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Ursa and Aquarius (DigitalSiren x Vawnie Bear)

The woman was keenly awake come the rise of the morning. He sleep having been deep and comfortable, the scent of Seine whispering to her bear of a distant home neither of them had ever known. She held her all night, their bodies pressed together helped them retain warmth. She had imagined the night being sleepless, neither comfortable with the other, or their arrangements, but it didnt seem to be that way. She had lay there for about half a bell before the little woman in her arms showed signs of waking. The gladiator laying still, spooned against her back, waiting patiently before the start of a new day.

As she waited she took stock of her body, the way she felt, the way her wounds had healed, the tension of her person. She felt surprisingly great for not having done her stretches for the night. As her healer showed signs of being awake, Winter pulled her hand away, letting Seine rise up. She didn't ask any questions about her sleep, or how she felt. Both were irrelevant in their world. She slipped off the palate and fell into her morning routine. Stretching helped her to chase away the morning lethargy, and the stiffness her body seemed to gain every night. As if at night her body tried to become the wood that she slept on.

Her stretches were graceful, her contortion slow at first, working into the harder deeper stretches slowly after warming her muscles up again. "In the morning we eat with the men." She informed her healer. "There should be a new shift for me to wear, but they might have forgotten to bring it down to the hall. Will you check for me?" She asked, rather than demanded.

The main guard was ready for the little healer when she came out of the room. His eyes watching her, wondering about her stay last night. He thought her a pretty lass and that whatever wrong she had done likely didnt deserve her current punishment... who wanted to serve a slave? He directed her to the the new shift that had been brought for the she demon... and asked if she was okay before she disappeared again.

Winter was working hard in the small space when her bunk mate returned, her feet on the palat her hands on the ground. The scars on her back were red and angry, but they looked to have healed very well... miracoulsly so. The muscles in back and arms rippled with each push, along down her sides, and thighs, they moved as she held herself in the stressful elevated position, working hard on each push.
 
Sitting up, Seine rubbed her eyes and bit back a yawn. Well rested, she felt ready for the new day. Watching Winter as she stretched, Seine ran her fingers through her hair, smoothing away the sleep flyways before braiding her long hair down her back into a single plait. Rising she nodded. "I will go check" Smiling she left Winter to her morning routine, closing the door softly behind her.

The guard was friendly enough and she smiled at him with that bright cheeriness that never seemed too far from Seine. "Good morning, I don't suppose you'd happen to have Winter's shift?" His smile was a bit slower than her own had been but he nodded and handed her the garment in question. His question stopped her before she could thank him. "I am" Another sweet smile. "Thank you!" With a wave she turned on her heel and headed back towards what she assumed was also her room now.

Opening the door, Seine stopped within the doorway for a moment, watching as Winter worked out. She had to admire the way her body moved; if Seine tried to do that, she was likely to fall on her face. folding the shift nearly over the back of one of the chairs, she cleaned up what was left from the night before, taking it out of the room as well. She would make a few trips in and out, to deposit the dishes, to bring back a basin of fresh water and lastly she went to meet with the blacksmith, just to check on the progress of Winter's new armor. On her way back, she was able to wheedle a honey cake from the baker.

Inside the room once more she broke the cake in half and offered Winter the larger of the two pieces. "Want some?" Her smile was soft. Munching on her half she bit back another little yawn and nodded to the bowl. "I thought maybe later we could go to the hot springs, but you can wash in that for now." Sitting on the other free chair she locked her ankles together. "The springs will help with any other stiffness, so if we could do it before the afternoon"

Her voice trailed off, she knew it was the afternoon till early evenings when the matches were held. Day in and day out, for the amusement of others. Seine wanted to be sure Winter was in the best condition she could be in. It was silly, she'd managed before her, she'd have likely managed without her, but Seine liked Winter. There was no harm in trying to help out in the small ways she could, was there?
 
Winter was doing some very elegant stretching when Seine returned, her spine bowed inward, feet stretched out behind her, resting weight on her palms, her chest raised and head pulled up. Considering the length of her morning routine, in limberness and dexterity, it was no wonder she could out dance a lumbering partner twice her size. It was part of why she was the fastest rising gladiator in the entire circuit.

Silver eyes opened when Seine reentered, bringing with her a sweet cake. The gladiator rose up and brushed her hands clean, a childlike smile touching full lips. It was only the second day, and already she had gotten more food from this determined little woman than she had ever gotten on her own. A gladiator was little more than a slave, they were kept training, and caged otherwise, she didn't get changes to roam the city, or visit public baths. There was opportunity to bathe, when the rains gave their master enough water to share with them, but most often it was sweats and skin scrapings. After all water could be a premium, and what the master didnt want... he sold.

"Were you often allowed to go where you wished?" She asked taking the shift and rubbing her hands on it before pulling the rough fabric over her head. It was a bit small for her, tight in the chest and shoulders, but she didnt seem to notice, or mind. Squeezing it down over her breasts, and letting it fall over slender hips and thick thighs. When the cake was offered her she took it and rather than gobbling it up, she picked at it, nibbling on the small offering.

She wondered what the life of a servant was like in comparison to her own. Was there less blood? By their smell it seemed there was more sex... she didn't like that idea... a man touching her... she would die before she allowed that to happen... right after the man who tried to take what she would not give. A slave killing a rich man was a death sentence... she knew that, but thankfully their master could think far enough ahead of his own desire to save his own life... and in return, hers.

Her cake was finished before the call came from the hall. "UP YOU LAZY BASTARDS! HELL WAITS FOR NO ONE!" Came the call from their Sword Master, who called himself Hell... because he put them through it every day. Except holy days, and battle days, come rain, snow, hail or gods willing, sky fire.
A firm rap on the door came with the jingle of keys. Winter stood up and moved for the door when it was opened.

When the door opened, Winter led her healer out of the room the men were still pulling them selves together from their sleeping bunks in the private room somewhere within the caged space they shared. Winter met the Sword Master by the mens gate, and slipped through it. Instead of going through the doorway to the mens bunk she turned to the right and moved to the common room where breakfast was being served. No one was in the hall, though one did stand by the doorway watching them. He nodded to them, and spoke a hello.

"Good morning." He said to both. He made no gesture to touch either of them. Winter nodded but went without hesitation to the common room. It was empty save the slaves who served them their breakfast. Winter stepped into line and got her plate of gruel & a rather impressive amount of fresh fruits. A server looked at Winter's healer and looked confused. "The same." Winter said pushing back the offers of meat they gave to Seine. A smaller portion of fruit and gruel was given her. And a sealed flagon of water. A preference to the female gladiator than the weak wine that everyone complained tasted like piss. Winter led them to a seat in the corner where her back was to two walls, and she could see the entire room without and fear of who might be at her back.
 
That smile was worth the effort for the sweet honey cake, as was giving up the lion's share to Winter. Seine was a simple creature, she took pleasure in bringing others joy; if she felt they deserved it. Their master for an example could go screw himself, he was a rich, self entitled man who didn't need or deserve that sort of kindness from her. He had others to look to for such things. Who else would Winter get that simple kindness from? Likely not many and it made Seine feel happy to provide it for her. The question gave Seine pause and she nodded after a moment. "For the most part. I likely shouldn't have been allowed to travel about like I did" She blushed softly and smiled at Winter with a shy smile. "A little white lie and kindness get you very far. Sometimes, like with the armorer, a touch of a threat, that the Master would be unhappy to lose you"

She ate her own half slowly, unaware of what Winter wondered about. In truth, Seine likely got away with far more than she should as a slave. But like she had told Winter a lot of that was just being kind. Some of the other slaves tried to bully people more than be nice because of who their master was. It would get them some results, to be sure, but nothing like what she got. Seine jumped as the booming voice carried down the hall and she looked to Winter, who was not afraid.

Following Winter, she stuck close to her. In the bleary morning the men were still hung over and looking worse for wear as they filed out. Seine offered a shy smile to the one who greeted them. Taking her food Seine followed Winter to the table. Winking at Winter, she blew on her cup of water, making it icy and refreshing. She took Winter's cup and treated it the same, taking a slow sip with a soft sigh of pleasure. "I might not be able to fix the food, but you can have cool water"

Slowly she began to eat, mostly focusing on her serving of fruit, the gruel highly unappealing. "Tell me how your days normally go? And if I can do anything to help make things better at any point?" It was clear she truly seemed to care, and while Winter didn't treat her like a slave, she still wanted to do her job, to help where she could without being in the way. Even now, Seine wondered if there were other small ways to help Winter, within her limited resources. There would be a limit to what she could do, ask or bully people into.. but she'd try.
 
The sound of the water condensing made Winters ears tickle, drawing her attention that what happened was not a simple inspection of her healer. White brows raised in silent question that turned to wonder when it was handed back to her, and it was cool. A smile came again, a very brief glimpse of the warriors delight at what her companion had done. "Thank you." She said, softly.

"There will be training today." She said nodding to the men. They would be trained hard, but she having been terribly wounded would get time to rest. She could not take the damages she did yesterday and jump back into what was normal, instead she would train privately in her room. "There is not much for you to do." She didn't really know what to do with her new healer. What was the woman going to do all day to keep herself busy?

As they settled into their breakfast, the men began making their way into the hall. More than one stopped to eye the petite beauty that sat at Winter's table. One she had never seen before even crassly questioned their presence.

"They forgot two whores?!" Some one snickered.

Archous, the oldest among them spoke up. "Shut up and sit down pup, that "whore" is our champion, it was her blood that paid for your tart last night. You would still be a virgin without her." While the first had gotten a snicker, the latter filled the room with laughter. No one else said anything about the pretty petite healer beside Winter.

Inwardly Winter sighed, young men were the worst, always something to prove.

"Hey, Killing Frost, when this pup comes at you for his lesson, give him a few scars, but try not to maim his pretty face yeah?" Archous said, getting another laugh from the men who already knew where their good time comes from.

"Or his mouth." Varren quipped as he sat down beside the handsome young man and grabbed his face.

Rather than shouting the man who's name she didn't yet know shoved the older man off of him only causing the others to laugh more.

"Cunt whipped half men is what you are, to let a woman be your champion." He growled. "No men here, only babes looking to suck at the teet." He pushed his way out of the table he had sat at, moving to his own table. Laughter followed him.

"We will see who is whipped come the evening light."

"SHUT UP AND EAT!" Hell screamed as he made it to the door, following in the last of their masters pretty boys. "This ain't your fancy breakfast Master Denning. There is no silk and sweet wine. EAT! I want silence! Or we go to the field."

Furtive glances went to the new guy as they dug into their breakfast, afraid that they would not get their meal before he said something that ticked their battle master off. At least he seemed to recognize the danger he was in and sat down to quietly eat his meal, no matter how indignant he felt that Winter was their champion.

What ever conversation they were having, was over. Winter was not able to explain more. At least not now.
 
The delight that showed on Winter's face made Seine smile softly and nod. "You're welcome" She spoke softly and took a sip of her now cool water as well. Picking at the fruit, she watched as the men began to file into the room. When winter explained what the day would hold, Seine frowned some and nodded. She hadn't expected much for her to do. "You will not be training with them?" There was a slightly hopeful cadence in her voice, the delicate healer worried about her mistress. Either way, she offered something to help. "If you'd allow me, either after breakfast or after training to give you a massage?"

While someone else might have meant to take it sexual, the clear brightness of her eyes holding nothing but sincerity. A Massage to work out the kinks that had no doubt formed between whatever healing Winter was capable of and her own healing. It had likely left her back in knots. "I would suggest before... and after" She was clearly thinking of the best way to provide relief to Winter, her lower lip caught in her teeth, being worried at as she thought. Finally she nodded, sure that would be best.

Ignoring the feeling of eyes on her she ate her food and sipped at her water. While they might gaze at her, she doubted any foolish enough to try and harm her. Even if Winter, or Hell did not stop them, she was still the servant of their Master, her clean clothing and delicate appearance a clear sign. She looked up and blushed brightly at being called a whore. The warm color filled her cheeks, a bright pink.

Looking back down at her plate as another man spoke up. There had been laughter at the whores comment, but it was nothing compared to the comment the older man made and the jokes that followed. Seine was clear unused to such talk, but her blush faded quickly enough. Despite the beatings their master had given her or his own crude remarks, she'd not experienced such comments elsewhere. She fell silent as Hell shouted at the group and once their meal was finished, Seine rose to follow Winter. Her long, loose black hair trailing down along her back, the light rippling in from the sun causing her hair to light up like a prism of purples and blacks.
 
When they were through, Winter moved herself around the room in such a way that there was a table between her and the mouthy Denning. She may not have known who he was, but she knew WHAT he was. . . trouble. She paused just past his table, motioning for Seine to precede her out of the room in such a way she was able to intervene if he decided to try something with her healer. She didn't bother staring him down when he gazed at her with such challenge in his eyes. She watched, but did not stare. Part of her was grateful that he didn't do anything. There were consequences to pay for fighting outside of the training arena... and those consequences were doled out to all. If she were to put him down, they would all pay. Hell had a way of making sure his students were on their best behavior.

The battle master watched their interactions, but said nothing as she passed.

When the two of them moved from the shared hall to their personal locked quarters she sighed.
The common room while serving a purpose, always a place that had the potential for violence... and that gave her little opportunity for relaxation. Back in their small shared space she waited at the door until the lock turned and the bolt slid into place.

She felt on edge... the new man smelled of prestige, his body oiled, hair perfumed... His hands were soft, and he treated even the older gladiators with the disdain of someone who has a place outside of the halls of the Ludi. (Gladiator school) She distrusted him. Turning to Seine the tall amazonian gladiator waited until their eyes met. Her own expression serious.
"You must never be alone in his presence... he is a free man, he will come and go often, you must never wander or work while he is away. You are not a woman to him, you are meat to feast his sexual appetite upon." It was probably the longest speech the silver haired gladiator had made since their meeting. But every word of it was truth... and the promise of trouble was clear. No matter how much Seine could cajole and bully others to her wants, this man was a predator... and she the prey.
 
When Winter rose, she followed her and then when motioned to pass her, she did as she was instructed without question. She understood the intent was to protect her and did fight her on that urge. It was sweet and likely needed. Seine was a delicate female, more so, her only means of self defense would reveal that she wasn't human. She wasn't eager to out herself and then be burned alive or nailed to a cross or whipped within an inch of her life. Who knows what the punishment would really be.

Once outside of the room, she allowed Winter to lead once more. Following her into the room she watched as Winter locked the door. Lifting her eyes, she met her gaze. It was true, she wouldn't have known him for his nature until it was too late and she nodded. "I promise" She bit her lower lip and tilted her head. Winter could care for herself, if the man was foolish enough to try anything, Seine knew.

Clearing her throat she reached out, tentatively touching Winter's hand. "You never answered any of my questions Winter" If she allowed it, Seine's small hand would curled around hers, if not it would drop back to her side. "About your training with them or the massage" Without tasks to complete for Winter, Seine was unsure what to do to occupy her time. She would likely find something to do that she thought would help her new mistress, a name Seine was very careful not to call Winter, having a feeling she would not like the title.
 
She nodded pleased with Seine's response, grateful that though she was just a slave she was taken seriously. As for the small hand that caught hers when she turned, Winter did not feel threatened by the smaller woman so when the small hand caught hers she did not feel the need to jerk her hand away, more than that her shebear enjoyed the unnecessary touch. Rising from the ether to take interest in this little creature once more. Reflexively, strong fingers curled around the small hand, until they were left there staring at one another. She looked down to where their hands were combined and stared at the smaller hand as she thought about it. "I would like a massage." She admitted. Her thumb caressed the back of Seine's small hand before she forced her hand open, releasing her.

The freeman would be otherwise occupied with Hell today... for now Seine would be safe if she ran about doing erands, now was a better time than any. "What do you need me to do?" She asked unsure of her part.

The tall amazonian fighter stepped back to her palat and rested back against it with a soft sigh. Though physically healed she felt tired still from the forced healing. Her body not yet fully recovered as healing on that scale took large amounts of energy, and she had been callously doing it without extra support through food... at least until Seine came to her ... rescue? She tilted her head looking at the little woman with interest.
 
There was a pleasant shock as Winter's hand closed around her own. Seine's smile was shy as she met her eyes, nodding once. Her smile grew as Winter brushed her thumb along her skin. Tilting her head she nodded to the pallet. "Lay down and turn to your stomach. I can massage your back with or without your shirt on, whichever is preferred" The tiny female turned, gathering a bowl of water. Oil would have been best to give her the slip she needed to fully work out the kinks in Winter's back, but warm water that stayed where she put it, under the thrall of her call would work well.

"Also do you best to relax. If you're tense, I could hurt you as well, thinking there is a knot where there isn't one" Humming softly, Seine dipped her hands in the water, warming it. She didn't need the touch, but because she was aiming for water that was hot, but not burning it was the easiest way. "If you like this, it might be worthwhile doing daily. It will help keep you limber." water warmed Seine lift her arms, coiling her hair into a messy bun at the top of her hair, a slender stick pulled from her gown, pinning her locks in place.

"Ready?" Her smile was soft. Seine dipped her hand into the water before she placed a hand on Winter's shoulder, the touch warm and soothing. It was like when you stepped out under the burning sun and it's warmth melted down to one's very marrow. If there had been any question to her magic after the water in the dining hall this touch would answer them. She'd never shared her gifts with anyone like this; Winter was different too though, it made her feel less scared. They both had secrets, both hid them. To be free around one person was liberating.
 
She could smell the change of the temperature of the water that her healer touched, her eyes going to the bowl to watch what she was doing, but aside from sticking her hand in it she didn't see anything else. For a moment she studied her, before giving attention to her own self. Pulling the shift off over her back and head first. She folded it and set it on the palate before climbing up on the bedding.

Despite being a self healer, her body still held scars, mostly the worst ones. Those that had take extra time to heal, the deep ones that would have killed or crippled a normal human being. The most recent scars were pink from new healing, running along her spine, the worst where her armor split by the strike of a gladius that bit into her ribs and bumped down her back.

A soft gasp left her lips as the heated water touched her skin, it was not something she had expected, despite smelling the changes through her sensitive nose. Intrigued her bear rose from the depths of its cage and stalked closer to the flesh to observe, and experience the healers touch. Expressing her delight at the smaller womans touch with a groan. Before the massage was over, Winter was dozing on the palate, another moment of vulnerability she shared with the young woman.
 
Watching inter ready herself, Seine smiled softly and waited. Once she'd laid on the pallet, Seine leaned over her, her warm hands touching her skin. The water would feel delightfully warm, soaking down into her body though it never left her hands. No water trailed down along her skin as the healer worked, only a faint feeling of cool on her back as she moved along the muscles. She continued even as Winter succumbed to sleep, her hands finding the hidden spots of tightness and working them free. She was meticulous in her massage, only stopping when her back felt loose.

A smile curled on the healer's lips as she watched her mistress slumber. She was unsure if she should wake her and instead decided to let her sleep a spell, waking her after an hour had passed. Her fingers were gentle along Winter's arm. "Winter?" Her sweet voice called, gently pulling her from slumber. "You fell asleep." Stepping back so she wouldn't feel crowded, Seine smiled. "I let you sleep a bit longer, but I figured you might be cross if I let you sleep the day away"

Fetching a cup of cool water she held it out to Winter. "Do you feel better?" Seine hoped so, daily massages or even every other day would keep her body limber and in peak fighting condition. It would also help keep her alive. It was far easier to fight if your body didn't fight you. If there was no tightness, no pain in the movements, Seine knew that one could move light lightening.
 
Winter wake when her name was called, her eyes rolling open without reaction from her body, she was alone with her petite healer still. The gladiator felt relaxed, her muscles soothed and eased. The cranky tightness gone in her back as she sat up. "Thank you." She murmured still trying to figure out how good she felt. Rolling strong shoulders and flexing her back. The warrior let out a long sigh as she slipped off the palate and stretched. "I feel really good." She said and shifted twisting her back and shoulders. The rest did her good as well... but her healers touch made her body feel light and invigorated. Stepping forward, still without her top on she took Seine's hands in her own and turned them looking at them, then up to her as she gave them a light squeeze. "Thank you for your healing touch."

Moving back to the palate she picked up her shift and pulled it on, now she would train... and so she did... for the next four hours. Strength exercises, agility maneuvers, and aerobics in the small space that was her room. Careful in her routine to give Seine space to not be harmed from the work. When done she settled into some intense stretches that showed exactly how limber she was, and tested the new resilience of her body.

This was the beginning of their routine, days of healing left her to train by herself, her body recovering and becoming stronger and more limber than it had been in years due to Seine's gentle care. Their habits circling around one another, having breakfast together, safely away from the man who despised them, thought of them as meat, then they would escape the common room and rest. Winter getting a massage and a short nap before slipping into her training routine. They didnt eat lunch but a healthy dinner, complete with fresh water from Seine who was able to filter out the impurities that left others sick and suffering.

At night, Winter would hold her little healer, curled against her back, comforted by her presence and warmth. It had been something she had shared with the master Eunice... the comfort of another body, relatively safe behind a bolted door... Privately she enjoyed Seine's scent, the taste of her wild magic as it filled the air, and the warmth of her body, expressing herself with small things. Gentle touches to the healer's arm, or her hands. The brush of her hair from her face when no one was there but them. A soft smile now and again, though at first it had been something uncomfortable and new...

In public she was indifferent to her healer. Another stranger who filled her life... a farce that was designed to protect them both. Not from the arrogant freeman, but their fickle master who wanted the world as miserable as himself...
 
They found a routine and Seine found comfort in it. It didn't stray or alter. She would wake in Winter's arms, safe, sound. Each morning the feeling of being cared for, even in a way not sexual, made the tiny female feel less on edge. Before she'd come to Winter, she had lived in fear of their master, the beatings and the repugnant touches. Each morning they would have breakfast together, away from the men. Some days, when Seine needed to do chores for Winter, though never asked, she would get them a treat, often something baked and sweet. Seine found peaceful contentment in such a simple gesture, sharing the sweet with Winter.

After breakfast she would give her a massage that would leave the other woman sleeping and after an hour or so, she would wake her with gentle touches. Then she would watch as Winter put herself through her paces, or if Winter thought it was safe, she would do chores. Washing their clothing, checking in on various other small things that needed tending to. Making sure they got more water, a healthy amount of fruit. Much like the sweets she was able to sweet talk, these small things were the same. Seine was a sweet girl and was able to easily draw out what she deemed they needed with sweet words and kindness. Dinner was often the same as their breakfast, though hearty and made up of meats and fruit and occasionally cheese. Then at night when the sun had faded from the sky, the pair would curl together on the pallet and find sleep as one.

Each day the same, Seine found herself growing fond of Winter in a way beyond friendship. It was the little touches, the way Winter sought to keep her safe. All of it building stone upon stone, her feelings growing. Seine, however, was unwilling to push that feeling further. She'd told Winter that she wasn't an object and she had meant it, though, she couldn't hide her growing feelings completely. Her touches would linger from time to time and she'd taken to placing a soft kiss on the woman's cheek from time to time when she woke her from her naps.

Today was no different. Her lips brushed against her cheek. "Time to wake, Winter." She knew that Winter was all but healed in the eyes of their Master and others, for she'd overheard it. It made her wonder how their days would change now. She didn't favor the idea of being far from Winter, having grown comfortable with her constant presence.
 
Winter was awake before Seine kissed her cheek. She had been for days now, contemplating this small but telling gesture. Her bear loved it... consequently she did too. Little by little, their affection was coming to the fore. So much so that now Winter knew she had feelings for Seine, feelings she wasn't sure what to do with. Affection was not something that she had much practice with... distant memories of a mothers love & the unwanted touches of men who deigned her flesh theirs for pleasure, left her little knowledge of what the love between adults was suppose to be like. Thankfully nothing she had done was rejected thus far, giving her courage to try newer things. . . and maybe it allowed Seine to grow as well.

As the kiss came today the quiet gladiator lay there contemplating the press of warm lips... the fragrant scent of her companion, and the flutter of emotions within her stomach. She felt hungry, but it wasnt food she wanted. . . sitting up slowly she let silver eyes play over Seine. For a few days she had been reaching out to touch the healer when the kiss came, a brush of hands or the flutter of Seine's chemis as it brushed past. Today the urge for something more had her calloused hand curling around her healers smaller one until... they found them selves staring at one another, connected by their hands. Bodies at arms length. Winter took a calming breath as she contemplated what it was she needed? What was it she was suppose to do now? She sat there feeling her heart thunder in the cage of her chest trying to swallow the lump that formed there.
 
There had been something growing between them, Seine had felt it. At first she'd mistaken it for something far less complicated. Friendship. Oh, in her eyes they were friends, even if she was meant to be the servant to the slave. Winter didn't talk much to her, Seine had wondered why, but allowed the female to react to her chatter and touches as she liked. She knew her own feelings were shifting the more time she spent with Winter.. past friendship. She knew what the only other option past friends was lovers... but she'd told Winter she wasn't just a piece of meat. She had never treated her like that, but to turn and fall for her? It scared her. Not her feelings, but the fear that it was not returned.

However, even that brought doubts. The past few days Winter had gone out of her way to touch her a bit more. Nothing that could be considered an overture, but it gave Seine hope that her own feelings were not alone. Pressing her warm lips to Winter's cheek she'd woken the gladiator the same way she had for days, however this time Winter grasped her hand in hers. Her body stiffened for a moment as she looked at their joined hands. Heart racing she looked to Winter. Her hand gave hers a little squeeze, biting her lower lip, Seine wondered if she should just throw caution to the wind?

In the past she'd kissed boys, when she'd been free.. younger than she was now. Innocent kisses that had been nothing more than children's games. In her small foray into love with another, she'd never been the one to make that first move... But with Winter? Her free hand rose, the softness of her fingers brushed her cheek, slowly tipping her face towards her. There was fear in her eyes, even as her face lowered and her lips pressed against Winter's. The kiss was soft, chaste and she pulled back, blushing. Eyes lowered, as she waited for a reaction, any reaction.
 
It happened as if in slow motion, Seine meeting her gaze, the look of worry, vulnerability... Winter wanted to remove that look from her healers face... to let her know she was safe, and protected in Winters presence. Never to be hurt by her, or allow others to harm her. Her scent was warm, and inviting, and when Seine's lips met hers... heat infused her body. It was nothing to a mans forced and unwanted kiss.

Soft, unassuming... exquisite.
Though a little late to the quick peck, she pursed her lips in return. Heat filling her body, as those butterflies that had been haunting her flurried inside. The gladiator found it took a moment for her mind to shift from the internal processing of the emotions that Seine evoked, to the poor healer that stood awaiting repercussions of her actions. She gave the smaller hand in hers a reassuring squeeze and smile. Raising her free hand she did as her healer had, and cupped Seine's cheek, her thumb brushing soft pale skin.

"May I..." A little nervously she licked dry lips and urged herself to forge ahead. "May I kiss you?" She asked. Being a bigger person, and having a strong grasp of violence she did not want to frighten Seine, or intimidate her into accepting her request. So she remained seated, and her touch gentle.
 
She was unsure if her kiss had been wanted... It had been a gamble, one that might have soured everything between them if it failed. Heart racing she waited. Would Winter be angry, happy, confused.. disgusted? There were far too many things swirling through her mind like a tempest. Though, it all seemed to fade as Winter gave her hand a squeeze. Her eyes met those icy blues, searching them. When Winter's hand rose and cupped her cheek, Seine breathed out the breath she'd been holding on a sigh.

Winter's hand was so warm, the healer breathed in her scent as she nuzzled her hand. The softness of her lips brushing against the rougher skin of the gladiator. She hadn't expected anything else, for someone who used their hands day in and day out. Lived by the sword. Pressing her cheek into Winter's hand, Seine smiled shyly as her eyes rose to meet hers once more. Nodding she bit her lower lip for a moment, before her soft voice answered. "I'd.. I'd like that" Her words stammering for a moment.

Winter didn't scare her, she never had. Well, save for that first day, but it had faded quickly. Seine moved closer to Winter, one small hand moving along her hip... A gentle touch that was encouraging, without pushing anything further. Her lower lip was released from her teeth and she smiled, still shy.. but clearly very willing.
 
Winter felt a little light headed as her healer said yes. Her heart thundered, blood pumped, and she felt a tremble in her limbs that was like the beginning of an adrenaline rush. It intensified the butterflies in her stomach, and made breathing difficult, causing a breath to rattle out of her chest as Seine stepped into her space looking shy and vulnerable, and full of hope. She raised her arm and wrapped it around her small healers lower back pulling her in against the pallet that she sat on, her knees resting on either side of Seine's hips.

She felt breathless as they came together, her she bear rose up against her flesh on the inside, leaning against the thin membrane that barely contained her, drinking in Seine, her scent, herbal and warm. Delightful.

The touch of Winter's lips was anything but cold. A cautious press of them to Seine,s a feathered brush of warmth that grew into a firmer touch. She leaned into the kiss, her hands strong against the healers cheek, and back as she explored the feeling of that kiss. Moments spread into eternity as she slowly kissed her. A chaste kiss that ended with a soft nibble, and a promise that there would be more... pulling back her bear filled her eyes, golden brown and beautiful.

Winter scented Seine, and leaned in unexpectedly to press her cheek against that of her healer's and rub... scenting her as the bear would have... It didnt really leave her scent but it made Winter happy... it made the bear happy. She gave a rare soft laugh, not having expected such a powerful urge to move her like that... Her bear leaned against her, hungry, demanding... she wanted more touch. More skin... More...
 
Pulled closer still, Seine's legs brushed the pallet and she was engulfed in Winter's pleasing warmth. It was something the little healer had noticed about her companion; Winter ran hot. It was so comforting in the darkest hours of the chilly nights to be cuddled up to the gladiator. One strong arm wrapped around her waist and she felt the press of Winter's hand along her back and her smile grew a fraction.

Oh Seine liked the way Winter touched her. It wasn't sexual, but the touch was almost possessive, the way she curled Seine in closer. The kiss was sweet, even chaste. She felt as her mouth softened against Winter's warm lips. The nip made her smile and she rubbed the tip of her nose to Winter's. Her eyes had closed at the first brush of lips and as the gladiator pulled back she slowly lifted dark lashes to find the normal green replaced by golden hues.

Lifting her hand she brushed her cheek, the touch tender. "Your eyes are lovely" She didn't mention they had changed, but she found both shades striking and in truth it wasn't the only time her eyes had changed. The sudden change made her gaps, but the press of her soft cheek against her own made Seine sigh softly. The sound pleased as she nuzzled back, unaware of what the touch had meant.

The laugh was echoed by her sweet giggle and Seine smiled at Winter. She hadn't expected her feelings to really be returned. Silly, wasn't it? But that had been a real fear. Seine liked both women and men, though she'd yet found a man she wished to lay with. She'd never lain with a woman either though... She'd never connected to someone quite so strongly that she wished for more. With her grumpy gladiator... she had.
 
(Awwww, her grumpy gladiator made me giggle)
The giggle was like music to Winter, a wonderful sound just for her, and the small things that Seine did touched her. The bump of noses, a soft sigh, the reciprocated rub of her cheek. She dropped her head to Seine's shoulder, the warm press of her brow against the healers shoulder. It was a brief touch, not wanting to overstay her welcome, and she still had her hands on Seine... It took conscious effort to make her hands open, to release her healer... bear and woman warred until fingers uncurled, and with a final caress, Winter dropped her arms.

"I.... I should train." She breathed. Her bear didn't like that at all. They were both starved for touch. The small things that told you, you were loved... you were safe... She wanted to express those things to Seine... as much as experience them. But all at once would probably be too much. Biting her lip she waited for her companion to move, as she always did after she woke her from her nap. A final gentle caress as her hand dropped from Seine's cheek, it touched her shoulder, slipped down an arm, and squeezed her smaller hand before falling away all together.

For training she was extra hard on herself. Pushing herself, her period of rest would be over tomorrow... and Hell would want to test her, more so the freeman would test her... After the assessment she would be put back into the blood sands for another bout... who knew what they would have her doing this time?
 
Lips brushed her hair as her head fell to her shoulder. She wasn't ready to separate either, but she knew that they should have time. Winter would be back on the sands soon and as long as she didn't die, she would have Seine waiting to help heal her. Nuzzling against her hand for a moment another kiss was placed in her palm, before nodding. "Yes" There was a hesitation in her voice, but after a moment she stepped away. She knew that Winter had no desire to throw her own life away, but she still wanted to ask her to be careful.

"You should. I will check to see if the blacksmith has finished your armor"

Seine had left Winter to train and ventured to the blacksmith. She'd actually asked for two different things to be made... And after the blacksmith had checked with their Master, for it was his coin that would pay for it, had begun work. The first was for the sands, something that would protect her. The metal breastplate was of fine quality and came with bracers as well a few other bits that Seine didn't know the name of. The second would be more for training and daily wear.

The items balanced with care she made her way back to Winter, pausing to ask the guard if he'd open the door for her. With a nod he opened the door and closed it behind the small healer. Laying the items on the table, she looked to Winter with a soft smile. "Back" It was unnecessary to announce her return, Seine knew, but she couldn't help it.
 
The room felt odd without Sein... empty like it hadn't been before. Rather than thinking about it, Winter got up after her healer left and slipped into her stretches, and work out. Her mind reflecting on that shared kiss. The soft of Sein's lips, the warmth of her body... She smiled not even thinking about the work she had to do. Going off routine and habit as she thought about her petite healer.

She was still at it when Seine got back... but her routine was interrupted when she saw the load being brought in. However Seine was both capable and efficient, by the time she was close enough to help, Seine had the new items down on the little table. Her eyes shifted to the door, the guard closing it once more, the key coming to its lock before she turned her attention to the items Seine had brought. Picking up a piece she held it up and inspected. It was an admirable leather tunic, with light bits of decorative metal upon it. The leather was worked to a soft texture, smooth and pliable. It was probably the finest garment she had ever touched... let alone owned. Lowering the tunic she looked down at the rest of the clothes, and the armor at the bottom of the pile before looking to Seine one more. "How did you get them to make something so fine?" She asked unsure. Her hand touched the metal breast piece and it felt sturdy, more than just for show. It would do well to stop many a blade from hurting her.
 
A smile played on her lips when Winter came to help her, the task already done though as her bundle was placed on the table. She watched with a smile as her fingers touched the garments. Seine was excited for Winter to see what she'd been able to get for her. When questioned Seine blushed and shifted in place. "Some of it was trade" The leather armor was for her healing gift. "A while back, I helped the blacksmith, his child was sick" She nodded to the leather tunic. "That was in payment for services. I had no need of anything before now from him. The armor however was paid for by our master, though the blacksmith may have done better work than normal"

She wouldn't have had need for the services ever otherwise. Winter however, could use it and it had not taken much to talk the smith into making something finer. Seine may have stretched the truth a tiny bit, but it wasn't like the blacksmith had not known. Their master cared not for his property... So when she'd said their master would appreciate the finer quality for his prized gladiator they'd both known it for the lie it was. It however resulted in the gift before her. "Do you like them?" There was sweet excitement in Seine's voice. "I wanted to be sure you had something.. before your next match.."
 
"L-like?" She asked looking up from the fine garments with a look of surprise on her face. "I have never had anything so fine." She admitted. The garments and weapons provided her were not hers, and from the last set of armor that Seine herself had helped her peel her injured body out of, they had known what her master had given her to use before. She ran fingers over the hammered armor with and then pulled a piece of the leather skirt out, her fingers working the buttered garment with obvious wonder. She looked at the as she absorbed the texture, and what it meant that seine had done this for her...

"They are raiments for a Goddess." She murmured as she stepped back, pulling the skirt to her hips and pressing it against them to see its fit. After a second thought she set it aside and pulled at her coarse shift so that she might actually dress in them. A smile on her lips as she began slipping into them. Like a maiden she twisted with her skirt after securing it. Feeling its movement and the way it responded to her every step. The bodice was a back tie so when she pulled it over her body she turned and gave Seine her back. It was a statement to her level of trust she had for this woman... not even Hell got to see her back in such a manner.

When laced in she did the same thing. Twisted and paced, stretching and lunging in their small space, testing its making and the way it felt. But the outfit was sturdy, and soft... it was very well built, and had to her knowledge no hot spots where it fit her wrong...

She looked up again to her healer a flush to her cheeks, both from the light workout setting the outfit through its paces, and because of the emotions she felt at such wondrous gifts. "... why not have such a fine garment made for yourself?" She asked it dawning on her that her healer wore that thick shift that the master gave them. It was more function over form... and comfort was not its strong suit. "Why me?" She asked, softer, her heart thundering in her ears.
 
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