Role

Chapter 26

My fourth testimonial came from the Scribe, Kastravana Arcadian, a bard I met
early in my adventuring days. He would go on to be an Acolyte and the Cardinal
before he passed. He always brought me rose wine to drink as we spoke, and he
made it clear he had no doubt in my words and my convictions, but he wanted to
see deeds.

I made my way to the orphanage of Balator, armed with as many treats from the
Inn as I could find. There were so many young ones there, and though they seem
treated well, I knew then just the scope of endless war on Thera. These
children would grow and might one day end up making the exact same choice that
I had. But would they? Who was showing them the right path? Who was showing
them kindness in this world of misery?

I brought cakes, and fruits, and coin, and smiles. It never felt like enough.
Perhaps that sentiment is what persuaded Kastravan to say the kind words he did
for my benefit. What persuaded Kaide Zur'a Eskaal was, to me at least, more
elusive.

Kaide was the first Maran to provide testimony on my behalf. He had listened to
me and spoke with Dichael frequently on both of our redemptions. He was willing
to come forward even when his own Marshall had explained to me that so long as
I glowed red, he would hunt me. It meant all the more that Kaide was
unpersuaded by such zealotry, even if I understand it quite well. I had seen it
in many men, my father, my half-brother, Dichael, and so many more.

Despite this, I would soon see Kaide behave in a way that made me question his
faith, even if moments later he would be assured in mine.