Re: The Final Chapter
For her part, Dyanna frowns silently as the men of the group flex their muscles for each others' benefit. Even the boy has to show his steel, though she is touched by the fact that he looked first toward his Aunt before answering the blow; she noted closely as well her Aunt's wisdom in not standing as his guardian, rather allowing the boy to stand on his own.
When the men finish their speeches she looks at the Prince and asks simply, "If one looked at your sister, or your mother, or your Aunt in the way you looked at me, Highness, what would you have done?"
Turning to the Frank she adds, "Thank you, Sir Jean, for such chivalry. Though not necessary, it was appreciated."
Turning to Balthazar, "Though such has been the case such stares have not always been welcomed, Sir Mage. Have I not also been an integral member of this party, my magic and my bow critical to our stand at the gates, my magicks critical to the defeat of the mongrels as they left the town?"
Calling to all, she adds a bit haughtily, "No chattel for any man am I! If you are worthy of my loyalty, Highness, you shall have it. But I am a free woman and will not take ill treatment lightly."
"Now, if you're done posing, may we talk about what we're to do when we reach Kiev?"