"Mother..! Mother! Answer me, mother! I have been attempting to get your attention for some time now..."
His words had shocked her at first. “Mother” had such an odd sound to it. She herself had used it many times, in her youth. However, being called such held a certain unexpected weight to it. The battle they had shared earlier in the day had been heated and long. The young man had eagerly offered her refuge in his army’s camp for the night. A hot meal and a warm bed were hardly things the nomad felt she could turn down after such a strenuous day.
The prince’s tone made obvious his own beliefs in the matter. A deep sigh escaped from Lyn’s lips. “I apologize, my lord. I do not seek to cause distress. However... I believe you are mistaken in your assumption. While your skill with a blade is admirable, it is far removed from Sacaen swordplay. Your features are much too broad, and your skin too fair. It seems that you’ve wedged yourself into a sensitive position. I loathe to offer you disappointment, young prince. I have no children, I’m sorry.
“My nature, that of a nomad, may indeed make such assumptions viable. However, I would be well aware, had I given birth to such a fine young man. Are you so far removed from your parents that you grasp at every hope that you might see them?”
Lyn’s mouth quickly closed on the matter upon realizing the harshness of her tone. Her eyes fell, focusing for some time on the writhing flames of the fire-pit. “Forgive me. I do not mean to sound callous towards the matter. Rest assured that were I your mother, I would be very proud of the warrior you’ve grown to be. I do not know much about you, Marth. However, I saw your skill in combat, as well as your ability to lead. Whatever your mission is, I’ve no doubt in my mind that you’ll see it through to the end--and rise from the ashes of this crusade, victorious.”
With those words, show slowly rose from the ground, her head dipping in a polite farewell. “I believe I should get some rest, my lord. If you would be so kind, please speak to me before your departure tomorrow. I’ve some matters to think on; some things I believe you’ll wish to hear. Goodnight, and thank you for the hospitality.”