Weary to the bone and mentally exhausted, Joy was sure she would drift off to sleep standing up any moment now. But it wasn't long before they were given the chance to rest and the brunette took the opportunity in a heartbeat. She was asleep the instant her lids closed.

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She wasn't a particularly tall woman, not exactly commanding in presence or stature, so the armor helped. It wasn't ornate, wasn't gilded in precious metal or gems, but it was clean. It wasn't shiny, no, and there were a few parts that showed dents had been hammered out from one too many times in battle. It was a functional set of armor, meant to protect its wearer but this one had been used as a weapon more than once. Blunt-force was a basic means of offense and she'd learned how to throw her weight around.

She was missing a couple of teeth that showed when she smiled and her nose had a slightly crooked slant that made a whistling noise whenever she takes a really deep breath. If the sight or sound or both made anyone uncomfortable, she never found out.

She wouldn't have much time to find out. Not when it came down to her and an ally. Not when protecting someone always came before protecting herself. Not when pain pushed her forward harder until she could not physically go on. Not when there is still more she could do.

When she cries, it is not for herself but for those she could not save. She cries for she could not do enough.

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Joy stirs, doesn't wake when her hand swipes at her wet cheeks, and settles back to sleep.