Reporting in

Upon their return, Lord Greyheart listens to Kael give his report. Grim faced, he shakes his head, and remains quiet for a while after Kael finishes. Finally, he sighs, nodding to Kael and Ria.

“I agree, Kael. It’s highly unlikely that Rastus is dead. I’ll admit that I didn’t expect something like this, however. A magical explosion of that magnitude…whatever he used to cause that is incredibly dangerous.”

Kael nods. “Yes, my lord. If he could get something like that into the palace…”

Lord Greyheart shakes his head. “I have security measures in place to prevent that. But the rest of the city does not. That’s more what I’m afraid of.”

He sighs. “This…complicates things. I’m sorry to have put you two in that situation, though I’m glad you came through safe.”

Ria glances at Kael. “Only because of Kael, my lord. He saved us. Again.”

Lord Greyheart smiles. “He does seem to make a habit of it, doesn’t he?”

Kael shuffles his feet slightly, uncomfortable as always with the praise. “I didn’t do much. Couldn’t even keep the honor guard alive.”

Lord Greyheart shakes his head. “Perfection is an impossible goal, Kael. All anyone can do is their best. Believe me, I know that very well.”

He glances a the stump of his arm with a grimace. “Take it as a hard lesson. Save all you can, but don’t let it get in the way of the greater victory. The fact you saved anyone at all is incredible.”

He looks at Kael with a raised eyebrow. “After all, you have someone at home who you need to protect as well.”

Lord Greyheart sighs, and leans back into his seat. “For now, I think you’ve done enough. Both of you. I’ll look into what you’ve told me, and rest assured, when we find out more, you’ll be included. For now though, you’re dismissed. You’ve earned your rest.”

Kael and Ria bow, and head out of the room. As soon as they’re out, Ria takes his hand and smiles. “Cheer up, big guy. We’ll get home and you can relax. I’m sure Evie and Gabby will be happy to see you!”

Kael chuckles, squeezing her hand. “Sorry. You know how I get.”

Ria nods, smiling. “Yup! And if I have to wrestle you again to change it, I will!”

Kael raises an eyebrow, smiling now. “Promise?”

Ria laughs, playfully swatting his arm. “Get your mind out of the gutter, big guy! But…yes…”

She winks, and he laughs. No matter what, Ria always knows how to cheer him up. He smiles, glad to have her by his side.