The pair of cousins sat there, each contemplating the future in their own ways. In both of their cases that time ahead seemed alive with potential. The meaning of the competition had been reassembled by others into a source of tension between them - now it held the kind of challenge that could strengthen their bond rather than divide them.
One young man felt his own filial weights become just a little lighter… perhaps borne instead by the one beside him, though she didn't show any strain.
"Like you said, Qatrand… I already told you I would compete fairly. I don't expect you to do any differently. If you need someone to talk to in the future - while I can't promise to always help, I'll listen."
He was glad that he let himself be nosy this time. This chat of theirs seemed to have helped them both. The swordswoman he spoke to looked away from him and back into the stars - and smiled like there was something there waiting for her to look at it.
