weight that words alone could not.

My Khaan. her voice remained as gentle as ever, though the weariness tucked beneath it could not be entirely hidden. It is good to see you standing, dear.

The endearment escaped as naturally as breathing offered with the same quiet warmth she extended to everyone regardless of rank. Only after assuring herself that Batu bore no obvious wounds did her gaze begin drifting beyond him, instinctively searching faces that were not there. Too many faces.

I feared... she began softly before stopping herself, swallowing the thought whole. There would be time enough to grieve those who had not answered the call. A healer learned long ago that mourning could wait until the living no longer required her hands, so instead, she drew herself upright.

I brought what medicines I could salvage her eyes wandered over the beginnings of the encampment, already cataloging what would be needed.

If we're to remain until the season turns, I'll need a place away from the dust to tend the sick and wounded. And, her gaze returned to Batu with the faintest hint of sternness beneath her warm smile, before you disappear, you'll allow me to examine you,

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