Pan's Charm

by hedroppedthespoon

Like a poison she drifted through my body, reaching my uttermost being, ravaging it, ruining it, taking every part of it, taking me. Those flowery lips that cursed herself whilst loving me. That thorny nose that turned up at me when angry, down when sad and wrinkled when displeased; oh, how I loved her. I memorized her every feature.

3. Chapter 2 Placed In Her Care

"This is the Lady Pantasilea. She will oversee all of your needs here. Please be comforted by her presence," the mother of the convent placed Lucrezia's hand in the young woman's, pressing it with a warm comfort exuding the love of those held in the bosom of Jesus Christ.

"I am at your service most gracious Donna," Pantasilea lowered her head in solemn respect, taking care not to release the soft hand that electrified her own.

Lucrezia paused to take in the features of the beautiful stranger.

Her hair was like that of the night-sky, shimmering in the light and yet hidden mostly save a few curls. Her nose slopped sharply down, retaining that Roman appeal enjoyed by some and envied by others. But foremost of all, were the set of her eyes against her skin. Even though most girls paired with earthen eyes and translucent skin would pale in comparison with a girl of a lighter color of sight, Pantasilea's eyes held a depth not found in others. This drew the helpless girl in, causing her to stare for longer than was polite.

"Oh! I am truly sorry!" she flushed with the color of a dark rose, stuttering to apologize. "I did not mean to stare so."

Pantasilea's lips parted into a gentle smile, "That is quite alright Donna Lucrezia."

"Thank you," she blushed further.

Releasing her hand, Lucrezia turned to thank the kind mother once more but found her gone and thus returned her gaze to the young maid.

"Would you take a drink with me? I have only a little for I am trying to become worthy of my soul, but I would like to welcome you as best I can."

"I would like that very much my Lady," Pantasilea returned with that selfsame smile.

Assured of her consent, Lucrezia strode lightly out of the chapel and towards her living quarters. The maiden followed behind silently, keeping pace with as light a step as that of her new Lady.

"Perhaps she is soft spoken?" wondered Lucrezia with joy, for she longed to find a kindred soul that might share in her pain without adding to it.

Reaching the shed that made up her living quarters, Lucrezia opened the door for her and waited as she entered. This would be the only time she would ever open the door for Pantasilea. All other times it would be the maiden's duty and privilege.

"I welcome you into my home, into my life and into my heart."