Pursuit of the Sun 1.2

Gautier takes his place in the lodge between Geoffroy and Zuricha, doing his best to maintain proper etiquette while concealing his embarrassment, fatigue, and injuries. "Yes, brother," the marshal said, patting his adopted brother on the shoulder and offering him wine. "Who would have thought... Three years of unbroken victories in the Knight Tournaments, and the first time you compete in a foot tournament, you suffer such a disappointing defeat. Well, there's always room for improvement." "I'm not getting any younger, Geoffroy. Of course, I'll train harder. Of course, I'm glad for a worthy challenge, but... this is already the twilight of my career." "Twilight awaits us beyond the sea... And I'm glad that fate has offered us a new warrior today—whatever the nature of his strength, it will serve the expedition well." "Do you want to deprive me of even a glorious death?" Gautier smiles sincerely, draining his cup. "Yes, yes, I haven't forgiven you for warning me about your plan at the last minute, and now this... another blow below the belt." "Are you going to cry?..." The marshal winks at Zuricha. "I know you won't. Maybe it's too early for you to die in the abyss; so many people would be upset. Right, Lady Silkweb? Forget it. You'll never be the best at everything. And neither will I. And neither will this strange newcomer. We are all always losers in something." "But why?" "It's simple..." ... With these profound words, the brothers' dialogue ends. Fortunately, the wine smooths over the awkward silence.

Added 13 minutes ago

- I will come, - Cassius replied briefly.

The silent warriors silently disperse, and Cassius, no longer of interest to the crowd, is left to himself.