[These things never go according to script. Ianthe had indeed wanted Alina to come into her own, but hadn't known if she had the will and ambition to do it. And in a way, she still wasn't sure if she did, but it was done. It couldn't be undone now. The price was paid.

The sob brought Ianthe out of her silent reverie basking in the monstrous glow. She lifted her head to look at Alina before giving her what may be the first look of real compassion she'd ever seen on Ianthe's face.]

It does get easier, with time. The pain lessens to a point where you don't notice it as much anymore. It stops feeling like it's going to suffocate you. Eventually, you get used to what you see in the mirror, how it feels, until you almost forget it used to be different.

At least, that's how it is for me. Still a work in progress.