Re: Chapter 2, Phase 3 Intermission - Kiana's New Duty
Kiana listened intently while the two of them spoke, very little betrayed in her mostly neutral face. All of the changes that had surrounded Kiana as of late had not had a noticeable effect on her, but it would be a lie if one said she was unfazed by it all. In truth, the rapid pace of current events troubled the girl, and left her feeling out of control. And for an Earth Aspect, that was a very scary feeling indeed.
She looked between the two of them, and then glanced down in thought. She studied the ornate lines carved into the Jade boots she wore, lines she dotted on and polished every night before she went to bed, whispering prayers in hopes that her father might hear her, and recently, take pride in what she had accomplished.
Leading men spur of the moment was acceptable, as there had been little options otherwise, but this was different. Taking command of a unit was a serious responsibility, especially given the duties that unit would be held to. Security and safety, the assurance that when danger struck, they would strike faster and harder. At first she was tempted to turn down the offer. There was no sense in bringing down more attention to herself. Her tactics were not hers alone, but also those of her father, and if word spread that such tactics were used, that was yet another lead for her mother. She looked up, ready to shake her head sternly to the offer, when the wind blew gently from the west.
Kiana tilted her head appreciatively to the cool breeze, and then froze. Something in the wind caught her ear. It sounded like a whisper...or perhaps it was just a fond, distant memory that she could not completely fathom, but the words of her father resounded, ever so softly.
"One day you will lead our Armies, my dear heart, of that I have no doubt..."
It was profound, that moment, and thought she was already doubting she had heard anything at all, save for an extremely feeble gull, it changed her mind. Instead of a stern shake, she offered the two of them a small smile and a quick nod.
"I would be honored to serve in such a way, Captain Lasuri." She said, then looking to Jadira. "And thank you for the kind words, Jadira. Hopefully that day will come, sooner than later, and I would be eternally grateful for any allies...any friends who would brave such trials by my side."
She looked out to the sea that Lasuri had been gazing at so intently for a moment, and then turned back to face him. "I will happily train any men or women you provide me, Captain, and will do my best ensure they provide this ship with the utmost of protection." She paused for a moment, and then after a few moments added, "Will there be any other duties this new role will require, sir? And..." She gave an unusual blush but remained steady in her speaking, "...will this be an official position and rank within the crew, sir, or is this off the record?"