Despite her numerous failings, Heartfire has always kept track of her family. Though it had grown large and varied, she could recount from memory each of their faces and names. Had Leilan asked, she could tell him exactly what he wished to know of her father and Vi. She could even tell him where her mother and father had hidden themselves away, though she likely wouldn’t. She might be privy to many secrets, but that does not mean she spills them so easily.
Even to an uncle.
But, in the end, that is neither here nor there. Perhaps one day, they might share more. For all her knowledge, she is not prescient. But for today, she is tired and wishes rest more than anything. Certainly far more than an inquisition. She eyes Leilan as he urges her to discuss her feelings with someone. Anyone.
She nearly laughs when he suggests Dovev. The thought of making herself so vulnerable before him is unsettling (and terrifying, though she would never admit to such a thing, even to herself). But that is hardly something she could share with Leilan, given how much unpacking even that would require. Instead she merely shakes her head.
She doesn’t answer the question either. Dovev has always had an aversion to sharing his name, and though Heartfire finds it a little silly, neither is she one to break trust over such a small thing. Instead she peers along the beach the direction in which Dovev had gone, brow faintly furrowing before flicking her gaze to rest briefly on Leilan once more.
“Perhaps we can discuss this in more depth at some point, but today is not the day.” It’s a non-committal response and a vague promise of a future meeting, the best she can do given her current mood. She stares at him for a long moment, before dipping her head in a faint farewell, a concession of sorts. They would meet again, and soon, she has no doubt. But for today, she takes her leave.
i see your sins
and i want to set them free
