#(super rusty

Sylphrena of the Kha.

The voice in the memory rang out clearly as she thought back to that day. She remembered the yurt where it happened, the smoke from the fire in the center rising between herself and the elders. Behind her gathered several others of the tribe. Eleven families who had been robbed of their children. Their husbands. Their wives. Eleven families who glared at the lone girl standing before the fire and the elders.

You were sent to Eorzea to learn. To protect those chosen to learn as well. By your own admission, they died due to your negligence.

She looked to her mother, who sat among the elders. The older woman glanced to her daughter, face unreadable, as she interrupted the charges levied against Sylphrena.

Elder Kholtan. I have no doubt that the negligence was not purely Sylphrena’s doing. Certainly the others bore some of this responsibility as well. They had watchers, did they not? They had warriors. To lay so much at the feet of one is hardly--

Altun, enough! Your daughter has freely admitted to this being her fault. You will not sway judgement simply because she is of your blood and you wish to protect her.

The others behind her murmured, shifting as they discussed what Sylphrena had told them. She left the camp to see someone. There was no relevant knowledge that the red haired woman would have given her. But she was drawn as a moth to flame. Not only was she not with her people, but she actively pursued relations with an outsider. Certainly this would be enough to expel her from the tribe. Her mother and the elders shouting ceased, and Sylphrena blinked as they directed a question to her.

What have you to say for yourself Sylphrena?

She opened her mouth to speak, but hesitated. 

I--I accept the judgement of the tribe.

The voices behind her began to rise, a cacophony that threatened to deafen her as Elder Kholtan rendered his judgement.

Then I hereby banish you from the Kha. You may gather your things and enough provisions to return to Reunion, but you will no longer be a part of our family.

The voices gave way to a deep, rumbling laughter, causing the woman to open her eyes and stir from her meditation. Darkness as deep and impenetrable as an abyss surrounded her. She blinked, staring forward as a single voice spoke to her now, coming from all sides.

The lengths you go to preserve your masks, darling Syl. Easy to lie when you make yourself believe it is truth, is it not? I quite enjoyed this performance. It was incredibly convincing.

The Xaela thinned her lips. “It is necessary. Others must believe these lies if I am to succeed in my task.”

But not Ros. You didn’t even hesitate to tell her your secret. A secret that could get you killed. Why?

Sylphrena felt her cheeks burn at the question, emotions stirring that she did not stop immediately. “Ros is different. She is...Trustworthy. Generous. I cannot lie to her. It would-- it would not be right.” The voice laughed around her again.

Careful my darling. If you’re not careful, you might get burned. Again. Do you think you’ll tell her that you were with her the night the sept died? I know you don’t blame her, but she might blame herself if you did. It would make for some...interesting discussion, I’m sure.

“Rosalyn does not need to know. It was not her fault. I chose to go. Their deaths fall solely upon my shoulders.” The voice cackled again.

Oh how you amuse me. Do tread carefully then, unless you would like for me to help. I’m certain I could only make the situation better for you.

The sarcasm was nearly palpable from the voice and Sylphrena shook her head. “That will not be necessary. Let us continue communion.” The Xaela’s eyes slid shut once again, but worry began to sprout in the back of her mind. She could tell Rosalyn, but if she did, would the woman blame herself? Would Rosalyn be angry at her for concealing this?

Do you hear the Angels Sing for you my baby? Men and kings have come to Bow to you.

Inspired by this post.