Shady

“That’s good to know,” Rana said, glancing at him. “Don’t the Loquiturs have two daughters my age, though? Isn’t that kind of what started this mess?”

Rana shrugged again, looking at the far wall for an excuse to not look at him. “I’ve never been free to do as I please. Why should I expect it ...

“Undoubtedly.” Rana shrugged, leaning up against the wall. “It is what it is. I think I’m coming to terms with the idea, depending on who says yes to his offer.”

Rana hesitated, blushing and avoiding eye contact, then gave a hesitant shake of her head. “He… rarely does, to be honest.”

“Presumably,” Rana confirmed with a nod. “… then again, it seems my father had plans I wasn’t aware of. So it’s hard to say what his actual intent is… sorry ...

Rana nodded as well and took another drink of water.

“That’s respectable,” Rana answered, glancing up at him. “I’m not saying there’s never a good reason for bloodshed. Of course there are valid exceptions. I just mean, as a rule.”

Rana shrugged. “I don’t want survival if it comes at the cost of someone else’s life. Would much rather just make an honest living and leave others alone.”

“Couldn’t agree more.” Rana nodded vigorously. “I’m very much a live and let live sort of person. Never could understand why people feel a need to force their beliefs and ...

Rana rolled her eyes before she had a chance to think about it. She quickly focused her gaze on her water, hoping he hadn’t noticed. “For sure. Some people find ...

“That’s good to hear,” Rana said. “I’ve got no problem with religion, but it’s a shame when people insist on closing everyone else’s mind in addition to their own.”

“Was the oral tradition moderately well preserved?” Rana asked. “I know some places religious fanatics tried to alter history when they invaded a region. Did your fief have anything similar ...

“Probably too focused on staying alive.” She smiled playfully. “You know. Getting water and all. To be worried about literature.”

“Makes sense. I guess I never really thought of how you’d go about getting water when everything is frozen. Must have been a pain to dig it out.”

“Fair enough.” Rana sipped at her water and smiled. “This is much better, though. Refreshing.”