[IRP] As Firm as a Mountain

[WyvernSlayer]

Laus, huh? Satsume turned Cecily’s name and title over in his mind a couple times. Funny that one from a place notorious for mage-hating would be found here.

“I do not have any reason to trust you,” Cecily continued. Satsume then had to endure all of her explanations as to why she allowed herself to be scooped up and carried off by a stranger. The whole time, Satsume lamented his decision to get involved. I should have just gone home instead of puttering around this blasted camp.

“…if you are indeed one of them, then drop the act,” said Cecily. “It’s not like I have the energy to resist you, nor do I deserve such pity.”

“You know, I could always drop you instead,” Satsume quipped. “I’m sure a good fall is JUST what your body needs after whatever happened to you.” He kept his eyes fixed on the trees, stepping carefully over and across the roots and branches. Cecily rested her head against his shoulder plate, seemingly trying to fight off the urge to retch. Satsume paused and looked behind him as she tried to breathe through the nausea. They were a small ways from the clearing – the only way they would be seen would be if someone was specifically looking for them.

“Let’s find someplace to lay low,” said Cecily.

“My plan is to bring you to my village,” he replied. “There shouldn’t be too much traffic there. We also have a doctor that can treat you proper.” Satsume knelt down and tried to gently position Cecily’s feet on the ground.

“We’ll make better time if I carry you on my back,” he added quietly. That, and my arms were getting sore. She still looked about ready to keel over, so Satsume steadied her against him as he turned round and stooped to one knee. The width of his shoulder plates made it difficult for her to lock her hands together across his chest, so Satsume gently settled his hands underneath Cecily’s thighs and hoisted her up. Ahh, much better, he thought. Now the only hurdle would be making sure his armor didn’t clatter too much.

“One more thing,” Satsume continued. “I’m not a knight. I don’t serve anyone. Just call me Satsume.”