Page 44 of Savage Devotion
Inevitable development.
Too late to change course now.
I finish equipment preparation in silence, hyperaware of her proximity as she sorts through defensive supplies and reviews camp layout. Her tactical thinking adapts quickly to orc methodology, integrating clan practices with human efficiency.
Natural talent. Proper instruction.
She'll hold this position successfully.
If anyone can protect our interests here, she can.
Personal confidence backed by professional assessment.
Garok approaches as I secure my travel pack, expression showing readiness for departure. His horse shows signs of recovery, head up and alert despite the hard ride that brought him here.
"Ready when you are."
Time to leave. Mission waiting.
Duty calls. Personal considerations must wait.
Always the same choice.
Always the same sacrifice.
I turn to face Ressa, noting the way her expression combines professional understanding with something that might be personal concern. She recognizes the danger inherent in reconnaissance operations, the possibility that this could be goodbye rather than a temporary departure.
Military reality. Occupational hazard.
Death waits at every mission.
Sometimes it wins.
"Kaelgor."
My name. Spoken with weight.
Meaning beyond simple address.
Personal connection acknowledged.
I meet her gaze, searching for words that convey appropriate meaning without exposing vulnerabilities that could complicate an already difficult situation.
What to say?
How much to reveal?
Professional courtesy or personal truth?
Instead of words, I reach into my belt pouch and withdraw a section of braided war-cord, three strands of leather and metal wire twisted together in the pattern that marks clan identity and personal honor.
Sacred object. Symbolic significance.
Gift of protection and promise.
Trust made tangible.
I hold it out to her, noting the way her expression shifts to recognition of its importance even without understanding specific cultural meaning.
