And She Never Wanted To Leave (D9, MA, Rath Tower)

[Lord Tenebrous]

"Hi sweetie," Shaisha's face warmed instantly with a genuine smile. "Sounds like you're having a lot of fun."

It was such a relief to see her safe and sound, especially after the ordeal of yesterday, and the past week.

Judging from the chatter of the child, it would seem she at least thought she was being good for grandma.

"You're a saint for keeping an eye on her in this time," she remarked to Jo'ren's mother. "Bet she's probably less of a handful than Jo'ren was at that age."

[Lord Jo'ren Rath]

Jo'ren's mother gave her a knowing smile. "Oh Shaisha, you have no idea." She looked at Jo'ren. "Still, I suppose he eventually did something right."

He chuckled and gave a little bow. "Now don't believe everything your grandparents say about me kiddo. I didn't start all those fights, but I did finish them. I'll be coming to join you in a few days, so start finding the best hiding places if you want to beat me at hide and seek."

[Lord Tenebrous]

The child giggled and squirmed, clearly eager to get on with the task and return to her cousins to continue their game.

"Alright, alright, you should get a headstart," Shaisha chuckled warmly. "We'll be seeing you soon, little rancor."

Lyria growled and bared her teeth before laughing once more. "Ok, bye-bye!!" the child waved at her parents with all the enthusiasm of a young one, before darting off again.

"... don't think I had that much energy myself at that age."

[Lord Jo'ren Rath]

He laughed. "I guess we know what she gets from me then. Bye sweetie."

Watching her run off made him feel the pull of family that he had suppressed for much of the visit to Ziost.

"Thanks for looking after her. I'll be along in a couple of days. You coming with me Shai?"

[Lord Tenebrous]

"Yes." There was no hesitation. "It would be nice to get away from all this, for a while. The empire won't collapse just because we're on... vacation. Goodness knows I need one of those."