In the starlit darkness of the Fingers even Hadama's eyes could not see his friend's blush, but he knew Harper well enough to guess at the other man's reaction to his compliments. The dive gave them both a moment to consider their words and think about what had been said, but the mermanta was pleased to hear his nickname in the Bond. Few enough among the Mer were so casual with their king, and it was refreshing to be reminded that there were still those who saw him as a friend first and a ruler second, and he did not hide his appreciation of that, or the heartfelt assurance that followed.
For the moment he simply accepted his friend's words, finding much in them to think about and holding his peace until he was certain of his own response.
In the meantime he listened to Harper's intention and sent a pulse of acceptance through the Bond at his wisdom. Yes, he agreed more soberly at the seriousness of what lay ahead of them. Waiting... indeed. A good way to put it. Torchline had been unusually quiet that year, like the stillness preceding a storm. Whatever you choose, I will respect it. Even if it meant the teacher and guardian would change his mind at the last minute. Such was his right, and their talk today held no binding promises.
There-- The tunnel had widened into a small cave, and a small shelf of stone extended above the water even at high tide. A pile of clothes and limbs was bundled atop it, still and peaceful. But as Hadama approached and lifted his trident above the water a hint of movement could be seen - the barest rise and fall of the person's chest, though they were otherwise unresponsive.
For the moment he simply accepted his friend's words, finding much in them to think about and holding his peace until he was certain of his own response.
In the meantime he listened to Harper's intention and sent a pulse of acceptance through the Bond at his wisdom. Yes, he agreed more soberly at the seriousness of what lay ahead of them. Waiting... indeed. A good way to put it. Torchline had been unusually quiet that year, like the stillness preceding a storm. Whatever you choose, I will respect it. Even if it meant the teacher and guardian would change his mind at the last minute. Such was his right, and their talk today held no binding promises.
There-- The tunnel had widened into a small cave, and a small shelf of stone extended above the water even at high tide. A pile of clothes and limbs was bundled atop it, still and peaceful. But as Hadama approached and lifted his trident above the water a hint of movement could be seen - the barest rise and fall of the person's chest, though they were otherwise unresponsive.
