"And your age?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡcRU7lNvOER
Hestia shook her head.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡvpmU22BvPl
"Hmm," Morgana moved the quill, writing some more, "alright. So no origin and identity. How about a friend or a relative?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡNdTlbwRWjy
"I don't remember that either..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡavp4DLS8zw
"Nothing at all?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ04VmZXoAsd
"Well, there are...there are bits and pieces that I keep seeing over and over. Like—like it's stuck there inside my head...?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡWgrQBCmtzF
She glanced at the small book on Morgana's lap. The binding, a slender strap, hung loosely in the air. Scratches and abrasions could be seen on the leather cover. The worn-off, rather discolored appearance made the book look antiquated. It's the same book Morgana had been holding the first time she saw her at the door.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2JbrOOcGXM
"Can you explain the vision then?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡcXR7kQ5Jry
"The things I saw?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡWoOoep1ATA
Morgana nodded.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡgVkrn8gAOd
"I'm not sure..." Hestia looked at the ceiling, exhaling. The pillows eased her throbbing head a little bit, "I don't know what to make of it."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡm0be8v4eew
"Just say anything. Details matter if you want to retrace your memories."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡMbUAA90BJT
"I keep seeing places that I don't know of. Woods, encampments, houses, buildings. Everything is so..." she closed her eyes, "...random."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡc0PwrcEINt
The scribbling sounds ensued.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡVau7oCCtRR
"Then I saw people. They're all angry...at me I suppose...? I'm not sure. They looked hostile."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0D3VdD4dfO
"Hostile?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7rOXYgaDYX
"They threw stuff at me. I think...I think they wanted to hurt me..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6T7A0wdD04
"Now that makes sense."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡu0IyVVb09q
"What?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡOhSCeQSotQ
"Your clothes," Morgana closed the book, putting her pen aside, "there's a large blood stain on the back of your clothes. I thought it's not yours."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡmzKuaL1oo1
"Blood...?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡsT1bsX6DXg
"I haven't looked into it yet so I can't say anything," Morgana got up from her seat and headed for the door, "wait just a moment."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4LxWoMNhbg
Hestia sat back up, rubbing her forehead. The aching had gone though she couldn't help but think back to that particular night. Blood, Morgana said. She remembered something hit her on the back before passing out. Her hand instinctively touched her backside.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7xQS10D2p2
No pain. No gash. No wound. At least none she felt so.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4SW63o3921
Nothing remarkable except for the fabric of her tattered attire, torn here and there, exposing some of her skin. Skin that's coarse and covered with filth as if never met any drop of water. She traced her hair—long hair against her fingers, falling down to her waist. She took a handful and looked at it closely.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡq7NX3bKRsV
Black hair. Black like an ink. Dry and grimy, she could feel dirt tangled in between.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7AsYtuZ7wo
How long I've been like this already?copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡaBg7HjvKty
She gazed around, feeling so out of place. Her ragged and foul state was the opposite of Morgana's bedchamber—clean and no reek of death. It wasn't spacious. Nothing really attracted her attention except for the number of books in the room. Three large shelves were placed side by side, almost covering the entire wall itself. In the front, stood an armchair and a scribe desk over a circular rug where Morgana possibly spent time reading her tomes.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡMTFzRJLBAe
The chair made her wonder where the woman slept for the last two days.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡwIPZGitFp0
"You're up again. Are you feeling better?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3zBkGiDc36
"Ah," Morgana had returned unannounced, or perhaps she just spaced out way too long earlier, not paying attention "yeah, I think so. My head doesn't really hurt anymore..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡLQ0qpRabtK
The woman had a satchel in her right hand and a wooden box with a handle in another. She put them on the table and started unpacking its contents. Hestia could only blink in confusion looking at the items she'd never seen before.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡp0seZ9xtOW
"Alright, can you remove your clothes?" Morgana said while attaching a monocle-like device on her ear.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡuSw5ccoPps
"I—I, what?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡWaiWBIOLTh
"I need to perform an examination," she walked closer, the wooden-metallic instrument covered her entire right eye "I didn't wanna do it until you woke up."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡwjhZyh85KX
"Uh, why not?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ePyk1LJRa
"Would you let a stranger graze their hands upon your body when you're unconscious?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡbNltKWczH5
Hestia's brows furrowed, "Huh, no! No—not when you put it that way..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡRep9dXql3b
Morgana gave a roguish smile.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡi5q8EL9pu1
"I was messing with you. It's my personal code of conduct. I wouldn't take any action if no consent was given."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡAGPWaASm9A
"But...you fixed my leg when I was asleep...?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡr0OQ92OAoR
"You were bleeding," Morgana said again, "of course I'd take any necessary means if it's an emergency."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡLHXcPBXZ1s
"I see...I understand..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0C8QyiqrEz
"Very well, shall we begin?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ26zRWJTLjh
Hestia was silent for a moment before finally loosening the girdle around her waist. One by one she discarded them on the floor. The outer tabard, the tunic, and lastly, she pulled the final article over her head—the linen undershirt. Her arms folded by reflex, covering her bare breasts with both hands.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡC5YzhObeNc
"I'm ready."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡGOOOEn74OL
"Take everything off, please."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡEQReHOXBzg
"The—the trousers too?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡSblRLCFWRt
"I wouldn't be able to look at anything with that on."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8yiXnWku19
"Alright..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡfFZ7THVRiu
Carefully, she slid off the brown pants. The injury on her knee made it a little difficult. However, Morgana stopped her right away as she's about to reach the hem of her breechcloth.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8aGt2r6IoY
"That can stay," the woman said, suppressing her laughter "I don't need to see everything."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡbwwtuTqPos
Blushing, Hestia averted her eyes and adjusted herself on the sheets. The weight of the bed shifted as Morgana sat behind her.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡYE8XL1EGTW
"Good lord...!"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡb17SvajBSI
"Wh—what?" Hestia turned to find the woman, hand on her mouth, stared at her back with her brows furrowed.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡA4f7yJ1Yyp
"That's a lot of wounds," Morgana said again, her eyes went up and down, "large and deep ones. Don't move, let me have a look."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡrw3zuOB9vu
"Wounds...?" she whispered to herself. Her attention caught on the pile of garments on the floor. The white, beige, grayish—she wasn't sure what to make of the color anymore. Dirt and whatever was that made them look like a bunch of rags rather than clothes. She noticed the dark stains on the fabric.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Hvdz0nTCg
Dried blood.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡBdkQkSAlR8
"Does it hurt," Morgana applied pressure on her back, "when I touch it like this?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡKiFORaDsj9
"Um, no."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡWpQsDqt0k5
"Strange."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡhViBMCtmYk
"Morgana...?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡvIDbxulaWE
"You truly don't feel any pain?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡjT3alGBOHV
"No."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡUYQdADQ30O
"How about this?" her nails scraped gently on the surface.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡovx1G4w1ft
Again Hestia shook her head.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡFznJJJqkx7
"Alright. Now, up. Straighten your back."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡfs66FGKwKK
"Like this?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡk9fSaWWHYc
"Good. Stay still."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡaDLxnugNPO
For an unknown reason, Hestia felt heat crept up her face. Morgana's slim fingers traced lines all over her skin. From her nape, upper arms, shoulders, to her spine, down to her scapulas and underneath. Every touch left the hair on her body rose, like a trail of breadcrumbs.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡV5h2cXIWts
"Why are you so tensed? Relax a little."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡHOBWGMTCuR
"I, um...it's chilly..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡOEvAcS4tGU
Morgana chuckled.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡhC0yEcwm9Z
"Hold on a little more, okay?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡPRNrNueH6I
There was nothing she could do other than brushing off the growing sensation in her stomach. It was oddly familiar. Not that she hated it, the feeling was just different. Tingling, like an itch that needed to be scratched. She looked around, trying to find a distraction. Suddenly, she remembered something.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡyVn4vzXA2D
"You don't seem to be surprised."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡvkfvTUIpgS
"Me? About?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡp6JcyxGMfN
"When you know I lost my memories..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡuNJRSfrPQt
"Should I be?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡtmNJSGDB6U
"Is it—is it common?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡtv0dIyLpl0
"The memory loss? No, but it's been known to happen."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡcPOWHGc8w3
"So, you know how to cure it?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡCZppIh6mSc
"Can't say anything yet," Morgana gave a massage-like stroke around her waist, "but the most common cause is blunt objects to the head—which I figured you had."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡgmHhApQlOb
She jolted a little when the woman suddenly got up and sat before her.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡm11aYIRbRn
"Alright, now I need to look at your front."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡetmET5VZrO
"Uh," Hestia swallowed, looking away. She pressed her arms closer to her chest, "do I need to—um..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡcIbUZLjP78
"What?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ta1D9KvkB
"Well..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡSz5fdYk9YM
"No need to be embarrassed. It's not like I haven't seen naked women before—or men even."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡXau84uUoj1
"...okay then," Hestia gave in, looking at the walls as she released her arms. She didn't even look at her. But she knew Morgana's eyes were all over her face, neck, breasts, abdomen, and beyond. Everything. Every inch of her skin. Every part of her body. She knew this was necessary. She knew this was professional. Nothing less, nothing more. But why did she feel so uneasy yet at the same time...excited. That, she couldn't fathom. Perhaps because Morgana was the first and only person whom she had contact with. The fact that they just met made things didn't feel any easier.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡxkuHm8R7Dc
"You found something?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡIwLNLYM57K
No answer. Morgana took off the device and put it aside. Hestia saw those green eyes stared straight at her torso.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡS5UneZR8nb
"The thing you wore on your eye...what's that?" she asked again, attempting to draw away her own awkwardness. Hestia tried to look at anything but the woman. The chair, the bookshelves, the apparatus on the table—anything to keep her calm.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡaUvFCSNuZr
"Oculette. For seeing the tissue of the skin. The Guild invented it to aid us in examination and surgery."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡGIXrvIqiOy
"The Guild...The Alchemist Guild?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2GDW3SWV1j
"Yes."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6beBQQuDkt
Silence again. Though there were a lot of unanswered questions, she failed to find things to talk about. And just when she thought things couldn't get any worse, Morgana landed a hand on her stomach. Upon the marred flesh around her navel, those fingers grazed. Her insides felt peculiar. The sensation soon returned in haste. And that's it; Hestia knew she couldn't take it anymore. She grabbed Morgana's wrist, grumbling.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ50b2sHLTZz
"What is it that you're looking for?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡr2g5ZkXVfY
Morgana looked at her oddly, pulling her hand away.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡelasX0jrED
"I'm not finished. What's the matter with you?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡVJE6M7Ox0O
"I'm...it's—it's cold!copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6rQnxPHvKW
"Alright, then. I've got what I needed anyway."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡuYhErfEKHj
"What did you find?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡnC32JP9xm9
The woman sighed and stood up, walking towards the dresser.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡltBbQ90xEK
"Well, for now, I found that," She returned and handed over what appeared to be a clean towel, "you stink like a donkey and absolutely need a bath."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡu8JMNa1sUI
Irvine didn't hold back as he charged towards his opponent. He never did, even for the newly trained soldiers. He swung his halberd—a war spear with axe blade—sideways, breaking the defense of the boy before him. Scared, the poor lad stumbled backwards, dropping his sword and shield. He put up his arms as the tip pointed at his neck.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡLilOl4EuB1
"I yield, Sir!"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡEXvg9mp9T4
"One slash and you're falling like a crumb. What will our army become? Next!"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡUodEa0PbsJ
A commotion rose among the initiates. They pushed, pointed at one another, whispering 'your turn, no, your turn!' to each other. Hearing the fuss, the Grand Paladin slammed his weapon to the ground. The crowd went quiet in an instant.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡUe2f3njISV
"Silence! What a bunch of clowns you are," he glared at the neophytes, "there'd be no time to hesitate in war. Either you strike or get struck first. Next!"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡJwTfN2Bccv
An initiate in leather armor was pushed forward. She looked back and mouthed a curse to whoever did that. Retreating wasn't an option, so she ultimately had to enter the sparring session. Irvine observed her silently. The girl was just like any other recruits—skinny and full of curiosity, a hormonal teenager just like he once was decades ago.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡh7TuL3vAfY
She went to the weapon rack; the chest-length auburn hair flowed behind her as she walked.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡkadnphKJZD
"No shield?" Irvine asked when she stood by, equipped with a single short sword.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡFJ9yYWAz9N
"No, Your Excellency."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4rUXWF1sgg
"Very well, then. Ready your stance. En garde...!"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡqBqEYQVJAU
The girl nodded and he dashed at full speed. She waited for the perfect timing, just an inch before his blade touched her skin, before dodging to the side. As the Grand Paladin realized he hit an empty air, he swerved and blocked her sneak attack from behind. A loud clang echoed as two weapons clashed. Irvine pushed frontward and so did she, neither held back for a while.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡmfDwOBtpaD
What was once quiet and fearful bunch, with enthusiasm the recruits began to cheer and watch.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡcf46c1Met3
"A short sword, your weapon won't last long against this halberd," Irvine growled, withstanding on his feet.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡuUEVyCMtmm
"Yes, Sir," she gave away; letting the man rammed his weight ahead, "it won't."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡnIC1erCIQN
Taking advantage of her size and agility, she pulled herself to the ground, sliding through between his legs and stood back up behind him,copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡl33qafrWuU
"But it's much lighter than yours."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡZZOEUngHQC
Irvine smiled when he felt the tip of her sword at his nape. The crowd stood astounded as the Grand Paladin threw the spear and put his arms up, surrendering in the match.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4elHfA8SiZ
"Impressive," he turned around, "what's your name, young soldier?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡGE2J4cZw9t
The girl sheathed the sword and bowed, "Sethra of Albridge, Your Excellency."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡr9sgNnD45t
He glanced at the other initiates and looked at her again, pondering. She had thought of a simple strategy. Evasion was a basic tactic of any battle yet not many people could execute it with finesse. Never mind she managed to turn his strength to her advantage in a short time. For such a young age, it'd be unfortunate if she only ended up as one of the garrison guards.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡH9I3QYDYRW
"Now, Sethra of Albridge," he unclasped his Paladin breastplates. Joined on the ground next the gauntlets and iron greaves. Then, in his shirt and buckled trousers, he stood ready, "shall we test the true strength of a soldier?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡYyB0iFdhcn
Sethra had her lips parted in awe. She didn't expect the sparring session would have a one-on-one unarmed combat. Nobody did. The rookies whispered among themselves, voicing their surprise.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡLDweTkCxpH
Reluctantly, she put away the sword and began removing her armor, matching her appearance with the Grand Paladin. They stood before each other. His tall stature was a goliath to her figure. Nonetheless, closed fists and everything, both took an equal stance before fighting.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ16QJ9HINGz
The Grand Paladin, in fact, did not kill the dragon using his blade only. The story was told from tavern to tavern. When everyone from his platoon perished before his eyes, Irvine had single-handedly wrestled with its humongous tail and fiery head. His renowned title, the Dragonslayer—the sole survivor of the battle of Cadaver Hills—wasn't for nothing but such display of the raw power of a human. Sethra remembered that well and she knew it'd be foolish to even think of winning this time.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡJE7kFp0SHd
"Come on, hit me back!"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡgtQNHK7jhw
Seconds passed and not once had she riposted his attack. Rolling and evading to the side, all she did was dodging without respite. His brute strength almost got her in a close call. The girl leaped backwards and did a somersault before his eyes.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1iDR2NzKAf
"Heh, you're nimble."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡjkTrFyRGrz
"Thank you, Sir," her chest heaved, controlling her breath to stay vigilant. Not only him, the maneuver took everyone, including herself by surprise. Sethra might have made it look easy but inside, her chest pounded and her head spun for a while. She was no pugilist but she knew a thing or two about being fast. Her previous life as an urchin had taught her for years.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡTH2KuJvC3M
More punches were laid only to be evaded again. For him, this was an interesting combat albeit a frustrating one. It's been more than five minutes yet not once was he able to strike her body. The girl was almost invisible—like fighting with the wind.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ945NW8AvSb
"Dodging would only take you nowhere!"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡKcwEEcdvSF
Sethra gulped. He was right. The fight wouldn't end if things went on like this. She knew defeat was inevitable. The question now was how to make that less painful. Even the knockback of his assault was enough to make her body throbbed.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Mn6xSQ2uU
And at times like this, she wished she had a sword.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡPEYVrV32qV
"In battle, your opponents might knock your weapons out and you'd be left unarmed," as if reading her mind, he said between his blows. The cheer from the audience got louder. Apparently, on-duty guards started coming to watch the duel. Irvine finally grabbed her by the collar and tossed her to the ground.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡeb8KQMX3iP
Sethra cried. The collision hit her hard. The impact shocked her entire body, like bones being crushed to no remains. And before she could even recover, the Grand Paladin had climbed and sat on her stomach. Fist up high, aiming at her face. She couldn't move. She couldn't run. She couldn't escape. One way or another, she had no choice but yield.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡInC5u9Xkcs
However, she decided to do something else.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡf27eXz90BA
Everyone fell in abrupt silent. The moment when the loud, painful scream from the Dragonslayer as she grappled his groin and squeezed the mass between her fingers—was blasphemous, like seeing a heinous sin before their very eyes. They held their breath as his body staggered to the ground, finally giving her chance to get away.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡWQM4BCRyFa
Sethra stood back up and tackled him on the back of his knees. Now she had him lying face down with her boot on his back. Their stances were upturned.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡoox0u1armn
"You...fight dirty..." Irvine's voice was a mixture of awe and agony.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡUBp1PmAZnc
"Apologize, Your Excellency," Sethra realized what she just did. The man was a high member of Paladin Order and he had as much of authority to make her life like hell, if he wanted to, "I—I didn't mean to..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡAj2moDYgcE
She withdrew her foot off his back only to be yanked down quickly by her hair. The girl yelped. She didn't see it coming. As her body hit the ground, he seized her arm and the two continued to wrestle once more.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡqA2XBwZMYl
"Now we go by your rule. I can fight dirty too," Irvine grunted in her ear as he had her by the neck. They rolled for a while before he managed to find her unguarded side. His punch was audible with a thud the second she felt a fist to the gut. The girl toppled to the side and coughed her insides out, feeling the burn in her abdomen.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9TXzUNVvNi
"We're not finished."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡHnCKJ1oIhB
Holding her stomach, Sethra curled like a ball. It felt like someone had stirred her innards into a void, spinning sideways and upside down.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡmHbpFNWFzV
"Come on, girl!"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1JOZiJMdeA
Suddenly, someone was clapping from the crowd. Irvine turned to find a familiar face walked closer. The heraldic royal blue armor distinguished him from other soldiers. His long flaxen hair was tied into a ponytail, shining under the sun.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡwWX9HHa6pr
"What a magnificent demonstration of strength, I expect no less from you." The man offered his hand.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡHM9SbPG7uf
"Harding...!"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2wYQvgAhuO
"Be easy on the recruits, will you?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡR1LPatwlzW
"Heh, not a chance if you want a resilient army," Irvine grinned. He grabbed his hand and stood up. "At least one of them is better than I thought," he glanced at the writhing girl.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡMgIW9TMP1g
"Take her to the barracks. This sparring session is over," Lieutenant Harding commanded the initiates, turning to his friend afterwards, "Come. Walk with me."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ53M3UhkuzP
After everyone was dismissed, the two soldiers left the training ground and took a stroll around the stronghold.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡjrQ5h1yNm7
"Well, that looks painful. You sure don't wanna get it checked?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡK9os6xmSnn
"It's nothing."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8srVvldQQN
"Were I you, I'd freak out to death," Harding said, wincing "ooh, the thought of me not being able to enjoy pleasure again."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡFafvfwxNkT
"That is disgusting."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡV43jw9QS1d
"Really, Irvine, when was the last time you hammered the nails?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡgaGH6b3k2T
"There are more important things in life than 'hammering nails' I suppose."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7H3ndjTK6d
"No wonder you're so cross all the time," the lieutenant gave a chuckle, "you never take care of yourself."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡE1hHkORbHT
"How very attentive of you."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡpX35FahIuj
"I mean, seriously, get yourself a woman. Or a man. Anyone. Someone to make that blood hot and pumping."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡCC0GZeZSY5
"I want nothing to do with the words 'hot' and 'pumping' whatever that means."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6D7nlsccDT
"But there's nothing better than the good old-fashioned, toes-curling, headboard-slamming—"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ53R98xjpfN
"Why are we still talking? Haven't you got some unholy things to do?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡJSpJypXyhW
"My, such attitude," Harding said, snickering "someone shall tame that righteous halberd of yours."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡEnzLLVdY7R
"Go away, you're embarrassing me."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡRdUJn3gGtw
The flaxen-haired man threw his head back, laughing out loud.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡucoUWXjUwB
"Fine, fine. I just mean that Goddess gave us these...parts and urges. They're not just for looks, Irvine. It's healthy to have a company once in a while."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡQaZqVKm9Ju
"I'm not you. I don't have people thrown themselves at me all the time."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1BHWk4ZBLs
"Try a different approach then. Be less cranky," he shrugged, "not everyone loves their dragons to be slain right away."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7fFw9Busv0
"...you did not just say that."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ma3N6O9gx
He laughed again, patting the Paladin's shoulder, "Sorry, man, I just missed you so much. It's been months!"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡDh8ldsqd3b
"I thought the trip was supposed to be longer. When did you return?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡGbqlHAWc3r
"Last night. Kelredan Empire is stubborn as ever, the diplomacy didn't do much," Harding looked at the trees around, the birds were chirping on the branches "How are you doing anyway?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡc7OnaBtYLK
"The usual. My castle life would bore you. Tell me more about your journey."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡvo1DKf6ata
"Hmm, fair enough," he said, "Well, Kelredan Isles...beautiful beaches, beautiful people. Always nice weather to be in skimpy outfits. Scrumptious seafood—I didn't know I was allergic to clams though. Alas, again Empress Madekwe refuses to sign the treaty. I bet my coins she would still in like, forever. Ha, King Arallan and his demands—got the emissaries quite uptight for weeks! But aside from that...things were fantastic."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡl9lMu3nqfq
"Hmph, sometimes I want to be a Royal Guard," Irvine smirked, "grand feasts and lavish trips whenever."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡSrxHOIjiG4
"True, not that I'm complaining, though I prefer the great respect that you Paladins got."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2bt4PdkVoN
"That's not respect, people are just scared."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5KWrwruURJ
Harding scoffed, "Is that why you train the recruits yourself now? To frighten them?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡlKbTrZBKih
"To make them confront their fear."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡPktiojwJeU
"You're being too harsh, Irvine. They're just teenagers."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡwkEtLbUf5M
"If they couldn't face me now, they couldn't face bigger threats later."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡZqwajYaUJs
"Well, hmm, can't really argue with that," Harding said again, "speaking of which, that ginger girl you had a barbaric brawl with. She was rather brave...or foolish I think."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡcyNGRcZnVe
"She's different indeed. And I'm not talking about her skills."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡhrzVUk6PAb
"Which rank will she join?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡBAC8KV6UQQ
"I didn't ask. Let's hope she'll enter yours."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡn3paJgmIDh
"A Royal Guard? You want her to be like me?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡXUJwQERWtr
"That girl's too adept to be in garrison. And it'd be a waste if she's dead in The Union."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ851LdMHkHx
Lieutenant Harding released a long sigh,copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡa4AzfjPC2t
"The Union. Right. I just hope someday you'd spill me the beans."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡUZoDweinbL
"Keep dreaming. Not in a million years, I would."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡOkRQ54DMok
As a sworn holy knight, Irvine wasn't allowed to say anything. About The Union, the oath, and other things in the Paladinhood. It's just the way things were, like a secret society it was. The Grand Paladin honored the code rather highly to disclose any detail to anyone—even to his childhood friend for life.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡkzpU8FeYhh
He thought back to their younger days. A scrawny boy with crooked nose and acne problems he was. Being picked on by other recruits was his daily meal. Ugly, they said. Puny, they said. Worthless, they said. Everyone was insecure and wanted to feel better about themselves.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡrbgPPM47af
Except for the sixteen-year-old Harding, the only one who loathed seeing young Irvine got beaten constantly—the only one who actually stepped in instead of watching from the corner. Harding was the only one who'd talked to him like a human being, like a person he should be.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡTYzKPFPtre
"Really, not even a little? Shall I drug you with a gallon of strongest ale in the tavern then? I've been thinking about doing it."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡOLNeGVTUUb
"I'd pay a sovereign to see you succeed."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡcmnsbdfglq
Rumor had it The Union was a harsh initiation of the Paladin Order. Only the holy knights knew what went on in the ceremony itself. To give oneself to the Paladinhood was to give away one's old life and identity. For Goddess and the Church, they served until the end. Those who fell in The Union would be having the notice delivered to the family—should they have any—forbidding them to attend the memorial. They died a holy death, they said. Not befitting a common funeral. And so, for this reason, many parents prohibited their children to join their rank.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡvep5ZeKPIc
"What kind of dirty little secret I wonder. Is it an orgy? I hope it's an orgy. But then why would someone die in an orgy? Hmm."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3wYQKEMDzH
"Why? Why is it always about fornication with you?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡPL3cefpuvK
"No. Not really," his grin returned, "sometimes it's about fornication with other people."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡU1Zj6ZyROg
"Samael's knees! It's impossible to talk to you," Irvine groaned. He had his face straight, baffled beyond words. The lieutenant burst into a laugh, almost in tears even.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4SN2IxHvbh
"Yeah, right, sorry. Goddess, I can't help it sometimes!" Harding spoke between his laughter. "I mean, you Paladins are so damn secretive. Your troops wouldn't even let me in the tower though they knew who I was."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡc03fdiuCN0
"You went to the tower?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡnI1n18mAZb
"Just before I came here," he cleared his throat, "seems like it wasn't only me who was hoping to see you there."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡR43E7MbPin
Irvine stopped in his tracks.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6vnaLAsfdf
"Someone wishes to see me?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡgBXhYZplAp
"Yes, I met a soldier by the courtyard. He was...hmm...wrecked I'd say? He had bandages around his limbs. Said he was looking for you."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡwsuA6BniqG
"Who?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡFxb3HWEacR
"I don't know," Harding said again, "he rambled about vampires. Poor lad, he looked terrified. I told him to wait in the sick bay before I went looking for you."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡqssoKroaMY
"Vampires...?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡzjq3TxFhP5
"I know, right? I don't know why he talked about something like that. Do you really know him?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡXvD9yl5cvi
Suddenly, the Grand Paladin felt a massive lump in his throat.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4WLxlvYJFL
"I should go."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡIf49jYGYgw
Morgana showed up at the door, saying the bath was ready. The woman had dismissed herself, leaving her alone in a towel for a while. Hestia could hear noises from the other side—from a kitchen or some sort. Cracking of firewood, clanging of metal cauldrons and pots, the rustling of things being moved, and other sounds she couldn't make of.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4e2HnA2tNy
"Hold onto me," Morgana said, seeing her struggle to arise. Hestia complied, circling her right arm around her shoulders while propping herself with another. The woman pulled her body closer to get her on her feet. Her nose unintentionally brushed against Morgana's neck. And in that second, Hestia thought she smelled like some herbs or spices.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡLSvxpQ2ozI
"You're really tall," Morgana looked at her when she finally managed to stand up. She was right. To her own towering height, the young physician was only of her nose level. When she put her arm around her, Hestia could almost feel the woman would sink into her clinch—like a stuffed doll in an embrace of a child.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡaiXergd8et
"Ah!" The pain spread throughout her veins. It was a mistake to move the injured knee ever so slightly. Even going ahead was difficult. Hestia bit her lip while making tiny jumps using her left foot, "Goddess!"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡEjHG04h3y5
"Goddess?" Morgana muttered, eyes on the crippled woman, "interesting."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡCjX7QnYTMy
"What?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡBWQzbhPop4
The apprentice said nothing and continued to escort her to the other room. The destination was just next door, right by the kitchen. Morgana's house was really small. The halls were narrow. It's a relief she didn't have to make long trips between rooms.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡR4oyLoD3sb
Her eyes swept around as they entered the washroom. It was smaller than the bedchamber—perhaps half of the space or even less. Not much of sunlight went through; the window was covered by a white curtain. On the wall, hung a large brush and some rags. In the middle, stood a wooden tub. Hestia expected it to be filled with water but there's nothing inside. The water—hot water Morgana had boiled before, was in several buckets next to the tub. In the room was also a stool, a woven basket of soaps and amenities, another basket with more rags, a chamberpot, and a standing mirror by the corner.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ94v7cmuafh
"Wait here," Morgana guided her to the stool. Hestia sat down and watched the woman poured water into the tub. One by one, her thin arms hoisted those buckets. They looked heavy. Veins prodded from her forehead every time she made a lift.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡIRdzrpRhNh
"I wish I could help you."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡmElKd79RbB
"This?" droplets of sweat poured off her brows, "No need. I'm used to it."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2kGyrTUW3a
Come to think of it, Hestia hadn't seen anyone else around. Morgana probably lived by herself in this house. She wondered whether the woman had a family or not.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡdM2rmtQdKE
"You can get in," Morgana said again, wiping her forehead with the back of her hand. The tub is filled with water now. She then headed for the baskets, searching for something.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡu6jQRwX0o9
Hestia took off the towel and dropped it on the floor. Next, she lowered her breechcloth. However, the scanties got stuck around her bandaged knee. She slid off the other leg easily but it's too painful to fold her right one. Morgana turned around and noticed it right away.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡBrthZVaUSe
The woman walked closer, "here, let me help you."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4617xoAoBl
"No, I can—"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ25smVjTTjh
"It's alright," Morgana spoke in a soft voice, "straighten your leg."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3UIwcHsnBk
She felt her ears hot the moment Morgana kneeled before her. Not only ears—her cheeks, face, neck, everything. Her body tightened as her heart pounded against her chest. Loudly, as if it would leap out of her mouth any moment right now.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡCGqENY2onD
"You really don't need to—"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡJqJbMFvFzO
"Hestia, it's alright," Morgana looked up, a smile formed on her lips. Her hand reached the article and pulled it, gently, straight through her injured limb. She could feel those fingers grazed upon her skin, on her thigh, her calf, down to her foot and the tip of her toes.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡWCJF9VmBjY
As a familiar pressure built within her stomach, Hestia could only look away, doing her best covering all the right places.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡWWFmAslDQI
"Up, place your right leg here," Morgana adjusted the wounded leg, helping her lowered herself into the tub, "don't let the bandage get wet."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡhA81MVGhAf
A sigh of contentment escaped her lips. The dirt from her skin disappeared into the water as she submerged herself. Closing her eyes, she embraced the new feeling. Warmth. It was all over her, healing her body and soul. After all those times spent in dry, somber days of filth and pitch blackness, now she's basked in light and tenderness, finally feeling like human again.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5xSOc1KzD4
"Is the water too hot?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡyz0dWBFhfw
"It's—it's fine."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0w69xS4e9F
Morgana took a soapy brush with long wooden handle and began scouring her back with it. The bristles were a little coarse against the skin. It wasn't unpleasant, rather, Hestia somewhat enjoyed the sensation. She wanted to do it on her own but alas, she couldn't help but surrender to the attention.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡufdm3poOZ1
"You spoke of the Goddess earlier," the woman suddenly said.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡSxATKxuqPJ
"I do? What about it?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡXPg4ZOW426
"You lost your memories but still remember who you worship," the brush moved to the upper arms and chest, "you also retain basic cognition with your surroundings. You know how to speak the common tongue, and most importantly, you know manners."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡJxlXUpmidm
"So, what does that mean?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡj5UUZFst5h
"You remember things you've been taught since small. Kind of like indoctrination—it's ingrained in your soul." The woman lifted her maimed leg and carefully brushed around it.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡd37u76i4al
"Oh..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡaUTwRNVe59
"I'd say your predicament is temporary. Perhaps everything will return after a while."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡBpfvkeaMHg
Her self-consciousness returned as Morgana scrubbed her breasts and stomach, "Um, Morgana, you don't need to wash me..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3VjbqqhIus
"Oh, please," the woman paid no heed, the brush kept rubbing briskly "you can't even take off your undergarments by yourself."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4FnXbeK7tQ
Hestia frowned a little. She hated being in this state. Helpless and handicapped, it's no different with her being like a small child.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡg4fvAAJKmr
"Close your eyes."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0qnkBNLTwg
She couldn't even reply when suddenly Morgana poured the basin of water over her head.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡlAVIy7Xjeq
"Do you...always treat your patients like this?" Hestia asked when the woman started to stroke her hair. There were no bubbles but it smelled like a flower. Morgana had used some sort of aromatic liquid to wash the tresses.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡavvq150LQm
"Why are you asking?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡdRNAbonWhU
"I don't know. You seem to be so used to it."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡcDu8l3finu
"We don't normally have strangers stranded in Ravaged Woods—especially with a memory loss and crippled limb," Morgana's fingers massaged the scalp lightly "so, no. I do not."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡJx0fX1lXMc
"I...I see..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡk037AfwYcN
Their eyes met for a moment.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡSprnxMrN5O
"You look sad."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡhPli5ijrf6
"No, I just—I just feel like a burden. Can I at least help you with anything?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡDA6GHHVdF7
"Don't worry about it," Morgana smiled, scooping the water with a metal bowl "close your eyes."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1xwtV4fmRl
Again, lukewarm water poured over her head, rinsing the remaining liquid off her hair. Morgana's hands kept stroking all over her body, making sure there's no dirt intact. The bathwater, however, had gradually turned murky with filth.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡa9bvrgOKH4
"Alright, all done."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡRkEY1mFWAk
"You're so kind," Hestia muttered under her breath. It was supposed to go unnoticed.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4BSA4OFkaw
"I'm sorry?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡGlFRR68FRQ
"I—I mean, you keep doing this and telling me not to worry about things..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡJJaoHcKm8k
Morgana arched her brows; her lips formed a quizzical sneer.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡHdWzO1ntly
"Do you want me to boss you around instead? Make you clean the house in that state?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ2TFTKL2qD
"Uh, no—no, I don't mean it like that."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡSam2y3eiqn
She lowered her voice, "Hestia, I simply do what needs to be done."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡD7AzGoA4RW
"Then why you?" Hestia asked again, "why not other villagers or Elder Nerida?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡDRYwwShiUH
"You want a senile man to bathe a young lady like you?" Morgana stood up; reaching for a couple of rags from the basket "I'm his apprentice, the only another in this village with medical knowledge. Who do you think is more appropriate to take care of you?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡVMSiPql4JL
Hestia looked at her in the eyes.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡsmT3WAswEk
"I'll find a way to repay your kindness someday," she said "...I still believe you're a good person, though."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡtibsPIl70g
Morgana rolled her eyes and said nothing as she guided her out. The water shifted, waves running over the side of the tub, sliding to the floor.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡPW3HeT7AYQ
"Sit here and dry yourself," Morgana hand her a towel before heading somewhere. There was a smaller basket with Hestia's ragged clothes around her arm.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡmqdfu9PWGu
"Where are you going...?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡg9MsCCaXJa
The woman gave an impish tone, "thought you wanna be independent. Changing your mind real quick?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡdy7hflamW8
"I—I don't...No, that's not what I meant!" Hestia blurted out. Her cheeks reddened, "Goddess, you love messing with people..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡdiyqx2AnZg
"On the contrary, I'm mostly serious," the brunette shrugged, "you said you wanted to be useful. How about letting me exploit you for my own amusement?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡSfpFI2hS00
"You're joking right..." she said with an innocuous face.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3eyavOwFbs
Morgana's eyes squinted and her cheeks arose as she laughed. In that second, Hestia swallowed, feeling her heart skipped a beat. The woman wasn't exactly the belle of the ball but she thought the sight was beautiful.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡNoKmPippGo
"Still believe I'm a good person then?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡFyE5dm8uf8
"I—um, whatever you say, I guess..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡvim4tRS0w4
"Good. I see you in a minute," Morgana smiled, walking towards the door.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡsjsdFiw4Hc
"Where are you taking my clothes?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡtnL7tYtBtJ
"I will burn them before they spread plagues," the woman glanced at the dirty pile of fabric "it's a wonder how you managed to stay in the same underpants for who knows how long."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡJY153vWWvs
Hestia had rubbed herself dry for a couple of minutes when she looked closely at her own skin. Scars. Arms, thighs, stomach—dried scars everywhere.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0YMtbsLIwt
What happened? Why do I have these things?copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡUZQF7jEAU8
Suddenly, she wanted nothing more than to look at herself in the mirror.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡjD6lJaRF6m
She bolted from her seat and made small hops with one foot to the corner of the room. The standing mirror wasn't that big, but just enough to be able to see her whole body. She stood before it and immediately froze in horror.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ87lUAxmlfT
There, worse than she imagined, was a body marred beyond repair. She turned around and her eyes began to water at the sight. A large, diagonal ridge of mangled flesh spread across her back, from her right shoulder down to her left scapula. It felt rough against her fingertips—like touching the surface of an uneven rock. Scars were all over her pale skin. From lines of stab wounds to disfigured spots of burnt tissues. Brown, reddish, dark marks of injuries covered her body. She turned around to look at her face.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡOaTFQ0YuBT
Eyes—gray eyes. Underneath a pair of bushy eyebrows. Her lips were thick, lacking in color. Her fingers made their way to her cheeks, tracing every line and crook on her face. Sharp jaw, prominent cheekbones—being emaciated had made her looked wretched beyond words.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡCVxJggU8V1
"Hestia," a voice called from behind. She turned to find Morgana had returned. Quickly, she wrapped herself in the towel.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡu48QZInm3D
"That's an axe wound. The one on your back," she walked closer with a concerned look on her face.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡfSN9xE9w8K
"Axe...?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡpLGXvWdq49
"Not just any axe. That one was a great axe—the kind for chopping trees. I don't know how you even survived that one."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡrzdzqdhNzl
Hestia swallowed, the flashing images started coming in her head. A trembling chill came down upon her as she recalled the moment someone hit her on her back. Axe—a great axe, she said. Someone was trying to murder her that night.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡrPeeYMS8i1
"So....the blood...?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡTINzGjwTJB
"Yes, it was yours," Morgana said again "it's strange since the wound looks recent yet it's dried already. And the fact that you don't even feel a thing..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2abgJBu1p3
"So...ugly..." Hestia whispered to herself while looking at her own reflection again.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡnQTB4RnX0G
"What?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡZUpMt55ZZO
"I look so repulsive," she said again, louder this time. A single teardrop rolled down her cheek.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡB2ZMiInNKM
"That's not true. Don't say that to yourself."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ7CJJHB6FC
"But the scars..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡNEwdq0iw0h
"I'm guessing that's your battle scars," Morgana stood behind her, looking at her through the mirror "you've been in many combats, haven't you?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡlBjknC3LpO
"Battle...combat...?"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡygVa0ESCLy
"You have a beautiful body, Hestia."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡezcLMDL59L
The abrupt statement made her eyes widened in surprise.copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡmvmGQKiTvI
"I—uh, wh—"copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡH3ZDeZi7B3
"I'm stating facts as your physician," Morgana said again "I have seen many bodies and none as physically fit as you. Look again in the mirror."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡFQDRBpvnuF
She didn't really notice it before but now that the woman said it, her body did look well-toned with defined curves of muscles. Combined with the fact that she harbored countless wounds, this could only mean one thing,copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Ravx0fQUK
"Am I...Am I a..."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡzCOyf2xx99
"Yes," Morgana nodded, "I also think you're a soldier."copyright protection85ＰＥＮＡＮＡBP0eHCDcZ8
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