Chapter Text
Clarith walked quietly along the pathway that led to the monastery. It was a quiet morning, and the only thing she was focused on was the little flower pot in her hands. If Gumillia was right, then her dearest Michaela was right here with her, watching her every move. The idea soothed her and she slightly quickened her pace with content. Then she saw the slope. It was between her and the monastery, all above. Clarith decided to take a break before taking the big hike. She found a nice shady spot from under a tree. But as she approached, she noticed a strange lump of cloth beside her. Could there be a cat inside? She thought to herself. But then the lump began to wriggle, and soon Clarith could make out a tuff of blonde hair. It was a person! A child, upon closer inspection. She gently placed the flower pot on the grass beside the tree and hovered over them. They wore men’s clothing, so he must be a boy. Despite the dirt matted in his hair, it was still soft to the touch. He had long eyelashes, and a straight nose. The boy began to make some strange noises, and Clarith worried he was having trouble breathing.
She loosened his collar, and as she did, the boy spoke. “Allen…Allen…” Her eyes widened when she saw tears streaming down his face. “Is that your name?” She asked softly, placing a steady hand on his back. She gently stroked it to provide comfort, and the boy let out a small whine. He had no injuries, but he was extremely thin. The poor child must’ve been starving for days. Clarith knew she had to bring him back to the monastery, but the slope was too big and she wasn’t sure if she had the strength to carry a teenager up along with the flower pot. She tried to focus on other stuff, like getting the boy food. There was a bakery in the village, and she knew she could make a quick trip and back and perhaps bring some other civilians with her. “Don’t worry, Allen. I’m gonna go get help.” She said. But Allen grabbed the hem of her skirt and looked up at her with tearful blue eyes. “Please don’t go.” He whispered. That was when she noticed the glass bottle in his other hand.