Lateral thinking

Without thinking, Kael hops up and opens the door. Outside are Orin and Petra, and Kael realizes his mistake when Petra’s eyes widen. Orin laughs, looking past Kael.

“You know, if you’re busy, we can come back later…”

Kael turns to see Gabby still standing behind the couch, clearly naked. Completely unashamed by her nudity, she makes no move to cover herself, and even waves, a big smile on her face. Ria is laughing, practically falling off the couch, and even Evie is giggling, covering her mouth to hide it. Kael sighs, stepping outside and closing the door behind him.

“Sorry. Gabby…well, she’s a lot.”

Orin grins. “I can see that. Lucky you. Anyway, we have a little problem. Petra here needs somewhere to live.”

Kael looks at Petra, who looks away, still seemingly embarrassed by what she saw. “Petra have no home. Lived in woods. Not need much.”

Orin nods. “And that’s fine, but if you’re going to be a champion, you need to be somewhere we can find you.”

Kael nods as well. “Indeed. Plus, it wouldn’t be right for you to be on the streets, or in the woods.”

Orin scratches his cheek. “Anyway, I was thinking, ‘hey, Kael is living in the lap of luxury now, so maybe he can help out’. After all, both you and Ria moved out of your houses. Maybe Petra can take your old place?”

Kael blinks in surprise. “That’s not a bad idea. Maybe you really do have a brain.”

Orin grimaces. “Damn. Giving up my secrets.”

He turns to Petra. “How does that sound? Kael’s old place is decent, even if it’s as boring as he is.”

Petra looks between the two of them, her eyes wide. “Petra live in kings house?”

Orin shrugs. “I guess. He isn’t king yet, though, just a bit lofty…”

Petra’s eyes narrow. “Not mock king. Petra not like.”

Kael chuckles. “It’s okay, Petra. I’ve known Orin quite a while. Also, the champions get to be a bit more informal. Though you’re right to think he’s an ass.”

Orin rolls his eyes. “Easy to say that here, not on the training floor.”

Kael grins. “Eager for a rematch? I seem to recall winning, last time.”

Orin sighs, shaking his head. “I’d say it was a fluke, but I don’t think I’d do better now. Wouldn’t look good to beat the crap out of our fearless leader.”

He laughs. “Besides, Lyssa’s made me soft. Too much time at home.”

Kael smiles. “Going well, then? Not back to your train of goblins and kobolds?”

Orin shrugs. “It’s going beautifully. And no, some of us are one woman men. I don’t know how you handle those three.”

Kael laughs, shrugging. “They do most of the handling. Anyway, I like your idea. Petra can have my old place. You want to get her set up there?”

Orin shakes his head. “Sorry, boss. Lord Greyheart needs me for something. He said you can take care of it.”

Kael sighs. “Of course. Go on, then, I’ll take care of her.”

Orin grins. “Of course you will. Have fun!”

With that he turns and walks away. Kael turns to Petra, who has been watching the byplay with interest. “Let me just tell the girls what’s up. Hopefully Gabby put on some clothes…”

Petra nods. “Petra doesn’t mind. King’s mates very attractive!”

Kael chuckles as he turns to the door.