Broken Antler Fen fire & smoke

Cryptic in his words, Aldric keeps from blurting out the reasons behind the integration despite Alarian’s persistent pressing and obvious confusion. He does not blame the man; Aldric could never imagine finding out over a year later that he has grown children, and he wonders how Alarian will react when the news is out.

I cannot say, he says, honest as always. Are you staying in the area, or are you traveling? For if Alarian is off on his own adventures, Aldric will be in a difficult spot; how can he pled with him to stay without giving reason?