"And your age?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡwdcjrP0WWE 維尼
Hestia shook her head.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡqsSaVQNIRg 維尼
"Hmm," Morgana moved the quill, writing some more, "alright. So no origin and identity. How about a friend or a relative?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ42KfuFsdf3 維尼
"I don't remember that either..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡpEcn2qIEd8 維尼
"Nothing at all?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡYYhLJ9DodB 維尼
"Well, there are...there are bits and pieces that I keep seeing over and over. Like—like it's stuck there inside my head...?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡG8RPqpBwgj 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡtcRtpXLrjO 維尼
"Can you explain the vision then?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ68RE48EKlO 維尼
"The things I saw?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7K1zphWRHZ 維尼
Morgana nodded.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡo0MxtFCtz7 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡy18XLuBo8u 維尼
"Just say anything. Details matter if you want to retrace your memories."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡYpiRPmksD5 維尼
"I keep seeing places that I don't know of. Woods, encampments, houses, buildings. Everything is so..." she closed her eyes, "...random."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡMth040fOKu 維尼
The scribbling sounds ensued.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2PSYhDU34M 維尼
"Then I saw people. They're all angry...at me I suppose...? I'm not sure. They looked hostile."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡJN4e6Sksuk 維尼
"Hostile?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ18WgzFpqfh 維尼
"They threw stuff at me. I think...I think they wanted to hurt me..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡnxjwyt0jkt 維尼
"Now that makes sense."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡagoiC2O8jZ 維尼
"What?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡRBXKNUs0U2 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡCFZM1Pud7J 維尼
"Blood...?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡFtWM8l7QMH 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡrVMaqjRd8C 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5cEQ8AzkcK 維尼
No pain. No gash. No wound. At least none she felt so.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡXaLoEymV8o 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡcHzWSeNUJo 維尼
Black hair. Black like an ink. Dry and grimy, she could feel dirt tangled in between.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡXJYYu7Qg0z 維尼
How long I've been like this already?8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡtW7PdixVoj 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡnGaBwUQv5H 維尼
The chair made her wonder where the woman slept for the last two days.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0lUdwb4aaV 維尼
"You're up again. Are you feeling better?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9FuebknmA2 維尼
"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..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡuqoHe5uuVI 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡtVaYfp7jwx 維尼
"Alright, can you remove your clothes?" Morgana said while attaching a monocle-like device on her ear.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡYMlcNBiMPX 維尼
"I—I, what?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡYiawZLrRWS 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡkVySec5fus 維尼
"Uh, why not?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6prtPObE1V 維尼
"Would you let a stranger graze their hands upon your body when you're unconscious?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡLG4FcdTIti 維尼
Hestia's brows furrowed, "Huh, no! No—not when you put it that way..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4cSlLaDuIf 維尼
Morgana gave a roguish smile.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3xFMkklQqo 維尼
"I was messing with you. It's my personal code of conduct. I wouldn't take any action if no consent was given."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡs9nfZpKfwx 維尼
"But...you fixed my leg when I was asleep...?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡjejhCaj3qw 維尼
"You were bleeding," Morgana said again, "of course I'd take any necessary means if it's an emergency."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡqiThIi5WkQ 維尼
"I see...I understand..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Bw7CEfSH1 維尼
"Very well, shall we begin?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡJyntzehQQ6 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7pMa9bm0Qr 維尼
"I'm ready."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡm4v0lg9fWq 維尼
"Take everything off, please."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0lmNehrzBV 維尼
"The—the trousers too?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡrrL7tYCb6J 維尼
"I wouldn't be able to look at anything with that on."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡXqOmg5jW2b 維尼
"Alright..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡnaYnI3wDt6 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡmlwcytiIaU 維尼
"That can stay," the woman said, suppressing her laughter "I don't need to see everything."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡyGYnjJtcNL 維尼
Blushing, Hestia averted her eyes and adjusted herself on the sheets. The weight of the bed shifted as Morgana sat behind her.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1dCwfhpFhh 維尼
"Good lord...!"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7d72w5Q3lB 維尼
"Wh—what?" Hestia turned to find the woman, hand on her mouth, stared at her back with her brows furrowed.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6GNr8E91EZ 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡjjqjc5Mn7H 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡpfSf2UoaUu 維尼
Dried blood.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡrOp2OJeeBQ 維尼
"Does it hurt," Morgana applied pressure on her back, "when I touch it like this?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡXb9HhhRQHL 維尼
"Um, no."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡxlriUI07xQ 維尼
"Strange."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡC0notXcgsg 維尼
"Morgana...?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡcmKr441sNa 維尼
"You truly don't feel any pain?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡYuwYfGI5jT 維尼
"No."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1NCDbXxs0I 維尼
"How about this?" her nails scraped gently on the surface.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡj0dDb4paKn 維尼
Again Hestia shook her head.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡTEhj1nuXgd 維尼
"Alright. Now, up. Straighten your back."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡSul6S73d4w 維尼
"Like this?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6MrHGVvpcj 維尼
"Good. Stay still."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡcEfAnSmqcJ 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡHgDrOEhaFS 維尼
"Why are you so tensed? Relax a little."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡFO34r0n8NF 維尼
"I, um...it's chilly..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡt0HIMV9kHj 維尼
Morgana chuckled.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡdZ0VBgmCgm 維尼
"Hold on a little more, okay?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6jdv8vgLW4 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡoCASR952oE 維尼
"You don't seem to be surprised."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡYoNGJL8JvR 維尼
"Me? About?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡGyUGFPtVk5 維尼
"When you know I lost my memories..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7gtSKMitZT 維尼
"Should I be?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡhOjcPzrmkz 維尼
"Is it—is it common?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡELCtwmMJzu 維尼
"The memory loss? No, but it's been known to happen."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡgvhWRxnx4C 維尼
"So, you know how to cure it?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5i78QcKDM6 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡySFrF0XuaV 維尼
She jolted a little when the woman suddenly got up and sat before her.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡxmAU4WjuRr 維尼
"Alright, now I need to look at your front."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7f2EStfjpv 維尼
"Uh," Hestia swallowed, looking away. She pressed her arms closer to her chest, "do I need to—um..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡSbwtGVAc0H 維尼
"What?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡTKMMustQqc 維尼
"Well..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡDwYpCMafnB 維尼
"No need to be embarrassed. It's not like I haven't seen naked women before—or men even."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡY17DNJJNQP 維尼
"...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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡDBgHSfU7XU 維尼
"You found something?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡBk0unF77KZ 維尼
No answer. Morgana took off the device and put it aside. Hestia saw those green eyes stared straight at her torso.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4n1vJQJTJ8 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡM1jkEbHLzc 維尼
"Oculette. For seeing the tissue of the skin. The Guild invented it to aid us in examination and surgery."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡptXcCEoHRL 維尼
"The Guild...The Alchemist Guild?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡAidckrqtwq 維尼
"Yes."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡje99U9W9jJ 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡyDyTfjTVye 維尼
"What is it that you're looking for?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡOVqVZQyPX9 維尼
Morgana looked at her oddly, pulling her hand away.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡqCLmBXKu5E 維尼
"I'm not finished. What's the matter with you?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡiHzIhhhm8R 維尼
"I'm...it's—it's cold!8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡKx2VbujKU8 維尼
"Alright, then. I've got what I needed anyway."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9UKden6gcY 維尼
"What did you find?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡGe2IEykHpX 維尼
The woman sighed and stood up, walking towards the dresser.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡHec2Ao5uLw 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡi538AWAlXo 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡReLXLMDsb4 維尼
"I yield, Sir!"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡpJYFm9a0VG 維尼
"One slash and you're falling like a crumb. What will our army become? Next!"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡkNIJt3cCve 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡSifIVVfpy4 維尼
"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!"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡkgbXV42SSw 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ84LRexqRit 維尼
She went to the weapon rack; the chest-length auburn hair flowed behind her as she walked.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0DnBBsB6lt 維尼
"No shield?" Irvine asked when she stood by, equipped with a single short sword.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡIMMi3FjAKj 維尼
"No, Your Excellency."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡaaaJYKp3Wl 維尼
"Very well, then. Ready your stance. En garde...!"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡFKjYFP41IQ 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡlf6vU7bPhQ 維尼
What was once quiet and fearful bunch, with enthusiasm the recruits began to cheer and watch.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡw2IzzhFiHz 維尼
"A short sword, your weapon won't last long against this halberd," Irvine growled, withstanding on his feet.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡKavsvKbUQx 維尼
"Yes, Sir," she gave away; letting the man rammed his weight ahead, "it won't."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡsrOtgcjbus 維尼
Taking advantage of her size and agility, she pulled herself to the ground, sliding through between his legs and stood back up behind him,8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0AojvgSdPH 維尼
"But it's much lighter than yours."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡjR1ICqYNlN 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡFhN9Iw93d2 維尼
"Impressive," he turned around, "what's your name, young soldier?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡuWflJtlHFg 維尼
The girl sheathed the sword and bowed, "Sethra of Albridge, Your Excellency."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡNitirG7gtE 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡNVv9hHkPxt 維尼
"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?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡHqvepjZa4C 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡhXjTlLvKIt 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡYjwoCYmGj2 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡHLuCKTdski 維尼
"Come on, hit me back!"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡtCrRLMPa2G 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡQvLlyUogah 維尼
"Heh, you're nimble."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0UAvhox7IE 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ285aSIyxro 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡCtwe9g9jBI 維尼
"Dodging would only take you nowhere!"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡA2NoOIsDqm 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡv1oqPs5AzQ 維尼
And at times like this, she wished she had a sword.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡxiDlez7fZX 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡoH08MbdvTt 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡuMLysBPJj4 維尼
However, she decided to do something else.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡIvvpRcwJ2u 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡWqed6OJrFx 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0OkgpzOUgy 維尼
"You...fight dirty..." Irvine's voice was a mixture of awe and agony.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0X0JYy6kCs 維尼
"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..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡWtRwsiKcJo 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡv37GdxUnuG 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡrILB4W6pqF 維尼
"We're not finished."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡeyW9KwAvom 維尼
Holding her stomach, Sethra curled like a ball. It felt like someone had stirred her innards into a void, spinning sideways and upside down.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡIdspDUMakl 維尼
"Come on, girl!"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡaY5jEcnqux 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡEwQhiwiY9x 維尼
"What a magnificent demonstration of strength, I expect no less from you." The man offered his hand.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Odl7KGsph 維尼
"Harding...!"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡWfysu2CRBv 維尼
"Be easy on the recruits, will you?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡLqF4JPQ0ab 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0PMnoUCvX9 維尼
"Take her to the barracks. This sparring session is over," Lieutenant Harding commanded the initiates, turning to his friend afterwards, "Come. Walk with me."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡIx9Lg08Vuc 維尼
After everyone was dismissed, the two soldiers left the training ground and took a stroll around the stronghold.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡZrNpuBHSgR 維尼
"Well, that looks painful. You sure don't wanna get it checked?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2xNPddM3AX 維尼
"It's nothing."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡMsrqT7d491 維尼
"Were I you, I'd freak out to death," Harding said, wincing "ooh, the thought of me not being able to enjoy pleasure again."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡKuIr6mOxhv 維尼
"That is disgusting."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡhQTFDD3Bgv 維尼
"Really, Irvine, when was the last time you hammered the nails?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0pl6TRlUVy 維尼
"There are more important things in life than 'hammering nails' I suppose."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2pctFkNH6K 維尼
"No wonder you're so cross all the time," the lieutenant gave a chuckle, "you never take care of yourself."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡbxiJfZdDRR 維尼
"How very attentive of you."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡxgrMyqseTO 維尼
"I mean, seriously, get yourself a woman. Or a man. Anyone. Someone to make that blood hot and pumping."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡMt6rNgKDpd 維尼
"I want nothing to do with the words 'hot' and 'pumping' whatever that means."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡNtLY0kxK04 維尼
"But there's nothing better than the good old-fashioned, toes-curling, headboard-slamming—"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡhqAbUIP92c 維尼
"Why are we still talking? Haven't you got some unholy things to do?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡlwlHHw3Cu4 維尼
"My, such attitude," Harding said, snickering "someone shall tame that righteous halberd of yours."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡat66medagz 維尼
"Go away, you're embarrassing me."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡvqO53fpqTe 維尼
The flaxen-haired man threw his head back, laughing out loud.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡTQBOT1vO0J 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4HAIUJvKAr 維尼
"I'm not you. I don't have people thrown themselves at me all the time."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡauU8kSpQko 維尼
"Try a different approach then. Be less cranky," he shrugged, "not everyone loves their dragons to be slain right away."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡbW8oHTh18D 維尼
"...you did not just say that."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡpaFmGJlhnS 維尼
He laughed again, patting the Paladin's shoulder, "Sorry, man, I just missed you so much. It's been months!"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡh6RgHAzHdq 維尼
"I thought the trip was supposed to be longer. When did you return?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡR7nsbUeBYU 維尼
"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?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡzw1HrYhFTb 維尼
"The usual. My castle life would bore you. Tell me more about your journey."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡrkOXLUoyIC 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡPrI7NGr1Ad 維尼
"Hmph, sometimes I want to be a Royal Guard," Irvine smirked, "grand feasts and lavish trips whenever."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡo8IOl7hW42 維尼
"True, not that I'm complaining, though I prefer the great respect that you Paladins got."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡSBA8pDAIfc 維尼
"That's not respect, people are just scared."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡUC0qkT7ITs 維尼
Harding scoffed, "Is that why you train the recruits yourself now? To frighten them?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡIGf6LWd8PB 維尼
"To make them confront their fear."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡPGBLCAzmpV 維尼
"You're being too harsh, Irvine. They're just teenagers."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡybNXaKKPwH 維尼
"If they couldn't face me now, they couldn't face bigger threats later."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡSoDTRrwSVh 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9WcA203xLO 維尼
"She's different indeed. And I'm not talking about her skills."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡFvBIEdwcVo 維尼
"Which rank will she join?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡwgp7am3Xrq 維尼
"I didn't ask. Let's hope she'll enter yours."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡFoy8ap0USZ 維尼
"A Royal Guard? You want her to be like me?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡPgy0rFr7IR 維尼
"That girl's too adept to be in garrison. And it'd be a waste if she's dead in The Union."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡb6NBcNGKf7 維尼
Lieutenant Harding released a long sigh,8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡayiiY31Xpw 維尼
"The Union. Right. I just hope someday you'd spill me the beans."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡtDYg1p8SwY 維尼
"Keep dreaming. Not in a million years, I would."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡehnxTqlMcp 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡGRInE0eun5 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡO805Xt9sXw 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ03aLL86miA 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ31ocCwUHcm 維尼
"I'd pay a sovereign to see you succeed."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡD2s5RYLn3X 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡm5t90fWNRd 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ08nBSTUIHL 維尼
"Why? Why is it always about fornication with you?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9826WWSHHo 維尼
"No. Not really," his grin returned, "sometimes it's about fornication with other people."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ74f7NvGzNg 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡHCUQ2IRCCx 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7z9hlmI8X7 維尼
"You went to the tower?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3lIpQzKgXW 維尼
"Just before I came here," he cleared his throat, "seems like it wasn't only me who was hoping to see you there."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡPmMzsuqJD4 維尼
Irvine stopped in his tracks.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡSkOnYGR9pk 維尼
"Someone wishes to see me?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡZdgqefSNFG 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡyoi2Ciy30D 維尼
"Who?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡXX9BhDKQeZ 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡcMQ1YF8I9i 維尼
"Vampires...?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡcv6kukklpE 維尼
"I know, right? I don't know why he talked about something like that. Do you really know him?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡG5P1loZCpk 維尼
Suddenly, the Grand Paladin felt a massive lump in his throat.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡk1nGaNyecf 維尼
"I should go."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡB1w5sAzccc 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡMT3lEdBf5G 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡQpgxCZ9aG0 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7q2A6mku8E 維尼
"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!"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9lrue0jECc 維尼
"Goddess?" Morgana muttered, eyes on the crippled woman, "interesting."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡkncZb8Q0mW 維尼
"What?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡtJLO0OdVKV 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ZGBgUfjiA 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡMY70AZASef 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡEzEVIOJkDz 維尼
"I wish I could help you."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡsswBm7GCg7 維尼
"This?" droplets of sweat poured off her brows, "No need. I'm used to it."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡmPgCVRyAV9 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡQkiA1DpOkG 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡgF9BgqX1Ko 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2InJYPmPYe 維尼
The woman walked closer, "here, let me help you."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7oOlNlkedK 維尼
"No, I can—"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡSH6yg2xLdq 維尼
"It's alright," Morgana spoke in a soft voice, "straighten your leg."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9PU4PT5rVr 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3zy2uQzarZ 維尼
"You really don't need to—"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡTWf5t8rbNP 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡy18bWqqAHk 維尼
As a familiar pressure built within her stomach, Hestia could only look away, doing her best covering all the right places.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡwonNKeUQlm 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡZjwtFhDWxO 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ50A3Cp5jt3 維尼
"Is the water too hot?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡFsKFVfluCl 維尼
"It's—it's fine."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ46jDOd0baf 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡjdfbANIRma 維尼
"You spoke of the Goddess earlier," the woman suddenly said.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡucWiGRTn31 維尼
"I do? What about it?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡFEUP5wZIXJ 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡGUgGqIouR7 維尼
"So, what does that mean?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡW6DAwZy4oh 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZ1x4DGcqz 維尼
"Oh..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡeGjyu37MGk 維尼
"I'd say your predicament is temporary. Perhaps everything will return after a while."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2q0QtlfDt9 維尼
Her self-consciousness returned as Morgana scrubbed her breasts and stomach, "Um, Morgana, you don't need to wash me..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ97OeL7mg8V 維尼
"Oh, please," the woman paid no heed, the brush kept rubbing briskly "you can't even take off your undergarments by yourself."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡX3Gql8lmJO 維尼
Hestia frowned a little. She hated being in this state. Helpless and handicapped, it's no different with her being like a small child.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ21jDUpLa5A 維尼
"Close your eyes."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡkButvK8Rqy 維尼
She couldn't even reply when suddenly Morgana poured the basin of water over her head.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡjeByZSqGvl 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ7xvfs5IAx 維尼
"Why are you asking?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8eO1guzr5P 維尼
"I don't know. You seem to be so used to it."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1nHSf051By 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡX9MRMkdDje 維尼
"I...I see..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡHqc5i513is 維尼
Their eyes met for a moment.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYW8rGOka2 維尼
"You look sad."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡiqu39RwYey 維尼
"No, I just—I just feel like a burden. Can I at least help you with anything?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡpVzu7zQqlM 維尼
"Don't worry about it," Morgana smiled, scooping the water with a metal bowl "close your eyes."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2cbzBUPSwq 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡU4qrsBZbF1 維尼
"Alright, all done."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡcDbZkdrfds 維尼
"You're so kind," Hestia muttered under her breath. It was supposed to go unnoticed.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡwYg9vximON 維尼
"I'm sorry?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡTlu15xfvYG 維尼
"I—I mean, you keep doing this and telling me not to worry about things..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡzrfe2ymoDQ 維尼
Morgana arched her brows; her lips formed a quizzical sneer.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡefT38FuKSX 維尼
"Do you want me to boss you around instead? Make you clean the house in that state?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡf6KD2BxRwX 維尼
"Uh, no—no, I don't mean it like that."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡd9DRleYHWq 維尼
She lowered her voice, "Hestia, I simply do what needs to be done."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡoIbdCcZAwG 維尼
"Then why you?" Hestia asked again, "why not other villagers or Elder Nerida?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡTQtuYWvbIg 維尼
"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?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9tyEeLapJN 維尼
Hestia looked at her in the eyes.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡrBlbSD3dOK 維尼
"I'll find a way to repay your kindness someday," she said "...I still believe you're a good person, though."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡqcKFtn6eL4 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡgbChRqjIue 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡMvQH0wYvvO 維尼
"Where are you going...?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡCUR6qzgaUI 維尼
The woman gave an impish tone, "thought you wanna be independent. Changing your mind real quick?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡc6OVuExPaI 維尼
"I—I don't...No, that's not what I meant!" Hestia blurted out. Her cheeks reddened, "Goddess, you love messing with people..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡKqbdRNLrx4 維尼
"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?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡlamlKsyGOk 維尼
"You're joking right..." she said with an innocuous face.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Zl387iYl9 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡmLGMxWs9Yz 維尼
"Still believe I'm a good person then?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ817Fid6WXw 維尼
"I—um, whatever you say, I guess..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡBp19o7sbNa 維尼
"Good. I see you in a minute," Morgana smiled, walking towards the door.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡBIMT07ZLW2 維尼
"Where are you taking my clothes?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡTBpZQTilTV 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡKoTYOD0mXV 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡtSViBqnnwP 維尼
What happened? Why do I have these things?8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡslK7yjEDO3 維尼
Suddenly, she wanted nothing more than to look at herself in the mirror.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡepwdiAb1IX 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡdQTA4EV11g 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡWy8yoPIs9r 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡI0EmqOKF3E 維尼
"Hestia," a voice called from behind. She turned to find Morgana had returned. Quickly, she wrapped herself in the towel.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡzghszgyGoV 維尼
"That's an axe wound. The one on your back," she walked closer with a concerned look on her face.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡggF1b86U8q 維尼
"Axe...?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡJndU7eJefN 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡFEqr4qjeqs 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡsVFTHFQlZW 維尼
"So....the blood...?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ25PcjUA1E 維尼
"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..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡbpQGsDlvo1 維尼
"So...ugly..." Hestia whispered to herself while looking at her own reflection again.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1toMM2YQFz 維尼
"What?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ12I0yUiYYu 維尼
"I look so repulsive," she said again, louder this time. A single teardrop rolled down her cheek.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡeXdwqjn8z4 維尼
"That's not true. Don't say that to yourself."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡokVazv2QoT 維尼
"But the scars..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡb5PK2BjnUW 維尼
"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?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZDbxH8v4I 維尼
"Battle...combat...?"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡoA82ZpmQ20 維尼
"You have a beautiful body, Hestia."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡaSlfz7u4fB 維尼
The abrupt statement made her eyes widened in surprise.8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡMOEGHg81d9 維尼
"I—uh, wh—"8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡfsYJ3nYipz 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1maEqtGfB1 維尼
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,8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡz5RYUTN5oZ 維尼
"Am I...Am I a..."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡHut4cPhV2m 維尼
"Yes," Morgana nodded, "I also think you're a soldier."8964 copyright protection540ＰＥＮＡＮＡrVohIaEWKY 維尼
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