Something Something Learn Fast or Die

The tension in his shoulders started to relax, his quills flattening against his nape as he recollected his composure. Somehow, Mother Absinth had a knack for making him feel like she could read his mind. But she didn’t dwell on the same point for much longer- she continued in her teaching, moving onto the importance of considering one's options, especially in the face of danger.

His mind wandered for a moment, his great uncle Rhazien popping in his mind. He was always so eloquent with his words- he knew how to manipulate effortlessly, and if his silver tongue didn’t work, he could fight his way out of predicaments. Next, his mind wandered to his Father, the Sultan- how he always responded with blinding rage, and was quick to initiate violent assaults. Perhaps he could become a mixture of them both- the perfect mesh to fight or feint, but never run.

She may have claimed there was no shame in retreating, but Zagan had a hard time agreeing with that. Still, he’d listen to her teaching. She’d rather die than apologize for something she said. That sounded exactly like Mother Absinth. He wasn’t surprised.

"Zagan Saxe"