The unhappy expression didn't fade at the touch. If anything, his frown became more pronounced. "You shouldn't be having to take the lash at all," he protested. "No one should look forward to pain or death as an alternative to worse pain or a more violent death."
An idea caught him, and his expression lightened. "Samandriel can protect you! When he has his grace back, Carrick would think twice about crossing him. And his sister--the other angel--they help slaves find new homes, to find their freedom. We could make arrangements."