There was a respectful manner about Dia that Pilar decided she admired. Though apparently, she didn’t know Kasabian, and thus didn’t seem to care much for Pilar’s decision to test him. If anything, she showed mild concern, but it hardly seemed like something Pilar should worry about. She supposed that if Kasabian had a reputation for being a hell-raiser, Dia might have had a more extreme reaction. So in a way, it was good that she had never heard of him. It was also somewhat disappointing for Pilar, because it also meant that there was a good chance he was unadventurous, or worse—just plain boring. She had yet to have an encounter with Kasabian where she had his full attention however, so despite all signs pointing to dull, Pilar reserved her complete judgment for that moment.

“I’m ultimately headed just across the island actually—the Ridge. We’re neighbors!”

Pilar smiled at Dia, glad to make a friend today, however unexpected it had been. She took a step forward and nodded at Dia’s suggestion to find some shade and water. “Sure, that would be good,” she replied.

As they walked together, Pilar flicked an ear Dia’s direction, thinking the other island she mentioned sounded familiar. Luthien. Where had she heard that before? Perhaps Dia might enlighten her further.

“So, where’s Luthien? What’s over there?”


pilar

photo © Sally Mann