Bab 42: Are You Certain?

"I… I apologize for screaming, Lord Isis."

Lysine grew flustered as she bowed before.

"No… it's okay. I think I've gotten used to that reaction now. Anyway, please don't call me "Lord Isis" anymore. Just Valac should suffice."

Lysine hesitated, her cheeks tinted a faint pink as she straightened up. "Just… Valac?" She seemed to test the name on her tongue, which obviously didn't sit well with her.

Valac offered her a small, reassuring nod.

"Yes. Just Valac. Titles don't mean much to me, especially… not anymore." His voice softened as he shrugged. "Life's a little changed for me now. I can't have the fairy queen calling me lord. Just treat me as a friend."

Lysine's expression softened, and a flicker of empathy crossed her face. "If that's what you prefer, then… Valac, it is." She met his gaze, her previous fluster forgotten.

"Thank you, Valac. For everything."