VALORIA WILDEROSE
A warm smile is nestled on her lips as she watches me. Her presence alone eases my anxiety in a way that can not be explained.
It's been a while, and I'm instantly filled with gratitude that she's here again. I'm not alone anymore.
Even if it's just for a moment. Even if she'll disappear again like she always does.
While still on the floor, I crawl forward and bow, long enough to show reverence before looking up at her again.
"You've gotten closer than anyone has in a long time, Valoria. I was right to have chosen you," she praises me, and my heart swells three sizes bigger.
It's pathetic how much I crave validation, but after a lifetime of being told I'm worthless, her words feel like oxygen.
But now I have more questions, staring down at the ruby in my hand. Now that she says it, it does look like the gem attached to the hilt of the dagger I've been looking for.
"I don't understand why it's here. Why among my mother's things?"
