"And your age?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡy2bmyYTAmE
Hestia shook her head.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1qnBsX3dez
"Hmm," Morgana moved the quill, writing some more, "alright. So no origin and identity. How about a friend or a relative?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡzJJCmJR39U
"I don't remember that either..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡpIWB4vzY5W
"Nothing at all?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡC7m0JPXN3c
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡmCV5eiO6lY
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0LGXmLtWJy
"Can you explain the vision then?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡSmGfmp5kc8
"The things I saw?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡwzLsEZKt66
Morgana nodded.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡs6R84eUxbD
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ64ZMjmcoGo
"Just say anything. Details matter if you want to retrace your memories."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡxdXiFCiq6o
"I keep seeing places that I don't know of. Woods, encampments, houses, buildings. Everything is so..." she closed her eyes, "...random."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡwyvnHzCB7N
The scribbling sounds ensued.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡfdRfZbBbzi
"Then I saw people. They're all angry...at me I suppose...? I'm not sure. They looked hostile."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡA7vypbbHBh
"Hostile?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ57PBvwa77h
"They threw stuff at me. I think...I think they wanted to hurt me..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡVnuMCuYdFy
"Now that makes sense."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡvgF1O4cZLN
"What?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡhRV6srCDzK
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡUu7phKTfXz
"Blood...?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡNtPtvExHEj
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡvVbr1DSEhr
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡpbVxBdhvtf
No pain. No gash. No wound. At least none she felt so.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5gIUJezhVe
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡBr9MSbqLQH
Black hair. Black like an ink. Dry and grimy, she could feel dirt tangled in between.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡcgT8Nul50O
How long I've been like this already?copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡk5530Phz7d
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡOIFYuy9Uj0
The chair made her wonder where the woman slept for the last two days.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡCwgvE40090
"You're up again. Are you feeling better?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡPt5Vw5LNFS
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1tBGr5eB0x
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡCC3S8IW8I5
"Alright, can you remove your clothes?" Morgana said while attaching a monocle-like device on her ear.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8yzet5keTZ
"I—I, what?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7UtIBVOPxO
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡm9rq2A8YIR
"Uh, why not?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4RpE5TJq8D
"Would you let a stranger graze their hands upon your body when you're unconscious?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡpfyTX9PMYm
Hestia's brows furrowed, "Huh, no! No—not when you put it that way..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡAlw2MyCVxl
Morgana gave a roguish smile.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡNBcdgi60Ie
"I was messing with you. It's my personal code of conduct. I wouldn't take any action if no consent was given."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡD8uc2slRek
"But...you fixed my leg when I was asleep...?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡePGKStivoP
"You were bleeding," Morgana said again, "of course I'd take any necessary means if it's an emergency."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡQbr2oHlvH3
"I see...I understand..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡKlcfxeHT5W
"Very well, shall we begin?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡekLV4Eom9N
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡcZYE2nlnT3
"I'm ready."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡrDpDTXRARX
"Take everything off, please."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡx5hi0lWpI5
"The—the trousers too?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡcV5bz7zVvs
"I wouldn't be able to look at anything with that on."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡYW6ozZlrAc
"Alright..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡo7iGqi2nIL
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡtUGy5fGEab
"That can stay," the woman said, suppressing her laughter "I don't need to see everything."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ698dyIdT9N
Blushing, Hestia averted her eyes and adjusted herself on the sheets. The weight of the bed shifted as Morgana sat behind her.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6yUoelHhIp
"Good lord...!"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2bjIJpYp38
"Wh—what?" Hestia turned to find the woman, hand on her mouth, stared at her back with her brows furrowed.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡBaiJoQrBKB
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡoQ9jfoEXFm
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡnIxHqh6oHa
Dried blood.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡxikQ2JHtkr
"Does it hurt," Morgana applied pressure on her back, "when I touch it like this?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Iie2yDGvi
"Um, no."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3S1BzsSGQz
"Strange."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡQoSbfUUWoe
"Morgana...?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡnsXGHZekGK
"You truly don't feel any pain?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡDKCElc6eSX
"No."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡOImGUBAOxY
"How about this?" her nails scraped gently on the surface.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Vr0B80QsH
Again Hestia shook her head.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡA5rdKNpQ1i
"Alright. Now, up. Straighten your back."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡOP0awUL7Ji
"Like this?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6MdxMPGMG9
"Good. Stay still."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡugfVtZJTQK
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡbEAcO77AeQ
"Why are you so tensed? Relax a little."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡSkC6SpWycC
"I, um...it's chilly..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡIGSXCmXlgO
Morgana chuckled.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6rsHEhOLR2
"Hold on a little more, okay?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡCKnfQfENOR
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡpwxiu9FsvV
"You don't seem to be surprised."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡgBnIi107NR
"Me? About?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡaqBxFsMkfB
"When you know I lost my memories..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡbF8JYCTD4o
"Should I be?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡzkZW3iY4qM
"Is it—is it common?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡVAcx7S0Udg
"The memory loss? No, but it's been known to happen."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡvpWD8Ug1xl
"So, you know how to cure it?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡp6Gp3KI1O8
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡNKIZiPSjJ5
She jolted a little when the woman suddenly got up and sat before her.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡzfuvTDqaFX
"Alright, now I need to look at your front."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡv44cu7Wc8L
"Uh," Hestia swallowed, looking away. She pressed her arms closer to her chest, "do I need to—um..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡkVv3VOSO7C
"What?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡUGSpcM2CWH
"Well..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡAsMEEhLBuU
"No need to be embarrassed. It's not like I haven't seen naked women before—or men even."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡmPQRSMFLAN
"...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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡouugTG2WjZ
"You found something?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡEUrrz6IlHc
No answer. Morgana took off the device and put it aside. Hestia saw those green eyes stared straight at her torso.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡf316VTSBFs
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡo3XSkRzmNT
"Oculette. For seeing the tissue of the skin. The Guild invented it to aid us in examination and surgery."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡmrNNTnTBIA
"The Guild...The Alchemist Guild?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡOXEP3zJWbo
"Yes."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡozsmrMd191
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡUvtIim5cXN
"What is it that you're looking for?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡNMLsBP1lLd
Morgana looked at her oddly, pulling her hand away.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡKaMdweZKf8
"I'm not finished. What's the matter with you?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡL9DfRWBX9z
"I'm...it's—it's cold!copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡKXlwpXlrj6
"Alright, then. I've got what I needed anyway."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡE3hqgOFgzU
"What did you find?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡol42AWZbT9
The woman sighed and stood up, walking towards the dresser.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡKE66av3vWm
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡCBqU2HIHXh
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡBmCGpcCpov
"I yield, Sir!"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡy99EfkajP7
"One slash and you're falling like a crumb. What will our army become? Next!"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡGsI6mKO5sM
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡm39ZJycmXA
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡSwK1aZmkjb
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡsZEa60VU5n
She went to the weapon rack; the chest-length auburn hair flowed behind her as she walked.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡHsrQrbpExm
"No shield?" Irvine asked when she stood by, equipped with a single short sword.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡfpTZr3ZNoi
"No, Your Excellency."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡZQhD1nDXiJ
"Very well, then. Ready your stance. En garde...!"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡkZbMPDXehv
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡBwUuwmyvaX
What was once quiet and fearful bunch, with enthusiasm the recruits began to cheer and watch.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡO9O5NPtrMM
"A short sword, your weapon won't last long against this halberd," Irvine growled, withstanding on his feet.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡa7LmTB0RQi
"Yes, Sir," she gave away; letting the man rammed his weight ahead, "it won't."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡmsPhXlDwQO
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡtFXhKL7ecU
"But it's much lighter than yours."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1n2NJWoJNf
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1aIQrGc5c3
"Impressive," he turned around, "what's your name, young soldier?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡTGIQYtB6IO
The girl sheathed the sword and bowed, "Sethra of Albridge, Your Excellency."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Jb3wUZUEN
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡaGXTxozJtM
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡNmsvdrYPxG
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡDypOBVJBQo
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡo14lUCKumd
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡg9AIEOaDDH
"Come on, hit me back!"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡjhfJ6RFPsw
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡeQxicsVWWh
"Heh, you're nimble."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡacqLV4z5Id
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡN2u2LBTrqm
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡXFcvXoYTkV
"Dodging would only take you nowhere!"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡav8Ag4FP9n
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Xpx0b8UDz
And at times like this, she wished she had a sword.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡgBes7cR56b
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0gH9RXdwMn
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡUPkknkwwe9
However, she decided to do something else.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6vKlXRyOXE
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0YVH7MEkjr
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡIdh2yFn4cC
"You...fight dirty..." Irvine's voice was a mixture of awe and agony.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡej7YE4QdTN
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡSULNBTzgeS
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡIW60YFFmJS
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡYXb5WQaM43
"We're not finished."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡAWYmJzfiQt
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡbyqizpXfLG
"Come on, girl!"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7JEjPB9Znd
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Ya1kTBAcr
"What a magnificent demonstration of strength, I expect no less from you." The man offered his hand.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3n0uFzTDOE
"Harding...!"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡkWnYfdzpcX
"Be easy on the recruits, will you?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡDgVNhgGTQT
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡkUgloWUhAJ
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡVUFjSUwsjJ
After everyone was dismissed, the two soldiers left the training ground and took a stroll around the stronghold.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡqWZmJhCqas
"Well, that looks painful. You sure don't wanna get it checked?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡjumAPKxK17
"It's nothing."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡtX18gT3Mmm
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡwMjv92MLtW
"That is disgusting."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡdMrzmhkT2l
"Really, Irvine, when was the last time you hammered the nails?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wj2EzWHmi
"There are more important things in life than 'hammering nails' I suppose."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4S5noeqa0T
"No wonder you're so cross all the time," the lieutenant gave a chuckle, "you never take care of yourself."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7dFzN2R8WT
"How very attentive of you."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡuXpNZ4mVMJ
"I mean, seriously, get yourself a woman. Or a man. Anyone. Someone to make that blood hot and pumping."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡeQBkeZzEaz
"I want nothing to do with the words 'hot' and 'pumping' whatever that means."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡyiNeRBgJJd
"But there's nothing better than the good old-fashioned, toes-curling, headboard-slamming—"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡCdb20b7n7T
"Why are we still talking? Haven't you got some unholy things to do?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6lKHGYHfDS
"My, such attitude," Harding said, snickering "someone shall tame that righteous halberd of yours."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡPbaCp2dFLW
"Go away, you're embarrassing me."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡTna4qafxxm
The flaxen-haired man threw his head back, laughing out loud.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡqDIblo93EM
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡVtX56n7j3S
"I'm not you. I don't have people thrown themselves at me all the time."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡgWgq1HBge8
"Try a different approach then. Be less cranky," he shrugged, "not everyone loves their dragons to be slain right away."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡDFMmQ8K0bp
"...you did not just say that."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡM6SKcZ7kia
He laughed again, patting the Paladin's shoulder, "Sorry, man, I just missed you so much. It's been months!"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡdz7u08bBpp
"I thought the trip was supposed to be longer. When did you return?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ35wpVEaVP
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡzIWst9rBuK
"The usual. My castle life would bore you. Tell me more about your journey."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡMHjTbj2mVs
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡMEvRbVNP5J
"Hmph, sometimes I want to be a Royal Guard," Irvine smirked, "grand feasts and lavish trips whenever."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡFErC6VLywg
"True, not that I'm complaining, though I prefer the great respect that you Paladins got."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡiiXBc8VfvQ
"That's not respect, people are just scared."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡHivd9H8Xwd
Harding scoffed, "Is that why you train the recruits yourself now? To frighten them?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡGcS8OZ3AxA
"To make them confront their fear."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡQPTOr6Wnls
"You're being too harsh, Irvine. They're just teenagers."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡe3KKhUrpRX
"If they couldn't face me now, they couldn't face bigger threats later."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡDy9wHYvLy2
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡlpRfdilaGH
"She's different indeed. And I'm not talking about her skills."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡDULnE2i5sa
"Which rank will she join?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ36IdCpb8aK
"I didn't ask. Let's hope she'll enter yours."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡawa1Mnk7y0
"A Royal Guard? You want her to be like me?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡPbUBzzERE7
"That girl's too adept to be in garrison. And it'd be a waste if she's dead in The Union."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2HdLUQb6Yl
Lieutenant Harding released a long sigh,copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡR8S1aEovMW
"The Union. Right. I just hope someday you'd spill me the beans."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡwC8rdH0RzE
"Keep dreaming. Not in a million years, I would."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡYBmcmh2xn1
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡTfaMglqFQd
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡCnPKO2rOU1
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡtTCQ5Z78wv
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9qKjc0FDFv
"I'd pay a sovereign to see you succeed."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡQhSG2HJuvD
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡvZw7PC6WKD
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡsT3cdgdTTT
"Why? Why is it always about fornication with you?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡoJbhpdY8Hu
"No. Not really," his grin returned, "sometimes it's about fornication with other people."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡMctjkiVrfF
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Hz8TNo6Gi
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ051bmrolA6
"You went to the tower?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡPmijFDBB4Q
"Just before I came here," he cleared his throat, "seems like it wasn't only me who was hoping to see you there."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡg9xPirCGyi
Irvine stopped in his tracks.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡZyn1JKs863
"Someone wishes to see me?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡeVqxe6aQHf
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡHXofNGGqne
"Who?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡJmN7nxRQFX
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡUUTls8rDZ9
"Vampires...?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡSG7gVUXClk
"I know, right? I don't know why he talked about something like that. Do you really know him?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡR4HEb5c3VS
Suddenly, the Grand Paladin felt a massive lump in his throat.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1QMVbf3CS3
"I should go."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡMKKT0FOXi9
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡi9dZOo50s0
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡStRFo2UsFM
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡvrwflxV9vd
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡiOnwObUTbn
"Goddess?" Morgana muttered, eyes on the crippled woman, "interesting."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡU4QLJeODHt
"What?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡqcVWsgunq0
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡBIOZfCaavm
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡxpqnaaCZNj
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡsdwoaYFFm5
"I wish I could help you."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡFYOtX367dB
"This?" droplets of sweat poured off her brows, "No need. I'm used to it."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡuK1V8c5KbT
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4E7B2hzHXW
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡNCUB6RFcZS
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡOtDPpL1uwd
The woman walked closer, "here, let me help you."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡnBRucTMMBJ
"No, I can—"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡIolC0ruFEu
"It's alright," Morgana spoke in a soft voice, "straighten your leg."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡysXbhmXjRu
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡwe6nJihv4S
"You really don't need to—"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡfNgBqg3UWH
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡou9mGrJELB
As a familiar pressure built within her stomach, Hestia could only look away, doing her best covering all the right places.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8iPfGzxX5C
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡQkp7VQnZLk
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡGaOQwuig83
"Is the water too hot?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡRhmHw2g4Zm
"It's—it's fine."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡHPG7WCXkBI
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡEiSt8pYqF7
"You spoke of the Goddess earlier," the woman suddenly said.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡuxpQeVSv0S
"I do? What about it?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡRHIyOFbL0M
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡuF5m8dL6Er
"So, what does that mean?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡe9YD0czTIz
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡLzgu759iR9
"Oh..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5lObIXou43
"I'd say your predicament is temporary. Perhaps everything will return after a while."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡVidUVd7u6P
Her self-consciousness returned as Morgana scrubbed her breasts and stomach, "Um, Morgana, you don't need to wash me..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3SpkmxqvQh
"Oh, please," the woman paid no heed, the brush kept rubbing briskly "you can't even take off your undergarments by yourself."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡFWCt7lrvPv
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡzLNMGI0Nd7
"Close your eyes."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡDgZ2Bmz1Sp
She couldn't even reply when suddenly Morgana poured the basin of water over her head.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡixlV1thsY7
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡXySLlztmmH
"Why are you asking?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡt0Xs3zPCAH
"I don't know. You seem to be so used to it."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2TeoPfR7IQ
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡeGp7rLGV73
"I...I see..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡCA3A369SJK
Their eyes met for a moment.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡzMEObu43BN
"You look sad."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡUPtjWU4DQc
"No, I just—I just feel like a burden. Can I at least help you with anything?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡGsMJ3QQdJz
"Don't worry about it," Morgana smiled, scooping the water with a metal bowl "close your eyes."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡXjmC7x6cAI
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡZuysOvnT8e
"Alright, all done."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5OHSyKJoXs
"You're so kind," Hestia muttered under her breath. It was supposed to go unnoticed.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡYVMkxURE6s
"I'm sorry?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡm5WUyLqWEy
"I—I mean, you keep doing this and telling me not to worry about things..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡaKmSCVCmjA
Morgana arched her brows; her lips formed a quizzical sneer.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡOhvBB3vtIB
"Do you want me to boss you around instead? Make you clean the house in that state?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡV4HSZgDpdh
"Uh, no—no, I don't mean it like that."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡYo1lgEgT0z
She lowered her voice, "Hestia, I simply do what needs to be done."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡtPRZqt3VWL
"Then why you?" Hestia asked again, "why not other villagers or Elder Nerida?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡxSQeKQvngI
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡFe6GzmlPfm
Hestia looked at her in the eyes.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡpJbhICKLxH
"I'll find a way to repay your kindness someday," she said "...I still believe you're a good person, though."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡx4znjjdPGt
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡxlHE2h1o7h
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡKx0WOJyzv5
"Where are you going...?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡg2aPpu9DjQ
The woman gave an impish tone, "thought you wanna be independent. Changing your mind real quick?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6RcOve6xDd
"I—I don't...No, that's not what I meant!" Hestia blurted out. Her cheeks reddened, "Goddess, you love messing with people..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡOnKPjzyR84
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡXp67fwCo9W
"You're joking right..." she said with an innocuous face.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡegNr5jFbQi
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡpFGavZJ4RS
"Still believe I'm a good person then?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8OhfWwLzVV
"I—um, whatever you say, I guess..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡvaciBiChtt
"Good. I see you in a minute," Morgana smiled, walking towards the door.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡzS9g2EgMI7
"Where are you taking my clothes?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡEQWV5TsRsn
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡNXx0g8iSpM
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡmZFvfI9wuR
What happened? Why do I have these things?copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡD9IA4OtwGW
Suddenly, she wanted nothing more than to look at herself in the mirror.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡUuTruaAN30
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡzp0fVgX4Ms
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡWqBF0Ftuc9
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡq7Ekz9v9Wy
"Hestia," a voice called from behind. She turned to find Morgana had returned. Quickly, she wrapped herself in the towel.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡawYaLTqJYd
"That's an axe wound. The one on your back," she walked closer with a concerned look on her face.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡbUDMzEs38E
"Axe...?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡdzLRTk0ouX
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡXEuVPfOgZM
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡtaH6WhKolT
"So....the blood...?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ysPqlaqKE
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡoHjSC88ro7
"So...ugly..." Hestia whispered to herself while looking at her own reflection again.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡeShWYedJDy
"What?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡCG74vxqFYa
"I look so repulsive," she said again, louder this time. A single teardrop rolled down her cheek.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡkmSDevMmWb
"That's not true. Don't say that to yourself."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡtb3L72ZlLC
"But the scars..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡUnj1sPzTux
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3PTWs8rfvo
"Battle...combat...?"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡqZzuKHwK2h
"You have a beautiful body, Hestia."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡnXFGY8vy10
The abrupt statement made her eyes widened in surprise.copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡ55QZ1i7tyC
"I—uh, wh—"copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡRYCrsm8Z7b
"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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡgu8Wb74HF5
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 protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡIKayKbRRFp
"Am I...Am I a..."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡuwo6XRt6QA
"Yes," Morgana nodded, "I also think you're a soldier."copyright protection180ＰＥＮＡＮＡi75q3gx7Yd
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