Exton

I'm working on the stables when a big nose pushes against my hip and damn near knocks me over.

I hate it when he does that.

"Hi, Tiger. What's up? Surely not in the mood for a belly-rub again...." He gives me The Eyes and I scratch under his chin. He purrs loud enough to crack concrete, then bats at me with a paw the size of a canned ham.

"Okay, Timmy's not down the well... want me to follow you, is that it?" He gives me his back and trudges off. I follow in his wake, wiping my hands on a rag as I go.

It doesn't take long for me to see what Tiger wants. Keon's standing outside chatting with Star.

"Ho, Keon! Welcome to our home."

Keon smiles as I approach, holding out his hand. "Blessings of the day, Erik. 'Tis a fine mornin', indeed." He looks around. "I half expected to see a longhouse here by now."

I grin. "Nah, too big for just three people. Maybe when we add to the family...." I wink at Star. She grins and blushes.

"Speaking of such, I have something I would like ta speak to ye about, concerning Mera."

I sober immediately, the expression washed from my face in an instant. "What's on your mind, brother?"