The afternoon sun had already begun descending by the time they returned to the estate. His father had finished most of his work and was now enjoying tea in the garden pavilion despite the cold.
The fox immediately ran toward him. His father produced dried meat from somewhere within his sleeve. Atheline narrowed his eyes.
"You've been spoiling it."
His father looked innocent.
"I have no idea what you're talking about."
The fox happily devoured another treat. Evidence sat directly in front of him. Atheline felt good, having a normal conversation with his father without guilt being mixed in it.
Time seemed to have healed a lot of wounds.
Helther walked out onto the veranda carrying two wooden practice swords. He tossed one casually. Atheline caught it without thinking.
Helther smiled.
"Mother finally released you?"
"Barely."
"I figured."
He rested his own sword across one shoulder.
"Come with me."
Atheline raised an eyebrow.
"Where?"
Helther's grin widened.
