“I remember when they brought you here” Revadias folded his arms and leaned to the wall. I was wondering why they are carrying some kriggari in runed chains. It took me a while to notice the colour of your skin, to realize you are just dressed like one, in furs. And it picked my curiosity. But please, continue”

Ardeni shivered, closed her eyes for a moment then looked up.

“I woke up naked, chained to the wall, in front of me a priest of Parsena, waiting, patiently. And when he noticed I am awake, he stood up and put insignia of my house right in front of my face.

‘Is this your house?’ He asked. ‘Are you noble of this house?’

And I began to be afraid. You know, our house is high in city hierarchy. But it is small. And, due to my actions, it could lead to war. The war we could not withstand. So I said no. I mean, why was I so stupid? Everyone knows that priests of her see the lies. And this was not a trial. Whatever I would say, he would know the truth. That’s the beauty of simple yes-no questions.

I saw the green flame in his eyes and I realized how stupid my answer was. I should’ve remained silent. He just nodded and left. And I was there alone, with time to think.

You can imagine what was running through my mind. Are they attacking our house? Will my father and my sisters and brothers join me soon? What happened to Hildrin? And to others that have been captured during the raid? Why I do not feel my bruises? My whole body should hurt from how they beat me and yet nothing. Was I unconscious for so long it healed? Did they heal me? Why?