by Scars Mate » April 18th, 2014, 8:22 pm
"I'd like to see them try," Rivera answered after a beat, gesturing with her free hand towards the dragons. She became acutely aware of Zaq's large hand linked with hers, raising goosebumps on her pale arms. For some reason, she felt at ease where she hadn't used to with physical contact, despite her body signalling otherwise.
As the Duke returned from his conversation with the others of high status, Rivera squeezed Zaq's hand seemingly out of reflex. A blush spread down from her cheeks to her neck as she realised what she'd done, but kept her eyes trained on the Duke.
"After some debating," he began, "we have decided to allow you to stay." The rest flew over Rivera's head after a sigh of relief. She caught a few phrases- 'so long as no harm should come to a member of this town due to your company' - 'accommodation and supplies will be given'- 'no more than three nights'- before they were led (albeit begrudgingly) to a house a small way from the town by an escort, with large pastures behind it for the dragons to lodge.
"There are three rooms to sleep in," the man leading them said stiffly. "I am sure than will be sufficient." He cast his eyes around the motley crew. "We will send others with clothes and such, and you may roam the town at your own leisure, but please do not scare the people." As he left, Rivera muttered:
"I'd be surprised if the people even let us get close enough to say three words to them." She gave a strained smile to the younger girls as they claimed one room, the boys the other, and Rhinnëa and herself the last, largest one. She became aware of how tired she was, so led the way past the cozy sitting room and well stocked kitchen and pantry, up the stairs to the bedrooms. Even after the household somewhat settled down, Rivera had had a shower and changed into leggings and a plain shirt, she couldn't get comfortable on the bed.
"I'm going to go outside for bit, okay?" She told Rhinnëa, giving her friend a warm but weary smile.