Lion Head Mesa Shinzō-byō

there was pain in satsu. maybe it was the pain within crowfeather mirrored back to him, or maybe it was something different. she tried to hide it, but there was no way to contain it all.

as the boy recited what he thougth he knew, satsu gave a small nod. her smile returned and was a touch more genuine, yet still she was tense.

was it wise to speak of these things? they had argued; he had assumed as much or remembered it, and satsu did not want another round of it.

that was the plan. you asked me to find someone to serve in this way, while you prepared some other things. methods to keep them hidden, and such. it was her turn to swallow a lump. but you... you lied, to me. to your friend.

her voice was kind. strained, but trying.

you sent me on this fool's errand, and went yourself. that is why you are this way, now. it was not only the wound that had caused this, but his own choices. his betrayal.