LOREN
Loren wished he had a better response to Abasi’s comments. Unfortunately, the summoner had been shown the horror that the monsters could inflict, and he knew people were right to fear. However, people had also assured him that they had done everything they could to keep the darkness at bay and the deaths to a minimum. He just wished that brought him more peace of mind. Still, he needed to respond to the other man’s comments in a way that was honest, but comforting. ”I think it is both wise and foolish, and that the truth of the matter is that we should all feel confidence tempered by common sense. The monsters are powerful, and from what I understand that some will die this LongNight, either through their own folly or some unforeseen tragedy. However, we have done everything possible to ensure that most will survive.” That wasn’t all that soothing, at least to the Launceleyn. However, maybe it would help Abasi understand what they were up against.
As the other man stood up to move closer—and brought the sheet with him, a fact Loren noted with slightly narrowed eyes—the Launceleyn turned his own chair to face Abasi’s. Apparently, Astra wouldn’t be getting her scratches. Her ears dropped as she returned to the summoner’s side. Indeed, she looked so pathetic and dejected that he couldn’t help but laugh (though there was no malice, only joy in it), before giving her side a good rub. That was enough to restore the luxere’s spirits, and she gave a contented bleat before settling at his feet once more.
”She’s certainly more intelligent than most animals, though not to the degree of a person. We can sort of...sense one another, in our minds.” Emotions more than thoughts, obviously, though it had taken the Launceleyn a long time to recognize the connection for what it was. ”I named her.” His voice came out a little sadly: she’d been given the name of the other light of his life, his (full) sister, who’d sadly failed to make it to Caido.
Abasi’s movement had made Loren realize how chilly it was in the Rathskellar. Rubbing his hands together, he gave the other man a considering look. ”Chilly, isn’t it? We can probably find a better way to keep you warm.” There had to be blankets somewhere, though the summoner found he was reluctant to move.
Then again, there were other ways they could keep warm, and the summoner bit his lip as his thoughts strayed that way. Although he didn’t know if Abasi had been flirting back in the Manor, it was hard to interpret being called attractive as anything but flirty. Then again, maybe the Launceleyn was just feeling lonely and scared and he was looking for comfort in all the wrong places. It certainly wouldn't have been the first time.
A beggar's book
outworths
a noble's blood
