Abruptly

ㅤ Rommy was one of the few who could boast an extraordinary talent for reciting the precepts, transforming the words into powerful magic. An orphan who found a home in the church, the Pope always held her up as an example, even to Lukius. And Lukius didn't complain, only admired her. Her beauty, kindness, and abilities. A perfect role model. "We could…" Lukius began hesitantly, unsure how much he was allowed to talk to her, "practice the precepts together." A ringing, enchanting laugh echoed through the cathedral corridor. Pure, sincere, happy. Lukius's heart was lifted when Rommy smiled at him, nodding and boldly leading him by the hand. The martial precepts required space, so the pair stepped outside of Janna to ensure they didn't injure anyone. Despite their formidable power, Rommy's precepts were devoid of malice or any desire to harm. If possible, she wouldn't use them against anyone at all, even monsters. Not all of them were as hostile as people believed: it was enough to respect their boundaries. It was difficult to do, but Rommy managed it. This made Lukius respect her even more. Someone who valued life more than he did. "You're pretty..." he said quietly, admiring her. "Huh?" "Your technique is pretty good!" Lukius hastened to correct himself, blushing. "Oh," she skillfully hid a bit of disappointment, "thank you!" She smiled happily, accepting the praise. Simply being near her felt like a blessing. It was as if she were healing Lukius's heart, which is why he wanted to spend every free second with her - and so he did, to Rommy's delight. Two quiet, lonely souls, elevated to a pedestal within the church walls, found solace in each other's company. And with each encounter, they grew closer and closer. One night, they even allowed themselves the audacity to admire the starry sky, holding hands, sitting close shoulder to shoulder — forbidden physical contact. Rommy was beautiful not only in her face but also in her heart. Always kind to everyone, she shared her bread with the poor and brought candy to children. In a cruel world, she seemed unreal, too perfect. Realizing the folly of his own thoughts, Lukius sometimes feared that her image would shatter into pieces… ㅤ …Rommy stood over the bloody body of the innocent poor man, laughing. Only a day had passed since the failed ritual, and Lukius's life had changed horribly. What was supposed to bring peace to all living beings brought only death. He tried not to lose faith (the only thing he had left) but it was so hard. Even just breathing… To avoid breaking down, Lukius chose to believe blindly. That when the corrected ritual succeeded, Rommy would return, the blood would be washed from their hands, his missing older brother would be found, and his father and mother would find happiness. In a world without prejudice, hatred and wars. But for now… Lukius clenched his fists until it hurt, his whole body going numb and turning pale as he watched Rommy laugh madly, reveling in the suffering of others. There was no trace of the former tenderness left in her smile or gaze. Only in his memory. ㅤ