[Ducky notices that tenderness, how in this moment South is a perfect gentle giant treating her with care. But she also notices just how large and warm that hand is against her hip.

Which is definitely pleasant.

She takes the compliment without arguing, though she's never really felt beautiful. Black, beady eyes and a beakish nose have never been in fashion, not since the Roman era perhaps.]

Oh, South, you're amazing. I feel...incredibly safe, here with you. I didn't think that would be possible here, so soon.