Big changes

Things start to move quickly after the announcement to the people. Lord Greyheart insists that Kael move to the palace as soon as possible, if for no other reason than to ensure their safety. Kael wants to object, preferring the comfort of his home life, but Ria reminds him of how many attempts on the life of Lord Greyheart there have been. Kael and Ria have little to fear on that account, but Evie and Gabby deserve the added security. So Kael relents, and they begin to pack up, in preparation for the move.

Meanwhile, the search for the whereabouts of Rastus Malen has been stymied. There’s enough evidence, upon magical investigation, to be sure that he escaped the explosion. However, there’s no way of knowing where exactly he went, just that there was magic used in his escape. The investigator, no small wizard himself, explains that whoever provided the bomb, likely gave Rastus his escape method, as the noble was not a magic user of any kind.

Lord Greyheart continues to decline physically, though mentally he is as sharp as ever. Even standing for any length of time becomes a challenge, but he spends hours every day with Kael and Ria, painstakingly going over every aspect of his rule. While nothing can truly prepare them for the challenge ahead, they at least will know what they’re walking into.

When he isn’t instructing or ruling, Lord Greyheart spends time with Evie. Though their relationship is odd, they quickly grow close, helped along by their unique powers, which allow a kind of telepathic connection between them. Often, Kael would enter the room to find them simply sitting across from each other, in silence. More than once, Kael would see a tear rolling down Lord Greyheart’s cheek, though he would never speak of it. Evie, meanwhile, often follows those sessions by seeking out Kael and simply asking to be held.

Kael would never refuse that request.

Gabby quickly finds her own niche in the palace, becoming fast friends with the garden staff. Her only gripe is that she has to keep her clothes on. Kael laughs, and promises to find a secluded space for her naked sunbathing. The big holstaur is satisfied with that, and is quick to invite the rest of the family to join her.

It’s not long before Kael and the others are ready to move into the palace. Once that’s done, everyone will be able to relax a bit. Already, the palace staff seems to be eager to have them there, and the girls seem happy about living in such luxury.

In short, despite the rapid deterioration of Lord Greyheart’s health, things couldn’t be going better.