Chapter 107: Return to High Valley
After I left Trithe, I retreated to my quarters and collapsed to bed, tossing and turning until the Sunpurge allowed me to sleep. Nightmares colored my sleep, but I felt better than I had for days the following morning. I was surprised, however, when I received an invitation to meet with Lord Griffon following breakfast.
The maid ushered me to his private study, where I found him scanning a scroll. His study was large and spacious, dominated by an imposing oak desk and brightly lit by several crystal chandeliers. Bookshelves lined every available wall, adorned with thousands of books, their titles ranging from political commentary to theology.
He glanced up as we entered and gestured to a padded chair across from him. The maid gently shut the door behind me, leaving the two of us alone. Tentatively, I sank into the chair, my heart aflutter as I settled into its luxurious cushions.
"Xiviyah, the Fate Hero," he murmured, laying aside the scroll and folding his hands. His gaze locked onto mine, unwavering. "Thank you for accepting my invitation this morning. I trust your accommodations were sufficient?"
I nodded shallowly, the tip of my tail twitching from a sense of expectation and tension in the air. After a long, searching pause, the Lord cleared his throat and relaxed his posture.
"I must request your forgiveness for my inappropriate question yesterday. It was not my intention to drive you from the banquet, and as your host, I deeply regret my actions. The dance that followed was enchanting, and many of our soldiers were disappointed by your absence."
"Then it might be for the best. I wouldn’t know where to begin-" I started, but he raised a hand.
"It’s not about the dance. You saved lives yesterday, and none of our men will forget it. We were ill-prepared for the assault on the Demon Gate and nearly paid a steep price for it. During our concluding war council last night, Commander Riven described you as an indispensable asset for the war, and I concur. We’ve conveyed this in our report to the Divine Throne, and I hope you receive due recognition."
"Thank you for your consideration," I replied, attempting to keep my response neutral. His eyes narrowed as a hint of despondency crept into my voice.