THE VEINS OF MY CITY

The kiss is reassuring, despite the woman?s evident nerves. She responds with a reverent kiss on her Aunt?s cheek; Virgil may be at the head of the family, but that does not mean she holds no respect for her elders, or that she holds no respect for her family?s Oracles. Despite her sins, she cares deeply for tradition. She simply finds herself in darkness for now, her heart shrouded and pained. ?I need to speak with you about a few things. First, I seek to betroth my children off. I will need your approval for this, of course. I was hoping to marry Gaia off to one of Viridiana?s children; she?s the leader of Covari, which has gathered quite the empire of alliances. I know you will need to meet the options first, but I simply wish to know your thoughts on this,? she says. A betrothal has been offered nonetheless, but Virgil still seeks advice.
?Secondly, and I know you probably already do this, I?d like to request you mentor Gaia. She has so much potential, and I?d like to make her Princess when she turns a year old,? she informs her Aunt. There is more news, but she pauses so they can discuss the things that will not anger her melanistic Aunt first. They will move onto Virgil?s heavy heart, and her heavy sins later.