"Deth, can you tell me more about your blessing?”

“Mm, I don’t know too much about them to be honest. But, I know that I can only use the blessing on myself once per day, and once per night. However, blessings for another living being. Apart from weakening me, there seems to be no limit.”

“A truly selfless blessing. Your blessing reminds me of the Holy Maiden, have you heard of her?”

“No, who is she?”

“Like you, she has the power to heal. However, she’s under the protection of the Templars so, only people of nobility may receive her blessings.”

“And this Holy Maiden isn’t considered to be a witch?”

“No, she’s clearly not evil. She wouldn’t even kill an insect. And she’s saved so many lives, even the King holds her in high regards.”

“So, if most of the world deemed one as evil, then that becomes their reality? Richard, I want you to think about this.”

“I will think about it, but Deth you must see it from our view. What people see when they meet you is a being that does not die no matter her injuries. You move at inhuman speeds and have strength greater than men. People don’t see you as human. They don’t know what you are, you are the unknown. That fact alone scares them. The Holy Maiden on the other hand is fragile and weak, that’s why the Templars protect her.”

“Okay, so. Richard how do you feel about me? Do I scare you?” I deliberately leaned closer to him, observing his every emotion.

“No. I’m not scared of you. Not anymore anyway. In fact, you intrigue me. You are capable of things I’m not. If anything, I’d very much like to be your friend as well.” Good boy Richard, not bad of an answer. Wait! What is he doing? Why is he getting down on his knees? “Deth, your accuracy with the blade, your skills in close-quarters combat. Please teach me. I wish to be your student.”

“HUH? Are you stupid?” Richard, aren’t you jumping the gun? This is more than what I had in mind. “Are you sure about this?”

“Yes, after all that has happened. I desire nothing more than to be your friend and student.” Upon hearing this, I broke into uncontrollable laughter.

“You really are stupid huh?”

“I am serious!” I laugh some more, and after a while silence befalls us. Plucking a skewer of meat from the campfire, I passed it to him. “Deth, what are your plans after this?”

“My Plans? To make even more friends. And as I have no home, I haven’t a clue as to where to start.” This should be enough.

“Well then if you would like, why don’t you come with me to Veil, my family serves the lord there as blacksmiths. I’m sure your short-sword could use a little maintenance, and I was thinking. You keep throwing your sword, so maybe I could fashion some throwing knives for you instead.”

“That’s a nice offer, but have you forgotten people are hunting me? Bringing me to your place will only bring trouble.”

“No, not if we change your disguise, and sneak you in. After that, we’ll have you perform blessings in secret and spread rumours of your goodwill. Once the negative image of witches in Veil has been lifted, I’m sure the people will accept you then.”

“I’ll consider it.” A warm roof over my head doesn’t sound too bad, but to be safe let’s question him a bit more. “And how do I know the people of Veil won’t be handing me over to the Templars? I heard the Templars reward handsomely for dead-witches.”

“Deth, you saved my life. You’ve shown me great kindness. I am also from Veil, if I can see your goodness then I’m positive that the people will also see it in time.” This look he has on his face, it’s sincerity. I like it. I guess I could go it’s not like they could do anything to me if they tried anything.

“Richard, I am a witch and you, a human. This is the last time I will ask. But, do you truly wish to be my friend? You have five seconds to decide.”

“H-huh!? Five second- Yes! I’m sure.”

“Good choice.” I unequipped my mask. “Nice to meet you Richard.” Am I smiling right now?