#rivervale_lodge

Gently, "You need to talk to him. Today."

"I am wondering if all of this was a big mistake."

"All of...what? College?"

Miserable nod.

"Nope. Not buying it. Dagmar, you resist change. You like things that are predictable, and when they're good, you don't want to risk them going bad. Right?"

"Right."

"And I understand that. But when things don't change for you, that means that they can't change for some others around you. This is a next step, not just for you, but also for your parents, for your brother, for your liege, and for your squire. And you need to give them the opportunity to take that step, by taking your own step."

"And things are changing anyways."

She nods. "They are. What other changes are you seeing?"

"Well, May's gone. And we DID graduate, and... there's Goldfinch, and..."

"And the changes won't stop. That's just the way it is. But you can do your best to be part of the changes and make sure they're good changes."

"And Dagmar, Connor loves you, and you love him. If you two work together, you'll figure out a good path forward through the changes."

"I do. As much as CJ."

"Yup. Hmm...you know, that should be part of the tasks you set for him. He'll need to be a big brother to CJ when you can't be there."

"And keep an eye on Tove, too."

"She can get caught up with toddler, and not always remember to be a skald or just... herself, you know?"

"Very true. And he's just the person to help get out of those moments."

"Oh yeah. When things are too much, he's great at making you laugh."

"Or helping you remember what's important."

"Totally. He's great."

"So...have him come over. Talk to him here. I'll be right here if you need help."

She nods. "It's the honorable thing to do, right?"

"I owe him that."

"Yes. And you'll feel better after you tell him."