"Easy… easy," she whispered, her voice filled with concern.
"Don't push yourself."
Once he was properly sitting up, Olivia quickly brought over a few pillows and carefully placed them behind his back, making sure he was supported. She then sat back down on the edge of the bed, this time even closer than before. She kept one hand on his shoulder and the other gently resting on his chest, right above the bandages.
"Tell me how to do it," she said softly. "How do I give you my mana?"
Julian took a slow, pained breath.
"Just as before, Mother," he said quietly.
"You have to face your back to me and relax. When you feel something pulling at your mana, do not resist. Just let it happen."
Olivia nodded silently. She turned around on the bed so her back was facing him. Her long dark hair cascaded down her back, the orange gown slightly slipping off one shoulder and revealing the smooth, pale skin beneath.
Julian raised both hands and gently placed them on her shoulders.
