Chapter 13

Chapter 13

Charok walked through the gate to the home he shared with his beautiful wife, returning early from his shift at the restaurant, leaving the late night hours for others to deal with. By now, his assistants had learned enough of his tricks that the food they cooked was on par with his. That just meant more time for him to spend with his wonderful family

His two beautiful children came running out from the dining room, happy to see their father.

Hello my two precious babies. He squat down and opened his arms for them to fly into. This was pure bliss.

Papa! Food. Please.

Sweets! Please.

He chortled. They were so cruel, not even a hello. He gave them each a sweet red bean bun and picked them up, watching as they ate greedily, smearing red bean paste all over their mouths. I'm raising a pair of gluttons. He made sure to speak to them in Common sometimes, as Rain had told him it would help if they began learning early. A font of odd knowledge and practices, that boy was, but it couldn't hurt.

Welcome home beloved. Alsantset greeted him as he placed the remaining buns on the dining table. Beautiful as the day he met her, he gave her a light kiss savoring her scent. The deep, passionate kisses would have to wait until they were alone. He looked around for the missing member of his family.

He's out. Again. He didn't come home for dinner. Don't you dare make him anything when he returns.

Charok smiled at his wife. If he dared not cook for the boy, she would put him in the quin's pen for the night. Don't be so harsh on him, my flower. He's a boy, doing things boys are wont to do. Perhaps he's out chasing girls or playing games. I will go out and find him. He knew where Rain was, same place he always was when not at home.

Alsantset glared at him, as if saying 'how dare you try to take Rains side?' I know where he is. He never goes far. He's in the grove at the end of the street. He's out there practicing his Forms.

Alsantset took a deep breath.Not. Helping. And if you are not helping?

Then I am hindering. I apologize, my wife. I shall hinder no more. Charok continued cooking in silence, a smile on his face. His wife sat on the stool, with a furrowed brow.

... Who does he stare at? Should we have a meeting with her parents? He's a little young, but a simple arrangement for the future isn't out of the question, is it?

Charok looked at his wife and burst out laughing. I'm fairly certain Cierna will not leave her husband for Rain.

The seamstress? She's older than I am. Why does he stare at her? Does he show no interest in anyone his age?

Charok caught himself before he commented on Cierna's Perks. No good would come of that conversation. He continued cooking. When he finished, Alsantset was still there, quietly worrying. He walked over and pulled her into his embrace. My love, I know you worry for him. But let me suggest something you will dislike: take some distance from him.

Charok! She pushed him away, horrified he would suggest such a thing.

He quickly tried to placate her, waving with his hands. I only suggest a small, emotional, distance, not a withdrawal of affection, or removal from our home. He waited for her to be somewhat mollified before continuing. Give the boy some room. Your worries are due to the fact that he is hardworking. It is not so terrible. He has set himself a goal, to walk down the path of a Martial Warrior. I believe he will succeed. He has the drive, the intelligence, and the dedication to do so. And even if he does not succeed, we are here for him. He placed the bowl of fried rice and a pair of chopsticks in her hands. He has lost the innocence that comes with being a child. We cannot ask him to masquerade as one. We can only be here, at his side, ready to pick him up if he falls, ready to support him to success.

Alsantset looked sadly at her beloved. He was right. She didn't want him to be. She wanted to be able to give Rain a childhood. But she couldn't. I just want him to be happy.

That's simple enough, love. Ask your most comely friends to the bath house, and send Rain in.

She wiped her tears while laughing. She then kissed her beloved, before she brought the food out to Rain.