"I'm sorry about your loss," Malkas said, wondering how she died.  Was it war, or perhaps the famine and pestilence that was often brought about by war?  In his mind Malkas disapproved of the existing nation, and renewed his resolve to make Soren a peaceful place free of the tragedies of constant conflict.  "Well either way, I was thinking of giving you and your wife a room, and your son a neighboring room.  Actually, Teann?  Can you go and get Harin and Grom if they're not busy?"

"Yes father," Teann said with a small bow and left the building.

[hr]
"Ah, another casualty of war," Emtardas said with a slightly indifferent look in his eyes.  "Did any orders come from any of the neighboring towns?" he asked.  Soren produced a little bit of extra produce and other goods in order to cover the costs of the things they bought from the merchant.  Harin also produced furniture.

[hr]
"Can you teach me now?" Reas asked excitedly, having no intention of helping out at zir father's shop.