To Naseria,
I do not know if words alone can make amends for the wounds of the past, yet I hope that in writing to you, I might take the first steps toward forgiveness.
What happened years ago was never my intent, and I have carried the weight of that memory with me ever since. I know that my actions, my silence, and my failures left you feeling betrayed. I would give much to change the past, but I understand that words cannot undo what has been done.
I recently learned of the injuries you suffered during the mission, and it pains me deeply to know you endured so much. Despite everything, you still chose to risk your life to help the region, facing untold dangers to provide the aid we desperately needed. I am grateful beyond words for your strength and resilience, have shown, even after all this time.
If you can find it in your heart to grant me a chance, I would be grateful to meet with you, to speak face to face once you have healed. Perhaps, through our shared pain, we can find some peace.
Please take all the time you need, and know that I am willing to wait, as long as it may take.
With all sincerity,
Revna Neoma Mayfield
"I don't know if I'll ever be at peace," Naseria murmured, watching as the letter turned to ash in her hands. She sighed, feeling the weight of it settle on her chest. She crawled into bed, where sleep finally came but not without tears.
The next morning, she woke with a heavy heart. Odessa entered the room with a warm smile. "Good day, Miss," she greeted softly.
Naseria stood and reached for a glass of water, trying to shake off the remnants of last night’s sadness.
"Good day, Sir Stark," Odessa said, giving the cat a playful nod. Stark stretched and yawned, as if greeting her back.
"Miss, you should take a bath. Someone will be coming to change your bandage," Odessa reminded her.
Naseria nodded, letting Odessa prepare the bath. She undressed, expecting the water to be bracingly cold, but it was warm and soothing. As Odessa helped her wash, Naseria smirked. "Here we go again, with you helping me bathe."
"Shh, let me be," Odessa replied, a small smile tugging at her lips.
"Since when did you become this bold?" Naseria teased.
"I have a great mentor right here," Odessa replied, and Naseria chuckled.
After a moment, Naseria added, "By the way, I almost forgot. I’ll write that letter I owe you."
Odessa shook her head gently. "It's alright, Miss. There are 26 letters."
"You know that?" Naseria asked, surprised.
"Miss, I can’t read or write, but I can count," Odessa said, her tone light and unbothered.
Naseria changed into fresh clothes while Odessa stayed behind to clean the bath. A few minutes later, a knock sounded at the door. Odessa answered, greeting the visitor with a respectful nod. "Your grace, please come in."
Kaizo entered, bowing to Naseria. "I’ve come to clean your bandage," he said, his tone gentle.
Naseria nodded, and he began the careful work of replacing the bandage on her wound. Meanwhile, Odessa’s face showed a pained expression, as though she were the one injured.
Naseria scoffed lightly, amused. "I’m the one who got hurt, Odessa."
Odessa gave a small, concerned smile. "Does it hurt, miss?"
