Loyalty

When evening rolls around, you find yourself eating dinner with your little group, all of them happily chatting among themselves. Even Ferra has a smile on her face as they talk about the events of the day. Eventually, however, they notice that you’ve been quiet so far. The first to mention anything is Cassie, who seems especially observant about things like this.

“You’re being pretty quiet, Nicholas. Something on your mind?”

Alex giggles. “He’s just dazzled by our beauty!”

You chuckle. “Well, there’s definitely some truth to that, Alex! But no, it’s mostly just that I have a lot on my mind.”

Melora nods, looking thoughtful herself. “My prophecy. It’s been weighing on my mind as well.”

You sigh. “Well, yes, but not just that. That’s just my most immediate problem. And one that will be resolved soon, one way or the other. Although I wish we knew more about what we can expect from this dreadnought.”

Ferra shrugs. “It doesn’t matter. We will protect you.”

The others nod, and you smile. “Thank you for that, but I don’t know if I could forgive myself if one of you got badly hurt trying to protect me.”

Ferra places a hand on your arm, looking at you seriously. “This is literally why I was created, Nicholas. I am your protector, in addition to being your lover. I would give anything to keep you safe.”

Across the table, Alex nods emphatically. “The same for me. We are bondmates, I owe you my life.”

Cassie giggles. “I don’t have a fancy word for it, but I like you a lot! Count me in!”

Melora smiles, placing her hand on your other arm. “Me as well. I am no fighter, but I will do all I can to keep you safe.”

You can’t help but feel touched by this, though in your mind you hope none of it is ever needed. You smile at each of them in turn before responding.

“Fine, you’ve all made your point. But let’s not think of it that way. We all protect each other, and that way everyone comes home safe at the end of the day.”

Everyone seems to agree to that, though Melora seems thoughtful as she goes back to eating. You yourself don’t necessarily think it’s as simple as you put it, but you feel reassured by the strength of your companions’ conviction. You go back to eating, listening as the conversation turns once again to lighter topics.