Narrator:
As Blackbird and Luther turn to leave, Ruth picks up her things to go. Anne places a hand on her arm to indicate she would like Ruth to stay. Ruth turns to listen.
Sister Anne:
Lady Ruth, I apologize for my outburst. I too consider myself a friend of
[pause]
Blackbird's and I have seen too many of my friends die, one of which I might have been able to prevent if I had acted differently. What you gave
[slightly shorter pause]
Blackbird seemed to have helped remarkably well. Would you be willing to share the nature of the contents of that bottle?
Ruth: [smiles nicely]
If you need the "Lady" tag, then it's Lady Katherine Stanton. But my friends call me Ruth. The bottle had in it things that will help her body heal, and to keep away headache, nothing more.
Sister Anne: [slightly frustrated - not that it shows]
Thank you for providing it Lady Stanton. Was there any reason for trying to hide your actions? If you wish your assistance to
[much shorter pause]
Blackbird's healing to remain secret, then I hope my gratitude and Blackbird's health will be sufficient reward.
Ruth:
Blackbird is from Waltham. Most of the Waltham clergy is so fearful of anything that might hint of magic that it is wise to be furtive with even the most mundane apothecary, lest some misguided soul scream "witch!" I don't know where you are from, sister, or your politics. But people from all over the realm are in this camp and I did not wish to take chances with anyone's sensibilities.
While I am second only to Jhereg in this camp, and much loved by the Royal Army, -
[she can't help but smilng at this, she also is quite fond of the Royal Army]
-I try not to court trouble. Your discretion would be greatly appreciated, sister.
Narrator:
Anne reads a few things between the lines. The first is that if it came down to it, the Royal Army would follow her, not Jhereg. The second is that "second only to Jhereg" is by Ruth's choice. And finally, that she would make a good friend or an uncomfortably powerful enemy.
Sister Anne:
I do indeed regret the actions of some of my fellow clergy, many who have become so misguided not only on the use of magic but also on what should even be considered magic. I have been doing considerable studies in the Library at York and much of what is believed of magic today is not what Bahamut intended. I guess that tells you where my politics lay.
[slight smile]
As to where I am from, that is an interesting question. I am originally from Hudson, where I was taught that all healing both that from Bahamut Himself and from herbs is good. Through a series of fate, my current home is in McKitrick. But most recently, I have spent most of my time in York. Your descretion on my politics would also be appreciated, Lady Stanton. Also thank you for the advice
[seeing Ruth's eyebrows raise]
- not to court trouble.
[sigh]
If only Blackbird will also follow your advice. Now, since our patient has recovered, I had best prepare myself for this evening's meal.
[bowing]
May next we meet under more pleasant circumstances.