“And William,” Crow teased, recounting the time he had fought with the short-tempered knight as Penelope listed all of the troubles they had overcome thus far. Looking back on it all, he felt a bit disconcerted though. It was strange how many times they had been attacked within the walls of Brerra. He couldn’t help but wonder if there was something else going on that they were missing. There was so much fuss over one mission. Even if it was to stop a war, he was surprised at the amount of backlash they had faced from people of their own kingdom. Why were so many people trying to stop them?

He looked up as Penelope went on to point out that they had some time left before they reached the castle. The new optimism on her face made him smile. Maybe she was right. Maybe they were worrying too much about something they couldn’t plan out yet. “I never thought I’d see you put play before work like this,” he gibed, nudging her blithely.

He looked at the horizon ahead of them. Even though they were in a wealthy area of Younis, the castle wasn’t yet visible in the distance. By that, he guessed they probably had at least three more days before they would reach it—plenty of time to spend doing anything besides trembling over the upcoming palace raid.

“You know,” Crow turned back to her with a grin. “It’s been a while since we’ve played my old game—the one where we exchange stories about ourselves. I’d like to learn a little more about you, if you’re willing to tell me. What was Penelope like before I met her?” He leaned in closer, lowering his voice. “I promise I’ll answer you more fairly now. No more vague replies or tricks.”