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Chapter Fifty-Four: Astrapi's Story
“I did not want you to take on that journey to Utzed,” said Astrapi, beginning his story, “But you were so angry with me, I knew you wouldn’t listen, so I joined the caravan as Suluu. It was easy enough as long as I didn’t let Thassa see me.”
“You believe I am the one to find Nicos on my own, but you didn’t believe I could be the one to find Utzed?” Ilryia was no longer angry, just incredulous. Astrapi’s concern for her sometimes showed itself in strange ways. Or not at all. Like when he had left her on Yxat.
“I’m sorry,” said Astrapi, “I know this is hard to follow at times, but I’m learning about you as we go. I am always amazed by you.”
Ilyria tried not to show how much his praise meant to her but then gave up and grinned happily at him. “Me too, actually,” she said. “I’m also sometimes amazed by me.”
They laughed together, Ilyria snorting flower tea from her nose which made them laugh even more.
They settled again, leaning t
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