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[b]Once more, I open my mouth to respond but have nothing to say. With a somewhat defeated sigh, I incline my head and offer my 'injured' arm for treatment. When you warn of a sting, I snort doubtfully but let it turn into a hiss of surprise and anguish as your fingertips touch my arm. I make as if to wrench my arm away but catch your eye and decided against it.[/b]

[i]"By the way, thank you,"[/i] I turn to look at you but your head is downcast. [i]"for saying my life."[/i]

[b]I take in the genuine gratitude in your voice and am, for a moment, lost in the character. I snap out of it quickly and say "You are most welcome." with a little gruffness but more feeling than anything else I've blustered about so far.[/b][/center]