∞ 92: Warming weather [action]

[chikaidestroyer]

[He didn't send out an announcement of any kind when they returned home. Others had already announced their dead and offered any words of encouragement or frustration

Comments

[wise_maiden]

[While Albert's spent most of his time focusing on the outdoors, it left Raine with an opportunity to claim the kitchen area.

After all there were still a few belated things to tend to. Such as preparing dinner and dessert. She even had a new recipe to try, and was determined to focus properly on it.

Which was why she brought extra to spare, just in case. No fires, no large messes. Simple, simple, simple. She won't poke her head outside until everything is tidy and ready to go. It's a good thing she started early.]

[chikaidestroyer]

[Raine will have the majority of the afternoon to work, since Albert won't go anywhere near the kitchen after pulling some tools from the foyer closet.

And since he's on the opposite side of the house, he can't smell anything even if Raine does manage to burn something.

He'll be outside until the sun has finished setting, since he just happens to be outside already.]

[wise_maiden]

[It's Raine. Cooking. Of course a few attempts were involved for various reasons.

In any case, the main meal is hidden under a silver tray cover, and the frosted cake is cooling.

She takes off her apron and folds it over her arm, before opening the door to get his attention.]

Hm. What a nice evening.

[chikaidestroyer]

[As the door opens, there might be a flutter of wings as an owl flies right by the opened door to another part of the porch. Albert looks over his shoulder at Raine, nodding.]

A nice change from the dreary cold.

[wise_maiden]

It's certainly refreshing. [And she notices that he's not exactly alone.] Looks like you have some company.

[chikaidestroyer]

I do. [There's a certain pleased note to his voice that's usually not there.] Two of Rune's brood returned.

[wise_maiden]

That really is good news. Where have they been all this time?

[chikaidestroyer]

On the other side of the mountains. It seems they had no reason to come back over the mountains during the winter. [He stands, brushing tiny feathers off his lap.]

[wise_maiden]

At least they thought to come back now. Did they come here on their own, or did Rune bring them with him after a hunt?

[chikaidestroyer]

[dryly now] They seem to remember the house well enough to think to come by here. [Something about his tone makes it seem like he's still debating whether this is a good thing or not.]

[wise_maiden]

They seem to be able to get by on their own, so perhaps they won't make it too much of a habit. It might encourage Rune as well.

[chikaidestroyer]

I will be more than happy to see him leave once in awhile.

[wise_maiden]

It'll do him some good. It's been a long winter.

[chikaidestroyer]

Indeed. [He looks in the direction the birds had flown. The light from the foyer gives just enough light to reflect on the small owls' eyes as they sit in a row.

Albert moves towards the front door.] I suppose I should wash up.

[wise_maiden]

You should. Dinner's ready, which was why I came to get you.

[chikaidestroyer]

Very well. Thank you for cooking. [He steps inside, changing his shoes before heading off to the back of the house. ...The birds will just hang around outside before they go hunting.]