Arthurian Cultivation

The next morning, even Bors commented on my appetite as I filled myself with hearty grub. I found myself in desperate need of energy, trying to fill the hole that my lack of sleep had created. It also offered the significant benefit of stopping me from grinning like an idiot. Appearing calm, even as my wondrous mood set my very soul dancing a merry jig, was far more challenging than I had expected.

It was bad enough that I was pleased Sephy wasn’t here. I don’t think I could have kept my face under control if she had been in the room. Part of the plan was that today we would stay separate. My ‘date’ with Maeve was nothing serious, just time spent publicly in each other’s company. We had decided on a subtle shift. While Sephy would be using the excuse of ‘family pressure’ to explain why she was restraining her own interests and more violent tendencies.

I waved goodbye to Bors, who was off to train with Arthur, Gawain, and Sephy, who had got up early. That left me alone with Lance, Gaz, and Kay. Gaz was in a good mood, explaining how Tiff had managed to negotiate staying for a couple of weeks once her diplomatic duties were done.

“We’re still working towards Iron. Lance is at the threshold, just needs to find her intent. I’ve got a few more treasures to consume. The witches are making some of the treasures into a brew for me, and I’ve got some Laughing Foxglove that I need to listen to.” I nodded as Gaz explained their plans for the day.

“You keep putting it off. Why is that?” Lance nudged him, and Gaz scowled.

“I know why. I was around to help collect those. I’d like to know the name of whatever bastard calls that ‘laughing’ so I can avoid their jokes.” Kay piped up. She was slowly getting better at becoming involved in our conversations.

“The only laughter it reminds me of is the kind that gives me flashbacks to having to pal around with those creeps back in Fosburg. The kind of laughter you only get when someone else is the butt of the joke.” Gaz shuddered, clearly upset by the memory. “Once I can get past that and absorb the glamour, I should be ready to take the next step.”

“At least you have your intent.” Lance crossed her arms.

“You do?” Kay asked, looking surprised. Gaz just nodded happily.

“It’s coming along. I’ve had an idea for a long time that’s only getting firmer.” Lance scowled and then tried to hide it. Far from unexpected from the competitive Squire. What did surprise me was that Kay did the same. I quietly tucked that observation away for later.

“Congratulations. It’s not an easy task.” I reached across the table to slap Gaz on the shoulder.

“Says Mr ‘I reached Iron in a month and a half.’” Lance growled. “I thought I might have an intent as well till I met that prissy blonde prick.”

“Do I have to point out again that you should be the last one making fun of his looks?” Gaz asked.

“His hair is always perfect!” she retorted. All of us stared at her shining, perfectly swept locks. Even Kay joined in. “Stop staring, my hair looked far better yesterday!”

“That’s not the defence you think it is,” I replied, which brought out a wave of chuckles. Our good mood was interrupted as Tristan ran into the room, his face a picture of worry.