"Yeah. This visit has already been much better than expected." Janius ran his thumb over Kaleeth's hand. "It was very brave of you to follow through with it. You were so worried. I was, too, even if I tried to hide it."

Janius almost started reminiscing and opened his mouth to speak, but another thought came to mind. "How are you feeling about Julan and Hal-Leeus?" he asked. "I almost thought we would all talk about the matter more before...well, Leeus' comments took us somewhat off topic."

[hr]
Calia only had an amused smile in response. "Oh, I would not dare claim a lack of love in either of you. Your hearts are far too big for that, I can tell." She placed a flat hand forward. "It is just a trifle matter of frustration. And, in my family's case, tradition." She turned back to the competition. "Tell me, how long has it been since your child left your household to live elsewhere?"

"Excellent shooting, Ahnasha!" Llarasa clapped for her.

Fendros cocked his head to the side, peering over at the target. "Not bad, but don't get too lazy, Ahna." He took the bow from her and rolled his shoulders. "We can change the rules when you demand a rematch."

He took his time, just like Ahnasha had, lining up his shots with a well-practised technique. Two of the shots landed so closely to Ahnasha's that the arrowheads stuck into the tree in contact. However, the third arrow landed just noticeably further away from the centre to Ahnasha's furthest arrow.

"Damn," he breathed. "It would be easier if it was moving."