Elden Ring: Putrefaction of Gold

The Stoking of a Great Flame

Godwyn threw open the dining hall doors as Blaidd and Kenneth followed close behind. His clothes were still torn and dirty with blood and dirt. Had he been a mortal, such injuries might have been more severe. They stung, but Godwyn was far too angry to care.

"That fool," said Godwyn. "Does he care for anything other than his own ego?"

"A general concern is to win at their own game. And so there is no dishonor as such tactics when the goal is achieved," said Kenneth.

"At least we know Malenia is safe," said Blaidd.

"Safe? With that fool?"

"I do believe this faithful shadow is correct," said Kenneth. "And we shouldn't risk aggravating things in the name of either pride or false delusion of so-called 'honor.' Assuming the general has the senses to avoid tempting Marika's wrath. We should send word to Leyndell and await instruction regarding the appropriate response."

"You think I'm going to run and tell my mother?" said Godwyn.

"I can see how such a thing would come as a bruise to one's ego, but your mother also happens to be Queen," said Kenneth.

"I'm not going to prove him right," said Godwyn.

"With all due respect, our sole goal should be a swift resolution in this matter. And if that means a loss of pride, then so be it."

"I agree. Malenia's well-being should be our only concern," said Blaidd. "Besides, for all we know, she's having the time of her life. I know there were times Mistress Ranni wished for a good escape."

"What of Malenia?"

Rick had told Ranni about Godwyn's return. Away from the Leyndell and the gawking eyes of the elites, she no longer tried to hide her pregnancy or the fact she now shared her bed with Godwyn. The smaller-minded farmers and humble tradesmen had little time, or even the care, for gossip.

While such things did much to ease Ranni's burden, the struggle was still apparent on her face. She was exhausted most of the time and in doubt, as days passed alone. She missed her mother, who, in better days, would have been at Ranni's side to offer advice and support.

"Don't worry, Mistress Ranni. She's safe with Radahn," said Blaidd.

Ranni gave a sigh of relief and even a slight laugh, "What a fool! He said he would get back against thee. What a ridiculous way to do so."

Godwyn left the dining hall without speaking, leaving his companions confused.

He was shaking when he arrived at his bedroom and threw off his torn clothes. He scooped water from the wash basin to clean off his bloodied and dirty shoulders.

"Godwyn? What is the meaning of thy sudden retreat?" said Ranni as she opened the door.

"You knew?" he said.

"Of course not! I would have known Radahn to act so brazenly."

"But you knew he plotted something."

"I promise I knew nothing of this! It isn't like Radahn to make such a gamble."

"Not his way? Your brothers have done nothing but scheme since the day they arrived. I have shown them patience. I have afforded them courtesy. And I have been given nothing but contempt and disrespect in return. And you are acting surprised when your brothers have done this? What else are they plotting, Ranni?"

"I agree my brothers have not treated thee with even the slightest bit of respect. Nor do I look to excuse such actions. At the time, our course should be whatever is best for our little sister," said Ranni. "And I know my brother well enough to understand that his games often require two to play."