Chapter 9: Helemoira

I couldn't bring myself to rush back to the temple, despite knowing Amelina would be worried sick. All of my girls, in fact, were probably running about like a flock of frightened hens. Alas, I trudged through Adhmad Dé at a snail's pace, dreading the idea of having to face Amelina after what I had confessed to her this morning.

She would be looking for answers, reassurance. And I had nothing of the kind to offer her. Nothing to offer any of them should they seek anything from me. I felt like a shell of myself, an empty husk waiting for a strong breeze to come and take me away. I would have prayed for it if I thought there was anyone to hear me.

I could feel my eyes were puffy from the crying I had done today and my nose would not cease its running. I feared what I looked like and unfortunately, I couldn't bring myself to attempt my magic to clean myself up only to be disappointed if it didn't work again.