Reflections

The bath tub was finely crafted from polished dark wood. The skill and resolve of the first colonials was not gone, to be sure. Voah slipped down into the hot water and laid her head back, soaking her bones. Dear gods, it felt so good to end a night with a decent meal in her stomach (small as it was, for she could still not stomach much). The priory provided clean linens, clean and comfortable air, and a true bed.

For too long, the cramped quarters of the ship's hold had her constantly hunching over, sitting for hours, or retiring to a bunk to stretch out, but even that was not quite enough. Although she had maintained her kata routines, there was no open air space on the ship for truly practicing and keeping in shape and it taxed her overall. This strife, she knew, would make her stronger in the end.

Voah picked up the silver mirror of Hoi from a side table next to the bath and took a look at herself. Being the Arbiter of 5 faiths had its challenges, but it also provided certain liberties that single faith did not allow. She was primarily dedicated to Vastad, God of War and Justice, but as an aspect of the pillars, there were other responsibilities to uphold. She must embody them all at once.

Vastad: "Smite mine enemies. Punish the wicked, reward the just. Temper thyself as the balanced blade. Press on and judge the transgressors of the faith.

Kupen: Dazzle as does the sun. Stand vigilant. Bring light, warmth, awe, fear and mystery to those beneath you.

Hoi: Tend to thy body as a beautiful garden, a sturdy tree, and a fertile field, for it brings all the fruits and pleasures of life. Till thy earth, entice thy lover, nurture thy child, reap thy harvest.

Cambena: In all matters, be free as the open sea, yet adaptable to change, for water takes the shape of the vessel.

Zinheim: I am the painful truth behind the beautiful lie.

Somewhere under all of that grime was a strong warrior, a desirable woman, calm as doldrums, fierce as the storm. She lowered the mirror into the water, watching her reflection be scattered by the ripples. Then she picked up a square bar of soap from a wooden tray. She pressed it to her lip and slowly inhaled, it smelled of lavender. She relaxed the tension in her muscles that she hadn't noticed before, already she could feel her vigor rejuvenating.