It was dark. It was also getting a lot colder. I just sat on a corner. I curled myself in a ball as I held my legs, in hopes to gain some warmth.

I could barely see the stalactites atop me. Yet as I stared at it, it felt like it was getting more and more distant. My vision was slowly being consumed until I blinked to reset.

They were kind to me from the start. I did not expect that they will do that to me. I decided to stay with them to get away from such events. If it would be like that, then I-

I began hearing the sounds of footsteps. A silhouette started to be visible. The aroma that I long waited for started caressing my nose.

“Sweetie? Are you alright?” Granma appeared, holding a bowl.

“It’s cold here.” I responded.

“Take this. It’s freshly cooked. Hopefully it will warm you up.” Granma handed me the bowl.

I quickly drank the soup as soon as it reached me. It was exactly as I remembered it. It felt like its savory taste restored my energy. Consuming the meat was even more blissful.

I emptied the container in a minute. That was when my mind shifted back to reality.

“Granma, why am I here?” I asked.

“I don’t know either, sweetie. It is Scalus’ command, he must have a reason.” Granma took the bowl from me.

“I see. When will I be able to get out of here?”

“Once your wound has all dried up, you may return back with us. So stay strong, okay sweetie?”

“Okay. I’ll wait.” 

I silently looked at my wound. It was relatively shallow therefore it should dry up by tomorrow.

“I will go now. See you tomorrow, sweetie.” Granma began walking away.

“Can you accompany me here a little longer?”

“Sorry, sweetie. Scalus said I cannot stay for long.” She uttered before she completely disappeared.

I was barely able to see her face. I was unsure of what expression was painted on it. Yet I detected a hint of shakiness on her voice.

They all obeyed Scalus without any questions. Their loyalty to him was obvious. He had command. I did not know his reasons. I was unsure why everyone obeyed him.

But in the setting of their group, I believe Scalus was on the same position as father.