"And your age?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡgX2GLsNhL1
Hestia shook her head.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡJsRkpuptBd
"Hmm," Morgana moved the quill, writing some more, "alright. So no origin and identity. How about a friend or a relative?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡI4zqzEpeay
"I don't remember that either..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡXrwZ7hrUzc
"Nothing at all?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡWjFOE4i3yU
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡggZQHyu7NF
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡFK6bJetb83
"Can you explain the vision then?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡo5m3U07c3F
"The things I saw?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7kW6bDFFKs
Morgana nodded.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡkqcrBVF57O
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8vTuzNvG0z
"Just say anything. Details matter if you want to retrace your memories."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡm8Tje4WTKH
"I keep seeing places that I don't know of. Woods, encampments, houses, buildings. Everything is so..." she closed her eyes, "...random."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡm57ywJubOB
The scribbling sounds ensued.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡZW7TrGHXnI
"Then I saw people. They're all angry...at me I suppose...? I'm not sure. They looked hostile."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡwJQq25vZZf
"Hostile?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡGlkOTRxn2m
"They threw stuff at me. I think...I think they wanted to hurt me..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ1j6VKMCH9
"Now that makes sense."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡkeTaEWf9Ve
"What?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡoCAJqtAYRC
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡkQEDXzoKc6
"Blood...?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡUwkNHYKX7F
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡcwiMfJgQH7
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡt2Y7GWH5GU
No pain. No gash. No wound. At least none she felt so.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡbArwo8u85C
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡOh864oPkex
Black hair. Black like an ink. Dry and grimy, she could feel dirt tangled in between.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡsHArPhnxm3
How long I've been like this already?copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡryES431zb7
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡbZoj6tIWNW
The chair made her wonder where the woman slept for the last two days.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡugE5Hum41J
"You're up again. Are you feeling better?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8tiMmmPnV1
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡu71Tq8n94b
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5zrKE8e1cg
"Alright, can you remove your clothes?" Morgana said while attaching a monocle-like device on her ear.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡKlJ276pXul
"I—I, what?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡZYs1ST9g2e
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡr8NSSs07td
"Uh, why not?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡney6gGdGEH
"Would you let a stranger graze their hands upon your body when you're unconscious?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1DGtFzmOPp
Hestia's brows furrowed, "Huh, no! No—not when you put it that way..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2gxQ8pi8wL
Morgana gave a roguish smile.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡmUZU0gBeWf
"I was messing with you. It's my personal code of conduct. I wouldn't take any action if no consent was given."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡVXTBryaOnZ
"But...you fixed my leg when I was asleep...?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡdpfKgoayxG
"You were bleeding," Morgana said again, "of course I'd take any necessary means if it's an emergency."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡkTBjNBApPw
"I see...I understand..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡELuxmW6xKt
"Very well, shall we begin?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡxXTMH9aRHH
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡy2B9lpLWOB
"I'm ready."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡtsmX0JU6hE
"Take everything off, please."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡAOBtAjCLbk
"The—the trousers too?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡtJm4TIuFFi
"I wouldn't be able to look at anything with that on."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡh8LD6Ln0SE
"Alright..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡEtsgW3zzPK
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡUjuhoo0S3F
"That can stay," the woman said, suppressing her laughter "I don't need to see everything."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡakNVYTHmUA
Blushing, Hestia averted her eyes and adjusted herself on the sheets. The weight of the bed shifted as Morgana sat behind her.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1z3uP0ypzn
"Good lord...!"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡatHFK54KY7
"Wh—what?" Hestia turned to find the woman, hand on her mouth, stared at her back with her brows furrowed.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡq9sd5r7MN1
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡnPBqjqrRQ0
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡf1uXGf3K01
Dried blood.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡSqalDfML2A
"Does it hurt," Morgana applied pressure on her back, "when I touch it like this?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡNqpoQJOhBF
"Um, no."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡiRGMOn2R82
"Strange."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡS0s3l6i8Rl
"Morgana...?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡJEL92CSRUu
"You truly don't feel any pain?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡxdleZ9B11J
"No."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4TKwW6Cfeu
"How about this?" her nails scraped gently on the surface.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡBX9n7cZZ4U
Again Hestia shook her head.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡuB7PP7Zr90
"Alright. Now, up. Straighten your back."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡadTVJQ1m6g
"Like this?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡRIe05ld5lh
"Good. Stay still."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0PT7EIeEao
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡElByglohIv
"Why are you so tensed? Relax a little."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡxzeLAj6Npr
"I, um...it's chilly..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4phXxWGMAR
Morgana chuckled.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡaecLMs7bJP
"Hold on a little more, okay?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡHhpV2Zf9ME
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡBR4SPBOwno
"You don't seem to be surprised."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡnyDzkp1rBL
"Me? About?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡhi2Ge4Gtet
"When you know I lost my memories..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8PkcHaOwGc
"Should I be?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡV4KyD4YFwz
"Is it—is it common?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡqNRtu5yazM
"The memory loss? No, but it's been known to happen."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡDHBYUj8JPP
"So, you know how to cure it?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡWLUGjxLhdi
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡRE5J7APGKo
She jolted a little when the woman suddenly got up and sat before her.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡso64m1ovKe
"Alright, now I need to look at your front."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡlGZfniN9A0
"Uh," Hestia swallowed, looking away. She pressed her arms closer to her chest, "do I need to—um..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡrrFxbM70sR
"What?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡoVfuZCwo7g
"Well..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡCsXBHkUutu
"No need to be embarrassed. It's not like I haven't seen naked women before—or men even."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡvUWar7Xz8q
"...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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡqwlG1ljxJq
"You found something?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡOmTLXB6R5z
No answer. Morgana took off the device and put it aside. Hestia saw those green eyes stared straight at her torso.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡmBujLWrJvz
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9W6vD7RWFB
"Oculette. For seeing the tissue of the skin. The Guild invented it to aid us in examination and surgery."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡntXgfURlMX
"The Guild...The Alchemist Guild?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡV8yqsknT4T
"Yes."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡtdQzIuHAqm
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡbOQ8462WsO
"What is it that you're looking for?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡToXsPqNcjR
Morgana looked at her oddly, pulling her hand away.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6N5WmOq3oR
"I'm not finished. What's the matter with you?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡqzFhHKoKHQ
"I'm...it's—it's cold!copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡyBew33WRgg
"Alright, then. I've got what I needed anyway."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡIm4OjqCKu0
"What did you find?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡCVzidg2B1K
The woman sighed and stood up, walking towards the dresser.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡsAlH6pL3g1
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡkZooNIPpsk
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡp4gZntgq5h
"I yield, Sir!"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡaxRveYUZ2a
"One slash and you're falling like a crumb. What will our army become? Next!"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1mapLY8BnA
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡVNFbM2F3sK
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡkCic8wa2wc
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡdxzoXkm5WJ
She went to the weapon rack; the chest-length auburn hair flowed behind her as she walked.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡGRxl3koJnR
"No shield?" Irvine asked when she stood by, equipped with a single short sword.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡuHuMTCi4FO
"No, Your Excellency."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡgTmPhjaDo6
"Very well, then. Ready your stance. En garde...!"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡn5YUq2ePMB
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡHgjb2cOkgt
What was once quiet and fearful bunch, with enthusiasm the recruits began to cheer and watch.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9xmvnDPyhe
"A short sword, your weapon won't last long against this halberd," Irvine growled, withstanding on his feet.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡEEjDyKGNzs
"Yes, Sir," she gave away; letting the man rammed his weight ahead, "it won't."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡogIHsKUg5b
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡKeI7K6LAE2
"But it's much lighter than yours."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡOjG7WfRD2r
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5rIO8ay3rE
"Impressive," he turned around, "what's your name, young soldier?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡebTXjD34eH
The girl sheathed the sword and bowed, "Sethra of Albridge, Your Excellency."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ620NaX32A5
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡtFwcuFn2IP
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡGW0zUkdXor
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡEvuEiEBlGb
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡraRYnlDKom
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡz5jAFdVTaj
"Come on, hit me back!"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡkOOPt7t4sa
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡgUl7SJtwtS
"Heh, you're nimble."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡS3XbEDozwz
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡTRnHGQOaVh
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡlbbGj4pNAT
"Dodging would only take you nowhere!"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡFsXDECg3cN
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡC5E0MlRBvM
And at times like this, she wished she had a sword.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡTQY4xi9X5J
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡRLcOoQrFTD
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡswI7xvso6Y
However, she decided to do something else.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡbZO94msdjx
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡXbi90HZrmT
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4PqNWXiplp
"You...fight dirty..." Irvine's voice was a mixture of awe and agony.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡnxpcHty9HS
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡGE3ZO3GOv3
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡHzS8nP5Fer
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5BYuNFYmPF
"We're not finished."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡewkiv8mcWR
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡfEr8MOXSub
"Come on, girl!"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡjzNi3AY1XN
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡHcj1uPaR26
"What a magnificent demonstration of strength, I expect no less from you." The man offered his hand.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡIhLaqxZnqt
"Harding...!"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡzJ3m27X18V
"Be easy on the recruits, will you?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡOQ78SCY2t0
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ciVmIsm6T
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡPFDS2FZ0G8
After everyone was dismissed, the two soldiers left the training ground and took a stroll around the stronghold.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡVvZ3ERFCU9
"Well, that looks painful. You sure don't wanna get it checked?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡC4lVZIDs4J
"It's nothing."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡlUpYMsDMsk
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡVoPUrtM66G
"That is disgusting."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡfJLBEKjico
"Really, Irvine, when was the last time you hammered the nails?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2xirv5T9Sm
"There are more important things in life than 'hammering nails' I suppose."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡtNKjIcNvjU
"No wonder you're so cross all the time," the lieutenant gave a chuckle, "you never take care of yourself."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡcyDXaiHtAU
"How very attentive of you."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡSCra4XfY77
"I mean, seriously, get yourself a woman. Or a man. Anyone. Someone to make that blood hot and pumping."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡkAV5UEhI9A
"I want nothing to do with the words 'hot' and 'pumping' whatever that means."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡCl9gjjy0N9
"But there's nothing better than the good old-fashioned, toes-curling, headboard-slamming—"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡUFMmPQj5Oq
"Why are we still talking? Haven't you got some unholy things to do?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡd918fWMwFW
"My, such attitude," Harding said, snickering "someone shall tame that righteous halberd of yours."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7higyBA7Co
"Go away, you're embarrassing me."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡgx33TTTdZI
The flaxen-haired man threw his head back, laughing out loud.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡEcSGk7D7Di
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4LAm29XCgA
"I'm not you. I don't have people thrown themselves at me all the time."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0x74A1YtfX
"Try a different approach then. Be less cranky," he shrugged, "not everyone loves their dragons to be slain right away."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡcTa4AubeCP
"...you did not just say that."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡwGA72Cg0fw
He laughed again, patting the Paladin's shoulder, "Sorry, man, I just missed you so much. It's been months!"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡBg3IlEKj8Z
"I thought the trip was supposed to be longer. When did you return?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡhkTrptWBHz
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡqeg1miECjT
"The usual. My castle life would bore you. Tell me more about your journey."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9UadDvRnPZ
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡm6kgyJJvlr
"Hmph, sometimes I want to be a Royal Guard," Irvine smirked, "grand feasts and lavish trips whenever."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4LGkM2DqFX
"True, not that I'm complaining, though I prefer the great respect that you Paladins got."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡkPSu2wZUUO
"That's not respect, people are just scared."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡThVexuYh0j
Harding scoffed, "Is that why you train the recruits yourself now? To frighten them?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ55pqSs4i8
"To make them confront their fear."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1DXU7Zr7Tl
"You're being too harsh, Irvine. They're just teenagers."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡWNCS29n0qn
"If they couldn't face me now, they couldn't face bigger threats later."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡk9spzSh2WA
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡaYe7Tm7kt1
"She's different indeed. And I'm not talking about her skills."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡFqPiiRrFSS
"Which rank will she join?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3c2vCCoTEl
"I didn't ask. Let's hope she'll enter yours."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡuPjIWd44xy
"A Royal Guard? You want her to be like me?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5dYUwhMXXE
"That girl's too adept to be in garrison. And it'd be a waste if she's dead in The Union."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ0RSwtvUn9
Lieutenant Harding released a long sigh,copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡfSYzAVMFZk
"The Union. Right. I just hope someday you'd spill me the beans."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡe5yc04uN2s
"Keep dreaming. Not in a million years, I would."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡrSsiLZMgT9
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡq91oJCkwik
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡQwqpIrudew
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡFFp8Yb7Ks1
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡUSaWhTyCpQ
"I'd pay a sovereign to see you succeed."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡWgmnF5Oaj2
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡGZI67GherJ
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡfmCqiUjRwJ
"Why? Why is it always about fornication with you?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡIt05QGbFQu
"No. Not really," his grin returned, "sometimes it's about fornication with other people."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡHwtpCB6UPy
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡD5VgvdbP5I
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡyNcyS2e4H4
"You went to the tower?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡypB2PeDW8t
"Just before I came here," he cleared his throat, "seems like it wasn't only me who was hoping to see you there."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡvMyq34DeTJ
Irvine stopped in his tracks.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡWsw81pbgtT
"Someone wishes to see me?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡl2jW58bI4j
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡcz5L08PEnI
"Who?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡnjbTscjEsM
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡxOPQKUZVD4
"Vampires...?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡfPElBEtqiR
"I know, right? I don't know why he talked about something like that. Do you really know him?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9FakzDxSh0
Suddenly, the Grand Paladin felt a massive lump in his throat.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡFPOuFypFu2
"I should go."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡJKSn5t1zUj
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡq3ZBoyeVrw
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡV6lJB1i1GN
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4qxWNCqObl
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Co8dMGsI8
"Goddess?" Morgana muttered, eyes on the crippled woman, "interesting."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡYDeknQmFR2
"What?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡsVs0SgDj5P
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡEdr3mEQ26y
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡb5bqpygLe8
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡOH4hHWxkgC
"I wish I could help you."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9VQBYcfOfm
"This?" droplets of sweat poured off her brows, "No need. I'm used to it."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡmqryRR77Dl
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡgr2kJKhh5x
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡTfsKQrX6fc
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡsCDUauLhCp
The woman walked closer, "here, let me help you."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡCTRFdApvRu
"No, I can—"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3LKwwAXtGd
"It's alright," Morgana spoke in a soft voice, "straighten your leg."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡF9Pj3ZOPhq
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡeTj6zxGZ2y
"You really don't need to—"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡt5keCQOzjv
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡMZEBiIB6xS
As a familiar pressure built within her stomach, Hestia could only look away, doing her best covering all the right places.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡxMMRSlozkr
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Oxr29iRIB
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡmvB17TJI0g
"Is the water too hot?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡBy3npVJNu4
"It's—it's fine."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡfBSM3VVlND
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡX98ybgsUYt
"You spoke of the Goddess earlier," the woman suddenly said.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡbz1eXq9GeE
"I do? What about it?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡKtgDfjzaFm
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡODwXbHdEBc
"So, what does that mean?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7NL81JzapO
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡPah5NxomI4
"Oh..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡJxHfuTWIyy
"I'd say your predicament is temporary. Perhaps everything will return after a while."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡUFlGOmpoxP
Her self-consciousness returned as Morgana scrubbed her breasts and stomach, "Um, Morgana, you don't need to wash me..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡcmZusN1RaK
"Oh, please," the woman paid no heed, the brush kept rubbing briskly "you can't even take off your undergarments by yourself."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡVThD8Lx5u5
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡEoLZ4zmuYU
"Close your eyes."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡjahjFJ6HAh
She couldn't even reply when suddenly Morgana poured the basin of water over her head.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡrwaJ9jvHpZ
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡM3ny3s8qW6
"Why are you asking?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡkghCzWlGDW
"I don't know. You seem to be so used to it."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡY5s9OCsjjS
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡj6WGE09Mq6
"I...I see..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡTLmanW7JDL
Their eyes met for a moment.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡGBQ9KFLdZ5
"You look sad."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6ic2YR28Es
"No, I just—I just feel like a burden. Can I at least help you with anything?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡexeBHBxOlb
"Don't worry about it," Morgana smiled, scooping the water with a metal bowl "close your eyes."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡA1Mqax6WL5
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2RnfTm6WuK
"Alright, all done."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡpJhDkZfSOB
"You're so kind," Hestia muttered under her breath. It was supposed to go unnoticed.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3oCQPNoVK9
"I'm sorry?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0M0n2UJ8Qe
"I—I mean, you keep doing this and telling me not to worry about things..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡSgXaTha9aZ
Morgana arched her brows; her lips formed a quizzical sneer.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡKenn4das8V
"Do you want me to boss you around instead? Make you clean the house in that state?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9ICxKxgSn
"Uh, no—no, I don't mean it like that."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡvLEsWyK7HV
She lowered her voice, "Hestia, I simply do what needs to be done."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6r9uOdHZGQ
"Then why you?" Hestia asked again, "why not other villagers or Elder Nerida?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡViZDVwnsNg
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡQj1uLY2w5J
Hestia looked at her in the eyes.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡrbbBG0Pn0v
"I'll find a way to repay your kindness someday," she said "...I still believe you're a good person, though."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡeVOdzKKWcy
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡc3RexDdAai
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡkBuwdaw2yx
"Where are you going...?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡxMtm027KYj
The woman gave an impish tone, "thought you wanna be independent. Changing your mind real quick?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡibnaqVNEvX
"I—I don't...No, that's not what I meant!" Hestia blurted out. Her cheeks reddened, "Goddess, you love messing with people..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡWPzrlMBSOa
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡqmWTJWVQHU
"You're joking right..." she said with an innocuous face.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡa06xaxsYbY
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡV8Ouz9hb26
"Still believe I'm a good person then?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡlssimcfh2W
"I—um, whatever you say, I guess..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡcdWiK7Pd51
"Good. I see you in a minute," Morgana smiled, walking towards the door.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡb09ZvJ9NVc
"Where are you taking my clothes?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡThFmz1yOiB
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡLvOINzPDNV
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡEZWOZrx9fs
What happened? Why do I have these things?copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡl8J0vj238l
Suddenly, she wanted nothing more than to look at herself in the mirror.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡFTQtBD3rhQ
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡmVPiJPKhYZ
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡJj8tkEMmIU
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡHnOxRqbURs
"Hestia," a voice called from behind. She turned to find Morgana had returned. Quickly, she wrapped herself in the towel.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡLeoBx8qhpo
"That's an axe wound. The one on your back," she walked closer with a concerned look on her face.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡh8IqC34opM
"Axe...?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡj7a8E1yQWq
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡiHFGjcPKue
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9MmRcZUhok
"So....the blood...?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4HreQ6goWc
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡPeUuVdHKXc
"So...ugly..." Hestia whispered to herself while looking at her own reflection again.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ7YmYblTtJ
"What?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡexrFMhL2GI
"I look so repulsive," she said again, louder this time. A single teardrop rolled down her cheek.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡevX90TmIDk
"That's not true. Don't say that to yourself."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡUDrSZq4kkx
"But the scars..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3y5ueRL0Tr
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡI8XFiYyFGc
"Battle...combat...?"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡZBPruOSy9c
"You have a beautiful body, Hestia."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6cLbH02s0W
The abrupt statement made her eyes widened in surprise.copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡUJ5SpnRX2y
"I—uh, wh—"copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡa290tDPmcY
"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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡzibltSlwll
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 protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡsg5x8uU0sX
"Am I...Am I a..."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡyCZHDtlsPx
"Yes," Morgana nodded, "I also think you're a soldier."copyright protection74ＰＥＮＡＮＡqoPCKju5PP
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