[center][h2]Anne Mayer[/h2][h3]Aventon — Hunter's Lodge[/h3][/center]
When Millie's eyes finally blinked open, Anne's entire demeanor seemed to shift in the span of a moment. Layers of grim pragmatism melted away, and there beneath them was a rare smile, a look of sheer relief mixed with a deep-rooted warmth and caring. As if the person who still existed beneath all the accumulated scar tissue finally felt safe revealing herself to the world, even if only for a moment.

Even if she'd failed to stop the Heralds from destroying the town. Even if she'd failed to shield Alvin from the trauma of his loss. She had at least been able to protect this one girl. So long as she was still able to help her, and keep her safe, then Anne still had a purpose here.

She answered Kendrick with a gentle nod, glad that he still trusted her enough to let her handle things on this end. "Of course. You all let me stay under your roof, the least I can do is help out a little." Though she thought she'd heard a fresh commotion outside, it was probably just the villagers clearing some more rubble. If she was needed out there, she was sure he'd let her know.

Her attention quickly returned to the freshly roused young girl. "It's nice to meet you, Millie. Here, stay put for a moment—I'll get you something to drink." Without letting the girl ever pass too far out of sight, she got up to retrieve a mug and fill it with the water stored nearby. A little spilled over the edge as she made her way back, but her hand was steady again as she offered it up to her charge, paying careful attention in case Millie had any trouble holding it. Her condition seemed remarkably good after all that she'd been through, but it was best to take things slowly and carefully when dealing with unknowns.

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