Shards of Sin (solo)

[Kalestiya]

Seran nodded, and together they made their way to the tailor's shop. Upon entering, they were greeted by the warm glow of sunlight streaming through the large windows, casting a golden hue over vibrant bolts of fabric and intricate designs on display. "Welcome, welcome!" the tailor exclaimed, his face bright with a broad smile. "What can I do for you today?"

Admiring the craftsmanship of the garments, Kalestiya ran her fingers over the fine fabrics. "Just browsing," she replied with a smile. "But your work is truly impressive."

Seran, meanwhile, found his attention captured by an especially elaborate coat. Holding it up with a grin, he asked, "Think this would suit me?"

A light, musical laugh escaped Kalestiya, brightening the room. "Maybe a bit much for everyday wear," she teased. As they continued exploring the shop, a sudden, sharp pain stabbed through Kalestiya’s stomach. Though she tried to mask it, the intensity proved too much. Gasping, she clutched her midsection and crouched down. "Kalestiya?" Seran was at her side in an instant, steadying her shoulders with his hands. The playful glint in his eyes vanished, replaced by deep concern. "What’s wrong?"

Kalestiya could only manage a weak whisper. “It’s... it’s nothing serious, just a little... cramp...”

Seran's frown deepened, worry etched in his features as he watched her struggle. "A cramp shouldn’t cause this much pain," he murmured, voice tinged with concern. "You’ve been off all day, haven’t you?"

Fighting to steady her breathing, Kalestiya forced a weak smile. "I’m fine, Seran, really. It’s just... I didn’t sleep well last night, that’s all."

Before Seran could respond, the tailor, who had been observing from a distance, hurried over with a look of concern. "Is everything alright, my dear?" he asked, worry clouding his eyes. "You’re looking a bit pale. Perhaps some water?"

Seran, still focused on Kalestiya, nodded. "That would be appreciated," he replied, helping her to a nearby chair. "She just needs a moment."

With a quick nod, the tailor disappeared into the back room to fetch the water. "You need to rest," Seran insisted, kneeling beside her. "This isn’t something you can just push through."

Kalestiya shook her head, her pride warring with the reality of her situation. “We were having such a nice day,” she whispered, frustrated with herself for ruining the moment. “I didn’t want to worry you.”

Seran’s expression softened. "You can’t hide things like this from me," he said gently. "I’m here for you, whether it’s a good day or a bad one."

The tailor soon returned with a glass of water, offering it with a kind smile. "Here you go. Take your time, and let me know if there’s anything else I can do."

With gratitude filling her eyes, Kalestiya took the water and sipped slowly as the pain began to fade. "Thank you," she murmured, finally conceding. "Maybe you’re right, Seran... Perhaps I should take it easy for a bit."

Seran's expression softened. He smiled at her as he stood. "Let’s get you back to the inn," he suggested, reaching out to help her up. "We can always come back another time."

Although hesitant, Kalestiya nodded in agreement, allowing him to help her up. She glanced at the tailor, offering a strained smile. “Thank you kindly for the water.”

"Take care of yourself, my dear," the tailor replied with a gentle nod. "Come back when you’re feeling better."

With Seran’s support, Kalestiya slowly made her way out of the shop, leaning on him as they headed back to the inn.