Matthew reflexively hides his bond-cord behind his back at that remark. Then, reconsidering, he brings it back into view, nodding solemnly at Markus's true words.



"The freeborn has a point, Tynall: you cannot look down upon the warriors that brought down the Behemoth and beat us in single combat." Eilena smiles guilelessly.

Tynall growls. "Why are you taking his side?" A thought occurs to her. "And I remember you winning your portion of the Trial of Grievance!" Against the President! Of the Unites States! "Even I and Star Commander Pryde were brought down by trueborn warriors, disgraced though they might be! This freebir–"

Then the shaggy haired warrior in the corner speaks up.



"I was not defeated by a trueborn that day, Tynall. I was beaten by Master Ryouma. In a mech with far more maneuverability and power than anything the Clans possess, piloted by a talented pilot who was also the greatest martial artist I have ever seen. A master I wound up learning much from. Do you believe that was a fluke, or that I was not at the top of my form that day?"

Tynall gapes, then shakes her head. "That is not–"

Matthew finally decides to speak up. "Aff, it is exactly the point. Mechwarrior Markus is a great warrior, one of the 'Ka-Men' Riders, and deserving of your respect and surkai. All the warrior of the Chalice are."

"Besides..." He growls, folding his arms over his chest. "What about all those 'Clan Spaniel' episodes you have stored on your tablet?"

Tynall goes stark-white pale at those words. "Well, I, that is to say–" She stutters.

Does this mean what you think it means?