Silver traces flickered across the surface of the longsword on his shoulder. By his ear, "she" spoke of Shade's understanding of "loyalty." The problem that had troubled Shade for more than half a month had been resolved last week, thanks to Mrs. Miles's simple love story from the Fifth Epoch and his own reflections. Now, he could say those words with a clear conscience. He had not expected them to even stir a reaction from the elements.
Yet he received no response from Leisha for a long time. Looking up, he saw the Blonde Young Lady gazing at the knight kneeling before her on one knee, her eyes red. When Shade looked at her, Leisha covered her mouth, doing her best not to let out a sob:
"Do you know? Dorothy is complaining about me right now, complaining that I didn't let her come listen to what you said just now."
"Do you still doubt me?"
"I have never doubted you."
With a clatter, Night Watchman was casually tossed aside. Then she took Shade's hand and pulled him to his feet, but did not kiss him.
"I'm such a fool, doubting something like this."
"According to my calculations, your time is almost here, so this is... Oh, don't hit me. What I mean is, if something is bothering you, say it. The matter of Green Lake is about to reach its conclusion. It's better to clear up your worries now than make mistakes when problems arise later. Remember, Leisha, please listen to me. Trust me."
"Yes, my knight. Didn't you say you weren't leaving this afternoon? Then all right."
She wiped at her reddened eyes and led Shade toward the bedroom by the hand. Only the cat remained standing on the windowsill, still unable to understand what had just happened.