(open)

[heartofbirds]

Linden can only be described as pleased by his addition to Morgause's household, as assassin and doer of odd jobs--not officially, because between two people who tell the open truth as little as Morgause and Linden do, these things do not get expressly discussed; but he knows his new mistress, and he's satisfied by the arrangement

Comments

[tinylittleonion]

Today there's a tiny Alyoshka crouched over on the garden path and sharing his bread with the birds, breaking off crumbs to scatter before them (this is more or less what he'll do for the rest of his life; whenever he is in want of something, he'll find it, and whenever he has something, he'll give it). Though he is not as merry as other small children are, there's very real delight in his eyes -- the birds come so close! He gasps at one, almost in his hands, but the sound startles it and sends it flying --

[heartofbirds]

"Hello," Linden says pleasantly, coming across him. "Don't reach for them. It tends to have an adverse effect."

[tinylittleonion]

It is one of the best ways to approach children, by speaking to them as adults about something practical, and Alyoshka looks up at Linden with wide, receptive eyes. "I am sorry to frightened him ... ! Will he not come back again?"

[heartofbirds]

"He may. They're quick to forgive. Offer him some more." He crouches down beside Alyoshka, with a soft grunt of pain, scattering the birds briefly; but they do come back, cocking their heads curiously.