The Gravity of Competence - Part 1

"You've already served me well," Oliver said awkwardly, and he meant it. "If you're sure you're fine with doing it, then I definitely won't be turning you down. I'm not that nice a person. I really can't see what's in it for you. But your assistance would be greatly appreciated, Verdant."

"That's it?" Amelia hissed. She was suddenly standing behind them. Maids were cleaning up the plates that she'd shattered, and she'd dismissed herself as though it was nothing to do with her, inserting herself into Oliver's conversation instead. "That's not how you're meant to swear retainership… it's meant to be much more, y'know, ceremonial…"

"Do not worry yourself, child. I will swear my oath to my liege before the shrine of Bohethomia. The God of the Oceans will recognize my promise, and hold me to it," Verdant said, seriously.

"But that isn't…" Amelia wanted to protest more, but she cowered beneath Verdant's gaze.