Chapter 73: Thron
Disheartened by my defeat, I fled the training grounds in shame. I wished to crawl up into my room and hide from everything, but that place was no longer mine. Revera had evicted me shortly before leaving, and I carried everything I had with me in the spacial pouch. My staff wouldn’t be left behind, floating behind me but within easy reach. I thought of putting it in my bag, but the thrill of excitement every time I looked at put that thought to rest.
There was one thing I had left to do, something I’d put off as long as I could. But, the day was getting on, and I’d been summoned to meet with the other heroes for a final feast around lunchtime. Resigning myself to walk, I strode with heavy steps to the library, a fervent prayer that he wouldn’t also ask me to smile.
"Xiviyah! I heard you’re leaving today," Thron said, raising his wrinkled hand to welcome me. His eyes sparkled brightly, glistening like the last rays of the setting sun.
My feet dragged the last few steps, weighed down with the burdens of my words with Selena.
The aged librarian frowned, putting down his quill and leaning over the counter. "I don’t think I’ve seen you this down since... well, to be honest, it happens a lot..." he said, scratching his head, "but farewells aren’t something to fear, young one. We all must say them at some point, when we die or before."
"I know," I whispered, "but it’s so hard. Can I ask you something?"
He nodded quizzically, and I took a deep breath before looking him in the eyes.
"Why?" I asked, blinking away the tears which already threatened to fall.
He gazed at me, blinking in confusion. "Excuse me?"