This whole being locked within her body was definitely not something she liked. Gaia hated this wholly and completely, and she hated even more that Livia was going to see her this way. But what could she do? It wasn't as though she could help herself right now. Had she still been in ancient Rome, she never would have gotten to this point. She would still be standing tall and strong. Gaia was not a wilting flower by any stretch of the imagination. She was fiery and she was strong and she was a proud Roman citizen.
But right now, she showed nothing but weakness and had no way to cover it. She couldn't deal with the opium withdrawal side effects. Not when they were so potent and painful and intrusive upon her life. The tremors and body pains were the worst part.
When Livia arrived and entered her line of sight, Gaia drew in a deep breath and forced herself to stand up straight. She was Roman, and she had pride to uphold as much as she could right now. Gaia met Livia's gaze, her dark eyes still holding her inner fire, though they also carried traces of the pain and exhaustion within them.
"The baths are ready to receive us," she replied with a nod. "My gratitude to you, Livia. Please, enjoy my hospitality." Despite the pain, Gaia was more than determined to keep her head held high. But before she led the way out to the baths, she of course could not help but give Livia the once over, a smile managing to curve her lips. "Your beauty outshines that of Venus herself." And with that, she turned and led the way out to the bath house.