White to red

The sun began to set as Rögnvaldr finally returned home from a long day of work. When Jamie saw his master enter their dwelling, he gasped — Rögnvaldr was covered in bruises and blood. Concern quickly filled Jamie's eyes, and he wanted nothing more than to heal the orc's wounds.

"It looks like you've had a rough day, Master Rögnvaldr," Jamie said softly, his voice shaking a little as he approached the orc.

Rögnvaldr gave Jamie a small smile, trying to hide his pain. "Yes, Jamie, I'm afraid I ran into a bit of trouble today. But I'll be all right."

Without hesitation, Jamie began tending to his master's injuries. Under the watchful eyes of Rögnvaldr, he gathered water, a clean cloth, and some salve for the bruises and cuts. As Jamie gingerly cleaned the wounds, the touch of his tender fingers felt soothing to the weary orc.

"Master Rögnvaldr," Jamie ventured, trying to gauge the orc's willingness to share details. "I-if you don't mind me asking... what happened?"

Rögnvaldr sighed. "There was a group of ruffians causing trouble in the market today. They went after a few of the merchants, and I stepped in to protect them."

Jamie looked at his master, his admiration and respect growing. "I'm so sorry you were hurt, but I'm proud of you, Master Rögnvaldr. You have such a big, kind heart."

Rögnvaldr chuckled, wincing from the pain as Jamie applied the salve. "Thank you, Jamie. It was the right thing to do. I couldn't stand by and watch people be hurt."

As Jamie continued to tend to the orc's wounds, he thought about how grateful he was to have such a caring and good-hearted master. Despite the mess and the work it had required, he was glad he could be of use to him.

Jamie leaned down and gently pressed a kiss on one of the cleaned bruises. "Rest well, Master Rögnvaldr. I'll take care of everything while you recover."

The orc looked at him affectionately, feeling comforted by the elf's dedication. "Thank you, Jamie. I don't know what I would do without you."