Katie's Hellion

The two German women sharing her room ceased talking when she entered and looked her over before one said in halting English, "You're American."

"That obvious?" Katie returned, tossing the sleeping bag and a small shaving bag filled with basics on one bunk.

"Yes."

"I like your clothes," the other said, gazing at her jumpsuit. "Very fashionable."

At least Hell kept up with the latest styles, she thought darkly.

"Your…" the other woman said, motioning to her neck. "Very nice."

Katie snatched the shaving bag and a towel, stalking to the bathroom. She bathed in the unisex shower room, grateful for the lukewarm water and the chance to scrub herself down and assess the damage. Her arms and legs were only faintly scarred despite the glass shards from the rocket attacks and the damage done by Sasha. She marveled again at Lankha's healing skill.

Her first shower in days made her want to stay in the hot water forever, until one of the men staying at the hostel entered the bathroom. Self-conscious, she turned off the water and wrapped herself in a towel before crossing to the sinks lining one wall with bright mirrors hanging above them.

Her eyes were drawn to the Rhyn tattoo snaking around her neck like a collar. The name was black against a band the color of red wine, both intricate and bold, with odd characters etched into the edges of the band. The geometric shapes changed as they circled her neck rather than stuck to a pattern; she assumed it was some kind of writing.

She wore a collar like a dog with her master's name on it. There was no other explanation. She'd never wear anything but turtlenecks ever again!

"Son of a bitch!"

"Awesome tat," a distinctly American male voice said.

She dropped the hair she'd been holding up and wrapped the towel around her tightly. She met his gaze briefly in the mirror. He looked like any normal nerdy American with big glasses and a scrawny frame. She thought she saw tattoos flash across his exposed chest. She blinked, and they were gone.

After her time in Hell --where most of the monsters looked human --she didn't trust this one. He shrugged as she ignored his hello smile.

She returned to the room, where the two Germen women still sat and talked while cleaning their camping gear. She dressed quickly to avoid comments on either her collar or her scars and flung herself into her bunk, reminded of her cell with Lankha.