>>6084318“Zaribari! My grandfather was from there!”
“Priestess of the Sunwell! We are going to find her for a blessing, no matter where she ends up!”
“Marry me, please! I own land and pigs!”
“A cheer for the beautiful brunette!”
Soralisa disappears in the flame of her blush.
“And another future Sunwell Knight, Rubida dell’Obertengo!”
Rubida seems to take this much better than Soralisa, and the reaction is much more subdued, as well. The crowd hollers and cheers, but they mostly share looks —
“Dell’Obertengo! A family from the Hallowed Mile, here?”
“Marry me! I will give my land and pigs to the poor!”
“A cheer for the stunning Kiengir lady!”
At the last words Rubida runs a hand through her long black hair, entirely too pleased.
This is still part of the lie — the lie she confided you with — and seeing her go back to her usual character feels comforting in a way.
How many times did she have to play that character? Wonder which one of the Rubida you know is the one that’s most real.
Maybe the one who confided in you and held up the light in the sheer darkness of the mirror hall, all alone. A heart of a lion. You find yourself clapping in tune to the crowd.
“And let’s not forget the best skirmisher of the modern age!” She grins from ear to ear, rising both hands now, “That’s me! Salicera Fors! From the humblest origins, foundling on the edge of the forest, to a future Knight!” She balls one of her fists, excited. “Knight of the Order of Saint Bragia! Just wait and see!”
You heart scratches against your throat — that means it’s only who’s missing. Only you. How will she introduce you? You feel the moments separating you from that instant like cold sweat running down your spine. Why can’t you be facing an armoured boar?Ah, at least Soralisa is happy, running her hands through the golden flames, as excited and as oblivious as a kid.
Definitely worth the price, mule or no mule, kicks of no kicks.
[cont.]
