The morning sun spilled into the small house. Xilo sat on the floor, holding Kael in his arms. The baby blinked sleepily, tiny hands reaching toward Xilo's robes, a faint birthmark on his chest catching the light.
"You're curious, aren't you?" Xilo murmured, rocking him gently.
The door opened. Yildes stepped in, arms folded, posture straight, expression stern.
"You're carrying him again?" Yildes said, his voice low but sharp.
Xilo looked up calmly. "He needs someone to watch over him."
Yildes' eyes softened slightly at the baby but stayed focused on Xilo. "Don't forget, responsibility comes first. It's not just about keeping him safe."
Xilo nodded. "I understand."
Outside, Xilo walked along the village path, still holding Kael. The baby's tiny hands reached for leaves and flowers, wide-eyed and curious.
Yildes followed behind, arms folded, keeping a careful watch. Rion sat in the yard, fussing with a small toy, cooing like any normal baby.
The three of them moved through the quiet morning, the small household settling into a new rhythm.