Steaming Toad, came and sat by Gray Boar on the
hillside as he looked down on the village.
7 "Your mother and I have been talking," he began. "We know it might
seem too soon for you, but we would like to be mated. We are both
lonely. Neither of us will replace the ones we have lost, but we will
keep each other company and fulfill each other's needs until we join
Those our hearts desire, with The Lords. We are not children. We have
no illusions of love. We desire only each-other's companionship. We
know we do not need your blessing, but it would make your mother feel
good if you understand what we do and why we do it!"
8 Gray Boar put his hand on the man's shoulder. "You were my father's
friend, and your mate was my mother's friend. I am sure they will be
pleased that you share each-other's company. My mother's life is hers,
not mine. I do not rule it. She does what is good in her heart, and
that is always right. I hope you have many years to share her
companionship. But is there not just a little love?"
9 The man smiled. "Perhaps," he agreed, "a little. There is something
else, also, I wanted to discuss with you. Now that you will not have to
worry about your mother's care it may help. The villagers have gotten
together, all of us. Knowing how much money you have and how much we
have been able to raise, we have enough to send you to The University.
10 It is not a gift, it is a loan, but we will charge you no interest.
The interest shall be that you must use the knowledge you gain to serve
our people, that you must use the wealth that you will obtain for their
good, and never for selfish purposes."
11 Gray Boar laughed. "That is a bargain," he agreed, "I can easily
make! I put my word on it, and if you desire, I'll put it to paper!"
12 That you'll pay back the loans," answered his friend, "we'll put to
paper. But the interest we'll leave to
your honor. That is all
that will be needed!"
