Lys: Bad Memories

Aithne took the offered hand and pulled herself up. "If we can go slowly for a bit, I can continue." She shot the Guttersnipe a fleeting dark look. "But no more slapping Concordia."

Dusting off her skirt, she took the horse's reins and, after a moment to catch her bearings, she mounted with near ease. "As for tying me on, I understand. It's a good idea. I hope I don't, but if I do, you have my permission to knock me out. But please, don't gag me, if you can help it. Last time someone did that... it did not end well."

Well she remembered struggling to breathe, choking on her own bile, drowning on dry land. She'd nearly died, and her throat was so burned she had not been able to speak above a whisper for over a month.

The dog whined and nosed her leg, and she pulled herself out of the memory. "I'm fine, Cu. Don't worry." The name came surprisingly easily to her tongue. She leaned down and scratched his massive head. It wasn't far to go. If she stood next to him he could easily nose her chin, even with all four paws on the ground. He was obviously pleased, and walked a little ways down the path before looking back.

Aithne gathered the reins. "Shall we go?"