บท 136: For What, not Why

"Nice to meet you, Hopin. My name is Astri." She says.

He is impressed when he hears her name. He steps back after looking quickly at Claud and Zin on her sides.

"What is it, dear?" She asks calmly, trying to not scare him.

"I heard that.. You're the most desired female of these tribes, and you have the strongest males and guards." He stutters. 

"Oh really? Well, I don't actually care about this title. Do you want to become a doctor too?" She asks.

"I.. don't know. I want to help so I can sleep and eat here."

"I see.. Come here." 

He walks to her, kind of hypnotized by her smile. She teaches him how to sew and he learns fast to help her.

"How old are you, Hopin?" She asks.

"8, my lady." He answers. 

"Don't need to call me that way, sweetie. You're so young and so smart! You learn so fast." 

He smiles shyly. Zin and Claud smile, feeling the energy of the boy brightening again.