Darrow unbuckled the sword at his side and extended it to Aedion. Silence began to ripple through the hall at the sight of the sword—Aedion’s sword. The Sword of Orynth. Darrow held it between them, the ancient bone pommel gleaming. “Terrasen is your home.” Aedion’s haggard face remained unmoved. “It has been since the day I arrived here.” “I know,” Darrow said, gazing at the sword. “And you have defended it far more than any natural-born son would ever be expected to. Beyond what anyone might ever reasonably be asked to give. You have done so without complaint, without fear, and have served
Darrow unbuckled the sword at his side and extended it to Aedion. Silence began to ripple through the hall at the sight of the sword—Aedion’s sword. The Sword of Orynth. Darrow held it between them, the ancient bone pommel gleaming. “Terrasen is your home.” Aedion’s haggard face remained unmoved. “It has been since the day I arrived here.” “I know,” Darrow said, gazing at the sword. “And you have defended it far more than any natural-born son would ever be expected to. Beyond what anyone might ever reasonably be asked to give. You have done so without complaint, without fear, and have served your kingdom nobly.” He extended the sword. “You will forgive a proud old man who sought to do so as well.” Aedion slid his arm from Lysandra’s shoulder, and took the sword in his hands. “Serving this kingdom has been the great honor of my life.” “I know,” Darrow repeated, and glanced down to Evangeline before he looked to Lysandra. “Someone very wise recently told me that Terrasen is not merely a place, but an ideal. A home for all those who wander, for those who need somewhere to welcome them with open arms.” He inclined his head to Lysandra. “I formally recognize Caraverre and its lands, and you as its lady.” Lysandra’s fingers found Evangeline’s and squeezed tight. “For your unwavering courage in the face of the enemy gathered at our doorstep, for all you have done to defend this city and kingdom, Caraverre shall be recognized, and yours forevermore.” A glance between her and Aedio...
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