She heard a murmur that sounded like something between praise and reassurance, but her exhausted mind couldn’t parse the meaning beyond what seemed like an endless buzzing in her ears as she felt her body being gathered and held. The pressure against her mouth vanished as the gag was removed, leaving her quiet sobs and gasps to emerge unimpeded. She felt her face leaning against something solid and warm as she was enveloped in long arms that held her securely, soothing her trembling frame. 