《Sinful Faith》


 Chapter 1: Just Like Everyday

    A woman dressed as a nun was looking at the stained glass of the brightly lit chapel, kneeling and praying to the Lord. She was focused, silently singing hymns to her God. She didn¡¯t feel anything else than happiness and bliss, just like she usually does.


    After spending the time that she judged necessary, she finally stood up, ready to leave. She noticed another nun waiting for her, which wasn¡¯t there when her prayer started. It was her friend, Maria. They had known each other since childhood, and even if time didn¡¯t keep them close, they still considered each other like an important friend. Her friend looked worried, and before she could ask anything, her friend answered her question.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Elizabeth, but it¡¯s important. Father Benedictus is asking to see us as soon as possible.¡±


    Seeing the distress in her friend¡¯s voice, Elizabeth couldn¡¯t help but feel worried for her old companion.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, did something happen?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Answered Maria, still with worry in her voice ¡°We should go, we wouldn¡¯t want to make the others wait.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, I¡¯ll follow your lead.¡±


    The two women returned to the monastery as soon as possible. The bishop, Father Benedictus, was waiting, with monks and nuns waiting around him. When he noticed the two of them arriving, started talking, in an annoyed tone.


    ¡°Finally, what took you so look?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry father.¡± Answered Maria ¡°I went to get Elizabeth, at the chapel.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Answered Father Benedictus. It was hard to tell his feelings with the tone of his voice, as he made sure to stay as neutral as possible ¡°If I asked you all here so suddenly, it is because someone has been stealing our wares. And I suspect one of you to be the culprit.¡±


    The nuns and monk seemed shocked, but Elizabeth herself was the one who was the most. The monastery made most of its earnings from selling wine, and she was the one who was taking care of the stock. Surely she would have noticed if the bottles were stolen. She politely raised her hand, trying to get the man¡¯s attention.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Father, but I checked yesterday, and I didn¡¯t see any signs of anything being stolen.¡±


    ¡°You should probably check again, I¡¯ll send someone with you.¡± The man points to another nun, understanding that he chose her to go with Elizabeth.


    Even if he didn¡¯t say so, Elizabeth knew that Father Benedictus was wary of her. If something was indeed stolen, she would be the biggest suspect since she was the one who was supposed to make sure that nothing happened. She accepted humbly, and with the other nun, she went to the cellar.


    She counted meticulously the bottles, one by one, making sure that everything was correct. The numbers that she noted, and the number of actual bottles were off, by one. She turned toward the nun who accompanied her and shared her discovery with her.


    ¡°Well, we lost a bottle. But it was just one, so I think I must have noted the wrong number somehow. But how did he know? Is he coming here regularly? I¡¯ll just tell Father Benedictus it¡¯s my fault, and apologize for the mistake. I¡¯m deeply sorry to have caused problems to you.¡±


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s no problem.¡± The other nun looked away like she was dodging Elizabeth¡¯s eyes. ¡°Are you going to say it¡¯s your fault? Won¡¯t you end up in trouble?¡±


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    ¡°Maybe, but it is my responsibility. And I probably won¡¯t be kicked out of the monastery for such a small mistake.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know that, he can be pretty strict sometimes.¡± The woman seemed uncomfortable for some reason. She still dodged the gaze of the person she was talking to, and instead, seemed to be lost in her thoughts.


    ¡°Are you perhaps worried for me? It is my mistake, it¡¯s normal that I face the consequences.¡± Elizabeth gently caressed her long black hair that got outside her wimple, in an attempt to calm her.


    ¡°Sister, you¡¯re too kind for this world. I can¡¯t bring myself to hide it from you.¡± The nun a deep breath, and finally found the courage to look into Elizabeth¡¯s eyes ¡°I was the one that stole the bottle, I am very sorry, I thought no one would notice.¡±


    ¡°Really? But why?¡± Asked Elizabeth, curious.


    ¡°I just wanted some alcohol last night, but I promise it won¡¯t happen again. I¡¯m Sukebe, you can say to Father Benedictus it was my fault.¡± The nun named Sukebe bowed, and hurried outside the room, leaving Elizabeth alone and perplexed. She thought about how strange the situation was, she never heard of another person in the monastery drinking alcohol before. But for now, all she could think about was to give her report to the bishop.


    After searching for a while, she finally found the father Benedictus, walking in the grassy path near the chapel.


    ¡°Father.¡±


    ¡°Ah, you¡¯re here. But where is the other one?¡± He asked, after noticing that the other nun sent was absent.


    ¡°She had urgent matters to take care of. But you were right, there is a bottle missing.¡±


    ¡°I knew it, I saw someone stealing, I knew it wasn¡¯t a dream!¡± Father Benedictus seemed a bit too happy to be right, but quickly regained his composure ¡°Do you have any who it might be?¡±


    ¡°No, father.¡± Elizabeth answered, clearly and with confidence ¡°But it is only one bottle, surely it¡¯s not important.¡±


    The man looked at her surprised and put his hand firmly on her shoulder.


    ¡°It¡¯s not about wine, it¡¯s about justice. Whoever stole this, should be punished for its crimes.¡±


    ¡°But isn¡¯t it God¡¯s role? I don¡¯t think that it is our duty to judge and that it is instead, to forgive.¡±


    ¡°Elizabeth, you fulfilled your role, you can go now.¡±


    ¡°Yes, father.¡±


    The man left, visibly annoyed. But Elizabeth could only think about that woman, Sukebe. A nun who sinned, it was pretty unusual, and yet she still looked like a nice person. She wished to talk to her once more.


    Elizabeth joined her friend, Maria. They walked around the green field, silently. Elizabeth couldn¡¯t help but remember this nun, Sukebe. She was afraid to tell her friend, but muttered all the courage she could and finally said what was on her mind.


    ¡°Maria, I know who stole the wine. But... I didn¡¯t tell Father Benedictus.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Her friend looked at her with confusion, trying to understand ¡°But why not tell him? Lying is against the principles of God, you know it.¡±


    ¡°I know, but she seemed so innocent. And it was only one bottle, I¡¯m sure the Lord will forgive her.¡±


    ¡°It isn¡¯t for you to say. And ¡®she¡¯? Is it a nun of the monastery? Is it the one that accompanied you? I knew that she was the devil, the way she let her hair visible, and all those sinful things she¡¯s done.¡±


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t tell anyone, Maria!¡± Elizabeth grabbed her friend¡¯s hand, trying to convince her the best she could. Seeing her innocent eyes, Maria nodded her head, but clearly showed her difference of opinion ¡°Thank you. But I am curious, what sinful things were you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Who knows? She stole alcohol, probably to drink it. I¡¯m sure she did other things too, I wonder if she even believes in the Lord.¡±


    ¡°Maria, watch your tongue. This isn¡¯t our duty to judge, as the Lord is the only one that can.¡±


    ¡°Yes, well don¡¯t get too close to her. She¡¯s the devil, and like you know, the devil likes to take pretty shapes. She¡¯ll corrupt you.¡±


    Elizabeth thought for a moment. It was true that she seemed like the devil in a way. This Sukebe not only stole and drank alcohol, but she also was very nice about it. Maybe she was the devil that her friend was talking about, and it meant she had to make sure of it. It was like a force was bringing her toward this woman, something that she couldn¡¯t explain.


    ¡°Maria, do you know where she is?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you listen to me?¡± The woman let out a sigh, but after seeing the innocence on her friend¡¯s face, decided to tell her anyway ¡°She¡¯s the one that takes care of the cooking, so probably in the kitchen.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, my friend. Now can you excuse me? I need to go for totally unrelated reasons.¡±


    ¡°You could at least not lie about it too...¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m not...¡± Said Elizabeth while making an annoyed face ¡°I need to take care of my garden.¡±


    ¡°Oh, is it already that late?¡± Maria looked at the sky, and saw the sun high in the sky, indicating noon ¡°I¡¯m sorry Elizabeth, you can go. Don¡¯t be late for lunch.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t, sister Maria. It will only take a minute.¡± Elizabeth bowed and swiftly left. She still couldn¡¯t stop thinking about this other nun. Once she did everything she was thinking that she should go see her. She still didn¡¯t know why she was thinking that way, but she was, and didn¡¯t want to repress her wish to see her.

 Chapter 2: Is God Just?

    Inside her lush garden, Elizabeth looked at the eglantine''s flowers in her garden and caressed the light pink petals of the flowers. Lost in her thoughts, she stared at the flower for hours, captivated by its beauty.


    "This year too, you grew into magnificent flowers."


    She continued to stare at them for a moment. If she could, she would have done it all day, but she realized how much time she spent here. She needed to eat lunch, but it was already so late that she would need to hurry if she wanted to eat in time. And so, she left as soon as she could.


    The dining room was empty, and she thought, no food was left. Maybe in the kitchen, there was still something left, she thought. She decided to head there, hoping the cook would have some leftovers for her.


    There she saw the woman she met earlier. She remembered her name, Sukebe, and recognized her from the strand of hair that was visible. Usually, most nun hides them. So it was easy to recognize her since she was the only one to do so.


    The other nun noticed Elizabeth. She held her breath after seeing her and looked very embarrassed for some reason.


    "Have you told Father Benedictus? Are you here to announce my punishment?"


    Seeing the sadness and fear in the woman''s voice, Elizabeth smiled softly in an attempt to appear as comforting as possible.


    "Do not worry, I haven''t told him."


    Sukebe seemed really surprised, but before she could share her confusion, Elizabeth continued.


    "I know he wouldn''t give you a fair punishment, I believe that God will. But as you know, He is just. I''m sure nothing bad will happen to you."


    "Maybe for that, but I''ve sinned enough to end in hell more than once."


    "Why are you saying this, sister Sukebe?"


    The nun thought for a moment. She opened her lips, like to say something, but quickly changed her mind. She shook her head and took a less serious expression on her face.


    "So what were you doing here, sister..."


    "Elizabeth, My name is Elizabeth. And as for the reason of my visit, I missed lunch, and was wondering if there is anything left I could eat."


    "I''m afraid not." Sukebe looked around the kitchen, feeling bad that Elizabeth missed lunch "I could make you something, we have some bread and meat left."


    "Oh, don''t worry about it. I''m not that hungry."


    "Don''t be like that, you didn''t eat. Consider it my way to thank you for not telling that I was the one who stole the bottle."


    Elizabeth wanted to refuse, but her hunger forced her to put her pride on the side. She watched Sukebe prepare everything with attention and focus. It seemed like she was used to it, her movements were as precise as an expert cook.


    "Have you been the one to cook for all this time?" Elizabeth asked curious. She was here ever since she was a child, but she didn''t remember seeing Sukebe a lot before. New members weren''t really her priority, most of her time was spent alone usually, so she wasn''t surprised to not remember her.


    "Not really, I just have been for a few months. I''m still new here I guess, but I cooked almost all my life."


    "Oh, I understand. And what brought you to this monastery?"


    Sukebe stayed silent for a moment after hearing the question. She seemed lost in thought, only looking at Elizabeth a few times in hesitation.


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    "I''m trying to find an answer to a question... Do you think that God exists?"


    "Of course." Answered Elizabeth "With all my heart."


    "And do you think he''s just?"


    Elizabeth wasn''t sure what she was trying to say. Wasn''t she a nun too? Surely she would know the answer to these questions? Maybe was she trying to test her faith.


    "Yes, I think that God loves us all and acts for our own good."


    "Is that so..." Sukebe handed her the sandwich she made, she seemed to be a bit saddened for some reason "It''s pork meat. It was a live pig before, do you think God loved him too?"


    "Of course. But it''s not because he loves us that he makes our lives perfect. All we can do is have faith in Him, and pray for the goodness of everyone."


    "I''m not sure praying is enough."


    The two of them stayed silent. Unsure about what to say, Elizabeth still tried to alleviate the weird atmosphere.


    "Have you found the answer to your question?"


    Sukebe shook her head, showing that she didn''t yet.


    "You seem to really trust the Lord. Can I ask you something, sister?"


    "Of course, what is it?"


    Sukebe hesitated for a moment, she was about to change her mind, but took all the courage she could and finally said it.


    "I want to show you something, can you come to my room tonight?"


    "I don''t mind, but what is it?"


    "It''s... I''ll tell you when we get there. But for now, I have to go." Sukebe bowed and apologized before leaving in a hurry.


    Elizabeth looked at her sandwich for a moment, thinking about the words of Sukebe. She lived most of her life in the monastery, but she never had anyone question God before. She couldn''t find any reason behind the Lord''s actions. Was he letting them live their lives? But then, why make so many rules they had to follow?


    The night quickly came, the curfew was almost there, but Elizabeth didn''t want to go back on her promise to come see Sukebe. She was a bit scared about the reason for the demand, they seemed to disagree after all. Even if nothing would probably happen, she couldn''t help but worry about it. She was so worried that she stood in front of the door, dreading knocking on it.


    After staring for a few more minutes, she finally knocked on the door. In only an instant, the door was opened by Sukebe wearing a dressing gown, it was like she had been waiting next to the door all this time.


    Silently, she invited Elizabeth to enter her room, and once she entered, closed the door immediately.


    "I''m sorry for making you come so late..." Apologized Sukebe.


    "Don''t excuse yourself, it''s alright. I''m just confused about the reason, does it have anything to do with God?"


    Sukebe nodded her head slightly and took a deep breath before answering "I feel like you''re putting your life in God''s hand, and yet, you also seem very innocent. I can''t tell if you really believe in Him, or if you''re just pretending."


    "I believe in the Lord with all of my heart."


    Sukebe smiled softly at Elizabeth''s words "It''s cute. I was raised with a belief in God, but for me, it meant something different. I don''t believe in Him by faith but by fear. It''s different for you, right?"


    "Yes," Elizabeth said in a soft voice "I believe that He is good by heart, and that if we follow him, salvation will come. Leading us to eternal peace."


    Sukebe stayed silent and turned her back to her. Elizabeth was confused until Sukebe removed her clothes just enough to reveal the scars on her body. It looked like it was caused by something like a whip, most of them seemed old, but some seemed more recent.


    "They said that I should obey as a slave, that God gave them the right to own me... Is it the same one that you worship? Have I... Done anything to deserve God''s wrath?"


    Elizabeth slowly approached her, staring at Sukebe''s back in disbelief. Without thinking, she gently touched Sukebe''s back. The woman flinched when she felt a hand on her back but let Elizabeth''s soft hand touch her skin.


    "The Lord shall bring you bliss for the suffering you endured, I am sure of it."


    "Even despite that, you still believe in Him. You''re really naive..."


    "I suppose so, it''s just who I am."


    "It''s not a bad thing... I just hope that-"


    The door knocked suddenly, Elizabeth felt embarrassed after realizing what she was doing.


    Sukebe put her clothes back on and headed toward the door. Elizabeth made sure that she couldn''t be seen from the entrance, as she didn''t want to cause any problems. It wasn''t forbidden for nuns and monks to visit each other at night, but Father Benedictus would surely not appreciate knowing that it happened.


    Sukebe came back to her after answering the door. She looked saddened, almost guilty when she started talking to Elizabeth.


    "I''m really sorry, sister. It''s time for the curfew, I didn''t realize it was so late already. You''re going to have trouble getting back to your room without the candles'' light."


    "Do not worry, it''s alright." Elizabeth answered with a smile, in an attempt to make her feel better "Leaving now would be suspicious. It''s probably better that I stay here a bit longer, and I''ll leave when the hallways are empty. If you don''t mind it of course."


    Sukebe looked away in shame and made sure that Elizabeth couldn''t see her face.


    "You''re really a saint, sister Elizabeth. I wish everyone was like you here."


    Elizabeth was a bit confused. She never really paid attention to everyone, but she couldn''t remember a time when someone had been mean to her. Seeing Sukebe''s sadness, she decided to gently caress her long black hair that she could see in her entirety now.


    "It''s only natural, sister Sukebe."

 Chapter 3: Silent Faith

    Elizabeth carefully counted all the bottles in the cellar, just like every morning. But she had trouble focusing, and would regularly have to count again because her thoughts would make her forget which number she was at.


    She couldn''t forget what happened last night, about the horrible things that could have happened to Sukebe. She has no idea about the outside world. She realized that she was sheltered from the problems of the world for a while now, but she never knew how much she was.


    "I lost count, I have to restart this row..."


    Annoyed about the time she took to do such a simple task, Elizabeth tried to continue with more focus. As she was counting again, she couldn''t help but wonder why she couldn''t stop thinking about yesterday. Was it because she started to wonder about God''s goal? Or was it because of the woman herself? It was hard for her to know, she could continue to live her life like before and live a perfectly happy life that way. Or she could try to know more, try to understand where her feelings come from and what they were, even if Father Benedictus would consider it sinning.


    He always made sure that no one would question God, but visibly not enough.


    "I lost count again."


    Elizabeth forced herself to focus, and after what felt like hours, finally succeeded. The number was right, and none of the bottles were damaged.


    While she was holding one of the bottles, she had a thought she never had before. What did it taste like? Sukebe stole one, probably to drink it, so it must mean they taste good. Most of the monastery''s money comes from selling this wine, so a lot of people must like it. She quickly chased these thoughts off her mind and put the bottle where it was. It was already time for lunch anyway, and she didn''t intend to miss it today too.


    Elizabeth managed to arrive in time. She took her meal and sat next to her friend Maria, who looked at her with a surprised expression on her face.


    "Elizabeth? Where were you? I didn''t see you once after you left yesterday, and I searched for you all morning!"


    "I apologize." Answered Elizabeth "I had some complications, but it''s all fixed now."


    The two ate in silence, Maria seemed a bit worried for her friend but decided to not vocalize her thoughts. Elizabeth wasn''t really focused on eating, instead lost in her thoughts. Her friend looked even more worried at her, but before she could say anything, Elizabeth broke the silence.


    "Do you think God is just?"


    Maria almost choked on her food upon hearing those words. She looked around to make sure no one else heard and gently scolded Elizabeth.


    "You can''t say that, you know it''s against the rules."


    "I know, I truly believe in God but why would he put those rules upon us? I''m not asking out of blasphemy, but out of faith. I want to truly understand the Lord."


    "Well understand the Lord in silence and eat, you don''t need to ask those questions."


    It only brought more questions to Elizabeth, was it really blasphemy? When Sukebe questioned God, it only looked like a lost soul searching for an answer. It''s not like God would get mad at them for wondering.


    "Have you been hanging out with that nun?"


    Elizabeth shook her head, implying that she didn''t. However, Maria was left unconvinced and let out an exasperated sigh.


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    "You even lie now, what''s happening to you lately? You were so faithful."


    "But I still am, and I find it strange that no one here is wondering the same questions as me. I ask those questions because I want to help someone find the light of God, but I don''t know how. So I aim to understand the Lord the best I can. The fact that none of you is trying to understand, and just blindly accept what we were told. It makes it feel like you''re afraid of the truth, that you don''t believe in God, and only fear him."


    Elizabeth noticed that she was going a bit too far, and lowered her voice to talk in a less aggressive tone.


    "I believe in the Lord, I know he''s just. That''s why I''m asking."


    "Elizabeth, God is and will always be right. If someone still doesn''t believe in him, at least you tried your best. Stop asking those questions."


    Elizabeth looked away from her friend''s eyes and instead stared at her barely touched meal. She rarely felt strong emotions, but this time she did. It was like she wasn''t listened to, like there was one truth and no room for discussion. She always felt some bad feelings about Father Benedictus and his way of acting, but she just realized that it wasn''t just him. Probably everyone here was thinking the same, that God is right, it''s just like that. Maybe even she acted like that before, was it really what God wanted?


    "I''m not hungry, I need to do something."


    Elizabeth promptly left, leaving her friend even despite the calls of the latter. She didn''t know where she was going, she just wanted to be alone.


    Elizabeth sat on the ground of her garden, her head muffled in her legs. Tears were falling from her eyes, but she couldn''t explain it. Why did she feel like that? It was the first time she felt bad enough to cry for a long time. She thought that she had grown up, that she was away from being the crying little girl of her past. The only thing that got her out of her thoughts was a hand, gently placed on her back. She looked at the person beside her to see Sukebe, looking saddened by empathy, gently caressing her back.


    "Sister Elizabeth, what is it? Was someone harsh to you?"


    Sukebe used the sleeves of her habit to clean the face full of tears of Elizabeth.


    "You''re going to dirty your clothes..."


    "If you knew, I always get scolded for not taking care of them. At least now, it''s for a good reason."


    Sukebe continued to comfort the crying nun, but despite her best efforts, couldn''t stop Elizabeth''s tears. After a moment that felt like an eternity, Elizabeth finally decided to explain herself.


    "I feel like no one really believes in God, they all worship a monster in the hope of being spared. And when I dare question our belief, I''m treated like I''m crazy."


    Elizabeth put a finger in her wimple and took a strand of her hair curly ginger hair outside of her clothes. She silently caressed it the same way she did with Sukebe last time, making Sukebe smile softly to imagine that the nun played with her hair to feel better.


    "Were they like that with you?"


    Sukebe slowly nodded her head to Elizabeth''s question, still playing with her hair.


    "I''m sorry, it must have been hard."


    "Don''t worry about it!" Sukebe tried to act as joyful and optimistic as she could in an attempt to make Elizabeth feel better. Which seemed to work a bit since a slight smile could be seen on her face. "Why did you join the monastery if you don''t hold the same beliefs?"


    "I thought it was the best way I had to serve God. I wasn''t really born in a good family, my father hated my mother, and my mother blamed me for it. When my mother died, my father forsake me. I was only ten, and I already needed to steal to survive." Elizabeth told her story with a sad tone in her voice, but suddenly started to feel a bit better, even smiling softly from telling the rest of the story "But then I saw him, I saw God. He showed me the way, He brought me faith. It''s what kept me going, so I joined a monastery to prove my faith to him."


    "You were only a child too..."


    Without a warning, Sukebe took Elizabeth in her arms and squeezed her hard. Elizabeth wasn''t sure how to react but slowly gave back her embrace.


    "When you were talking about God, you smiled." Said Sukebe "I wished I could have made you smile like that."


    "Are you comparing yourself to God? How ambitious of you." Elizabeth chuckled and fondled Sukebe''s back, remembering the scars she had on it "I should go now, I don''t want to make Maria worried."


    "Yes, I understand."


    Sukebe released her embrace, but Elizabeth still held her tightly, not letting her go away.


    "Weren''t you saying that you need to leave to see your friend?"


    "Yes, I should hurry."


    Despite her words, she still couldn''t let Sukebe go. The two women stayed like that for a few more minutes until Sukebe realized that Elizabeth had fallen asleep. She didn''t feel like waking her up, she looked so innocent when she was asleep.


    "I hope I''m not causing you problems..." Sukebe muttered to herself, lightly holding Elizabeth''s face in her hand.

 Chapter 4: Warm Prayer

    Elizabeth woke up in her bed. She was pretty confused as to how she ended up here, the last thing she remembers was being with Sukebe in her garden. Her cheeks suddenly became red after remembering what she told her, she never talked fully about her past before, not even to her friend Maria. She always assumed she would keep her past for herself, but something about this woman in particular made her comfortable enough to share her feelings with her.


    Seeing the light of the sun outside, Elizabeth decided to search for her friend. She still felt guilty about leaving Maria that way so she went outside, in the hope of finding her friend.


    After searching and asking around, she finally found her friend in the chapel. Maria was standing still in the middle of the room, looking at the glass pane on the wall of the building. Only turning around when she heard Elizabeth enter.


    "I''m sorry sister Maria, I hope I wasn''t interrupting a prayer."


    "No, it''s fine." Maria still looked mad at her. Elizabeth wasn''t sure how to approach the situation but immediately bowed, surprising Maria.


    "I''m really sorry, I didn''t mean to be rude toward you. It''s just that... A lot has been happening. I never intended any harm."


    Maria looked at her coldly, visibly not accepting the apology.


    "You''re doing like that filthy nun now? Letting your hair out of your wimple? You are spending too much time with her."


    Elizabeth forgot that she did it and instantly hid her hair below her clothes again when she realized.


    "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to. But please, don''t call her filthy. Not only she is a servant of God, but we also can''t allow ourselves to be judgmental."


    "Elizabeth, I''m saying that for your own good. God isn''t always here for you, and the devil takes many forms."


    "I understand, but she isn''t the person you think. Her life wasn''t easy, and she is genuine, I can feel it."


    Maria was clearly disagreeing but before she could say anything else, the door of the chapel opened, letting Sukebe enter. She ignored Maria and immediately went toward Elizabeth to hand her a necklace. Elizabeth quickly saw it was hers, she hadn''t even noticed it was gone before.


    "Sister Elizabeth, I searched for you everywhere. I believe it''s yours, it was in your garden."


    Elizabeth put on the necklace. It was something that everyone at the monastery wore, but it was especially important for her.


    Maria looked with a disapproving gaze and spoke in an offended voice.


    "Shameful, you should be more careful. And as for you, sister Sukebe, I advise you to not do anything stupid, as God sees everything."


    Sukebe wanted to argue but retracted at the sight of Elizabeth, not wanting to cause any problems to her.


    "Yes, I know. I won''t act in a way that would cause God''s punishment upon me."


    "Good." Maria walked toward the exit of the chapel and looked behind her before leaving "You should both repent yourself before it''s too late, especially you Elizabeth. You are taking a dark path."


    "The Lord is my biggest priority, sister Maria. I always act by faith."


    Without another word, Maria left. Leaving the two women together in the chapel. Sukebe looked saddened and immediately apologized to Elizabeth.


    "I''m so sorry, sister Elizabeth. I didn''t mean to cause any problems..."


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    Elizabeth silently stroked her head in an attempt to make her feel less guilty. She never really took the time to look at her closely before, like her height for example. Sukebe was smaller than she imagined, her head would barely reach higher than Elizabeth''s chest. Her eyes were shining like a crystal, with a hue of violet in her iris. That, coupled with the two strands of hair that always were free from her wimple, made Sukebe someone who easily stood out. Maybe was it part of the reason she was so distrusted, wondered Elizabeth. When she realized how long she was staring, she quickly turned around out of embarrassment.


    "Sister Sukebe, since we''re both here, why not pray together? I really enjoy coming here for that, and... I would enjoy it if you would join me."


    "I would love to." Answered Sukebe with a smile.


    Elizabeth and Sukebe sat on a bench in the chapel, and together, silently prayed. Elizabeth prayed like she usually does, thanking the Lord for being able to live another day and wishing for the good of everyone in the world. But this time, it was different from usual. She couldn''t tell if it was because Sukebe was praying with her, but she couldn''t stop thinking about this nun. She wished for her happiness, for her to forget the scars of her past, and heal from her current wound. It never happened before, and no matter how hard she tried not to, Sukebe always came into her thoughts. Letting out a light sigh, she opened her eyes, only to see Sukebe staring at her. When she realized that Elizabeth saw her, Sukebe looked away in embarrassment.


    "I''m sorry sister Elizabeth, I didn''t mean to."


    "Don''t apologize so much, it''s nothing." Elizabeth gave a big smile, which seemed to make Sukebe happy.


    "It''s just that when you were praying, you were speaking."


    "I-I was?" Said Elizabeth, surprised "Have I always done that?"


    "Well you weren''t making any sound, but your lips were definitely moving. It was like you were speaking silently, it was... Hypnotizing."


    Elizabeth blushed at the thought of Sukebe watching her praying. She wasn''t sure if she enjoyed it, but she didn''t feel bad about it.


    "I hope I wasn''t too distracting then."


    "Not at all, but... You look peaceful when you pray. It was appealing."


    Sukebe gently put her hand on Elizabeth''s cheek and caressed the tip of her lips with her thumb. Elizabeth put her own hand on Sukebe''s, she didn''t really know why, it just felt natural. Looking into the deep purple eyes of the nun, Elizabeth started to suck on Sukebe''s thumb without a thought. None of the two found it weird, they only enjoyed this moment together, even if neither of them knew why they acted that way.


    The loud noise of the door opening echoed in the chapel. The two nuns were forced to realize what they were doing and looked in front of them as if nothing happened.


    "Sister Sukebe, is it you?" Asked the voice of the person that just entered. Judging from the voice, it seemed like it was Father Benedictus, and he seemed mad "Have you seen the time?  It''s time for you to earn your keep."


    The woman looked out of the window and realized that the sun was already set. She was late and was supposed to be in the kitchen for a while now. She quickly stood up and bowed as an apology.


    "I''m sorry father, I was lost in my prayer. I''ll hurry."


    "Your prayer?" Asked the man, surprised "It''s the first time I''ve seen you pray by yourself, maybe you aren''t a lost cause."


    Sukebe quickly left the chapel, father Benedictus was about to do the same, but was stopped but Elizabeth''s voice.


    "Father, why is Sukebe so distrusted? It seems like she isn''t treated fairly."


    "This child has a troubled past. I thought she would only cause problems, but maybe you can have a good influence on her. As for the others, they won''t trust a whore so easily."


    Elizabeth stood up upon hearing these words and raised her voice, enraged.


    "Don''t call her that! She doesn''t deserve to be called that way!"


    "Why? Would you not call a cat, a cat? A dog, a dog? It''s just the truth, her body already was soiled by sin, whether it''s her fault or not. I accept her as long as she proves her faith, but I won''t start lying to make her feel better. Just like I won''t lie about what you are, thief.


    "It was in the past..." Answered Elizabeth with a small voice.


    "It''s for the Lord to decide. But you are faithful, there''s no doubt that He will be merciful with you. As for sister Sukebe, her fate isn''t so certain. Maybe if she gets close to you, she will go on the right path. It''s the first time I saw her not only praying, but also so polite. But it''s also the first time I see you so defiant and rebellious, so be careful to not take a dark path."


    "I won''t, father." Elizabeth still felt anger at Benedictus''s words. She didn''t understand why she felt so much rage suddenly when he insulted her, but she took a deep breath and managed to calm herself.


    Father Benedictus left the chapel, leaving Elizabeth to her thoughts. She was thinking about what just happened with Sukebe, about how close they were. She should feel confusion, maybe even disgust, but instead, she felt only bliss and happiness.


    Her growling stomach made her go out of her thought, she suddenly remembered that she didn''t eat a lot. She was looking forward to the dinner, not only to satiate her hunger but also to taste Sukebe''s food.

 Chapter 5: Something Stronger Than Faith?

    Like during every meal, Elizabeth sat next to her friend Maria. But this time, it felt different. There was tension in the air, none of them dared to utter a word. They ate their meal silently, not even looking at each other. Elizabeth felt bad about acting like that with her friend, but she realized that something was off. They had been friends for years, and yet, she never felt comfortable like she was with Sukebe. At first, she thought she was the problem, but Sukebe''s existence made her doubt her previous thoughts. Actually, Sukebe made her think more than she ever did before and made her more comfortable than she ever was.


    Elizabeth looked at Maria, she couldn''t help but feel like they took a very different path, and she wasn''t sure how to feel about it.


    "You know, I told sister Sukebe about my past." Said Elizabeth, in an attempt to engage the conversation.


    "And how did she react? I wouldn''t be surprised if she just accepted you like that without even questioning you."


    "Why would it not surprise you? A lot of people judge people based on their past."


    "And only the devil would accept peoples'' sins. It''s not being kind, it''s being manipulative. She''s using you."


    Elizabeth felt shocked upon hearing Maria''s accusation. It was true that Sukebe was really understanding, but was it only for manipulation? She couldn''t imagine Sukebe intending her any harm.


    "If it''s true, then God must have a plan for me. I trust sister Sukebe, and I believe that she trusts me, not out of malice, but out of kindness."


    "All I''m saying is, don''t come crying when she''ll be done with you."


    "Why so much distrust toward her? Is it really only because of her past?"


    "Have you taken a moment to see how she acts? She never prays, barely dresses properly, and she always questions everything, which you''ve been doing lately. She is not a good influence."


    "But her faith and her kindness are the only things that matter. Yes, she may not act exactly like the Lord intended, but even He knows she''s trying her best."


    "Putting words in God''s mouth?" Asked Maria with a disapproving glare.


    "I''m sorry, but I''m sure he knows it."


    "Didn''t she tell you? She was a slave, most of the people here know it. The Lord must know more than anyone else about her past. She had an unholy past, she''s lucky she''s even here."


    "Maria!" Scolded Elizabeth "Don''t talk like that. If you learned to know her, you''d see how kind she is, how troubled her past was, and how hard she tries to get away from it."


    "Once you''ve strayed away from God, there''s no way back. It may be our duty to help lost souls, but it is a vain task."


    "But look at me, I''ve changed my ways. I''m no longer the child who stole to survive, I''m a woman of faith, putting God before anything else. Don''t you think others can too?"


    Maria looked Elizabeth in the eyes silently and stayed that way without breaking eye contact.


    "Elizabeth, you need to stop acting like a naive child and face the real world. God won''t always be here for you."


    Maria left, her meal finished. Elizabeth was still in shock, thinking about her words. Was she truly thinking like that? It was like the friend she had all these years just disappeared. Despite her hunger, she didn''t find the strength to eat anymore and went directly toward her room.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Elizabeth was supposed to go to her room, but instead, she wandered around the monastery like a lost soul. She reassured herself by thinking that if Maria left her, she always would have God. All she needed to do was to have faith and everything would make sense. On the way back toward her room, she passed in front of Sukebe''s. Sounds could be heard emanating from the room, it sounded like a guitar. It sounded more like someone practicing than someone being talented at it.


    Elizabeth knew she shouldn''t, she had no reason to, but still knocked on the door. Her body was just acting by itself, and when her brain realized what she was doing she started to panic. Should she just leave? It would be rude to just leave, but what would she say then?


    She didn''t have time to wonder much longer, since the door opened, with Sukebe looking surprised to see her.


    "Sister Elizabeth? It''s almost curfew, what are you doing here?"


    "I..." Elizabeth lost herself in Sukebe''s eyes, she wanted to stare at them forever. Because of that, she answered the first thing that came to her mind "I missed you."


    "You-You did?" Sukebe blushed and looked embarrassed, dodging Elizabeth''s gaze "It''s only been a few hours but... I wouldn''t mind if you stayed for a while."


    The two women smiled innocently. Elizabeth entered the room and sat on the bed, with Sukebe next to her. Taking a deep breath, she said what was on her mind those last few days.


    "Do you know sister Maria? We''ve always been close friends, or so I thought... Maybe we were just friends because we happened to spend time together, not because we enjoyed each other company."


    "Don''t you enjoy being with her?" Asked Sukebe.


    "I do, or rather, I did. Lately, it''s like I''ve seen her true face. She''s nowhere near as kind as I imagined... I thought everyone would be here since we all share our faith in the Lord, but humans are just so... Flawed."


    "If God is just, then you''ll find happiness and be surrounded with people you can trust."


    "I already do have someone like that."


    "Really? Who?"


    Sukebe asked innocently. Elizabeth only replied by looking at her and giving a soft smile. Sukebe looked away in embarrassment and was visibly blushing even more.


    "Well... I trust you too..." She said, with a shy voice.


    Elizabeth looked at the guitar that was lying next to her and handed it to Sukebe.


    "I''d love to hear you play."


    "I don''t think you would, I just started playing yesterday, I can''t even do a chord."


    "It''s not the guitar that I want to see."


    Sukebe noticed that Elizabeth seemed bold for some reason, she didn''t understand but she wasn''t going to complain. She took the guitar and tried to play the few notes that she learned. It wasn''t very good, but it didn''t seem to bother Elizabeth, who just looked at Sukebe''s fingers playing the guitar. She slowly got closer and asked in a very innocent voice


    "Can you teach me how to play?"


    Sukebe nodded her head and handed her the guitar. She slowly taught the basics that she learned. Every time Elizabeth had trouble placing her fingers correctly, Sukebe had to take her hand and place it was supposed to be. But it happened so often that she started to wonder if Elizabeth wasn''t doing it on purpose.


    "It''s really hard, it''s impressive that you can play in just a few days."


    The door knocked, it was probably to announce the curfew like last time. Sukebe left to the door, leaving Elizabeth alone. She didn''t understand what was happening to her, maybe Sukebe did make her change, and she wasn''t sure how to feel about it. For once in her life, she started to feel something as strong as her faith. No matter how hard she thought, she couldn''t find an answer to what these feelings were.


    Sukebe came back, took the guitar from Elizabeth''s hand, and talked gently.


    "It''s time for the curfew, we don''t want to wake everyone up."


    Elizabeth grabbed Sukebe''s hand to the surprise of the latter. She looked emotional, like she was about to cry, and put Sukebe''s hand closer to her cheek.


    "Please... Don''t leave me... Don''t change... Stay the soft angel you are."


    Sukebe softly caressed the nun''s cheeks. She sat next to Elizabeth on the bed and took her in her arms.


    "What happened? Why are you like that?"


    "I wish I knew..." Answered Elizabeth, with some tears on her face "I feel things I''ve never felt before, I don''t know how to deal with them."


    "I... Think I know what you feel."


    "Really?"


    Elizabeth looked Sukebe in the eyes, they slowly nodded her head while removing tears from her face.


    "It''s a wonderful feeling, but also a painful one."


    "Have you... Ever had that feeling before?"


    "No, but I am right now... Do you trust me, Elizabeth?"


    "With all my heart."


    Sukebe held Elizabeth''s face in her hand, looking deeply at her in hesitation. She approached slowly with uncertainty, her heart was pounding in her chest, and her hands slightly shaking. Noticing how she felt, Elizabeth put her hand on Sukebe''s face, whispering in her ear.


    "I thought you would be the confidant one."


    Elizabeth quickly approached her face, pressing her lips against Sukebe''s. All the stress that they both felt vanished. The two pressed against each other, closing their eyes in the bliss of the moment. At this moment, nothing else mattered. For once, Elizabeth found something that made her even happier than her faith.

 Chapter 6: Lovely Faith

    Elizabeth slowly opened her eyes and immediately remembered what happened last night. She felt extremely embarrassed when she thought about the kiss they had and the feelings she felt. Deep inside her, she knew it was wrong but at the same time, she didn''t regret it.


    Sukebe was lying next to her, still asleep. She seemed so peaceful while sleeping, Elizabeth couldn''t stop herself from caressing her innocent-looking face. Her long black hair was lying on the bed, all tangled together. It made Elizabeth realize that she never removed her nun outfit in front of her and that Sukebe never got to see all of her hair. Seeing Sukebe like that filled Elizabeth''s head with memories from last night, making her wish to cuddle more. Sadly, she knew she had a duty to do. She kissed her lover''s cheek before leaving for the cellar.


    Elizabeth finished taking care of her duty. Tomorrow would be the day they ship most of their wine bottles so she needed to make sure that everything would be alright. She was about to go but was surprised to see Maria enter, accompanied by Father Benedictus.


    "Sister Maria, Father Benedictus? Did something happen?"


    "Elizabeth, you have to repent while you-"


    Father Benedictus raised his hand, putting a halt to Maria''s rant.


    "I''ll take care of it, sister Maria."


    Elizabeth felt worried about what was going to happen to her, both Maria and Benedictus had a serious expression on their face. She felt like a child about to be scolded, with no choice but to listen.


    "Sister Elizabeth, I suppose that you know, but it''s about sister Sukebe. Maria told me about the bottle that she stole, and about how you covered it up."


    "Father, I-"


    "Silence! You shall speak when I''m over."


    Elizabeth stayed calm outside, but inside her, it was hard for her to contain herself and her feelings.


    "Yes... Father."


    "Good, it is only one bottle after all, so I won''t punish any of you. But I will have to ask you to take responsibility for lying and hiding the truth. Maybe taking care of the inventory isn''t made for you after all. Tomorrow, you''ll take care of the shipment, and we''ll find a new place for you, one where you won''t be able to cause any problems."


    "You should esteem yourself lucky." Added Maria "Without me, it could have been worse."


    Elizabeth bowed down, doing her best to appear as calm as she could.


    "Yes, I understand. I''m sorry, Father Benedictus, sister Maria. It is my mistake, and I shall accept the divine punishment of the Lord for it."


    "Good, I''m glad to see that you''re still a faithful girl. I''m going to go now, this monastery feels more like a school with how much you make me work here."


    Father Benedictus left, leaving the two former friends behind.


    Maria slowly approached Elizabeth, her face didn''t let any emotion go through, making it hard to know what she was thinking.


    "Elizabeth, I-"


    "Sister Elizabeth, that''s what you meant to say I believe."


    "Yes... Sister Elizabeth. I didn''t mean for it to go that way, but understand me! I was scared of what was happening to you, you''re going down a dark path."


    Elizabeth made a big smile, trying her best to look as innocent as possible.


    "Don''t worry, God will always light my way, even if the path is dark."


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    "God won''t always be here..."


    "Sister Maria, I can assure you that he will. I think that I found God again actually."


    Maria wasn''t sure how to react, she didn''t understand what Elizabeth tried to say. Silently, she turned her back and left the room.


    It was almost time to eat, but Elizabeth didn''t want to sit next to her old friend like she usually does. She was thinking of skipping lunch, but instead had a fun idea. She hoped it wouldn''t bring any problems, but everything should be alright. She knows that Sukebe is taking care of the cooking by herself, so she figured she could go to the kitchen and eat there with her instead, maybe she could even help. Excited by the idea, she hurried toward the kitchen.


    Sukebe accepted Elizabeth''s help with pleasure, she seemed happy to not be alone while working. Elizabeth took advantage of this moment to explain everything that happened this morning. Sukebe seemed mad and barely tried to contain herself.


    "Who does he think he is? And I''m sorry to say that, but your friend was mean to you too. I hope they weren''t too harsh ."


    "They could have been more, I deserved it."


    When she heard those words, Sukebe stopped what she was doing and put her hands on Elizabeth''s face, forcing her to look at her in the eyes.


    "Don''t say that, father Benedictus is the first one to drink when he can, and you can''t imagine how much of a pervert he is. He deserves a punishment, not you. You should start thinking about yourself."


    Elizabeth chuckled slightly at her words and made a small smile.


    "Everyone knows that Father Benedictus isn''t so holy. But don''t worry, the Lord is just, He will make sure everyone gets what they deserve."


    "I can''t believe how much you believe in him, it''s almost impressive. I mean, I do too, but nowhere near as you."


    "One day maybe God will show itself to you... Actually, I realized something last night."


    "Realized what?" Asked Sukebe, blushing when thinking back about that night.


    "Before, I thought that God was the only one I should put my faith in." Elizabeth talked gently, softly placing her hand on Sukebe''s chest "But now, I realized that I have someone I want to put my faith in as much as in the Lord."


    Sukebe removed her hands from Elizabeth''s face and placed them above her hand instead.


    "Do you... Really have such faith in me?"


    "I do, maybe I am taking a path farther away from God, but I''m sure He understands. I''m convinced that he put you in my life."


    Elizabeth could feel Sukebe''s heart beat faster as her respiration did. She had her mouth slightly opened while breathing, Elizabeth couldn''t help but find it cute from her.


    "Seeing you like that makes me want to do just like last night."


    Sukebe felt extremely embarrassed, so much so that she hid her face with her hand and turned around from her.


    "Eh? Don''t remind me about it now! A-Anyway, I need to take care of the potatoes, they''re boiling."


    Sukebe hurried and took care of what she needed to do, under the attentive gaze of Elizabeth.


    "It''s funny, everyone talks about how you''re defiant and rebellious, and yet all I see is a cute girl."


    "Well everyone sees you as a faithful and kind woman, and yet you didn''t hesitate to kiss me."


    Sukebe handed plates to Elizabeth and hurried cleaning around.


    "Can you go serve them? It would really help me a lot."


    "Of course, anything for my cute girl."


    "Stop calling me that!"


    Elizabeth helped Sukebe and served everyone. while serving, she ended up looking at Maria right in the eyes and handed her a plate. Maria looked at it for a moment, it looked like she was about to say something but instead looked at Elizabeth with a look full of sorrow and stayed silent.


    After everyone was served, the two cooks were finally able to eat and rest. Sukebe ate all she could, while Elizabeth stared at hers for a moment.


    "Do you always work alone like that? It''s so much for only one person."


    Sukebe looked at her with a curious gaze and answered after swallowing the food in her mouth.


    "I''m managing don''t worry, I got used to it. And besides... It''s the only thing I can do."


    "Why are you saying that? I''m sure there''s a lot you can do."


    Sukebe looked down in sorrow. She put her fork down and took a deep breath. Still not feeling ready, she took another one. She still felt like she wasn''t ready, but decided to talk about what she was thinking.


    "You know that I was a slave before. And usually, I would take care of all the cooking. They said it was the only thing I was good at, so I never trained to do anything else. It''s not like I had time to, I barely know how to read, let alone write. In a way, I''m happy they made me cook, I was good at something at least."


    Elizabeth stood up from her chair and went behind Sukebe, who seemed confused about what she was about to do. Elizabeth took Sukebe''s head and softly put it on her tummy while caressing her gently.


    "You''re still young, you can learn many things. Maybe I could teach you how to read, or maybe something else. But for me, all that matters is yourself. As long as you keep being kind and strong, I will always love you."


    "I hope so... Sometimes, I''m scared that you''ll treat me like the others when you''ll know me more."


    "I''m sure I won''t, I have faith in you."


    The two women stayed in that position for a moment, like they had all the time in the world.


    Elizabeth was curious to know what Sukebe meant, but she knew it wouldn''t change her love for her, no matter what she could say.

 Chapter 7: Sinful Faith

    Elizabeth and Sukebe decided to spend the rest of their day together. Sukebe was trying to learn how to play her guitar, while Elizabeth was watching her calmly. She still couldn''t stop thinking about Sukebe''s worries from earlier. Taking all the courage she could, she finally asked what was on her mind.


    "Sukebe, is there something you''re scared to tell me?"


    Sukebe stopped playing and froze for a moment. She seemed a bit uncomfortable but took a deep breath and looked Elizabeth in the eyes.


    "I... It''s a bit shameful for a nun."


    Elizabeth got closer to her nun and gently took her in her arms while talking kindly to make Sukebe feel safer.


    "It doesn''t matter to me, I know that you''ll always be you."


    Sukebe took a deep breath, still hesitant. When she saw Elizabeth''s trustful eyes staring at her, she smiled for a brief moment.


    "I wasn''t only taking care of cooking, I don''t even think it was the reason they took me. Every night, sometimes even during the day, they would... Use me..." Sukebe held her necklace, felling the tears come in her eyes "They would just use my body whenever they wanted... And sometimes, I get nightmares of it. I''m no longer pure, I''m such a shameful nun, but also a shameful friend."


    Elizabeth put her finger on Sukebe''s lips to stop her from talking and approached her face slowly.


    "You''re not shameful, neither to me nor God. We''ll just have to make you have dreams instead of nightmares."


    "Don''t you mind? I''ve been soiled by others, and-"


    Elizabeth kissed Sukebe''s lips to calm her down. The two women took each other in their arms and stayed like that for a moment until Elizabeth spoke again.


    "It doesn''t matter, I''ll love you no matter what."


    "But it''s shameful, I... I should have a clear mind and body. Not only my body is no longer pure, but I also have unholy thoughts and feelings."


    "What we are living together is already a sin, but it doesn''t mean it''s wrong. All the Lord wants is our happiness, and you make me truly happy."


    "So none of what I said makes you love me less?"


    "Of course not, you''ll need way more than that to deter my love. I want to know everything about you, even those unholy thoughts you spoke of."


    Sukebe looked away, a bit embarrassed. She tried to cover her face with her hand, but Elizabeth grabbed them and smiled softly.


    "Why are you hiding? You''re adorable when you blush."


    "I knew you were special Elizabeth, but not that much. You seemed like the most faithful nun, and yet you are so accepting even of my dark side."


    Elizabeth softly removed Sukebe''s wimple from her head, revealing her long black hairs, and caressed them softly.


    "The only thing dark about you is the color of your hair, you have nothing to worry about."


    "So... Even if I have... fantasies about you, it''s okay?"


    Elizabeth nodded her head slowly before answering.


    "What kind of fantasies?"


    "I want to... Touch your body, I want you to touch mine. I want to feel close to you... But you should stay pure, and I don''t want to corrupt you."


    "And what if I wanted to be corrupted?" Asked Elizabeth while gently caressing Sukebe''s face.


    The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    Sukebe took Elizabeth''s hand and gently placed it on her chest. Her heart was beating quickly and her respiration was getting faster as well. Feeling overwhelmed by her feelings, she made Elizabeth''s hand go under her clothes and placed it on her breast.


    The two women looked each other in the eyes, Elizabeth leaned in for a kiss while grabbing Sukebe''s small boob in her hand. Their two tongues danced together as Elizabeth pressed herself onto her lover, making them both fall on the bed. With her free hand, Elizabeth caressed Sukebe''s back, still massaging her breast with the other.


    "Is it what you were dreaming about?" Asked Elizabeth with a soft voice.


    "I want more..."


    Sukebe was almost moaning those words. Her mouth stayed open and her eyes half closed while her hands were grabbing Elizabeth and keeping her close.


    "You are needy and sinful, but far from shameful. You are perfect like that."


    "You really think so?"


    Elizabeth softly ran her hand under Sukebe''s clothes, taking her time to feel her skin. As she caressed Sukebe''s soft body, she felt the scars on it, taking more time on them. Gently, Elizabeth kissed her neck, still exploring her body.


    Sukebe felt in heaven, never before had anyone given her so much love and accepted her like she was. Deep in her, she still had some worries, but every time Elizabeth touched her somewhere new, the worries let place to bliss.


    "Eliza~" Sukebe tried calling Elizabeth''s name but stopped when Elizabeth suddenly gripped her breast firmly.


    "Did it hurt?" Asked Elizabeth worried, she quickly felt relieved after seeing her lover''s face happy.


    "Not at all... I never felt so good."


    Elizabeth removed Sukebe''s clothes, revealing all of her body. When she saw the scars, she couldn''t stop herself from imagining all the horrible things that must have happened to the woman she loved so much. She kissed one of them, then made her tongue follow the line of the mark.


    "What are you doing... It''s ugly, don''t touch it..."


    "No, it''s not. It''s a part of you... and I love all of you."


    Sukebe still felt embarrassed that all of her body was exposed but felt happy that Elizabeth was the only one who could see it. As Elizabeth had her face pressed against her lover''s body, Sukebe removed the cloth on her head to reveal her ginger hair.


    "You should expose your hair more often... They''re pretty..."


    "Not as pretty as you."


    Elizabeth gently played with Sukebe''s nipple before sucking on it gently. By reflex, Sukebe grabbed Elizabeth''s head, pressing it even harder on her. She was trying to hold in her moan but couldn''t help it and still made some noise. She could feel her intimate area getting wetter as she was getting increasingly more excited. Her hand was pressed against her private part from above her pants, trying to hold herself as much as she could.


    Elizabeth felt the body of her lover tense, she wasn''t sure if she was doing well, but seeing Sukebe''s face made her continue. She couldn''t understand why she felt like that, it was like her feelings made her do all those nasty things. Even if a part of her still doubted, she couldn''t help but feel the need to continue upon hearing Sukebe''s moans.


    "Elizabeth... I can''t... You need to slow down..."


    "But I''m so slow already~"


    Hearing Elizabeth''s voice only made it harder for Sukebe to contain herself. Elizabeth suddenly kissed Sukebe while tightly grabbing her breast. Sukebe steadily took her lover in her arms and kissed her back while her body twitched a few times in pure pleasure.


    After sharing this intense moment, Sukebe gave up on her body, falling exhausted on her bed. Elizabeth was about to ask if she was alright, but Sukebe answered before she could.


    "I... I need a break."


    Sukebe put her clothes back and rested for a moment to calm herself. Elizabeth brought a cup of tea for her and gave her a bright smile with it. Looking at her reflection in the liquid in her cup, Sukebe still couldn''t process what just happened. She felt truly happy, away from worries when it happened.


    "Thanks... Elizabeth."


    "It''s nothing, I''m glad that I could make you happy."


    Sukebe shook her head and looked at Elizabeth''s eyes deeply.


    "No, I wasn''t happy, I was way more than that. For the first time, I felt good in my body... I can even still feel your tongue on my chest, drawing lines on it... I feel... Good to be myself."


    Elizabeth looked away, far from being as confident as she was before.


    "W-Well when you say it like that it sounds weird."


    "Don''t be embarrassed." Answered Sukebe with a smile "It made me feel alive. And to be honest, it was way better than when I was doing it alone. I didn''t even touch myself, and yet I still had an orgasm." Sukebe chuckled slightly, before looking at her cup once again "My first orgasm with you..."


    Elizabeth looked at Sukebe, a bit confused. She wasn''t sure whether it was the right moment to ask, but she felt like she would look dumb if she didn''t.


    "What''s... An orgasm?"


    It was Sukebe''s turn to look confused. She giggled like a child after realizing how innocent Elizabeth was.


    "I''ll show you next time, don''t worry. But you really never had any experience with it before?" Elizabeth shook her head, surprising Sukebe "You acted like you knew what you were doing, you''re sure you are a virgin?" She asked with a playful smile.


    "As virgin as the mother of Jesus. I don''t really know how I did it, I just acted by instinct."


    "Your instinct is way better than I would have imagined. I never thought you would go that far for me, and if you did, I thought you would be the one who would be too shy to do anything." Sukebe kissed gently her lover, before patting her head "Next time, I''m going to give you pleasure."


    "I''d love to, Sukebe."

 Chapter 8: Naked Truth

    Elizabeth finished what could be her final day on this job. She patiently waited for Father Benedictus to arrive, which he did after a few minutes. His presence was enough to fill the empty room with an uncomfortable aura. With a firm and strong voice, he talked to the silent nun.


    "Sister Elizabeth, I suppose that you haven''t forgotten yesterday''s conversation."


    "I haven''t, father."


    "Good, we haven''t decided what we''ll do with you yet." Benedictus slowly approached Elizabeth, and continued talking in a voice full of judgment "But you know, you''re innocent. In the end, you just protected someone."


    "If you have something to say, just say it." Answered Elizabeth with a cold tone.


    "She''s having a bad effect on you, you weren''t like that before." Father Benedictus spoke in a harsh tone to intimidate her. When he saw there was no expression on her face, he continued like nothing happened "Sister Sukebe is being a bad influence on you, but if you accept to not see her anymore, we might go back to how everything was before."


    Elizabeth stared at him without showing any emotion. After an uncomfortable minute passed, she decided to finally answer his proposition.


    "I''ll wait for you until you find a task I can do, in the meantime, I have a garden to take care of."


    Elizabeth was about to leave, but right after she turned her back, Benedictus raised his voice once more.


    "Even if it means leaving this monastery? Would you leave God?"


    Elizabeth stopped at those words and turned back to him. Father Benedictus expected an apology but was surprised instead.


    "Sister Sukebe is more important than this monastery for me. As for God, I think it''s a bit pretentious to say that being here is the only way to love the Lord. No matter which path I take, I''ll love both God and sister Sukebe."


    "Love Sister Sukebe?" Asked Benedictus, shocked by those words "Are you implying that this woman is as important as the Lord?"


    "I''m not implying, I''m pretty clear on it. Now if you excuse me, these plants have a very strict watering schedule."


    Elizabeth left without a word, leaving the man speechless in the room.


    Sukebe and Elizabeth both spent time together in the garden. There, she explained what happened with Father Benedictus. As she told the story, Sukebe felt visibly worried.


    "Does he want to exile you from the monastery?"


    "He won''t." Answered Elizabeth "He would have done it before if he wanted to."


    Elizabeth continued to take care of her plants under the attentive eye of her beloved. She was doing so without a single worry in the world but quickly noticed that Sukebe wasn''t feeling as carefree as her. Gently caressing her lover''s cheek, Elizabeth asked with a soft voice.


    "Are you alright Sukebe? Are you worried about me? It will be alright, I promise."


    "No, it''s not that." Said Sukebe, with a bit of sorrow in her voice "It''s just that they''re right, I only bring sorrow... If I wasn''t here, you would still-"


    Elizabeth put her finger on Sukebe''s mouth, stopping her in her words.


    "If you weren''t here, I wouldn''t have found out about this wonderful feeling. And I''m glad to say that you are the one that showed it to me."


    After saying those words, she leaned in for a short kiss, making Sukebe blush a bit. Even after a few days, she felt as happy as the first time their lips touched, she never felt so loved by someone before. Without a warning, she took Elizabeth in her arms with tears in her eyes.


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    "You''re so perfect Eliza, I love you so much."


    "I love you too, Sukebe."


    Elizabeth caressed her lover''s back gently and slightly chuckled to herself.


    "Eliza... Isn''t it what you called me last night?"


    "It''s cute... Isn''t it?"


    "It is, but I think that last night you said that because you couldn''t finish your sentence. It was cute, hearing you say my name and being cut by your moan."


    Sukebe took a step back, her face was all red and even hiding her face behind her hands wasn''t enough for Elizabeth to not see it.


    "W-Why do you keep reminding me? It''s so embarrassing..."


    "Isn''t it what you wanted? It seemed like it made you happy."


    Elizabeth smiled softly, caressing her lover''s cheek while losing herself in her violet eyes.


    "Am I interrupting something?"


    The two women turned toward the source of the voice, surprised to not be alone.


    It was Maria, looking at the two nuns with a look full of judgment.


    "You two seem awfully close. Forbidden kind of close if you know what I mean."


    "You needed something, sister Maria?" Elizabeth spoke with a freezing tone in her voice, wary of Maria.


    "They''re searching for sister Sukebe, I think she''s supposed to do her job. I knew you two were close, but it seems like you were even more than I thought."


    "Is it a problem?"


    "For me, no. But I''m not sure how Father Benedictus would feel about two nuns falling in love. And even if I''m mistaken, he''ll be more than happy to believe me. I''m sure he''s just waiting for the day Sukebe leaves this place."


    "I think you mean sister Sukebe." Elizabeth kept her voice as cold and steady as she could. She couldn''t accept seeing her lover being disrespected in front of her.


    "Why does it matter? Soon, she won''t be ''sister'' anymore."


    "Sister Maria, please stop-"


    "Stop it!" Maria yelled, with frustration in her voice "God, sister, faith! You don''t care, do you? You''ve fallen for the devil Elizabeth! You are far from the faithful woman you were!"


    Everyone stayed silent after Maria''s outburst, not knowing what to say. The woman slowly calmed herself but was on the verge of tears. Sukebe took a deep breath and took a step forward to the others''s surprise.


    "Don''t say that of Eliza, she never stopped believing in the Lord, not even once."


    "Stop talking, demon. And why are you so calm now? You always opposed everyone, rebelled about the rules, and now you want me to believe that you''re a faithful nun?"


    Sukebe looked back at Elizabeth, and after pausing her gaze on her for a moment, replied to Maria.


    "I think... I just found faith. I feel at peace now, and I think I understand why people give their lives to someone. I feel the same now."


    Maria showed a face of disgust at Sukebe and turned her angry gaze at Elizabeth.


    "Is that the person you replaced me with? What does she have that I don''t?.. Why did you leave me Elizabeth?"


    "It hurts me too." Answered Elizabeth with sorrow in her voice "I wish that I still had my friend with me, the one that I talk about most things. But I saw the ugly truth, you are not as pure as I thought, you reject everything that you don''t want, without even trying to understand." Elizabeth got closer to Sukebe, and took her hand while still staring at Maria "I found someone that I love as dearly as God, and even if we took different paths, I hope that you too, find your light."


    "I don''t need to find light, unlike you, I''m faithful to God."


    Without another word, Maria left like a storm. Elizabeth looked where she was standing for a moment, lost in her thoughts. Sukebe took her in her arms and softly asked.


    "Are you okay?"


    "Yes, don''t worry. It just... feels weird, I''ve seen sister Maria mad before, but seeing her mad against me... It''s like I realized how she was. But it''s alright, I just need you and God, the rest doesn''t matter."


    "Do I really make you so happy?"


    Elizabeth smiled softly and gave her beloved a slight kiss on her forehead.


    "More than anything. Now we should go, I''ll help you cook today too."


    The two women headed to the kitchen and worked together like last time. But this time, Sukebe seemed a bit distracted. Not only her reaction time was slower, but she also forgot what she was doing and what she was supposed to do quite often.


    After finishing everything, they started eating in the kitchen. Elizabeth decided to take this opportunity to confront Sukebe.


    "Sukebe, is something the matter? You''ve been acting weird lately."


    "Oh... It''s just..." Sukebe was taken by surprise, and couldn''t think of an answer right away. It took her a few minutes to collect her thoughts and finally give an answer


    "Do you like living at the monastery?"


    Elizabeth seemed surprised, it was a weird question to ask so suddenly. But she still ended up answering, with her calm and soft voice.


    "I like being here, it''s not always easy, but I''m glad to show my faith to God."


    "... I see." Sukebe didn''t seem satisfied with the answer. She was lost in her thoughts for a moment, but Elizabeth wasn''t going to let her feel sad without trying to understand. She went closer to Sukebe and took her in her arms while talking gently.


    "For me, all that matters is you and the Lord, I''ve said it countless times. This monastery is just a place where I can live and show God''s allegiance."


    "Do you truly think so?"


    Elizabeth took delicately a strand of her hair and took it out of her wimple, just like Sukebe likes to do.


    "I only obey God''s rules, and I only follow your heart. The rest doesn''t matter to me."


    Sukebe smiled a bit, before plunging into her lover''s arms. Elizabeth still wondered what she meant when she asked about the monastery, but she was ready to wait until Sukebe was comfortable to talk about it. In the meanwhile, she would love her all she could.

 Chapter 9: Last Night Together

    Like every night now, the two lovers went together to Sukebe''s room to spend the evening. But unlike last time, Sukebe wasn''t playing her guitar and just leaned onto Elizabeth. They silently stayed like that for a moment, enjoying the feel of the other. Even if everything was peaceful, Sukebe couldn''t help but feel troubled in her heart. She looked into her significant other''s eye, took a deep breath, and suddenly spoke with a worried tone.


    "Elizabeth, I wanted to talk to you about something."


    "What is it, my dear?"


    Sukebe seemed filled with sorrow and stayed silent for a moment. Seeing the state she was in, Elizabeth took her in her arms and pressed her tightly against her body. Sukebe still seemed in a bad mood but tried to go past that and express her feelings.


    "I don''t feel like a nun, I don''t feel like it''s what I want to do. I went to the monastery because it''s the only choice I had, but now, I feel like it''s not what I want."


    "And what do you want?"


    Sukebe looked at Elizabeth with shining eyes and gave her a quick kiss on her lips. Her arms found their way under her beloved clothes, caressing her soft body.


    "I want you."


    After saying those words, Sukebe removed her lover''s clothes, revealing the upper part of her body. Her gaze moved all around the body, while Elizabeth was just looking at her face with amusement. Sukebe''s hand moves along the shape of her love''s body, touching with the tip of her fingers. Her hand went from Elizabeth''s shoulders, passed by her breast and stomach, only to end on her thighs. She gently removed her pants, leaving her beloved completely naked.


    "You really want all of me~," Elizabeth said with an excited voice and a smirk.


    "Yes, I want all of you. Especially since... It''s maybe the last time I can."


    Elizabeth was confused, but before she could ask, Sukebe kissed her deeply and started to gently rub the outside of her private part.


    "Don''t say anything, don''t think too much. I just want to make you happy tonight, Eliza."


    Sukebe continued to rub her beloved''s vagina, and softly caressed her hair, paying close attention to her face. Elizabeth frowned and made a face that amused Sukebe, it seemed pretty obvious that she never had any experience like that before. She was panting and held her lover close to her.


    Sukebe could feel her beloved''s heart pounding, only exciting her more. She felt happy that she could make her Eliza feel like that, it was the happiest memory she would keep. Focused on Elizabeth''s warmth, Sukebe circled her finger around her lover''s clitoris, which made her breath even more heavily.


    After continuing to caress her private part, Sukebe removed her finger, leaving Elizabeth a bit confused.


    "Why... Why are you stopping?"


    Sukebe stared at Elizabeth in the eyes and put her fingers in her mouth with a seductive stare, slowly licking them.


    "You taste good, Eliza..."


    "Isn''t it a bit nasty? Are you sure-"


    Sukebe kissed Elizabeth before she could finish her sentence, embracing their tongues together.


    She then got her face closer to Elizabeth''s kitten and observed it with attention while caressing it.


    "Sukebe... It''s quite embarrassing."


    "Don''t be embarrassed, I''m glad that it''s so wet for me."


    Sukebe leaned toward it and gave it a gentle kiss while caressing her lover''s body. She proceeded to lick her lover''s privates and took her time while doing so. She made sure to go as deep as she could, ensuring she wouldn''t make it uncomfortable for Elizabeth.


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    "It''s... Wonderful~"


    Elizabeth said, with a swaying voice. Her body had a light spasm, while her hips moved on their own. Sukebe felt excited to hear her lover''s moan and touched herself slowly while licking her lover''s pussy.


    "Sukebe... I feel weird... I think you should stop."


    Hearing those words only made Sukebe happier. Knowing how Elizabeth felt, she grabbed her lover''s hips and pushed her tongue into her deepest part. By reflex, Elizabeth grabbed Sukebe''s head, pressing her against her vagina. She let out a loud moan, as her eyes rolled upward. She tried her best to contain herself, but she couldn''t help with the overwhelming feeling of pleasure that took over her. All her muscles suddenly relaxed while she was panting with an empty mind. After realizing what happened, she looked at Sukebe with worry and asked in an exhausted voice


    "Are you okay? It was so weird, I''m so sorry..."


    Sukebe licked her vagina one last time and licked her lips seductively while looking at her lover.


    "It was delicious, I loved every part of it."


    After that, she lay on Elizabeth, with her crotch on her lover''s leg. She had her eyes half closed, and her mouth still opened.


    "I''m sorry Eliza, I''m a too naughty girl."


    Elizabeth caressed Sukebe''s head slowly and gently smiled at her.


    "I love my naughty girl."


    Sukebe moved her hips on her lover''s leg and sucked on Elizabeth''s boobs to keep her mouth busy. Even despite that, she couldn''t help but moan softly. She seemed to enjoy the moment so much that she even had tears in her eyes, she felt in heaven. She continued sucking on her lover''s nipple for a while but was suddenly surprised when her mouth started to feel with a hot liquid. She stopped, surprised for a moment, but she quickly looked at her lover with a perverted smile on her face.


    "Is that milk? I think I just want to feed off you from now on."


    "My dear... You''re so pervert." Elizabeth chuckled slightly while looking at her lover''s horny face.


    "I''m sorry... I can''t help it..."


    Sukebe continued sucking on her beloved boobs, still moving her hips on Elizabeth''s leg. Elizabeth lovingly caressed her hair, glad to see Sukebe so happy. After a short moment, Sukebe suddenly moved her body with more energy and grabbed her lover''s body firmly while making a cute sound. When she finished, she relaxed her body and kissed her Elizabeth softly but as she was about to move away, Elizabeth grabbed her head and kissed her deeply. The two women lay next to each other, exhausted as they caressed each other''s bodies. They stayed silently in that position for a moment, enjoying the intimate moment like nothing else mattered.


    Sukebe had a tear fall from her eye, but this time, it was out of sadness. Elizabeth noticed it and wiped the tear out of her cheek. She took Sukebe close in her arms, trying her best to comfort her.


    "What is it, my dear? I can see that something is troubling you."


    Sukebe took a long moment to think and finally found the courage to tell what she wanted to say for a while now.


    "I want to leave, I''m not a woman of faith and I can''t get along with everyone here. I feel like I can''t be happy here, but... I don''t want to leave you, I don''t know what I should do."


    "So that''s what is torturing you." Elizabeth caressed her head gently while whispering in her ear "You should leave, I don''t want you to be unhappy. The others here don''t treat you like you deserve to be."


    "You''re right... But it''s too hard to leave for me..." Sukebe''s voice started to waver, trying to hold her tears.


    "Don''t worry, we''ll find a way to live. I''m sure it will be hard at the beginning, but we can find a way to make money, and we''ll find a place to be safe."


    "We?" Asked Sukebe, with hope in her eyes "You''d... Leave with me?"


    "Of course, I don''t want to be away from you at all. And like I said, there are many other ways to show my faith to God."


    Sukebe held Elizabeth tightly, with tears all over her face.


    "I love you so much Elizabeth, you''re too good to be true. You''re the best person on earth, you''re a blessing!"


    "Haha, calm down, don''t tell me you thought I would leave you alone like that. I truly love you too, and I don''t want to be away from you."


    "But... Will you really leave the monastery? You lived here for most of your life."


    "Yes, I lived here for maybe ten years now, but we''re still young, we have a future to build."


    Sukebe felt delighted but still hesitant. She took a moment to organize her feelings and tried to explain herself the best she could.


    "Are you sure? You want to leave for me?"


    Elizabeth smiled softly and spoke in a ceremonious voice.


    "Though you are incomplete, I love you completely. Though you are imperfect, I love you perfectly. Though you may feel lost and without a compass, my love will encompass you the best it can. I love you, even if you are flawed, rejected, awkward, sorrowful, or broken." After she finished talking, she gave a bright smile to Sukebe "This is how God feels about all of us, but it''s also how I feel about you. I love you truly, and want you by my side, until the end."


    Sukebe held her lover tightly and answered with a sleepy voice.


    "Not until the end, always."


    "Always then."

 Chapter 10: Following Loves Path

    Elizabeth made her way to the chapel where she used to pray, Father Benedictus waiting for her, arms crossed. Sukebe also came but stayed silent, witnessing the scene that was about to happen. None of the women wore their usual nuns'' outfits, instead wearing civil clothes. Benedictus stared at them with a tone of judgment and shame. The quietude of the room was heavy, making Sukebe uncomfortable just by her presence. Elizabeth on the other hand stayed calm, not letting the least emotion shown. After seconds that felt like hours, the man finally broke the heavy silence that lay in the room.


    "Sister Elizabeth, I think you forgot your habit."


    As an answer to the man''s question, Elizabeth approached him and handed him a bag she was carrying. After looking inside it, Father Benedictus realized that it contained two nuns'' uniforms. Shocked, he looked at the woman and asked with an authoritative voice.


    "What is the meaning of this sister Elizabeth?"


    "I believe that this is quite clear." Answered Elizabeth with a soft tone "I am no longer sister Elizabeth, and she is no longer sister Sukebe. We decided to leave the monastery, you won''t have to trouble yourself with us, nor find a task for me to execute."


    Sukebe walked next to Elizabeth, and together they both bowed in respect and talked in a solemn voice.


    "Thank you for taking care of us, may God bless you."


    The man looked inside the bag, still shocked about the news. He took a deep breath and asked in a confused voice.


    "Do you at least know where you are going?"


    "God will lead our way." Answered Elizabeth.


    "I see. It probably means that your place wasn''t among us. Thank you for honoring this place with your presence. May the Lord guide your step. Amen."


    "Amen."


    The two women turned around, ready to leave the chapel. Elizabeth looked behind her one last time, staring at the glass pane with nostalgia in her eyes. She reminisced about all of her life, and how she grew up in this place, praying the Lord every single day. But those days were over now, and a slight feeling of unease went through her heart.


    "Eliza, is everything alright?"


    Elizabeth looked at Sukebe. Just seeing her reminded her of the reason they left. As long as it made Sukebe happy, the rest didn''t matter to her. She gave her lover a warm smile and took her hand.


    "Yes my dear, let''s go."


    The former nuns were on their way to leave the monastery. Sukebe took her beloved''s hand, and leaned softly toward her, with a dumb smile on her face. Elizabeth answered by caressing her head and smiled back at her.


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    "Do you think he was mad at us?" Asked Sukebe.


    "I think he''s just sad that he lost an amazing cook."


    Sukebe giggled softly. She never felt so happy before, and even if their future was uncertain, they knew that together they could face it.


    The monastery was behind them now, but an unexpected voice called them. They turned to see the origin of the voice and saw Maria running toward them. She stopped in front of them, taking a moment to catch her breath.


    "Is that true? You''re leaving?" Maria''s question was answered by a simple nod of Elizabeth''s head "Why?.. How can you leave just like that?"


    "By walking." Answered Elizabeth "And as to why, let''s just say that my faith belongs somewhere else."


    Maria stared at them with a look of despair and noticed the two of them holding hands. It visibly bothered her, but she did her best to contain herself.


    "I can''t believe it. You''ve really ruined everything for some stupid whore."


    "Don''t call her like that!" Elizabeth talked with a strong voice, even intimidating Maria "Sukebe is a pure and innocent soul. You maybe won''t accept it, but she''s following God''s teaching more than you."


    "Because you''re following God''s teaching? You''ve sinned for the devil."


    "God is kind, I''ll accept the punishment for my sin when the time will come."


    Maria was at a loss for words and looked at the two lovers with frustration.


    "Winter will come, if the cold doesn''t kill you, then hunger will."


    Sukebe felt sad to assist the two old friends arguing with each other. Even if she didn''t like Maria, she interrupted them for Elizabeth''s sake.


    "Sister Maria, why are you being so rude? Weren''t you friends before?"


    "Exactly, before." Answered Maria with disdain in her voice "But she ruined everything. I don''t want to see her ever again."


    "But... You came here for her. Isn''t it because you miss her?"


    Elizabeth seemed surprised by Sukebe''s words. She wasn''t sure what to think of it, was it the reason Maria was so defensive about Sukebe? Before she could ask, Maria answered.


    "Don''t talk like you know me. I hope you end up in the endless torment of hell."


    Without another word, Maria left with rage still within her heart. Sukebe held Elizabeth''s arm, pressing it tightly against her.


    "I''m sorry Eliza, I didn''t want to make you lose your friend."


    "It would have happened anyway, you''re way better than her."


    Sukebe couldn''t help but feel a little bit guilty, but she trusted Elizabeth and felt glad that she finally had someone who would love her truly. She smiled at Elizabeth, who gently kissed her forehead, and after looking at the monastery one last time, they left toward the unknown.


    The moon was high in the sky. The grass was waving as the wind passed through it, and the two women started eating what they took with them. The field was glowing under the moonlight, the cold air forced the two women to stay near each other to warm themselves. But even if the weather wasn''t cold, they still would have stood close to each other.


    After they finished eating, the two of them lay on the ground, watching the sky full of stars. Elizabeth was about to talk but noticed that Sukebe was already sleeping. Seeing her peaceful was relaxing for Elizabeth, she realized that she made the right choice. For a moment, she still had some doubts, she wasn''t sure whether they would be happy in the outside world after all. But seeing her beloved''s innocent and happy face made every doubt in her mind disappear. She gave her a light kiss on the cheek, caressing her hair with her hand. Acting by reflex, she started to suck on her lover''s ear, holding her tightly. In her head, she was thinking about how much she changed because of Sukebe. She didn''t mind it so much, actually, she was happy with it.


    Elizabeth and Sukebe both were asleep under the starlight, innocently lying on nature''s bed. The soft wind blew onto them, gently moving their hairs. For the first time, they were free. Free of their past, free of rules, free of judgment. Only jailed by the other''s embrace, a jail that none of them wanted to escape. Even if their future was unclear, they were ready to face it, as long as they stayed together.

 Chapter 11: Sukebe and Elizabeth

    Maria was looking at the stained glass of the brightly lit chapel, kneeling and praying to the Lord. She was focused, silently singing hymns to her God. But even despite doing it regularly, she still has a hint of doubt in her mind.


    After spending the time that she judged necessary, she finally stood up, ready to leave. As she was leaving she noticed Father Benedictus, waiting for her.


    "Sister Maria, it''s time to go to work."


    The nun headed toward the door without a word, like always. But this time, she stopped in front of the door and talked with her empty voice.


    "It''s been a year..."


    "A year? Since what?" Asked Father Benedictus, confused.


    "Since sist... Elizabeth left us."


    The chapel stayed silent for a moment until the man vocalized his surprise.


    "You''ve been counting? It was for the better, for them like for us."


    "I do know, father. I just wish things happened differently. Every day, I wonder how she''s doing, and how I could have acted differently. Maybe this woman was right, I was jealous and scared to lose my friend."


    "You know that envy is a sin, right? Sinners never find happiness."


    "Maybe you''re right, but then, does it mean that they aren''t happy?"


    "Only the Lord knows, but I wouldn''t have much faith in their future. A woman of faith in love is bad enough, but that she fell for another woman, it really is the biggest sin. I''m sure God punished them, and that they are lost souls, away from the Lord."


    Maria looked back, staring at the glass pane of the chapel with melancholy.


    "I don''t really know what makes me less sad. Whether she''s happy, or lost like I am."


    Sukebe and Elizabeth were holding each other in their arms, as naked as the day they were born. Sukebe sucked on her lover''s boobs with a blissful expression on her face, which brought a smile to Elizabeth''s face like it always did.


    "I feel like you''re enjoying it a bit too much, my dear." Elizabeth said with a smile on her face.


    "You say that like you want me to stop."


    Sukebe caressed her beloved''s intimate part, they lived that moment together so often that she could easily touch Elizabeth''s sensitive part. They each learned about each other''s body and soul. Sukebe knew how to make Elizabeth feel so pleasured that she would moan, and Elizabeth knew how much Sukebe treasured being loved and caressed.


    "I''d never want you to stop my dear, you''re really wonderful at everything~"


    The two lovers shared a long kiss full of passion, while Sukebe still rubbed her beloved''s private part. Elizabeth grabbed on her Sukebe''s breast, while she was focused on their kiss.


    "My dear, I feel like I''m getting close..."


    Like she always did, Sukebe stopped what she was doing and started to lick her beloved''s pussy.


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    "You''re a really good girl, Sukebe~"


    Sukebe always felt happy to be praised by her Eliza, it was the only person she felt happy and comfortable with. Lost in her own thoughts, she only felt bliss and joy. Her thoughts were suddenly interrupted by Elizabeth''s moans getting louder. Sukebe grabbed her beloved''s waist and pressed her face as much as she could against Elizabeth''s body. Elizabeth''s body spasmed, while Sukebe enjoyed every part of her lover''s orgasm.


    Once Elizabeth''s exhaustion caught up to her, she let her whole body relax suddenly. Sukebe went to her side, and they snuggled together for the next hour to come.


    Elizabeth''s eyes stared at the scenery behind the window of their home, where snow fell slowly.


    "My dear, tomorrow will be the first year since we left together. It was honestly the best decision of my life, I don''t regret anything... Thank you Sukebe."


    "I should be the one to thank you, Eliza." Answered Sukebe with a smile "I''m just glad that everything worked out, it''s not easy every day, but as long as you''re here I''m glad."


    Elizabeth continued to look at the window with a peaceful gaze. She got out of their bed under the confused gaze of her lover and started to put her clothes back.


    "Sukebe, let''s go for a walk, shall we?"


    "Oh, that''s a great idea!" Sukebe hurried out of bed and started to put on her clothes as well. She looked around, like searching for something, and then turned toward Elizabeth "Can you stay here for a moment? I need to get something."


    Before Elizabeth could answer, Sukebe left their room. Left alone, Elizabeth looked at her watch, seeing that midnight would soon come. She took this opportunity to get on her knees in front of the bed and started praying. She continued praying every day, praying to thank God for Sukebe, praying that their lives stay that way. She continued praying for a moment, and when she opened her eyes, she was met with Sukebe standing right in front of her, lying on the bed.


    "You''re still adorable when you pray, Eliza."


    Elizabeth chuckled slightly, and together they headed outside, in the cold of the night.


    The two lovebirds walked together in the snow. Sukebe was glued to Elizabeth, the cold was one of the reasons, but Elizabeth herself was the main one. They wandered around the town that became their home, the place where they were truly comfortable and at peace.


    They stopped for a moment to look at the river in the middle of the town from the small bridge. Elizabeth looked at her watch to see that midnight just passed. She looked at the moon high in the sky and spoke with her soft voice.


    "Sukebe, my dear, I never felt such feelings before I met you. You became an important part of my life, and I don''t regret it one bit. For once in my life, someone touched me deeper in my heart than God did, and I don''t regret that this person was you. You are my everything Sukebe, and I love you more than everything else."


    Elizabeth caressed Sukebe''s long black hair and took something out of her pocket. It was a small box that she handed to her beloved. Sukebe chuckled a bit and opened the box to see a pair of gloves inside it.


    "I''m not a tailor, but I did my best to make something for you. You need to take care of your hand, or else you won''t play guitar, cook, or... Show a pervy side of you."


    "It truly touches me, my Eliza."


    Sukebe caressed Elizabeth''s ginger hair before putting on her new gloves. She seemed more than happy and also took a small box from her pocket.


    "You gave a sense to my life, and without you, I probably wouldn''t be alive. I would just be existing, waiting for the end. But with you, I want to get better, I want to improve myself. I think that it''s how everyone feels with God, but for me, you''re the only one I want in my heart. I value you more than I value myself, and I hope that this year won''t be the only one we get to see together."


    Sukebe handed the box to Elizabeth, who hurried to open it. The gift was a small pendant with a cross with Sukebe''s name attached to it.


    "I hope that we''ll be forever together, but if you ever miss me, you''ll have to remember that I''m always here for you."


    Elizabeth held the pendant on her chest, closing her eyes for a short moment.


    "I love it, you''re a wonderful being my dear. I wasn''t expecting a gift from you."


    "I wasn''t either, but I''m glad we both did! I didn''t want you to feel guilty for not remembering, but I didn''t want to ruin the surprise either."


    Elizabeth leaned toward Sukebe, and they kissed each other dearly. They stayed like that for a long moment, enjoying the other''s embrace. They spent the rest of the night watching the snow fall under the moonlight. They both felt like they reached bliss, living with the dearest person in their lives. Elizabeth reminisced about everything that happened, about her past, the monastery, and now her life with Sukebe. Gratitude filled her heart as she was thinking about all the ways her life could have gone wrong. Sukebe looked at her, noticing that Elizabeth was staring at her softly, and she gave her a bright smile.


    "I love you Eliza, you''re the light of my world!"


    "I''ll love you forever my dear, nothing will separate us."

 Chapter 114: Mission Rescue

    Silva, Emely, and the anomaly arrived back in the world where they last saw Neige. The moonlight illuminated their path as they headed toward the town where the anomaly last saw him. It looked like a peaceful place, everyone was smiling and happy, carrying on their duty. The nun suddenly stopped in front of a fountain and took a deep breath, her heart heavy.


    "We were asking everyone about the overseer, trying to understand who he was. They were scared and refused to talk to us. When we decided to take a break here, guards attacked us."


    "They attacked you for no reason?" Emely asked with a distrust that the anomaly could feel.


    "Yes... I don''t understand why, it was so sudden."


    The group stayed there to think until they were bothered by a voice behind them.


    "Woman of faith, I didn''t expect to see you here again."


    The nun turned toward the origin of the voice with aggressivity, ready to fight at any moment.


    "You! Give back Neige!"


    The man in front of her smiled with dark intentions. He wore purple, rich-looking clothes and was surrounded by four guards next to him. He pointed to the woman with the golden staff in his hand, a defiant look on his face.


    "I see you brought pawns for me! How kind of you."


    Silva put her crutches on the floor, just in case something would happen. She took a step forward with some difficulty and faced the man.


    "Excuse me, but are you the overseer?"


    "The GREAT overseer, please. A bit of respect."


    "We just want our friend back ''great overseer''. We promise we won''t cause trouble and quickly leave."


    "You already did too much, you-" The man suddenly stopped and squinted at Silva, not believing his eyes "Silva? Is that you?"


    The group took a step back in shock at the words of the man.


    "You know my name?"


    "Of course, we never met but I owe you a lot. You and your two friends helped me get rid of someone problematic."


    Silva thought deeply until she realized what the man meant.


    "A year ago? When we helped the police arrest a crazy man?"


    "Yes, he was about to ruin everything."


    "So... He was right? There truly was a dictator in here, we thought he was crazy!"


    "It looks like you''re not agreeing with me. Despite the respect I hold for you, it''s time for you to go."


    The overseer took a kind of remote out of his pocket but Silva was too dumbfounded to stop him. She remembered it was a mission like any other, the leader asked them to do it, and they did.


    "We... Could have stopped a dictator but... We just obeyed..."


    "I''m not a dictator, just someone that forces happiness on people. If happiness is a choice, is it wrong to force it? Yes, I don''t let anyone be free, but they''re all happy! No inflation, no riches, no discrimination, no bullying. You couldn''t reach this peace with freedom."


    The anomaly looked at the man with rage but felt deep in her heart that he might be right. She looked at Silva, who disagreed.


    "I don''t care about what the leader says, I''m not going to let you repress people''s freedom!"


    If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    "But sunglass-girl... It''s not our world." The anomaly said, interrupting Silva "Not only does it seem wrong to interfere with another world, but also... He''s not wrong."


    "I''m sorry, but I prefer to die on my feet than live on my knees!"


    The overseer smiled as he raised his remote to the air. Ada suddenly remembered this happening last time and tried stopping him, but it was too late.


    "We''ll see if you still think like that."


    The man pressed the button, making a horrible screech. The three friends covered their ears but could still hear the sound in their heads. Ada kept thinking about her friend, Neige, to forget the horrible sound. After a few minutes, it stopped. Ada looked at Emely and Silva to make sure they were alright. The young engineer smiled at her but the blind painter slowly walked toward the man like a zombie. Emely looked at her friend with concern, and asked her,


    "Silva... Are you alright?"


    "A happy world... With no worries."


    Emely ran toward her but the anomaly stopped her, yelling at her.


    "That''s what happened to Neige! I remember now, he acted like that and attacked me!"


    Silva walked next to the overseer with empty eyes. The man looked disappointed but still went with it.


    "Only one? You two are tough. If everyone was like you, maybe the world would be a better place."


    "What did you do to Silva? Answer me!"


    The man was unimpressed at Emely''s words and gently slapped Silva''s cheek with the back of his hand with a grin on his face.


    "Such an interesting one, she could be a great soldier. Or maybe something else."


    Seeing that the man was ignoring her, Emely instead turned toward Silva and yelled at her with all her strength.


    "You''re really going to let this pig command you!?"


    "I don''t think she can hear you..." The anomaly said in a vain attempt to calm the young engineer.


    "Shut up! I know she hears me! She''s just too scared to face it! Maybe I''m a crybaby! Maybe I''m a shitty engineer! Maybe I don''t have any faith in me and my creations! But at least I''m not a coward! Was it all a lie? Did you tell me you loved me just to lose at the first ordeal you faced?!"


    "Can you lower your voice?" Asked the man "You can''t change her mind."


    "You don''t know her like I do! Are you going to listen to this stupid-looking man? If there''s anyone you need to listen it should be me! So please... Wake up and come back to me you stupid bat!"


    Despite Emely''s outburst, Silva barely reacted. The man pinched on Silva''s cheek and arrogantly waved it.


    "I don''t think you understand, she''s my property now. If you want, your ''Silva'' is no longer and so is your other friend. They''re both puppets that I use at my own convenience, I could step on them if I wanted to and they wouldn''t budge."


    Silva grabbed the man''s wrist, gripping it tightly.


    "The only person that can put its feet on me is Emely."


    One of the guards of the man tried to attack Silva but she managed to push the overseer and put the guard down effortlessly. She then turned toward Emely and gave her an apologetic smile.


    "I''m sorry Emely, I don''t know what I was thinking."


    Emely smiled cheerfully at Silva before acting falsely offended.


    "You better not leave me next time!"


    Before Silva could answer, another guard attacked her. She dodged and knocked him out in one well-placed strike. When she searched for the other guards to take care of them, she noticed that the anomaly already dealt with them. The overseer vanished, not letting a trace behind him.


    "I didn''t notice that he was gone..."


    Silva cursed at herself while Emely jumped on her, taking her tightly in her arms.


    "I was so worried! I thought he really controlled you!"


    "It''s weird, I didn''t feel controlled. It was like a voice that showed me a perfect life, a life I could get if I obeyed. But when I heard you, it was like I remembered that you were way better."


    Emely blushed softly and kissed Silva on her lips, stopping when they heard the anomaly.


    "I don''t want to interrupt you, but I think there''s more important."


    Silva nodded her head at the anomaly and suddenly fell to the ground. Emely grabbed her with all her strength but could only manage to keep Silva standing with one of the anomaly''s tentacle''s help.


    "It hurts... Next time I see Silv I''m stabbing her..."


    "What you describe, was it what happened to Neige?"


    "I suppose. But why weren''t you affected?"


    "From what you said, it''s using your doubts to control you. I guess we both had a strong reason to live and that he couldn''t sway us. Just thinking about Neige was enough for me."


    "I was thinking about Silva!" Proudly announced Emely "Maybe you still have some trouble trusting us with your life, but it''s okay. I''ll be here to remind you to listen to me instead of bad guys."


    Silva smiled heartily at Emely, still feeling a bit of shame.


    "I''m sorry I didn''t trust you more. If I did, maybe it wouldn''t have happened."


    "Don''t say that! And you don''t need to only trust just me, but all your friends on the ship. We''ll give you the great future that you deserve so that you stop doubting."


    "I hope I''ll be able to stop doubting... It''s a horrible feeling."


    "You will, but..." Emely put her hand on her mouth and looked away from Silva''s eyes, a bit ashamed "You said you wanted my feet on you. I... Didn''t expect that."


    "What!? I never said that! I just said that only you could! Like... He doesn''t have the right to!"


    "It''s okay Silva, I''m okay with any kink you have."


    "That''s not my kink!"


    The two girls argued happily under the concerned eyes of the anomaly, looking visibly disappointed.


    "This is the kind of person that protects this universe? I really need to find the perfect world for you soon, Neige."