“How has your ego survived, even with all those memories in your head? What kind of life did you live before this one?”
It was something I couldn’t answer.
All I could do was remain silent.
“Too bad. This could have gone quicker if you had some clue in mind. It exhausts me to stay in this form for too long, so I’ll let you live for today.”
Silverio practically purred the word “goodnight” before closing his eyes. The outlines of his body faded away until he was absorbed back into King Glenreed’s body, leaving not the slightest trace behind.
“…Do you feel any different, King Glenreed?” I asked.
“…It’s like something is holed up deep inside of me.” He stared at his hands, practically spitting the words with venom. “It’s infuriating. How could I turn my sword on you of all people…?”
“Your Majesty?!”
He put his hand to his brow. Once he started to slump over, I grabbed him and brought him down gently to the sofa.
“Why…am I…so drowsy…?”
“Backlash from Silverio leaving so fast.” Lord Featherio was the one to answer him. He stared down at us. His normal, authentic way of speaking had returned. “You’ll recover once you sleep. Probably.”
“Probably…”
That wasn’t reassuring. But I helped King Glenreed lie down, fixing his clothes to make sure they wouldn’t wrinkle.
Moving my hands with a purpose allowed me to finally feel a bit less helpless. Once I confirmed King Glenreed was asleep, I looked up at Lord Featherio.
“Thank you, Lord Featherio. Your support has been a great help throughout everything.”
Silverio would have killed me if Lord Featherio hadn’t forced his way into the drawing room through the large window. I owed him my life.
“Repayment for your food. I would be sad if I couldn’t eat your cooking anymore.”
When he said that, he brought the tips of his white wings down to my head. The feathers tickled my scalp. I found myself giggling.
“Wh-What are you doing…?”
“I heard this helps humans when they’re upset.”
He draped his white wings across my head, just barely touching me. It seemed he was trying to stroke my hair without using his hands.
“Hehe! Thank you.”
His straightforward, awkward expression of kindness sunk into me deeply. It felt like my tired heart had found a bit of relief. I thanked Lord Featherio and centered my thoughts around what was to come next.