The cream only helped to a certain degree. She could still feel the sharp metal as it sliced into her skin, the pain flaring through her body. Tears pricked her eyes and her breathing was harsh as she fought to stay still as her shoulder was mutilated, pained whimpers escaping her lips. As much as she didn't want this, she knew jerking her body away would only make everything worse.
She kept her head turned so as not to see the witch who had bought her. She didn't want to see whatever look he may have whether it be satisfaction or pleasure. Instead she stared at the wall, trying to think of anything else besides the fact she was being branded like cattle. She thought of the home her family had made in the desert. The sunsets there. She thought of the children she had taught and how she had helped to ensure that they escaped and were safe. She let her mind filter through everything but reality at that moment