An interminable number of scars littered her bare back, festooning her shoulders and sides like red ribbons. Some of these scars had already faded and begun to seal; others were fresh and seeping. The stinging came again and Lily let out a small noise of discomfort. Though her Cerberus spine kept her from permanent damage, it didn't render her impervious to pain. She lowered her head, feeling the sharpened spikes of a second collar press on her throat, and swallowed nervously.
