"And your age?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4PjhBSiWe9
Hestia shook her head.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡDN5XTs7W6x
"Hmm," Morgana moved the quill, writing some more, "alright. So no origin and identity. How about a friend or a relative?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡEijCsjZTHZ
"I don't remember that either..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡPA9RRoBqly
"Nothing at all?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡFbuwM1x24i
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0RAdxhBdDp
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡtp8ynQz4CF
"Can you explain the vision then?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡhS7t1TsX2g
"The things I saw?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡaLJOphJt6K
Morgana nodded.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡLayitPH4Om
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡKsoNySxELO
"Just say anything. Details matter if you want to retrace your memories."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡA3FRFxjT3A
"I keep seeing places that I don't know of. Woods, encampments, houses, buildings. Everything is so..." she closed her eyes, "...random."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡdqBvKdahs8
The scribbling sounds ensued.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡSgAIFpioVK
"Then I saw people. They're all angry...at me I suppose...? I'm not sure. They looked hostile."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡlkWH4UMA0s
"Hostile?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡB9JWIS40Mv
"They threw stuff at me. I think...I think they wanted to hurt me..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7YyT98ZAOj
"Now that makes sense."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡjoVQqRmTT9
"What?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0NzG4eQUrI
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡpr0jKR9lCd
"Blood...?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ25iOD0txH2
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡNzwNQ0cNXG
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡhymKaURZOM
No pain. No gash. No wound. At least none she felt so.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡcU0Qu38brZ
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡqL5ZGcUSO8
Black hair. Black like an ink. Dry and grimy, she could feel dirt tangled in between.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡO288Aay9FC
How long I've been like this already?copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡG5wqK2jAs9
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡnZmxdCfjTp
The chair made her wonder where the woman slept for the last two days.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡOYkFXmzB67
"You're up again. Are you feeling better?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡebLXUNLJbd
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡwV7GcRajmz
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡLxBcjip7oZ
"Alright, can you remove your clothes?" Morgana said while attaching a monocle-like device on her ear.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡZnbqwOXVOj
"I—I, what?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡjPKnil5EtV
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡbO5TIqRNek
"Uh, why not?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡjdxrJtpsoI
"Would you let a stranger graze their hands upon your body when you're unconscious?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡbCSPFFjrCv
Hestia's brows furrowed, "Huh, no! No—not when you put it that way..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡFHOlUS2QOJ
Morgana gave a roguish smile.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡdbCkiEGhnH
"I was messing with you. It's my personal code of conduct. I wouldn't take any action if no consent was given."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡuQWDFgPp9J
"But...you fixed my leg when I was asleep...?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡTPBKory7Mk
"You were bleeding," Morgana said again, "of course I'd take any necessary means if it's an emergency."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6LzwUjZpcy
"I see...I understand..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡVBCnw8cZeP
"Very well, shall we begin?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡYaeSFXMuil
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡE5w3fyltpa
"I'm ready."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡT4L1ZzaQdZ
"Take everything off, please."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡF9LBPN6bef
"The—the trousers too?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8mLnFB47sR
"I wouldn't be able to look at anything with that on."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Lb6VVQjCO
"Alright..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4HRDX6lXc0
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡidQIZ2qx5F
"That can stay," the woman said, suppressing her laughter "I don't need to see everything."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡVgsyZg4NIN
Blushing, Hestia averted her eyes and adjusted herself on the sheets. The weight of the bed shifted as Morgana sat behind her.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡqeWjDilfLj
"Good lord...!"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡmXLhQCykzd
"Wh—what?" Hestia turned to find the woman, hand on her mouth, stared at her back with her brows furrowed.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1XExIPb6mc
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3equpmz0bj
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡvOdpY7xUWh
Dried blood.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡDN614NJ3MA
"Does it hurt," Morgana applied pressure on her back, "when I touch it like this?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡYv2sbz4lse
"Um, no."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡXFBS9Yu3MT
"Strange."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡR2mUQJFhvE
"Morgana...?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡJWFKfGkwyR
"You truly don't feel any pain?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡtHlGo1cGSO
"No."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡmhNjVNDDAK
"How about this?" her nails scraped gently on the surface.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡXaRf8IYVIG
Again Hestia shook her head.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡvVsZ6oojJZ
"Alright. Now, up. Straighten your back."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ37rWkEOioN
"Like this?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0YA2f8QDty
"Good. Stay still."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡBMX73v3P8d
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ87gWwoCEfq
"Why are you so tensed? Relax a little."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡBycuOlz8sR
"I, um...it's chilly..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡPIXi5cjXo4
Morgana chuckled.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ46lKS8MJpp
"Hold on a little more, okay?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡRTrdDhTinw
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡXZRyyI6OTl
"You don't seem to be surprised."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡNhClXwUwKL
"Me? About?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡIFE36fclf9
"When you know I lost my memories..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡsOsAEDB5wF
"Should I be?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡe9PWawVFuZ
"Is it—is it common?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡGptU1mNQNw
"The memory loss? No, but it's been known to happen."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡYqd8OCb6Lp
"So, you know how to cure it?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡRQjiYKFx4l
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡln4nbwv60X
She jolted a little when the woman suddenly got up and sat before her.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡgknnWI38GI
"Alright, now I need to look at your front."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2YIZWrQi3T
"Uh," Hestia swallowed, looking away. She pressed her arms closer to her chest, "do I need to—um..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡalXvj7Y997
"What?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡdw1qePI8tG
"Well..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡn7JeKemCDI
"No need to be embarrassed. It's not like I haven't seen naked women before—or men even."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡyKlX9IDXYo
"...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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHH1eeZbYg
"You found something?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡyPjD6wsuZc
No answer. Morgana took off the device and put it aside. Hestia saw those green eyes stared straight at her torso.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡdJBerd9DWa
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7VCg5UHFHB
"Oculette. For seeing the tissue of the skin. The Guild invented it to aid us in examination and surgery."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYUz9lIgs7
"The Guild...The Alchemist Guild?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡiPyA1Ut03X
"Yes."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡiwFAS0Eh4I
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡRSqJtx1K1F
"What is it that you're looking for?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡR9aR43KfB3
Morgana looked at her oddly, pulling her hand away.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡxEr7bnZa1b
"I'm not finished. What's the matter with you?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4FEvdxe42g
"I'm...it's—it's cold!copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡsEUFnWTQLR
"Alright, then. I've got what I needed anyway."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡoMMDUiBEHH
"What did you find?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡQxWd3yxxp0
The woman sighed and stood up, walking towards the dresser.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6NFgPR9LpA
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡbg9SuvyAUl
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡFoq1mwgAAd
"I yield, Sir!"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡHvuvKwwpca
"One slash and you're falling like a crumb. What will our army become? Next!"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡusdL3gv2WP
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡQNw9CuxTbi
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡm5Gesu7YJ6
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡWqxPmmCi4X
She went to the weapon rack; the chest-length auburn hair flowed behind her as she walked.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡn3X7qlalxW
"No shield?" Irvine asked when she stood by, equipped with a single short sword.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2yCgvSsHJq
"No, Your Excellency."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡzgKFSKRnkK
"Very well, then. Ready your stance. En garde...!"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡOmnbFw4QS3
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡqyglNI1HQR
What was once quiet and fearful bunch, with enthusiasm the recruits began to cheer and watch.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡE5L9h0gc9c
"A short sword, your weapon won't last long against this halberd," Irvine growled, withstanding on his feet.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡvmoAxhYF2w
"Yes, Sir," she gave away; letting the man rammed his weight ahead, "it won't."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡpvJUPqKzlO
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡN3n8K1pHG0
"But it's much lighter than yours."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡKES0GZ8RWy
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡfOMqm0jarv
"Impressive," he turned around, "what's your name, young soldier?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡGH6qUXyHne
The girl sheathed the sword and bowed, "Sethra of Albridge, Your Excellency."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡsRuOedFau1
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡwzVk03bxi6
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2NzgLF1wXn
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7vaxd6REjI
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡGnx6S7A8wS
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡsaY1ypLwi2
"Come on, hit me back!"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ11HW6fZtH
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡkFW26EKdyB
"Heh, you're nimble."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡuxHhBgCkNt
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡL6vc7ex7cV
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3llt93H9Jm
"Dodging would only take you nowhere!"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡGRmnd3NeFr
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡpYxQzlGEiz
And at times like this, she wished she had a sword.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡQPpnAY8IHu
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1lqFDwfMG7
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡlHJy0IEG2i
However, she decided to do something else.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡO9S5BcRM5P
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡeX8IVkycsZ
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡeczf2Ryjg9
"You...fight dirty..." Irvine's voice was a mixture of awe and agony.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡEcIoYAWJqQ
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7r4ZHnXfcW
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡyN7gowXBg2
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡRHfb2TtgEs
"We're not finished."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡA4Hx5BFCNd
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZAYUb3A6t
"Come on, girl!"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡAtGhyVIBtc
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡuCbPpd0l4k
"What a magnificent demonstration of strength, I expect no less from you." The man offered his hand.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ84xXbVAX2J
"Harding...!"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡk9sHBO3col
"Be easy on the recruits, will you?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡLMamtUagkB
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡqGXJ46T3Yr
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡkDJuZ73AOd
After everyone was dismissed, the two soldiers left the training ground and took a stroll around the stronghold.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡAZSdnOkl6T
"Well, that looks painful. You sure don't wanna get it checked?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡaX8zYQ917q
"It's nothing."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡVUahGhlhCw
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡofUO5ZFbK2
"That is disgusting."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡAjQyRn97Ls
"Really, Irvine, when was the last time you hammered the nails?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡWHUMHriCVN
"There are more important things in life than 'hammering nails' I suppose."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡtafJDFZ465
"No wonder you're so cross all the time," the lieutenant gave a chuckle, "you never take care of yourself."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡfGSL73GY44
"How very attentive of you."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡdRnyvympSK
"I mean, seriously, get yourself a woman. Or a man. Anyone. Someone to make that blood hot and pumping."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡcI0VEbjJUG
"I want nothing to do with the words 'hot' and 'pumping' whatever that means."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡrYBTxx4jXQ
"But there's nothing better than the good old-fashioned, toes-curling, headboard-slamming—"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡKTg8gPFCnK
"Why are we still talking? Haven't you got some unholy things to do?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0GujPGc5pD
"My, such attitude," Harding said, snickering "someone shall tame that righteous halberd of yours."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡouS3nQR4xb
"Go away, you're embarrassing me."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡZtivtY5gK7
The flaxen-haired man threw his head back, laughing out loud.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡKkZns8vOf5
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡBZJb4EuLBe
"I'm not you. I don't have people thrown themselves at me all the time."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡGD40QX2Kl6
"Try a different approach then. Be less cranky," he shrugged, "not everyone loves their dragons to be slain right away."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡy7GINeFTq6
"...you did not just say that."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡLSbzixJK9f
He laughed again, patting the Paladin's shoulder, "Sorry, man, I just missed you so much. It's been months!"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡa9JoOJUZh2
"I thought the trip was supposed to be longer. When did you return?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡDdljdTLKvO
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡuqItOP5G3c
"The usual. My castle life would bore you. Tell me more about your journey."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡyRlIU1TJSj
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡhGTGBuiKLN
"Hmph, sometimes I want to be a Royal Guard," Irvine smirked, "grand feasts and lavish trips whenever."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡDZu7CbgZbV
"True, not that I'm complaining, though I prefer the great respect that you Paladins got."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡh7RIoI567e
"That's not respect, people are just scared."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡK38TxkRbO5
Harding scoffed, "Is that why you train the recruits yourself now? To frighten them?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡetfAMBYqG2
"To make them confront their fear."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ZuxcC0vxx
"You're being too harsh, Irvine. They're just teenagers."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡwNveMD450v
"If they couldn't face me now, they couldn't face bigger threats later."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡTEwDMxjmg3
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3N6tUQxNjX
"She's different indeed. And I'm not talking about her skills."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡfmMh0yczfk
"Which rank will she join?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡrlRLkosGHj
"I didn't ask. Let's hope she'll enter yours."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡA7s5NQuj4h
"A Royal Guard? You want her to be like me?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡH9vvXVW4x1
"That girl's too adept to be in garrison. And it'd be a waste if she's dead in The Union."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡAImYkQ4zfG
Lieutenant Harding released a long sigh,copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡn4zmfpn3eo
"The Union. Right. I just hope someday you'd spill me the beans."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Pvo9OccoP
"Keep dreaming. Not in a million years, I would."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡZujN2GRhT3
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡKQ0meTsmmx
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡeGtoXj5h6a
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡKCaODdRsbL
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡjgHmGkTD47
"I'd pay a sovereign to see you succeed."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡGjIQU8oSwW
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4qDYcREjIf
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡkWDxPTROow
"Why? Why is it always about fornication with you?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡUxCuioDGe5
"No. Not really," his grin returned, "sometimes it's about fornication with other people."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡupeM9EZe9x
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡhuTnYtdcvQ
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0s59V90Dqe
"You went to the tower?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡxn1OZUmz9p
"Just before I came here," he cleared his throat, "seems like it wasn't only me who was hoping to see you there."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡRnIaJoCc5T
Irvine stopped in his tracks.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡdsvWbVrEjA
"Someone wishes to see me?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡB8JzsHGTit
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡwTSISg9pOz
"Who?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡazYsvWV8bF
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡT6K8PcVUv1
"Vampires...?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡIlsfMUI6xK
"I know, right? I don't know why he talked about something like that. Do you really know him?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡskvT0i1f2S
Suddenly, the Grand Paladin felt a massive lump in his throat.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡG4mhKuvQQ5
"I should go."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡMb4bx1aMMK
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡBxSPnrndn7
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡLK9GEjq2sC
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡCNUoHwa5g0
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡMUKq5tDNp6
"Goddess?" Morgana muttered, eyes on the crippled woman, "interesting."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3hl6jvvG09
"What?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡYHO9dUUI34
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡPoQoKyd8wE
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡTtE3xz5X9c
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡJZEJYB8L5f
"I wish I could help you."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡcJjEEqYi4D
"This?" droplets of sweat poured off her brows, "No need. I'm used to it."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡCnKmVbNxa7
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8SVNR9SznL
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡJKOe0j0wrL
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡkabioLTO8s
The woman walked closer, "here, let me help you."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡDS2BJ1gtqI
"No, I can—"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3RXMtJ8Mau
"It's alright," Morgana spoke in a soft voice, "straighten your leg."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡyOOSFkcOG4
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡNQnJAdOYNn
"You really don't need to—"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡz4hFakB52E
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡLwxiiEIiTS
As a familiar pressure built within her stomach, Hestia could only look away, doing her best covering all the right places.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3QTQMcQ7Qz
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡIaohZclu2I
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡG3D0JkEQ5T
"Is the water too hot?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡtdgyNM6Cnc
"It's—it's fine."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡkx6fG2Hkli
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0rlPKA2SqE
"You spoke of the Goddess earlier," the woman suddenly said.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9vOrd9QO2q
"I do? What about it?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡoalIAOcuHa
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡDHtWE22gE1
"So, what does that mean?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡbhRxYYIqIy
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8VB1mXI9bb
"Oh..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡVjGWUu8UF3
"I'd say your predicament is temporary. Perhaps everything will return after a while."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡyqtvhT1F3V
Her self-consciousness returned as Morgana scrubbed her breasts and stomach, "Um, Morgana, you don't need to wash me..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡTZjYaXTRAA
"Oh, please," the woman paid no heed, the brush kept rubbing briskly "you can't even take off your undergarments by yourself."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡeGIjmcBhRa
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡsbI3QPOJD4
"Close your eyes."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡL89oVLhgUb
She couldn't even reply when suddenly Morgana poured the basin of water over her head.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5L0UOUQSrT
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Zo6mt2paf
"Why are you asking?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡBE8sDP9k76
"I don't know. You seem to be so used to it."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡHvJDnhSJPB
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡNejfo60IJZ
"I...I see..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡMMd88ucl20
Their eyes met for a moment.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡRHUhMDBWVB
"You look sad."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡd1qucizhEq
"No, I just—I just feel like a burden. Can I at least help you with anything?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡp81FvIr128
"Don't worry about it," Morgana smiled, scooping the water with a metal bowl "close your eyes."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡn2VRdrOvwL
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡvuIF5AikzB
"Alright, all done."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡE4vmsrvOTt
"You're so kind," Hestia muttered under her breath. It was supposed to go unnoticed.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡxcU7mCFAqd
"I'm sorry?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡWTYcOHVvDg
"I—I mean, you keep doing this and telling me not to worry about things..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1dPdHZ34wP
Morgana arched her brows; her lips formed a quizzical sneer.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ04j72tIT6E
"Do you want me to boss you around instead? Make you clean the house in that state?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡBlLF8OcBpn
"Uh, no—no, I don't mean it like that."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡciibPWXC84
She lowered her voice, "Hestia, I simply do what needs to be done."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡaxNLb8GgHd
"Then why you?" Hestia asked again, "why not other villagers or Elder Nerida?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡbkIzR1EOy0
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡbj5SNWHC6k
Hestia looked at her in the eyes.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡesUewE9Q0f
"I'll find a way to repay your kindness someday," she said "...I still believe you're a good person, though."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡw9KQJ3lrSB
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡGOg2i5Z2r1
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ThkAPYOsk
"Where are you going...?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡmIeJj5RqLL
The woman gave an impish tone, "thought you wanna be independent. Changing your mind real quick?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡdJHytzf4U4
"I—I don't...No, that's not what I meant!" Hestia blurted out. Her cheeks reddened, "Goddess, you love messing with people..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡtYxVcRp50x
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡqVDt5aIXis
"You're joking right..." she said with an innocuous face.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡAmdGdEjvHB
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡQot6cvLCrX
"Still believe I'm a good person then?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡnmvN86NGdJ
"I—um, whatever you say, I guess..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡrc4kzcJxOm
"Good. I see you in a minute," Morgana smiled, walking towards the door.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡhmGCGOwe5E
"Where are you taking my clothes?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2gzR6U9lrf
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡad7hFeTg4s
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡiWmX5NB5V5
What happened? Why do I have these things?copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡQCrsIjRgem
Suddenly, she wanted nothing more than to look at herself in the mirror.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡBgiV9gKUQk
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡP1LzBUuT6T
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡCI0DHgvLeD
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡb5QAXyWFVM
"Hestia," a voice called from behind. She turned to find Morgana had returned. Quickly, she wrapped herself in the towel.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡngC7DpZwoo
"That's an axe wound. The one on your back," she walked closer with a concerned look on her face.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡlcAKHRhFxd
"Axe...?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡgQdNIS74nt
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡvdUJJ4eSqi
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡohCVwv7K5R
"So....the blood...?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡLs84kIpSuu
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡb5gXHlbAax
"So...ugly..." Hestia whispered to herself while looking at her own reflection again.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ82v1varV7t
"What?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡbcXQfF5Eb9
"I look so repulsive," she said again, louder this time. A single teardrop rolled down her cheek.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡFeLii4SwQT
"That's not true. Don't say that to yourself."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡQFBfsav3bU
"But the scars..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡmqmhrXdcB3
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡnt7rlaypyV
"Battle...combat...?"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡsIpJgbNUwm
"You have a beautiful body, Hestia."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡsiNfztHtys
The abrupt statement made her eyes widened in surprise.copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡlCeMCbNUV3
"I—uh, wh—"copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡVMGz9XhhGi
"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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Y37g9cAjM
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 protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡKE6dbzntLx
"Am I...Am I a..."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡja6ac9Yfel
"Yes," Morgana nodded, "I also think you're a soldier."copyright protection309ＰＥＮＡＮＡNmGOni7zbH
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