Path and Pact

The Battle Maiden Sect was peaceful in the morning. Dominique woke up to find herself in a familiar room, the scent of the aged wooden furniture and lingering fragrances of herbs creating a comfortable and welcoming environment.

Mira was sitting cross-legged on the floor, watching the sunrise, her crimson eyes reflecting the first light of the day. Hana was curled up in the corner of the bed, her soft snores providing a rhythm to the peaceful ambiance.

Dominique rubbed the sleep out of her eyes as Mira's voice echoed gently in the room, "Do you want to get stronger, Dominique?"

She wasn't expecting such a question right after waking up, but did she really need to think about the answer? 

"Of course, Mother! That's been my goal from the very beginning!" Dominique replied without a moment's hesitation, her voice steady and resolute.

"What if it meant going through hell?"