The Forbidden Entity (BWWM)

27

Sayora's POV

An uncomfortable silence plagued the cottage after I consumed that rancid drink. I wasn't sure how to proceed or what to say, but Khirus eased the awkwardness by placing a basket in my lap. He told me to open it, and I found a brush, some paste, ointment, bathing essentials, and two dresses inside.

"I cleaned you a day ago, but if you desire a proper bath, I can take you to the nearest waterway."

"Yes, please," I said, desiring a nice soak and fresh air."

"May I carry you? The trek will only cause you more discomfort."

"Yes." I nodded and clutched my basket to my chest as Khirus lifted me from the bed, placing one arm beneath my thighs and the other at my back. I observed the room as we departed, noticing the array of feathers, cotton, and linen strewn about the ruined bed. The precious furs that adorned my body seemed intact, unlike everything else.

I ceased my mulling and dozed off mere seconds into our journey, eventually stirring to the radiant harmonies of nature. I no longer resided in the comfort of Khirus's arms, but instead of darting around in panic, I took a moment to wallow as I could finally feel my surroundings without experiencing immeasurable pain. I welcomed the sweat that formed against my hairline and the gentle tickle of the grass beneath me. The earth seemed so elegant and blissful during the day, which allowed me to appreciate the contrast between the sweltering heat and the frigid nights.

Once I sat up, I pried my eyes open and observed the small body of water some feet away. The waterhole sat wedged between a cluster of trees, seemingly hidden from the rest of the forest and enveloped by flowers, shrubs, weeds, and grass. A narrow pathway ascended from the water and disappeared into the dense foliage, retreating beyond my view. Khirus's boots riddled the weathered path, but everything else was lovely. Even the gentle bubbling of the water contributed to the tranquil atmosphere.

I couldn't wait to get in, so I slowly rose and hobbled to a tree to relieve myself. Then I grasped my basket and went to the water's edge, still able to feel the strange sensation of Khirus between my legs. I swept my eyes over the area and pondered where he had gone. Oddly enough, I knew he hadn't ventured far and debated waiting for him to return.

In the meantime, I lowered myself to the ground and shrieked when I saw my disheveled reflection, instantly wondering how Khirus could speak such kind utterances when I looked ridiculous, definitely not as beautiful as he professed earlier. I grumbled disapprovingly and sulked over my matted hair, completely dismissing the brightness of my eyes. I didn't notice them until moments later and shrieked again, bewildered.

"Are you all right?" Khirus startled me with his hasty steps.

I cupped my hands into the water and splashed my face before rubbing the excess off, slowly dissecting my sparkling orbs. They contained overlapping layers of multicolored specks, the colors bouncing off one another and seemingly battling for dominance. As I tilted my head in various directions, the colors altered in radiance and prominence, creating an effect entirely dissimilar from my usual brown. What do they signify? Are they temporary? Why me? I've been normal my whole life; why now? I feel different but can't discern what 'different' even means.

"What is the matter, Sayora?" Khirus squatted beside me as I splashed more water onto my face. I turned to him and debated ranting about my thoughts but gasped at the sight of his bare upper body, alarmed by the veil of scars distorting his figure.

"Oh my...what happened to you?" I went to touch him but stopped and clasped my hands together. "You have many scars," I stated plainly, observing the mesh of mangled flesh and discolored markings where his skin had regrown after severe injury. "Are you all right?" I asked.