Dedication: For Tris's birthday. Happy Birthday, my dear friend!
Disclaimer: Not mine; all belongs to Tamora Pierce.
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The Giantkiller.
Raoul placed a large hand on her shoulder, but it was small comfort.
'I have to,' he said softly.
'Why?' Her words were harsh with bitterness. 'You've retired now!'
His hand squeezed. 'It's a giant.'
Buri's eyes fluttered shut. 'And that's supposed to make it more acceptable?'
It was hard to know what to say to that. He had already made his decision, but he had not expected such anger from her.
'I'll be fine, Buri.'
'I don't want you fine,' she hissed through clenched teeth. 'I want you here, where you're supposed to be.'
He bristled slightly. 'Buri, I understand your anger, but my place is at my King's side.'
'I can't see Jonathan facing this giant with you.'
'You know he would if he could.'
She sighed. 'So you'd choose your liege over your wife?'
Raoul frowned at her. 'That's not fair. I took an oath. Wouldn't you choose Thayet over me?'
'Thayet doesn't ask me to kill a violent ten-foot creature!' she hissed, trying to restrain her anger.
'Eight.'
She glared at him. 'Small difference as far as I'm concerned.'
Chuckling, he replied, 'Trust me, it makes a difference.'
'How can you be so light-hearted about this!'
'Buri,' he said, remaining calm, 'I've gone up against other giants, as well you know.'
'Yes, mister "Giantkiller", but you were younger then.'
'Are you saying you don't believe I'm capable anymore?' He looked- and sounded- sincerely hurt. Buri sighed.
'No, I'm not really saying that. But I don't think you should be the top of Jon's list anymore! You're not as agile and fast as you once were and there's plenty of younger knights easily as capable.' His hand dropped from her shoulder and he turned his face away from her. 'You've done your part for the Kingdom and for Jon over and over again, Raoul. Now it's time for you to be at home with your family and Jon needs to realise that. Have him send someone else; Kel, for a start, is more than able to kill one giant.'
'So you would have me jeopardise the live of a young commander to keep me safe?'
'Raoul, you're twisting my words.'
'Am I?' His tone was harsh, and it surprised her.
'Raoul, what's gotten into you!'
'I thought you of all people would have understood, Buri.' His voice had softened again but he kept his eyes averted from her. 'You've served Thayet all your life; how can you criticise me for serving my King?'
She stiffened- her features freezing in an empty expression- as resignation set in. 'All the way then?'
He nodded, walking towards the door. 'Until death.'
'I love you,' she said quietly.
Raoul paused and half-looked over his shoulder, his posture sagging a little. 'I know.'
The door closed behind him.
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