After a long day and after managing to solve an issue with Gaeded and Athlenah Fiontann managed to invade the Barracks, after having them give hands or kiss or whatever they do when people make up. He walked as fast as he could with the cane by his side to the Barracks and found what he wanted, ale, but with it he found Sigfread. He poured some ale to drink and commented.
-Just when I thought that they're not going to act like children again...
-They are not like Ayiana or Lieta.
-You can't compare them, one is a Dunedain and the other an orphan who had to grew up before her time. The others are older than Lieta and act like they are much younger. But, how have you been lately? I haven't seen you much.
-I am well. I spent the day with Lieta yesterday. She is rather good of mind. She studies hard though I've noticed that Arthasdir has become somewhat of a distraction for her.
-What?! said Fiontann leaning over the table close to Sigfread, his fists on the table supporting his weight.
Sigfread would take a calm swig from his tankard before answering.
-Can you blame her? She is seventeen now Fiontann...
-I don't care!
-You can not prevent her from getting interested into men. Arthasdir, being as he is, is obviously an intresting person to her.
-No but I can prevent them from getting close! And what's interesting about him? I see nothing interesting...
-You can not.... Just like you, me.... most folk... She will fall in love...
Oh I can. As I said, the Barrracks need a re-decoration. Some blood, limbs of young boys.
-She is mature enough to decide that for herself Fiontann. She is wise enough as well.
-That is not for you to decide.
-Nor for you...
You say, 'Says who?'
-'You are not her father. Though I admire you for taking up that role
-I may not be her father but I will make sure she knows everything that will arm her against a world of men... Such as those around!
-I understand.... Remember. I was a parent once.
-I know that SIgfreead. So, when do you leave for Forochel?
-I don't know, soon, Lieta is studying and has a lot to learn before, how to handle the wood, fend for herself.
-How to handle the wood? Why? She can... Choose something for her to do, not just handing wood.
-Forochel is unforgiviing, she has to make her own spear to hunt.
-Still, she can learn to do more important things. We also have to see what the others will do, maybe they would be interestd to embark on a journey such as that. Though Arthasdir has to stay behind... He has a lot to do and to make sure that our Halls always have what we need, he has to finish the contracts with the merchants. But where is Lieta? I sent her a note to meet in Bree.
-She is at the Study, she's reading.
-Oh, I did well to send a note then and not disturb her, I have to give her her birthday gift.
Fiontann's smile made Sigfread ask.
-Why don't you admit that you see her as a daughter?
-Who said I don't? I very much do see her as my daughter and admit it.
-At first you didn't.
-At first. Now I do and that is my gift to her. I am going to take her to the Town Hall and sign the papers of her adoption...
