197: The will to die

"Admirable, yet foolish effort on your part. That girl wasn't worth your protection. Do you know what was going through her mind that whole time? She wanted you to die and become free." The goddess explained.

Maria focused on Venus and her wide and frightened eyes. The fear Maria saw in them was real.

"I didn't mean to come here. I don't know why I am here or how I got here." Venus was almost crying. Maria felt bad for the poor girl.

"I know you didn't mean to hurt me. Don't cry unnecessarily. It doesn't suit your image." Maria tried to comfort Venus. But her voice was flat and weak.

Venus's teary look did not get better at Maria's assurance.

"But it is my fault. It is all my fault. Even now it is my fault. I want to move. To get away from here. But I'm too afraid to. My magic won't respond to me." Venus explained.

She sounded shaken. Maria had no heart to scold her any further.