Zaria Dove

The Wounds of My Heart

However, this was not the reason he called out to me. He had probably forgotten my face by now. The reason he called out was because he saw me slip on the railing. Unfortunately, he lost sight of me when a girl passed a towel to another girl, and he couldn't find me anymore.

Taking advantage of the situation, I managed to sneak past the crowd and quickly made my way to the bathroom before anyone else.

"I can't even begin to explain how much I missed this!" I exclaimed as I stood under the hot shower, enjoying the soothing sensation of the water cascading down my skin. But my moment of relaxation was abruptly interrupted by a loud knock on the door.

Startled, I hurriedly rinsed off the remaining soap foam and hastily left the bathroom. Initially, we were required to come out in our towels for measurements, which were used to track our growth. Based on these measurements, we were then given multivitamins and specific foods to aid in our growth.

After the measurements were done, I was directed to a class taught by my own mother. As I sat in the classroom, my attention was captured by a butterfly that fluttered right in front of my nose. I followed its graceful flight all the way to the window, watching as it disappeared into the outside world.

Do you have any idea what it means to witness a butterfly? It's a sign that there's a flower, plant, or tree nearby. Unfortunately, in the highly advanced world we lived in, there weren't many natural elements to be found.

Nevertheless, when I saw that butterfly, I couldn't resist the temptation to follow it and see where it would take me. But then, my mother cleared her throat, bringing me back to reality.

"How many times do I have to remind you about the importance of focusing on your studies?" she asked.

I stayed silent for a moment, watching as her attention shifted to another girl. That's when I muttered under my breath, "Studies! As if this truly is a lesson!"

She overheard me and questioned, "What did you say?" She then came closer, repeating her question.

"I said, screw your lessons!" I clenched my fists, frustration evident in my voice. "Why do we even have to do this? What's the point?"

"We have these lessons every day to correct your behavior, to teach you how to respect men and understand how to please them!" she responded. "And to respect your teacher!" she added.

"Men?" I scoffed, spitting on the ground. It wasn't a sign of disrespect towards her, but rather a reflection of my thoughts on men. The next thing I knew was a slap landed across my face.

As I scanned the room, I couldn't help but notice the fearful expressions on the faces of the girls around me. They knew they could be next, and it broke my heart. What I saw was a fear of being objectified, of having no say in their own lives.

I couldn't stand by and let that happen. I thought about a better response and finally found the courage to speak up, "Is that the best you can do?"

She was ready to strike me again, but I managed to dodge her. I ended up on the ground, on my knees, but I couldn't help but glance at the girls once more. They were holding hands, seeking strength in each other, and somehow, in me.

"Do you want me to fight back?" she threatened, smoke billowing from her nostrils. "I can do this all day, but remember the consequences. You'll be left with scars, and no one wants a girl with scars. No one will ever want to marry you!" she warned.

I couldn't care less about what men thought of me. Their opinions meant nothing. But as she made her way towards the door, something unexpected slipped out of my mouth.

"You, in a position of power, should have empowered women instead of perpetuating their weakness and helplessness!" I looked at her, a tear glistening in the corner of my eye, and continued, "Imagine the impact you could have made." She paused, just before leaving the room, and gave me a look of disgust.

"I despise the moment you were born!" With those harsh words, she left the room.

Despite being used to the mistreatment, her words always managed to cut through me, causing an unbearable pain that made me long for an escape from life.

Tears welled up in my eyes, making it challenging to eat as we were led to the dining room. I pushed myself to take bites, understanding the importance of keeping up my strength.

"Once your hair color returns, let it be and let it grow," the warden yelled, capturing everyone's attention, including mine. I felt uncomfortable as all eyes in the room turned towards me, the only girl considered "crazy" for dyeing her hair.

As I returned to my room, I caught a glimpse of my reflection and examined my roots. They were gradually lightening, with most of them now turning blonde. Having no hair dye, I knew there was nothing I could do but... It was time for me to go back to the rooftop.

Standing there, the moonlight illuminating my short hair, I felt the evening breeze playfully tousling my hair as I looked down at the city below.

Taking a deep breath, I filled my lungs and lifted my gleaming steel sword, feeling its weight in my hands. My eyes, filled with determination and self-assurance, sparkled with confidence.

While my mother's words echoed in my mind!

With a swift and fluid motion, I began my practice. Each strike showcases my expertise, the sword slicing through the air with a captivating elegance. My body effortlessly glides, as if the sword is a natural extension of myself.

The sound of my strikes reverberates through the silence, the rhythm of my movements creating a symphony of steel on the rooftop. I lose myself in the dance, my body twisting and turning with precision and grace.

Under the gentle glow of the moonlight, my hair shimmers, giving me an ethereal presence. I am completely immersed in my own world, a world filled with passion and unwavering dedication.

Not caring about the world, the stars above twinkle in awe, reflecting the gleam of my sword. My mastery of the blade is a sight to behold, a testament to my tireless training and unwavering determination.

In this serene moment, I revel in my progress. Pride swells in my heart as I realize how far I have come. The rooftop transforms into my sanctuary, the perfect stage to showcase my skills.