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Balan watched as his companion staggered in surprise. He waited for her to regain her composure before he spoke.
What gave me away? she uttered finally.
It is hard to tell, Balan told her. A bit of this, a bit of that. The way you reacted to some of the characters and adventures of the tale. The way your face looked when you were eager or anxious for what was to happen next. But I was not certain until now.
The woman did not say anything at first, so Balan gestured to her to start walking again. I see you would rather be a lad than a lass on this road, Balan told her, and I do not see why you should not remain such to others. If you do not wish it, I will not reveal you to the first passing stranger that we meet if anyone else has the bad luck or bad sense to be on the road this day. But beware that you do not overstep yourself I will not lie to other men to get you out of trouble. This is hardly your deepest secret, but I would grant you silence, if you so wish, in return for your friendship. Do you accept my offer?
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