Swiftcurrent Creek Narrow streets of Cobblestone

He was defensive. Ashlar was equal parts embarrassed and warmed by the words the other man spoke on his behalf and the sureness behind them. He didn’t know, and didn’t understand, all of it. If he did he wouldn’t take Ashlar’s side so easily.

I promised. I told her the Rise was my home, but Chacal’s…. she lives on the cliffs. He explained, almost apologetic in the way he did so. He didn’t mean to leave so much aside. I thought I was helping her, but they don’t know me. I can’t be their father and it’s better that way. Avicus was first, and I gave my word. It’s… they’re my family. The Rise. He’d chosen and he hadn’t chosen the cliffs, so he deserved the role he’d been placed in. He did not blame Chacal for never revealing it, but he’d been near them enough to assume she’d hidden it by choice now. If she’d wanted it said she’d have said it.

I can’t be enough for anyone anywhere else. So I should stay where I am. He couldn’t be enough for the Rise either, but it was different there. Ashlar continued to look down, expression acceptance with a hint of doubt.

If he was honest, he’d felt lost in all ways but one. Without the Rise he wasn’t sure he would know who he was anymore. He did not want to find out.