illia.
“…fine, you got me.”
She’d pretend that it was because she was hungry, but it was really because he was one of the most convincing people she knew. Perhaps this was just a quality he had over her,but that was to contemplate later.
“We celebrate differently where I’m from.” she walked with him easily. “The days we came of age and earned our inkings. Which is convenient for me, because I have no idea when I was born– but what I mean is, here are no special days for everyone, like this.”
she listened to him, which might be the most surprising thing that’s happened today, and he offers her an encouraging smile as she slings up her bow and falls into step beside him. “ i get it. i’m not great at celebrating either. but it’s not like you’re the focus, or that any of us are. we’re just there to – spend time together. outside of the darkness.” it’s weak at best, but he’s trying, smiling down at her – even going so far as to offer her his arm, cheeks tinged pink. “ it’s food and warmth and a good time, and they’ll probably try to drag you into a game of wicked grace eventually. don’t worry. plus….the food’s good, from what i hear. “
“You’re going to eat something other than hardtack and preserves today?” she snorted. “A Saturnalia miracle if I’ve ever heard one.”
Despite having a laugh for him,where she gripped her bow was crystallizing, frost like expensive lace growing up the wood.


















