THE_WORDSMITH

In this world, some say, the truth and the legends are the same. One such legend belonged to the protagonist, Valerian.

Valerian was an orphan, a boy blessed with a beautiful face, and everyone around him, could not help but want to play with him, till one day a prophet passing through their town pronounced him to be cursed. 

Since that day, the destiny of the boy seemed to have changed completely, he was shunned by everyone around him, and the gazes that were earlier filled with love and affection, now brimmed with disgust and hatred. 

The constant shunning and humiliation made the cheerful child grow up to be bitter and inexpectant. On his seventh birthday, things changed once again. 

This time, it was not the people around him who went through a change, but himself. As he grew up, Valerian became a legend in his own sense. 

The people sang of a boy, who could not speak, they shed tears for a boy, who could not grieve. He came from nowhere yet he was known everywhere. 

Would you like to know this legend? A story where a curse can become a blessing? A story of sacrifice, betrayal, determination, and secrets.

Valerian, The Legendary

Astillia was gazing at the young boy in front of him and when she saw him not reacting after nodding, she was about to say something, when Valerian asked, "Do I need to take off my clothes?"

Astillia smiled and understood why he was asking such a question. She said, "Yes, we do not prefer to treat all the wounds and troubles with a magic spell. It may heal you once, but in long term, magic healing has side effects."

Valerian was surprised and after nodding he took off his tunic and shirt, and then his pants. He stood in front of Astillia covered with bruises and swelling. The lady stood up and without asking much she began to apply a mildly fragrant paste on his wounds.

When she was done she said, "Okay, this is finished, but you need to apply this paste on your body for the next two days. The swelling will go away then. Also, eat more and rest more, no extensive training."

Insistence.