>>5712188You watch Leif saunter off, a fresh new pep in his step. As far as he was concerned, things couldn’t get any better. He’d ridden himself of a rival power and was now set to lead Sreng to greatness. And all he had remaining to do was destroy the one place left in Fodlan that you could reliably turn to for sanctuary. To say that you lacked the same enthusiasm for this feast that those around you had was an understatement. Ronan, having been privy to your conversation the entire time, has remained by your side. He was quiet while the adults spoke, though now that his master has left, he chimes in and pulls you out of your thoughts.
“You did it, Blair. You won the Cúig Triail!” He frowns as he studies your face. The discomfort you currently feel is obvious to him. “But you don’t look happy. What’s the matter?”
Ronan had been an invaluable source of support. It was thanks to his aid that you were able to prepare so well for each individual fight in the trials. But that information had been fed to him by Leif. Would he still help you now that you’d done your job? There was now a possibility that you might find yourself on a path opposite that of his prince. You’d have to act cautiously around the boy if you were to get him to spill any information that might help divert the coming attack.
>“Did you know the prince planned to attack Garreg Mach?” You ask him.Ronan nods. “I did. Should I have mentioned that earlier? I didn’t think it was that important...especially with the Cúig Triail to get ready for. Why? Should I have?”
You place a hand on the boy’s back and lead him towards the Tower of Black Winds. Leif had ordered him to stay with the Blackwings and get a bearing on the supplies you’d require. No one should think it strange that you were now shepherding him back to base.
>“Have you ever heard of Garreg Mach?” You ask him. Ronan had demonstrated previously that he’d had a fascination for the culture of Fodlan. This was likely something instilled in him by Leif, who’d shared with him tales of his days serving as a hostage to Gautier. Perhaps you could use that to your advantage.“I hear it’s a really nice place. It’s the seat of power for the Church of Seiros, and one of the most historical sites in all Fodlan. I can’t wait to see it for myself!” Enthusiasm drips off every word the boy utters.”
>“I’m rather fond of it too. When I was about your age, I studied there. It’s where I learned how to fight. It’s almost like a second home for me.” “You studied at the Officer’s Academy?” Ronan exclaims, wide-eyed. “The prince once told me only the best of the best got to go there. That’s really cool, Blair!”
The two of you enter through the gates of the tower, away from the prying ears of anyone from Sreng.
