Family dynamics

Fortunately, Gabby did leave the room, though it’s unclear if she’s putting on clothes. Evie and Ria are still giggling a bit when Kael and Petra step inside. Evie calms herself, but Ria unsurprisingly doesn’t bother. Rolling his eyes, Kael chuckles a bit as well.

“Well. Not exactly the introduction I expected, but it’s fine. So. Petra needs somewhere to live, and it seems fitting to put her up in my old house. I’m going to take her there, okay?”

Ria smiles. “Just giving her a house, big guy? Going for generosity right off the bat, hmm?”

Kael shrugs. “She needs a place to live, and it seems fitting. Besides, what are we going to do with it?”

Ria shakes her head. “Just teasing. I think it’s a good idea.”

Petra speaks up. “King is generous. Petra is thankful.”

Evie stands, smiling brightly. “Master really is generous. And so much more as well.”

She takes Kael’s arm. “Can I come with, master? Help get her settled?”

Kael nods. “Of course, Evie. She’s going to be protecting you as well, after all.”

Petra looks at them curiously, her brow furrowing. “You say ‘master’? But you queen? Petra not understand.”

Kael sighs. “We first met when Evie was a ****. She was…given to me. Her calling me master is something of a term of endearment between us now.”

Evie nods, smiling brightly. “I devote my life to him. I love him with all that I am, and so…master is appropriate. There’s no one else who comes close.”

Ria chuckles from the couch. “Ouch. I’m right here, Evie!”

Evie giggles. “I’ll make it up to you later, Miss Ria!”

Kael sighs, though he’s smiling. “Sometimes I miss the demure little elf you once were, Evie. But I admit that it’s more entertaining this way.”

Petra is watching the banter with interest, her fluffy tail swaying slightly behind her. Kael turns back to her and sees a faint blush on her cheeks. There’s a strange, almost longing look in her eyes that she quickly hides when she sees him looking at her. Kael smiles warmly. “Anyway. Let’s get you to your new home.”

Petra seems to collect herself, her stoic demeanor returning. “Petra follow king and queen. Petra thankful for generosity.”

She seems to hesitate, then speaks again, seeming slightly nervous. “Petra think king have nice family. Strong love.”

Evie smiles. “We all agree with you, Petra. And I’m glad you’re going to be our champion.”

Petra stands straighter, and there’s a gleam of pride in her eyes. “Petra will protect.”

Kael chuckles, and pats the muscular woman on the shoulder. She seems to flinch in surprise, her eyes widening. “I know you will, Petra. But for now, let’s get you to your new home.”

Petra nods, but once again there’s the faintest color to her cheeks as she turns to the door.