Look a squirrel

Madeline watched Deyran as his words unfolded, her own composure softening with the weight of his confession. For all his strength, for all the skill and resolve he had built over the years, there was still something raw and unhealed within him—a truth he had yet to reconcile with himself.

She didn’t rush to respond, allowing the silence to cradle the moment. Instead, she let the firelight play between them, its warmth a steady presence amid the emotional current.

Finally, she stepped closer, her movements deliberate and calm, and met his gaze with steady resolve.

Deyran, she began, her voice gentle but resolute. You were never nothing. You’ve faced more trials than most men would dare dream of, and you’ve carried burdens that would crush the weak-hearted. But you endured. Even when the world gave you every reason to give up, you endured. That is why I chose to take you in.

Her words were measured, each one laced with a certainty that left no room for doubt. Madeline wasn’t one to deal in empty reassurances, and she wouldn’t start now.

What you’ve built since then, the man you’ve become—that’s all you. Yes, I’ve guided you, trained you, and given you the tools you needed. But the strength to rise again, to keep moving forward when everything seemed lost... that was already inside you.

She folded her hands before her, her expression firm but not unkind. As for gratitude... if you feel it, honor it. Not with words, but with actions. Not for me, but for the person you’re becoming. Because if you truly believe you were nothing, then every step you’ve taken since proves just how wrong that belief was.

Madeline’s tone shifted slightly, a flicker of dry humor breaking through the gravity of the moment as she arched an eyebrow. And for the record, emotional honesty is hardly a sign of weakness. Though if you insist on attributing it to an illness, I’m sure I can find a poultice for that.

She let the corner of her mouth lift in a small, fleeting smile before the seriousness returned to her gaze.

Deyran, she said again, quieter this time, you have what it takes to be more than you’ve ever imagined. But it’s up to you to embrace that truth. The tools, the training, the choices—they’re all in your hands now. Don’t waste them.

Madeline stepped back then, giving him the space to process her words, her arms folding as she settled once more into the calm, watchful presence she’d always been for him. She’d said what needed to be said, and now it was his turn to carry it forward.

@Deyran