Larksong Grotto The first signs

With Astik pulling up the rear, Hiram waited for Tapat to work out all that pent up energy and come to a stop. Shortly, he did. The boy flopped to the ground, exposing his belly in a clumsy roll. The Cardinal couldn't help but smile as he watched both of his sons experiance the world around them. To be so young was a special thing. Though he had unfortunately missed out on this period with his daughters, Hiram didn't want to squander any moment.

When Hiram saw Laurel approach, he shifted his warm gaze to his daughter. From the corner of his eye, he could see Indra lingering in the background. Laurel spoke in a shrill manner, but Hiram was unshaken. "I'd love to play with you Laurel," he replied. He then looked to Indra who seemed more detached. "And you too Indy."

Hirams attention was then drawn to little Astik as he approached his sister. "In fact, I think your brothers want to play too," he thought aloud. They were young and fragile, but he wanted them socialized with the rest of the family as soon as they could -- and of course, he wanted his girls to bond with their brothers so they could all be one family.