“I accept your apology, but I must offer one in return for I have not seen nor heard of anyone passing by my home. In fact, you are the first. Shall I inform my grandson of your presence here?” She spoke with over-whelming confidence.

“N-No, that won’t be necessary. Lady Maria, I apologise once more. we’ll take our leave now.” After the rustling outside subsided. Maria spoke to me.

“Don’t worry, my grandson may be the commander of the Templars, but me and Cherry here we’re just ordinary citizens.”

“Grandma! Grandma! She can stay here until she gets better right?”

“Yes, of course my dear. But, as soon as she is ready she will have to leave. Cherry, it’s time for bed.” Cherry made to protest but a quick folding of the arms and a sharp stare from Maria sent her obediently to bed.

“Yes grandma…” A little dreary-eyed Cherry left the room.

“By dawn, I’ll leave.” Her eyes thoroughly examined me. I was a mess; my clothing was torn, and I was covered in bruises. She didn’t seem convinced.

“You were ready to accept death by my door, and here you are telling me you’ll leave at dawn? Tell me, exactly how will you be doing that? Crawling?”

“No, I am a witch. By sunrise I will be able to use my blessing again. I’m only able to use it once per sunlight and once per moonlight. So, at dawn I’ll heal myself and leave.”

“Very well, if you’re so adamant on leaving. I won’t stop you, but for now. Please don’t die in my living room.”

“You aren’t afraid of me? Even after hearing that I am a witch?”

“No, not really. I knew the moment I saw you that you were one, but that didn’t stop me from helping you.” I examined her eyes but found no lies.

“Thank you.”

“And you, are you not afraid of me?”

“I’m not. It would be awfully rude to fear you after receiving your goodwill.”

“Good, good. Hearing that pleases me. Listen young-one. Not everyone is evil, not everyone is out to hurt you. One day, when you are ready I want you to try trusting in someone and befriending them.”

“The world is out to kill me, that’s easier said than done. And frankly, you are the first person ever to show me kindness. How will I know when that time comes?”

“You won’t. No one will tell you when, but maybe. Just maybe, when you someone who’s eyes are filled with goodness. I’d say, do your darn best to befriend them dear.” Her hand reached out to me. At first, I flinched but when I saw her soft-expression I allowed it. She ruffled my hair and hugged me. It was the first time in years, that I could let my guard down and relax. Although, she’s treating me somewhat like a cat…