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Chapter 7 - Family Reunion

Elladan's heart pounded with excitement as he sprinted through the streets of Eldora while heading to his home. Thoughts raced through his mind, wondering what news his father had brought. That is why he couldn't wait to see Quint. As Elladan approached his home, he heard the neigh of Septim, a clear sign that Quint had indeed returned. After he reached the front door, he pushed it open and stepped inside. Once entering the manor, he could hear voices drifting from upstairs. It was clear that those voices belonged to his parents and the familiar sound of their conversation greeted Elladan's ears.

He made his way up the staircase, eager to share the news with his father and hear about his adventures. But as he reached the top, he froze in his tracks, his eyes widening at the sight before him. Quint and Emelie stood by the bedroom door, their faces flushed, and their expressions startled. It was clear that Elladan had interrupted an intimate moment between them. Quint's irritation was evident as he struggled to regain his composure.

"What are you doing here, Elladan?" Quint's voice held a hint of annoyance, his tone sharp.

"I... I'm sorry, Father. I didn't mean to interrupt. I didn't know..." the little boy stammered, his cheeks reddening with embarrassment.

"It's all right, Elladan. We should have locked the door. Your father and I were just... catching up." said Emelie while her face flushed with a mix of embarrassment.

"Yes, we were just catching up indeed... But, anyway, it's good to see you, son! I apologize that we met in such a… hm… unusual circumstances. But why won't you go down and we will arrive in a minute?" Quint sighed, his irritation softening into a tired smile.

"I heard that you had arrived, Father. I wanted to see you and hear about your journey. I'm sorry for barging in like this." Elladan shifted uncomfortably, still feeling a mix of embarrassment and curiosity.

"Son, there is no need to apologize. I'm glad you're eager to see me. Wait for me downstairs, I promise you to tell the most fascinating stories that you will never hear from anyone else!" Quint's stern expression softened as he looked at his son.

Elladan obediently nodded his head and went back to the first floor and headed to the living room. His eyes lighting up with anticipation as Quint joined him. The room was filled with an air of excitement. Quint leaned back in his chair, a smile playing at the corners of his lips.

"Well, Elladan, I bet you won't believe the sights I witnessed with Zeus Familia and Hera Familia," he began, his voice brimming with enthusiasm. "But! Bear in mind that I won't tell you too much… Because you are still a minor, and you mustn't hear that kind of things. You understand?"

At first, Elladan's eyes widened with anticipation as Quint began to share his tales. The young boy couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and curiosity at the prospect of hearing about the incredible adventures his father had embarked on. However, his enthusiasm was tempered by Quint's cautious words.

"I understand, father." Elladan nodded but became seriously sad. He could not understand the point of his father.

"Once we are done with this, let me start. The very day when I saddled Septim and…"

So, the father began sharing everything he was able to sneak from the Familia members. He began talking about the mighty adventurers of the Labyrinth city, who amazed even the gods and goddesses. Mentioned the tells about the Dungeon of Orario and what kind of dangers await there. Elladan's mind raced with images of each passing moment. He longed to experience such extraordinary adventures for himself, to stand alongside these very adventurers from the Labyrinth city. The tales of the Labyrinth City and the Dungeon of Orario had instilled in him a desire to embark on his heroic journey in the future.

As they sat there, father and son, their hearts intertwined by the stories shared, Elladan felt a deep sense of gratitude. He knew that his father's tales would continue to fuel his dreams, igniting the flames of his own heroic aspirations. In a little while, a gentle voice interrupted their conversation. Emelie stepped into the room, a warm smile gracing her lips.

"Ahem," Emelie cleared her throat, capturing both Elladan and Quint's attention. "I hate to interrupt my darlings, but it seems that more than an hour has passed. Quint, remember, you promised to meet the townsmen at the tavern? They are eagerly waiting for you."

Quint's eyes widened as he glanced at the nearby clock, realizing that time had indeed slipped away from them. He let out a sheepish chuckle and ran a hand through his hair.

"Oh, dear, how time flies when we're lost in tales of adventure. You're right, Emelie, I mustn't keep them waiting any longer."

Elladan's face fell slightly, his enthusiasm momentarily dampened by the interruption. He understood the importance of his father's commitment, though, and knew that duty called. He managed a small smile and nodded his understanding.

"It's all right, father. Duty comes first. Also, we still have plenty of time to continue our talks tomorrow!" Elladan replied, a tinge of disappointment lacing his words.

Quint's expression softened as he reached out and placed a hand on Elladan's shoulder.

"Thank you for your understanding, my son. I promise we'll continue our tales soon. And remind me to start where we stopped, from this weird red-eyed Cranel guy. But for now, I must fulfill my promise."

Quint adjusted his coat and grabbed his belongings, ready to depart for the tavern. Elladan accompanied his father to the front door, eager to bid him farewell before he embarked on his evening outing. As they swung open the door, their path was unexpectedly blocked by a figure standing on their doorstep. It was Elize, the other girl who had recently confessed her feelings to Elladan as did Miriel.

Surprised by her presence, Elladan's heart skipped a beat. He exchanged a quick glance with his father, who wore a knowing smile. Quint stepped aside, gesturing for Elladan to address the situation.

"Um, Elize," Elladan stammered, his confusion evident in his voice. "What brings you here?"

Elize blushed slightly, her eyes filled with a mix of nervousness and determination. "Elladan, I was hoping we could have a little talk. It's important to me."

Quint chuckled softly, placing a hand on Elladan's shoulder.

"Go on, son. I think you would be more than happy to spend some time chatting with Elize. Don't keep the lady waiting."

Elladan's mind raced, trying to process the sudden turn of events. He hadn't expected to encounter Elize at this moment, but he trusted his father's guidance. Taking a deep breath, he mustered up a smile and nodded at Elize.

"I... I'd be happy to talk, Elize. Please, come in."

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