Page 8 of Breaking Ties

“I will make a note of it. We have obtained clothing for you that will accommodate your new form and allow for alteration as your body stabilizes.”

“Good. I don’t think this tunic matches my eyes.”

The medics smiled. One of the doctors asked, “Would you allow us to lengthen your hair?”

“Not yet. I need to make sure that no one confuses me with my sibling, who is still on the surface, waiting for the arrival. I will not be compared to her again. I have issues.”

“We have assigned you to a therapist.”

“Good. So clothing, food, and therapy. I love a well-organized day.” The medical team was looking at her with dazed eyes, and someone came in with fabric draped over her arms. “That looks lovely.”

She was taken to an enclosed room, and the woman with the clothing, who turned out to be a dresser and was wearing a tube top, a floor-length skirt and a robe that covered both and was sashed at the waist. As she filled out, the robe would widen. The fabric was edged with embroidery, and when the matching slippers were on her feet, Aubrey felt properly dressed.

She walked out into the medical main area full of scanners and medical beds, and everyone gasped again.

“So, where am I getting food? I mostly promise not to get it on my clothing.”

There was a slightly amused chuckle that went through the room, and her guards assembled outside the doors. She turned, flexed her knees, and inclined her head. “Thank you.”

She walked out with the guards and ended up in a food court. One of the guards gestured, and food was brought to her table. Aubrey ate, tidied up, and got to her feet. The guards formed up around her, and they were on the move again to her therapy appointment.

The therapist smiled at her, and then the smile faded as she took her in. “Lady Aubrey. You are... unexpected.”

“Yes, I have been getting that.”

“Right. Well, please have a seat. I will touch your mind and assess your situation.”

“Go for it.” She sat, and the therapist reached out and touched her forehead with a single finger.

The therapist’s hand shook as she pulled it back. “You see much, Lady.”

“Yes. More and more with every passing minute.”

“Do you see anything for me, Lady?”

“You are near to worshipping the Hmrain, but that is how they like it. What would you suggest for my treatment?”

“I see that you have already had therapy for your familial issues.”

“I have indeed. Their actions no longer surprise me. I just had to deal with the fallout.”

“You couldn’t avoid it?”

“We were the only humans together on an open plain. There was nowhere to go. All moves were calculated to save fuel.”

“And you were with them because your parents wanted you to look after your sister, despite a hostile upbringing.”

“Correct.”

The therapist smiled. “I will give you my com code if you ever have need of me, but you seem to have found healthy ways to deal with rage.”

Aubrey rubbed the back of her neck. “Ah, you felt that, huh? Sorry.”

“It was there, but it wasn’t being ignored or suppressed. You are aware of it and do not let it control you. That is important.”

Aubrey inclined her head. “I am aware.”

“That awareness will stand you in good stead. Many of those who come through fight the reality of their situation, but you are eager for it.”