“Smiling, Ava closed her eyes as weariness overcame her. Jak’ri and his brother continued to razz each other, seeming almost to compete to see who could launch the most outrageous accusations or recount the most ridiculous stories. Tears welled in her eyes as she realized what they were doing. They were trying to distract her from the pain. Trying to keep fear and despair from overwhelming her by making her laugh. Helping her feel less alone. And it was working, she thought moments before darkness claimed her.”
Book:The Purveli