Chapter 3682: Starting Point (Part 1)
“Your husband took a lot from us, but he gave us much more, Kamila.” Syrah said. “I wouldn’t be here drinking tea and eating sweets if it weren’t for him. I’d be sitting in a room, worrying whether starvation or the undead would kill my people first.”
“You are stronger than I am, Syrah.” Kamila replied. “In your shoes, I don’t think I could forgive Lith so easily.”
“In my shoes, you would have done the same.” The Hati Queen shook her head. “After everything I’ve gone through, after the horrors I have perpetrated on the weakest of my own kin, I’ve learned how grey Mogar is.
“Without Lith, my son would have been forced to become an adult in days and take the burden that belonged to his father. It’s thanks to Lith that Xagra is still a child who can laugh and play.
“That my people don’t live with the uncertainty of when and if they’ll have their next meal. As I said, I’ve gained more than I lost. I don’t like how things played out between your husband and me, but I never liked much about my life.
“Until now.” Syrah poured herself another cup of tea, enjoying its rich smell.
Then she looked at the sun, glad at the idea that she could relax without the fear a terrified human might try to kill her on sight. She took a few sips before asking:
“Is what Lith did to Ryla the reason you requested to participate in this meeting, Kamila?”
“Yes, but I was waiting for the opportunity to ask you in private if you want Aalejah to hear what I have to say.” Kamila cleared her throat in embarrassment.
“I can leave, if you want.” The elf straightened her clothes and stood up.
“We are not friends, but you have been loyal, cousin.” Br’ey gestured for Aalejah to sit down. “It’s more than we can say of most people in the Council. You can stay.”
“Thanks.” The elf nodded. “What’s wrong with Ryla? I mean, she’s gotten more beautiful and a bit plumper in the right places, but that’s the joy of a quiet life.”
Everyone could hear the envy in her voice. Aalejah dreamed of a life where she could just sleep and eat for days until the fatigue of the past months was but a bad memory. Alas, she had to work to earn her keep.
‘Not everyone has a Magus as a friend of their step-son.’ She inwardly grunted.
“It’s not that simple.” Syrah stared at the Fomor in a mix of curiosity and renewed resentment. “Something changed in Ryla’s life force.”
“Yes, but I’m not the expert. Give me a second.” Kamila called Quylla, and by the time she arrived, Urhen the Balor had returned from Zelex.
“Sorry for the wait.” Quylla burped, releasing the smell of ham, pickles, and honey. “I’ve been delayed.”
“Yeah, the pantry tried to stop her, but Quylla fought bravely until there was nothing left.” Morok nodded. “By the way, Kamila, you need to restock.”
“Morok!” Quylla turned beet red.
“Yes, my little famished troll?”
“How can you say that in front of our guests?” Quylla blushed harder. “What if they take it as a racial slur?”
“Good point. Do you take monikers based on your people as racial slurs?” Morok asked.
“Not at all.” Syrah, Br’ey, and even Urhen laughed from the heart. “Using the names of our races as a sign of affection instead of an insult is a nice change of pace.” fɾeeweɓnѳveɭ.com
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