[Suzerain of Sheol]

Amélie did not hear the other woman's approach, and starts at the unexpected touch. She hears the words, but does not comprehend them at first, repeating them silently to herself while looking into the concerned gaze lingering above her.

She stammers in attempt to reply. "Hurt? I... no, pray forgive me, I shall see to it myself."

Amélie stares at her for a moment longer before pulling herself up onto her unbroken ankle. She presses the majority of her weight onto the prayer stand for support.

"I beg pardon for the rudeness of my blasphemy. I am... in extremis. I've not taken such wounds since Hattin, I fear."

She studies the younger woman, noting the strength in her frame despite her stature. No prized political daughter here, but a warrior like herself. And yet, nothing alike. This one is not disgraced.