Side Story Chapter 16

In the ensuing awkward silence, Riftan could feel his ears burning as though he had revealed something shameful.

He kicked the ground for no particular reason and said brusquely, "Never mind. Forget I asked."

"N-No!" Ruth said hastily. "I'd be happy to. It's not that difficult of a spell."

Riftan detected a hint of elation in the mage's voice.

"It certainly isn't easy to sleep in a cave after all. Please, lie down. Allow me to cast you a wonderful illusion."

The mage talked as if he were pacifying a disgruntled child. Though this greatly peeved Riftan, his desire for rest was stronger. He obediently lay on the cave floor. Gravel dug into his back, and the peculiar, musty air of the cave tickled his throat with each inhale. Despite this, he was too exhausted to feel discomfort. He placed his bag under his head and hugged his robe about him.

Ruth bent down and hovered a hand over Riftan's eyes. "Try to summon the jolliest memory to your mind."