>>5893038"Madam S-Sylvia," Ferris pipes up, approaching her, "a quick word, please."
"Of course, Squire," a tender voice echoes from under the helmet.
Borris and Connor smile, with an underlying, knowing sorrow. Connor hails your attention, and you three men step back to give them some space.
"You are well-traveled, warrior-poet," Connor begins, a knowing look in his eye.
"Indeed," you acknowledge his look with your own. "It is a shame."
"We became lax, reveled in our opulence, rested on our laurels. And now, we are paying the price. Young Ferris, he doesn't deserve to pay the debts of his forebears."
"If he is there, he will do something he'll never be able to let go."
"Then you understand completely." He gives you a sharp nod, and presents a raised forearm.
You lock your real arm with his; he has a strong pull, though yours is far from slack. Borris gives the same gesture, nearly bringing you off your feet, but you're good for it.
Turning your attention back to Sylvia and Ferris, you notice she has her helmet removed, and takes his holy symbol from him. She hands him something else in exchange, which he quickly winds under his collar plate. After she kisses his cheek, she puts her helmet back on.
"Oh ho, Ferris!" Borris chides, "you young wolf! Just a few more years, huh?"
The poor boy's face turns beet red, he is unable to retort.
"Implying I'd wait, if only it weren't for the law," Sylvia jests as she steps closer and points at you. "I'd keep this one in our household, too."
"And to think," Connor chuckles, "people in the city wonder why you never speak."
"Better cinch me to a strong chain," you grin at her through red cheeks, "I have a tendency to slip away."
You hear a soft giggle beneath her helm, before she bears her forearm. You cross yours with hers, then are lifted effortlessly. It doesn't hurt, but it is startling.
"Keep him safe," a low plea from her helmet to your ear, almost shaking with concern. "You are a good man."
You wonder what exactly Ferris has told her, as she rejoins her company.
"I wish you good tidings and safe passage, wherever your lives take you!" you proclaim, waving.
"good luck" Lady waves too.
"Goodbye," Ferris smiles, half-hearted, as his allies head towards the taller mushrooms.
[[ Continues in next post... ]]
