After the meeting between the priestesses and acolytes, the religious figures solemnly exited the temple, their footsteps echoing against the stone floors. The night sky stretched above them, a tapestry of stars witnessing their silent procession.
When Merina and her mother, Leto, returned to the orphanage, they were greeted by the heartwarming sight of children chatting animatedly while eating a simple meal of ricecakes and bread. The aroma of fresh bread filled the air, mingling with the sweetness of fruit juice in their mugs. Pacificus was there, his hands busy feeding the children alongside the other adults, his presence radiating warmth and kindness.
Merina’s heart swelled with affection as she exchanged smiles with her lover, Pacificus. She then made her way to the basement, the cool air wrapping around her as she descended the stairs. The basement was dimly lit, casting soft shadows on the walls. She approached a chest, its surface worn with age, and opened it to reveal scrolls made out of wool, carefully stored within.
“I’ll handle this one, dear,” Leto said, her wrinkled hands gently resting on Merina’s shoulder. Her touch was soft yet firm, a comforting presence. “Go to Pacificus. You might not be able to see him again tomorrow, you know.”
“But mother, this is for them,” Merina protested, her voice tinged with determination. “Apollo, Artemis, Hyakinthos—they finally have a chance to get adopted, and their potential parents are nobles. Their future has never looked so bright.”
“So is yours, dear,” Leto replied, her eyes filled with wisdom and love. She held her adopted daughter close. “You can have a family of your own.”
“But mom—” Merina started, her voice wavering.
“Go, dear. He’s a keeper,” Leto insisted gently, her eyes twinkling with understanding.
“All right, Mom,” Merina acquiesced, a soft smile playing on her lips. She slowly removed the robes of an acolyte, the red fabric symbolizing the warmth of fire, revealing a simple but beautiful white blouse she wore underneath. The blouse was her creation, crafted with her own hands, each stitch a testament to her skill and care.
Leto took the acolyte's robes from her, holding them with a mix of reverence and affection. She watched as her daughter ascended the stairs, her steps light and filled with anticipation.
At the top of the stairs, Pacificus looked up and saw Merina approaching. Their eyes met, and she smiled warmly at him, her heart brimming with love.
“Let’s go, Pacy,” she said softly, her smile widening as she reached out to him.
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The couple walked through the tranquil night, the seven moons casting a silvery glow on the path ahead. Merina rode gracefully atop Torrent, the young kirin, its plump body moving with surprising elegance. Pacificus walked beside them, his feet crunching softly on the ground, choosing not to add extra weight to the already burdened kirin. The night air was cool and refreshing, filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the distant chirping of crickets.
As they strolled, their conversation flowed naturally, a mix of joy and underlying bittersweetness. "Artemis is getting adopted," Merina said, her voice carrying a blend of excitement and melancholy.
"That's great," Pacificus replied, his tone warm and supportive.
"So are Apollo and Hyakinthos," Merina continued, a slight smile playing on her lips, though her eyes hinted at deeper emotions.
"They have the same parents?" Pacificus asked, curious.
"No, only Apollo and Artemis have the same parents." Merina's smile wavered, revealing a hint of bitterness. "It's for the best. Apollo wants to be the best healer, and to do that, he needs to study. Artemis would have the best bows; her new family is rich, after all. I can say the same thing for Hyakinthos. They're being adopted by nobles, after all."
"Oh... those guys," Pacificus muttered, a hint of disdain in his voice.
Merina raised an eyebrow, teasingly. "Do you hate the nobles, Pacy?"
"I don't hate them. I just dislike them. They have no sympathy for commoners and even less sympathy for outsiders like me."
She chuckled softly. "Don't worry, Pacy. Not all nobles are like that. I think... their parents were once commoners too, actually. They seem to lack the same annoying pride most nobles have."
"Well... I hope they are kind. They are parents, after all."
"That's why we need to talk to them first before they adopt the three. We have to make sure we are entrusting them to good hands."
As they continued their walk, the landscape around them became more familiar, leading them to Pacificus's cozy hut. The kirin, Torrent, trotted over to his barn, his movements becoming lazier as he neared his resting place. The barn door was left ajar, as the kirin preferred it that way, only shutting it when the cold became too harsh. Torrent immediately settled into the hay, letting out a contented sigh as he drifted off to sleep.
Inside the hushed, shadowed sanctuary of Pacificus's hut, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation. The firelight cast flickering shadows that danced across the wooden walls, bathing the room in a warm, golden haze. The bed, now spacious enough for two, seemed to beckon with an inviting promise of closeness and warmth.
As they set aside their tea cups, the charged silence between Merina and Pacificus became palpable. Their earlier conversation dissolved into a sea of unspoken desires, replaced by an urgent need to be close. Merina’s eyes sparkled with longing as she reached out, her fingers lightly grazing Pacificus's arm, her touch igniting a spark that quickly flared into full-blown passion.
Merina leaned in, her lips capturing Pacificus’s in a kiss that started tender but quickly evolved into something more urgent. Her kiss was hungry, demanding, as if she was trying to convey all her suppressed desire through the press of her lips. She pulled him closer, her body pressed tightly against his, feeling the heat of his skin through their clothing.
Pacificus responded with equal fervor, his hands gripping her waist with a mixture of possessiveness and tenderness. He kissed her back with a fierce intensity, his lips moving with a passion that matched hers. His hands roamed over her back, his touch searing through the fabric of her blouse, igniting every nerve ending it encountered.
"Pacy," Merina gasped between kisses, her breath hot and uneven. "I love you so much... I want to be with you... I want us to be one... will you accept me?"
Pacificus's response was immediate and fervent. He kissed her deeply, his hands cupping her face as if he was afraid she might disappear. "I love you, Rina," he breathed against her lips, his voice rough with emotion. "I will never leave you."
The world outside ceased to exist as their passion enveloped them. Their movements grew more urgent, their bodies seeking and exploring with a desperate need to connect. They shed their clothing in hurried, eager motions, their skin meeting with a delicious warmth. Their kisses became fierce and possessive, their touches exploring every curve and contour, driven by an overwhelming desire to be completely entwined.
The bed beneath them became a playground of sensation, their bodies moving in sync with a rhythm driven by pure, unrestrained passion. They lost themselves in each other, their breaths coming in ragged gasps as they sought to merge into a single, pulsating entity. Their first experience together was marked by a wild, exhilarating energy, each touch and kiss igniting a fire that burned brightly, leaving them both breathless and profoundly connected.
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Pacificus stirred softly in the early morning light, careful not to disturb Merina, who lay peacefully beneath the fur he had draped over her. Her serene expression and gentle breathing made him smile as he looked down at her, appreciating the quiet moments they shared. The sky outside was still shrouded in darkness, the sun not yet having made its appearance, casting a deep indigo hue through the small window. With a gentle and guided movement, he quietly slipped out of bed, his movements as tender as his feelings for her.
In the dim, pre-dawn light, Pacificus set about preparing breakfast. The warmth of the fire he had kindled earlier filled the hut, casting a cozy glow that made the small kitchen area feel inviting and intimate. Shadows danced on the walls as the flames flickered, creating an atmosphere of calm and comfort. He pulled out the array of ingredients he had gathered, each item carefully chosen with Merina in mind. The earthy scent of fresh vegetables and herbs mingled with the smoky aroma of the fire. He pondered over what food would delight Merina this morning, a thoughtful expression crossing his face.
The image of her mother, Leto, appeared in his mind. He remembered how Leto used to cook a particular dish from the northwest, a comforting and hearty meal called Ratatouille. The memory of its rich, savory aroma and vibrant, colorful presentation filled his senses. Pacificus could almost hear Leto's soft voice as she explained the careful layering of the vegetables, the importance of seasoning, and the slow, patient cooking that brought all the flavors together.
He approached the hearth, where a sturdy iron pot hung over the crackling flames. Pacificus first prepared the tomatoes, their ripe, red skins gleaming under the soft light. He sliced them into plump, juicy chunks, their vibrant color promising a burst of freshness. Next came the bell peppers, which he diced into colorful pieces, their sweetness adding a vibrant contrast to the dish.
He reached for the vines of the man-eating plant, their tendrils coiled and dark green. With practiced hands, he trimmed and prepared them, their unique flavor adding an exotic touch to his dish. He used some tomato jam, a rich and tangy component, along with potatoes, which he peeled and diced with precision.
Pacificus turned to the array of herbs and spices he had created from the man-eating plant, their fragrant aroma filling the room. He crushed garlic and onions with a stone mortar and pestle, their pungent scents mixing with the earthy notes of the herbs. The large mandrake, with its impressive size and deep roots, was carefully chopped. He knew its robust flavor would enhance the complexity of the dish.
As he worked, Pacificus’s hands moved with a practiced grace. He added the garlic and onions to the pot first, letting them sizzle in a generous splash of olive oil. The mixture began to bubble and release a savory aroma. Next, he added the diced potatoes, allowing them to brown slightly and absorb the flavors.
He then incorporated the bell peppers and tomatoes, stirring them into the mix. The chopped mandrakes were added next, then the man-eating plant vines were added, their unique flavor blending into the simmering concoction. The tomato jam was stirred in, adding a layer of richness and depth. He seasoned the pot with the herbs and spices, tasting and adjusting to ensure the flavors melded perfectly.
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The fire crackled as the pot simmered gently, the aroma of cooking ratatouille filling the small hut. The blend of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and the rich undertones of the man-eating plant created a mouthwatering fragrance that promised a delightful meal. Pacificus stirred the mixture with care, savoring the process as much as he anticipated the outcome.
Pacificus glanced over at Merina, still sleeping soundly. He hoped that when she awoke, the meal would be a fitting expression of his love and appreciation. The simple act of cooking over the open fire, imbued with his dedication and affection, was his way of showing how much she meant to him.
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Merina slowly opened her eyes, the remnants of their intense passion from the previous night still vivid in her mind. Her body felt pleasantly warm and content, a soft smile curling her lips as she recalled the tender moments shared with Pacificus. She felt a heady mix of emotions: a part of her longed to relive that intimacy, to feel his touch and closeness once more. Yet, another part of her hesitated, worried she might seem too eager or demanding.
Her sleepy and dreamy thoughts swirled in a delightful haze, her senses still tingling with the memory of their closeness. She could almost feel his hands on her skin again, the echo of his whispers in her ear. But these reveries were gently interrupted when the aroma of cooking entered her nose. The rich, savory scent of simmering vegetables and herbs filled the air, pulling her further out of her dreams and into the present.
Merina took a deep breath, savoring the comforting smell that promised a delicious meal. The cozy warmth of the fire and the familiar, loving presence of Pacificus working quietly in the kitchen filled her heart with a deep sense of contentment.
She opened her eyes slowly, her vision settling on Pacificus, who was deeply immersed in the task of cooking breakfast for them. The soft light from the flame, illuminated his face, highlighting the intense focus and quiet joy he found in the simple act of preparing a meal. Merina found herself mesmerized by the sight; for her, Pacificus was at his most beautiful when he was engrossed in something he loved. There was a serenity in his gaze, a precision in his movements, that captivated her.
She kept one eye open, not wanting to break his concentration. She adored this moment, watching him quietly, savoring the sight of him doing what he loved. It made her feel an overwhelming sense of happiness and gratitude. She felt blessed that he was her man and that she was his woman. Perhaps it was Vesta's blessing, but every time she witnessed Pacificus engaged in something he enjoyed, a warm glow filled her heart. It was a silent, shared joy, an understanding between them that spoke of deep love and mutual respect.
Merina knew that Pacificus felt the same way when he saw her doing something she enjoyed, whether it was working on clothes or making cloth. He was always careful not to interrupt her, respecting her space and her passion. She wanted to return the favor, to let him have this moment of peace and fulfillment. So, she pretended to be asleep, sneaking glances at him with a soft smile on her lips. She was careful not to make any sudden movements, knowing how perceptive Pacificus was despite not being a hunter.
When Pacificus finished cooking, he turned his gaze toward Merina, who quickly closed her eyes, feigning sleep. She could feel the warmth of his eyes on her, a tender and loving look that made her heart flutter. After a few seconds, she opened her eyes slowly, peeking through her lashes, only to see Pacificus beginning to prepare for his morning practice.
She wasn't about to let that happen. Pacificus had made breakfast, and he was going to eat it. Rising from their shared bed, she allowed the blanket to slip, revealing her chest. "Good morning, Pacy," she said, her voice a soft, affectionate murmur.
Pacificus turned, slightly startled, but his expression softened at the sight of her. "Merina... it's still too early. The sun has barely risen."
"I smell breakfast," she replied with a smile that could melt ice. "Let's eat."
They settled down to their meal, the warmth of the fire adding to the cozy ambiance of their morning. The food was delicious, a testament to Pacificus's skill and care. As they ate, Merina enjoyed the simple pleasure of sharing this intimate moment with him.
Pacificus, however, seemed distracted. His eyes, normally filled with love and tranquility, now held a shadow of worry and concern. She noticed the slight furrow in his brow, the way he occasionally glanced toward the window, as if contemplating the dangers that lay beyond.
"Merina," he said softly, his voice tinged with apprehension as they ate, "are you okay?"
Merina looked at him, momentarily confused by his question. But then she understood. He was worried about his upcoming journey into the Ever Resting Forest, a place so perilous that even dragons and demons avoided it. She reached to him, placing her hand over his, offering a reassuring smile. "Of course," she said, her voice gentle and soothing. "I'm perfectly fine."
"Are you sure?" he asked again, his voice barely above a whisper.
"Of course, Pacy. What worries your heart, my love?"
"Rina... that night," he began, both of them blushing furiously, "that was the first time I did it with someone. You were so warm and... so beautiful... you were addicting... I really don't know how to describe it."
Merina's heart skipped a beat as she looked at him. That had been her first time too, and she remembered the small trace of blood on their bed.
"I," Pacificus continued, his voice filled with concern, "I saw blood on our bed. I just want to know if you are okay. I don't want to hurt you again. I... I just hoped that you felt as good as I did."
Merina's cheeks burned even brighter. Why were they talking about this so early in the morning? Yet, despite the awkward timing, there was something deeply touching about the way he turned what could be seen as perverse and depraved into something so wholesome and heartfelt. It was supposed to be romantic, and it truly had been. She had no doubts about his love for her.
She quickly finished her meal, then looked at Pacificus, whose face showed a mix of shock and confusion.
Taking a clean handkerchief, she dabbed at her lips. "Pacy," she called softly.
"Yes? Rina," he replied, still confused.
She leaned in and kissed him. The kiss was deep, filled with affection and longing. She pushed him gently towards their bed. "I love you," she whispered against his lips. "I want you... I also wanted you to feel good. Like I did... Would you like to do it again?"
Pacificus responded with a fervent kiss, and their second time of passion began.
The room seemed to grow warmer as their bodies entwined, each touch igniting sparks of desire. Merina felt the strength and tenderness of Pacificus's hands as they roamed her body, exploring familiar yet thrilling terrain. His touch was gentle but possessive, making her feel cherished and desired.
Her own hands traced the contours of his back, feeling the muscles tense and relax beneath her fingers. Every kiss, every caress, was imbued with a deep, abiding love that made the moment not just physical but profoundly emotional.
Their breaths mingled, hearts beating in a synchronized rhythm as they moved together, each sensation heightened by their mutual love and respect. Merina's eyes fluttered shut, lost in the intensity of their connection. She felt Pacificus's lips on her neck, his breath hot and tantalizing. She arched into him, wanting to be closer, to feel him completely.
The world outside ceased to exist as they surrendered to their passion, every touch, every sigh, an affirmation of their love. As they moved together, the bond between them deepened, each moment a testament to their unbreakable connection. Their second time was even more beautiful, more profound, as they discovered new depths of intimacy and affection.
However, this passion of theirs had caused them to lose track of time. When the couple finally stirred, the sun was already high in the sky. They had spent hours exploring each other's bodies, oblivious to the passing hours. It was nearing noon, and Pacificus was struck by a wave of shame, realizing he had missed his morning prayers, his practice, and the time he was supposed to spend tending to his farm.
He hurried to feed a stubborn Kirin, who seemed annoyed that his breakfast was late. The majestic creature snorted and pawed the ground, its large eyes glaring at Pacificus with a hint of reproach. The Kirin's shimmering scales and ethereal mane added a mystical aura to the otherwise mundane task of feeding it.
On the porch, seated on a treadmill, Merina shared his sense of shame. She was busy crafting a water bag for Pacificus, her hands moving deftly as she stitched the sturdy material together. She wanted to ensure he stayed hydrated during his time in the Ever Resting Forest. She also planned to give him a leather bag for his travels, her mind filled with thoughts of his safety and well-being. Her love for him was evident in every careful stitch, in the way she selected the materials, and in the precision of her work.
The couple felt a deep sense of shame. Their passion, their lust, was dangerous. They both realized that they had become addicted to one another, and if this continued, it might cost them their lives. They sighed in unison, their hearts heavy with the weight of their realization.
When the two met on the porch, they both blushed and sighed again. The air was thick with unspoken words and shared emotions.
Merina spoke first, her voice tinged with a mix of regret and resolve. "Never again?"
"Never again, my love," Pacificus replied, his voice firm but gentle.
They nodded in agreement. But as Pacificus turned to go make a meal for them, he felt Merina's hand on his clothes. "Only at night," she said with a blush, her eyes pleading.
"G-good idea... only at night... but not too late," he stammered, his own cheeks flushing.
"Of course, Pacy."
Pacificus went to the kitchen with a smile, struggling to keep his thoughts focused on the task at hand. He busied himself with preparing a meal, the familiar motions of cooking helping to ground him.
Merina returned to her work on the porch, trying her best to concentrate on the task at hand. She knew this new agreement would be troublesome, but she loved Pacificus too much to let their passion interfere with their responsibilities. Her mind drifted to thoughts of their future, of the life they were building together, and she smiled despite the lingering sense of shame.
Their troubled thoughts were soon interrupted by the arrival of three children.
Pacificus and Merina exchanged confused and surprised looks when they saw the three children standing before them. The couple hadn't been expecting visitors, especially not today, a day considered sacred, a holy day of rest and relaxation after the festival. The children's presence was unexpected.
"Mother Rina," says one of the girls, her voice filled with excitement and a hint of urgency, "can we make a house here?"
"Huh?" the couple replied in unison, their confusion evident. Their eyes met, sharing a silent communication, a blend of curiosity and concern.
Their faces turned pale, then twisted into anger when they saw Artemis's face. It was covered in bruises, scratches, and a black eye, partially hidden by her disheveled hair. The sight of their daughter in such a state ignited a fury within them both.
At first, they didn’t recognize Artemis due to her unusual attire. She wore a violet blouse made from fine silk, the kind typically seen on noble children. The delicate embroidery on the blouse depicted intricate floral patterns, each petal stitched with meticulous care. Under different circumstances, Merina would have admired the artistry of the garment, but now, all she could see were the injuries marring her daughter’s face.
The other children, Apollo and Hyakinthos, were dressed similarly. Hyakinthos wore a long, elegant tunic that reached his feet, made of rich purple fabric that shimmered in the light. The tunic was adorned with golden threads, creating an intricate design that highlighted the craftsmanship of noble attire. He also wore a stola, a cloak-like garment draped over one shoulder, giving him the appearance of a noble princess. Apollo donned a violet tunic that covered his arms and extended to his feet, the fine material clinging to his form. The tunic, resembling the attire of a royal scholar, was decorated with silver embroidery that depicted scenes of scholarly pursuits. Merina instantly recognized these clothes as belonging to the noble district.
Merina immediately embraced her children, her protective instincts taking over. "Come inside," she said, her voice firm yet gentle. "Tell me everything."
Inside, Pacificus quickly prepared tea for the children, his movements precise but tense. The fragrant aroma of the brewing tea filled the room, providing a stark contrast to the tension in the air. Once the tea was ready, he grabbed his mother's huge sword and stationed himself on the porch. His posture was rigid, and though he didn't speak, his fury was palpable. His grip on the sword was tight, knuckles white with restrained anger. Even the children could feel the intensity of his anger, a side of Pacificus they had never seen before.
As Merina held the children, her thoughts were a whirlwind of emotions. She was filled with both a fierce protectiveness and a deep sorrow for the pain they had endured. She glanced at Pacificus, who stood guard outside, his back straight, every muscle tensed with a readiness to defend his family. His usual gentle demeanor was replaced by a formidable presence, his eyes scanning the surroundings with a hardened gaze.
Merina’s heart ached seeing Pacificus like this, knowing he was struggling with his own feelings of guilt and anger. The love and tenderness she felt for him deepened, mingled with a shared resolve to protect their family. She looked at him, their eyes meeting briefly through the doorway, and in that moment, a silent vow passed between them: they would do whatever it took to keep their children safe.
Pacificus’s thoughts mirrored Merina’s. As he stood on the porch, his mind raced with images of the children’s bruised faces and the need to find out who had harmed them. His love for Merina and their children fueled his determination. He glanced back inside, watching Merina as she comforted the children, her strength and calm presence grounding him even as his anger simmered beneath the surface. He took a deep breath, focusing on the task at hand.