Page 151 of Mikoto and the Reaver Village
There was sound of movement and a low murmur. Kyrieimmediately recognized the muffled voice as Eloquence’s. Ever said,“Hang on.Here’s Brother.”
“Congratulations, Quen,” Kyrie said shyly.
“Many thanks, Kyrie. I’m still reeling from the events ofthe day.”He sounded like he was smiling all the way from the depths of hissoul.“Your call is a welcome surprise, but I’m amazed that Hisoka-senseireached you so quickly. He must have foregone all the usual means oftransportation.”
Kyrie glanced at the cat, who offered a small shrug. “How isKimiko?” he asked.
“Her happiness doubles mine. She is getting somewell-deserved rest while we take turns holding the baby. Ever is prying herfrom Laud now.”
“A girl?”
“Did Ever not say?”With a soft chuckle, Quen said,“Wenamed her Blessing.”
“I like it.”
“Thank you, Kyrie. And behold, the triumphant unclereturns. I will give you back to Ever.”
There was a soft shuffle, and Ever was there, sounding smug.“I brought her. Wish you could see.”
“Does she look like you?”
“Yes! Starmark colors. We’re kin for sure.”
“Does she have your ears?”
“And my tail!”In a very different tone, Ever coaxed,“Say hello, now. You can do it. Say hi to Uncle Kyrie.”
On the other end of the connection, a soft snuffling couldbe heard. Then a tiny whine.
Zisa hugged Kyrie and whispered, “A baby!”
Ever’s giggle was pure joy, and he explained,“She’strying to eat the phone, and it’s no good.Yousay something, UncleKyrie.”
“Hello, pretty pup. Save some room in your affections for meand Lilya. We will come and see you as soon as we can.”
“She will love you,”promised Ever.“Hey, Kyrie?Da is going to be there—where you are—next week. For Dichotomy Day. There’s a …a thingie.”
“Induction ceremony?” guessed Kyrie.
“Yes! And Da offered to bring me along. You know, ifthere’s room for me. With you guys. Maybe?”
“You do not want to stay with Blessing?”
“I have almost a whole week to make sure she knows myvoice and my scent. She won’t forget me.”More quietly, less confidently,Ever asked,“What do you think?”
“That would be ….” Kyrie’s lips trembled, and his voicewobbled. “Please, come, Ever. I want you.”
“I’ll be there,”Ever promised.“You can count onme!”
Kyrie whispered his thanks and then his goodbyes. Hisoka-senseieased the phone from his grasp. Next, the cat eased Kyrie from Zisa’s arms. Itwas less awkward than Kyrie had expected, clinging to someone who was suddenlymore than a familiar face.
Friend of Stars.
Lover of Trees.
Teller of Secrets.
Maker of Miracles.
