The Boar's Head 2

[Bungleau]

“Did you not,” continued Missy, “comfort the living with the confirmation of Gliebott’s passing? And release D’Soto from the bonds of this world? And put to rest spirits of all sizes who were still stuck in this tortured land?”

[bsftcs]

“Yes, I did,” said the Valkyrie, standing a little taller and prouder. “Perhaps there are still things of this world that can help the spirit world.” She opened her envelope and read the contents. “Minister of Spiritual Healing. Hmmm... that may be worthwhile.”

[bsftcs]

The bard looked around nervously. “Ya know, all this stuff is good fun, but I’m not so sure I’m ready to settle down just yet. There’s a lot more road out there that I haven’t traveled, a lot more song that I haven’t sung, and a lot more brew that I haven’t drunk.” He slid the envelope into a pouch. “The future’s not known until it’s known, right?”

[bsftcs]

Stackman smiled. “Do you think that your wishes are known only to you?”

[bsftcs]

The bard held still for a long moment, and then retrieved the envelope. “Dean of Itinerant Minstrels,” he read. “Why, I don’t have to say put! The cobblestones under my heels, the wind in my hair, the fair gaze of a gentle maiden... wait a minute!” Stopping for a moment, he rummaged for a writing stick. “Got to write that one down,” he muttered.

[Bungleau]

The party celebrated their new recognition and respect in the Gael Serran with toast after toast to their prowess and accomplishment.

During the festivities, Missy withdrew and slipped toward the back door. As she pushed it open, the faint sound of a foot scraping on stone halted her, and with her wizard’s blade palmed in one hand, she turned.

[bsftcs]

The valkyrie had noted her departure, and had followed her. “Do you not want to know what the future holds?” she asked.

[Bungleau]

Missy shook her head. “I have seen the past, and the future. The past holds bitter memories to hold you down, and the future holds illusions to draw you away. I can only live in the present, where I know how little I know.”

[bsftcs]

The valkyrie nodded. “I see. And I understand. Have you...” Her voice trailed off.

[Bungleau]

Missy faced her. “Yes, I spoke to Munsey at the Temple. The life of a valkyrie is a noble one, and one I am not able to live. At least, not now. I am surrounded by too many spirits of my past, and my blade is too sharp and quick.”