The only real choice

Kael smiles kindly. “Well. It will take some rearranging, but Evie doesn’t really use her room anymore. If this is really what you want…”

Before he can finish his sentence, Gabby’s strong arms are around him in a hug. “Oh, sir, thank you so much! I promise I’ll help out as much as I can! I don’t know much about housework, but I’ll do anything you say, sir!”

Kael chuckles, gently patting the big holstaur on her back. “Don’t worry about that, Gabby. I’m sure you’ll be fine.”

She releases him, a big smile on her face as she does. “Sorry about the hug, sir. I’m just so excited! I’ll let you rest now. Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

The excitement in her big blue eyes warms Kael’s heart, despite the resurgent throbbing in his head. Gabby hops to her feet and hurries out of the tent. Kael catches a glimpse of Ria waiting just outside, and hears Gabby’s exclamation as she steps out.

“He says yes!”

Chuckling to himself, Kael lays back down to rest. It will be an interesting homecoming, that’s for sure.

—

Kael’s rest is short lived. A few hours later, scouts report that the Karlian army is withdrawing to the north. After ensuring that it isn’t a ploy, General Gavras orders a return to the city. It seems that the danger has passed, for the moment, though certainly Karlia will try again one day.

The short rest was enough for Kael, though, and he is glad to be headed home. Though hardly bloodless, this was an incredible victory. The champions are all smiles as they pack up, the humor returning to the group as they feel the relief of a victory. Gabby helps out as well, though mostly she stays out of the way. It’s clear how excited she is, but she’s also clearly nervous. Ria spends quite a bit of time chatting with her, and the two of them are quickly getting to know each other. Every so often, one or the other of them glances towards Kael, usually with a laugh or a smile, and Kael can’t help but wonder what he’s gotten himself into.

Soon enough, the army returns to the city, and they’re greeted by cheers and celebration. Word of their victory reached the city ahead of them, unsurprisingly. Lord Greyheart himself is at the gate to welcome them, shaking hands with the general as they enter the gate. Afterwards, he greets the champions as well, thanking each of them personally. He raises an eyebrow when he sees Gabby following Kael, but doesn’t ask any questions, simply nodding in greeting towards her.

The champions go their separate ways after entering the city, each returning to their home. Ria travels partway with Kael, holding his hand as they walk. Most of the citizens are at the gates celebrating the army’s return, so the streets are quiet. Before they finally part ways, Ria gives Kael a kiss, promising to visit soon, both to check on Gabby, and to keep her promise to Evie.

As she walks away, Kael watches her go. Ria flashes a grin over her shoulder, seemingly knowing he was watching. With a chuckle, Kael turns towards his home, and Gabby follows. She’s visibly nervous as they walk up to the door, but still clearly excited.

Kael unlocks the door, and as he steps inside, he’s nearly bowled over by Evie, who leaps into his arms.

“Master! You’re home! And safe!”

She practically smothers him in kisses, as he Carries her into the living room. After a few moments, she finally notices the big holstaur standing nervously in the doorway.

“Oh! And who is this, master?”

Kael smiles. “It’s kind of a long story, but this is Gabby. She’s going to be staying with us now. I hope that’s okay with you, Evie.”

Evie looks a little confused. “Whatever you like, master. But is she…are you…you know…”

Kael laughs. “No, nothing like you think. Like I said, it’s a long story. Let’s all sit, and I’ll explain.”