Chapter 637: Intrusion
"Oracle! Have you been well?"
Gathrin’s voice boomed across the bridge, welcoming us onto the central island. He stood in the center of the road leading to the main gate, gauntleted hands resting on the cross guard of his massive great sword. The point was driven into the ground, gleaming duly in the glittering starlight.
"I feel fine," I said, giving the knight a slight curtsy. "Thank you."
"So respectful," he said, grinning.
Haven stepped forward, squaring with the remnant. "Lord Gathrin, it would please my lady if you referred to her in a more casual manner."
"It would?" Gathrin scratched his cheek, then his eyes lit up. Ah, that’s right. "I seem to recall you mentioning something about it."
"Seven times," Haven said. "Every day since she woke up."
"Really? I wasn’t certain she was being serious." He leaned over, peering at me with a slight furrow in his brow. "You ought to speak up a bit if you want to be heard."
"S-Sorry," I said, tail curling around my ankle. "I just...I’m not good at these kinds of things."
"Nonsense." the remnant patted my head, startling a squeak from me. "Considering your past and experience, you’re a wonderful leader. All you need is a little confidence. And stature."
"That’s hard," I admitted, fidgeting with my sleeve. "You can lift a castle with one hand, but me...? I can’t even walk here without catching my breath."