Shroud

An inn in Quaalid.

In a room with bunk beds, a man sat on a chair, exposing his bruised, purplish chest.

Before him stood a girl with long scarlet hair reaching her waist, dressed in a long skirt.

The girl spoke quietly.

“I told you not to approach her.”

The man bowed his head in apology, still half-naked.

“I’m sorry. I saw her heading into a deserted alley and acted rashly, ruining everything with my hasty judgment. I’ll gladly accept whatever punishment you see fit, Lady Lise.”

The woman called Lise took a jar of ointment from the backpack beside the bed instead of replying.

Seeing her scoop up the semisolid ointment with her fingertip, the man waved his hand in alarm, feeling unworthy of her attention.

“I-I’m fine! It’s only a bruise!”...