Chastened after his trial, Val Sedgwick stands while Ryder fits armor to his body. 
"Is this necessary? I mean parading around in all this scrap iron, and bashing some guy because he couldn't get out of the way.""You need to prove you're man enough to fight for your woman."
Val heaves a sigh.
Ryder turns her head."That's quite enough, Cirlanne. Get your own boyfriend."
Cirri dons her helmet, then studies his face. "I'll be waiting, Val. You know, just in case."
"She's not breathing." "Don't you dare kiss her, Valentine Sedgwick!" Val bends to fallen Cirlanne.
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Cirri rides over. "Oh Val, you're going to joust? Save one for me. Would love to go up against you - our steelclad bodies clashing, pressing, striving for -" 
