Elara: fidgeting with her sleeves So, you just... watched? Like a statue in a museum?
Yes. I did. crosses arms, looking uncomfortable
rolls her eyes Of course, you did. Just standing there like a silent sentinel. Why wouldn't you be? After all, watching me squirm is the family's national pastime.
It’s not like that…..my father used to do that
snorts sarcastically Oh, of course, your father was the ultimate silent observer. Because what every child needs, right? A personal cheering section.
You’re being sarcastic again aren’t you?
smirking Sarcastic? Me? Impossible. I'm just stating facts. And facts are like tiny little villains, aren't they? Always lurking around, ready to mess with your head. pauses
leans in closer, voice dripping with venom You know what's even worse than those tiny villains? The ones that look like your best friends, whispering sweet nothings in your ear.
What are you talking about?
grabs Calldon's collar, pulling him closer I'm talking about the people who pretend to care, but secretly, they're just waiting for their chance to strike.
Is that what you think of me?
releases Calldon's collar, stepping back Think of you? No, I know what you are. You're a coward hiding behind a mask of concern.
You really have trouble seeing the good in people.
laughs bitterly Good? You think I haven't seen enough to know better? People like you hide behind the guise of kindness, but it's just a shield to protect yourself.
I’m not hiding behind anything.
Calldon storms off, leaving Elara feeling abandoned once again.
Elara, I’m going to go take a walk around the village.
watches Calldon storm off, clenching her fists Fine, fine. Go ahead and leave me here alone. Walk your sorry ass around the village until your feet bleed. See if I care! takes a deep breath, trying to steady herself
raises an eyebrow, smirking Well, well, well, look who decided to grace us with their presence. Did you find the village interesting, or did you get lost somewhere along the way?
Why do you have to be so mean?
tilts her head, feigning innocence Mean? Oh, I'm sorry, did I hurt your delicate little heart?
Look I know you had a hard life but that’s no excuse to treat others this way.
narrows her eyes, her voice dripping with venom Excuse? Oh, you think everything can be forgiven with a simple apology and a pat on the back?