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Children of a Kolten
Written by Blince
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They say, often, that one's family stretches beyond blood. It only ever really becomes obvious when the blood trickles out from your grasp, willingly or not. For me, my apprentices, often become family.
It began as a hobby, when I was barely old enough to be teaching anyone anything. A young Rider, simply drilling some of the fresh recruits to give them a step up in the fight. And, once I came to Bree, I started doing it to keep myself occupied.
It provides an interesting challenge, in some cases. Some are difficult to figure out at first, such as Erimyl. Quick to hide anything wrong, and even quicker to try and keep quiet about something she doesn't wish to talk about. A good heart, I suppose. Wants to help people, willing to put her life on the line. Though, after a while, that just becomes stupid to me.
I am not a good man, I never claim to be. I'm proficient in the arts of war. A good father, for the most part. And, according to Jemmima, I'm a good husband. Though I'm only ever sure of the first two. Even with that, my blood I will do anything to keep safe. Anyone else? Depends on who and what. A man defenceless in a Bar brawl... Mayhaps. Those get messy, and dangerous. Once blades are drawn those around me may be hurt. That's as far as I'll go. It's as far as someone should.
She has a family, little as it is, her and her husband. Anything else doesn't count as her's. She'll have a kid, eventually. I know she will. You can see it in her eyes she'll make a good mother. They claim it is an innocent virtue, to want to help those of whom can't help themselves. I see it as reckless. Dangerous. Foolish.
And then there is true innocence, as with Iridith. Sixteen winters and not even sure of what she wishes to be mentored in. Archery for now. Who knows what else. Hopefully she'll pick someone else. I'm a bad influence.Worse than that. Evil. Regardless of what anyone says. I'm hoping her interest in archery will lead her to her Father's side. Or a mentor in the arts of hunting.
Misery loves company, and finds it easily. Despair and death seeks out company faster than it can be avoided. And it's been following me for as long as I can remember. It feels like a friendly pat on the shoulder. Even if it leads to death.
