Joji, Alaric, and Walter rode on Rizz's broad back like boys who had found a moving hill.
They ate with ease, passing chunks of jerky and hard bread between them, and Joji even fed Rizz now and then, letting the donkey chew while he walked.
"You're pretty strong, lil Rizz," Joji said, watching the animal's steady gait.
"Yeah," Rizz said, smug. "Maybe the universe finally cashed out for my past life's weak build. Because tell me why I do not feel tired at all."
Joji took that as a win. A mount that tired easy was not a mount. It was a promise that would break when you needed it most.
Alaric had a different opinion. His eyes kept sliding away, as if he could already hear the whispers that would come when people saw a knight riding a donkey.
Joji saw the worry and patted Alaric's shoulder.
"I don't care what people say about Rizz," Joji said. "It is my choice. That is final."
Alaric's jaw tightened. Helpless, he let it go.
