Page 45 of Savage Devotion
"Ironspine protection cord. While you hold it, clan honor guarantees your safety."
Truth. Traditional significance.
Also personal vow.
My word as bond for her protection.
My life as guarantee of clan commitment.
She accepts the cord with careful reverence, noticing the intricate braiding that represents months of careful work. Her touch speaks of understanding that this is more than simple trinket.
"What does it mean?"
Direct question. Cultural curiosity.
Personal significance.
Recognition of symbolic weight.
"Protection. Promise. Return." The words come slowly, each one carrying meaning with the surface definition. "While you hold it, I'm bound to come back."
Sacred vow. Personal commitment.
Clan tradition adapted for personal purpose.
Promise that transcends duty or obligation.
Her fingers close around the cord, grip firm enough to suggest acceptance of both gift and meaning. When she speaks, she matches the significance of the moment.
"Then I'll keep it safe until you return."
Promise given. Responsibility accepted.
Personal commitment rather than polite courtesy.
Understanding of symbolic significance.
Faith in my eventual return.
I nod, satisfied that she grasps the importance of what's passed between us. The war-cord creates obligation on both sides—mine to return, hers to preserve what I've entrusted to her care.
Bond established. Connection acknowledged.
Personal stake in successful mission completion.
Additional motivation for survival.
Garok clears his throat, gentle reminder that duty waits for no one's personal complications. "Time to ride."
Military necessity. Mission priority.
Personal desires must yield to clan obligations.
Always the same choice.
Duty before happiness.
I shoulder my pack and move toward the horses, pausing only to meet Ressa's gaze one final time.
