Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It had been less than a year since Laios had ascended the throne, but to Chilchuck it felt so much longer. It seemed like no one could sit still and his ex party insisted on dragging him along with their endeavors. Turns out raising a once lost kingdom takes a village. Initially, he had stayed in the kingdom with the sole purpose of supporting his friends and other half-foot colleagues out of work due to the closure of the dungeon, but because of his leadership position in the picklock guild and connections in the half-foot population he soon found himself called to the royal court more often than he would have liked. However, he couldn’t pass on the opportunity with a clear conscience; this was his chance to ensure the rights and safety of the half-foot who would choose to stay in the new kingdom. It wasn’t anything with an official title but it still meant too many meetings.

Chilchuck was on his way home from one now; Laios had been absent, as he often was, but Kabru usually did most of the talking anyway. Marcille was there as a mediator of sorts. Kabru was a professional, but something about him had a way of getting under his skin on occasion. Marcille kept things cordial.

Today they had been finalizing the details for the plan to set up locksmiths across the realm while meeting the demands from the newly formed half-foot locksmith union. The transition from adventuring, lock-picking rogues to the more sedentary life of a locksmith was not welcome by all but it was a step toward stability for those who chose to take it. There was still work to be done, but Chilchuck felt satisfied seeing months of work coming to fruition. His steps were light and a breezy smile played across his lips, maybe he would make himself a nice dinner.

At first, Laios and Marcille had insisted he take up residence inside the castle and he did for a couple months as things got sorted out, but he jumped at the first chance he got to move into his own place. Yes he had unfortunately become very fond of his former party, but he wasn’t sure  how much longer his blood pressure could handle being around them 24/7. 

The walk from the castle was somewhat lengthy but Chilchuck figured it was good for his health. The wide dirt path sloped gently, shrouded on both sides with deciduous trees making for a cool reprieve from the bright spring sun. As the town came into view, so did his temporary home right on the outskirts; he liked the privacy it afforded him. It was humble but comfortable, with a new red brick roof and clean cut stone walls, inlaid with a sturdy oak door and shiny arched windows; the kind of home one would be proud to bring their bride home to. Chilchuck groaned at the thought, well there went his mood. 

He had reached out to Whitbelle the first chance he had. He sent a letter to Flertom to be passed along to her mother. To be honest, Chilchuck hadn’t been sure what to expect. He felt he missed her and missed their relationship, but over the years he had begun to forget things; her face had begun to blur in his memory, her voice just out of earshot, did he remember what kind of tea she liked to drink? Had he ever known? It made him uncomfortable to recognize his own inattentiveness.

The wait for her response had been unbearable and the suspense made him pissier than usual. He still wasn’t an open book, but when Falin had asked about his foul mood, he grumbled out an answer. As embarrassing as it was to explain, he was quietly glad he did; it seemed Falin had spread the news and he appreciated the space everyone afforded him from then on. 

Whitbelle’s response had been polite, but impersonal. She expressed her surprise, admitting she believed she would never hear from him but that she was glad he was alive and well. Whitbelle gave him an account of what she had been doing through the years, most of which he had heard from Flertom and Meijack before but he read the letter dutifully. She wrote about where she had fled to, with Whitbelle taking on various jobs to support herself and the girls when they needed it. She spoke of new friends and a new life. While there he was, alone, in a house built for a family. Angry tears streaked his face, angry at himself, for what claim could he have over Whitbelle and the girls after having been absent for so long? Had he expected her to spend her life waiting on him to finally decide to chase after her? Maybe…

They would continue their correspondence over the following months. The most naive part of him hoped maybe their love could bloom anew, but that had yet to be seen. For now, being on speaking terms was enough. He planned to visit her and the girls soon. 

Chilchuck had been so absorbed in thoughts of his family, he hadn’t noticed the figure collapsed against his door as he approached.

“Let me in. It’s hot,” whined a familiar voice.

Chilchuck jumped, “Izutsumi?! What the hell… Get up! I can’t open the door with you in the way!”

Izutsumi grumbled, but did as she was told, dragging herself away from the door on her belly. Chilchuck watched her incredulously.

“Now you’re gonna get dirt in the house…” He quickly unlocked the door and pointed sternly towards the entrance, “Go straight to the bath, I’ll bring you something to drink.”

With surprising energy, Izutsumi leapt to her feet and bolted inside, leaving an Izutsumi shaped dust cloud in her wake. And leaving all her belongings behind. Chilchuck coughed and shook his head, carrying her backpack inside and bolting the door behind him.

Outside of the royal court, Izutsumi was his most frequent guest. Upon moving out of the castle he had offhandedly offered to let her stay with him whenever. It seemed Izutsumi took this as an invitation to set up a homebase with him. Chilchuck found he didn’t mind too much, she was out most of the time anyway. It also didn’t hurt that he enjoyed her company. He would never admit it aloud but her visits felt like a daughter coming home. As long as Izutsumi needed a safe place to stay, he would provide it.

Chilchuck walked down the short hallway that led to the bedrooms and placed the backpack in the room Izutsumi had claimed. On his way to the bathroom, Chilchuck stopped in the kitchen to fill a cup with water. He approached the bathroom door and knocked with the back of his knuckles.

“Izutsumi? I got some water here.”

A sudsy Izutsumi popped out from behind the door, swiping the cup from Chilchuck’s hand and quickly chugging it.

“For dinner, I want juice,” she said, handing the tankard back and quickly closing the door.

Chilchuck gave an exasperated sigh, that girl’s manners would never change. Looks like he would be cooking for two tonight.

-

After cleaning up the dirt Izutsumi had tracked through the house, Chilchuck made his way to the kitchen. These days he found himself cooking more and more; Senshi had rubbed off on him in that way. Now he was nowhere as good as Senshi, but he found satisfaction in doing it when he had the time. He tried to eat as balanced as possible, but old habits were hard to break and he would still find himself worrying about maintaining his weight for work. 

Chilchuck wasn’t really sure what Senshi was up to most of the time, but every few months the dwarf would show up at the castle gates. On these occasions Senshi would, of course, insist on cooking a feast for everyone and every time Chilchuck would nonchalantly wander into the kitchen and offer to help. He couldn’t pass up the opportunity to learn more about cooking and Senshi was always a willing teacher.

Chilchuck took stock of what ingredients he had. There wasn’t any juice, but he had some oranges; he got to juicing while he decided on a meal. He had an abundance of greens, but only enough bacon for one. He did have eggs, maybe he would cook up some kind of omelet. Balanced enough, he thought. Once he made enough juice to fill the glass pitcher halfway, he filled a glass and set it out on the table. Rolling up his sleeves, he got started on dinner.

-

As he finished up an omelet for Izutsumi, he heard her patter across the polished floorboards. With the loud squeak of a chair being across the floor, she plopped down at the small square dining table in the center of the kitchen. The house had been built with the dimensions of tall-men in mind, but it had been furnished with half-foot style furniture. Izutsumi looked like she was sitting at the kid’s table. Maybe he should buy some bigger chairs.

Chilchuck plated her meal and set it out in front of her, “Don’t wait up,” he snorted.

Her nose crinkled when she saw the vegetables but didn’t say anything, she was getting better about being less picky. Sometimes.

“More juice,” she demanded, holding out her empty glass.

Not even a please, he chided inwardly. He didn’t trust Izutsumi to handle the glass pitcher with care, so he poured it for her before turning back to the stove to cook his portion. The sound of Izutsumi’s loud chewing soon filled the kitchen, Chilchuck couldn’t help but cringe.

“Izutsumi, chew with your mouth closed.”

“I am.”

“No you’re not.”

“Okay,” she garbled around a mouth full of omelet.

Chilchuck inhaled deeply through his nose and gritted his teeth, trying to focus on the task in front of him.

Soon he joined Izutsumi at the table, at this point she was struggling through the vegetables. He refilled her glass and poured himself a mug of ale before sitting down. Izutsumi perked up, enthusiastically lapping up more juice.

“How’s the food?” Chilchuck inquired.

“Senshi’s is better.”

He laughed dryly, “No shit.”

She made a pensive sound and after another sip of juice added, “Was alright, add more meat next time.”

“Next time don’t show up unannounced.” 

Ignoring him, Izutsumi continued uninterrupted, “Senshi sent coin bugs and jelly, and carrots I guess.”

At some point, Chilchuck found himself worried about where she was going when she left his house. As it turned out, she was often partied up with Senshi. Senshi must’ve learned of her visits to Chilchuck’s around the same time because every visit since Izutsumi always came bearing some kind of treat. Anything from pickled vegetables, jams, dried fruit, preserved meats or some kind of monstrous treat. He always appreciated it. He felt some strange comfort in knowing what the dwarf was eating and still being able to share meals with him in this way. Chilchuck had taken to returning the favor by sending Izutsumi back loaded up with various cooking spices.

As for the coin bugs specifically… Chilchuck had once mentioned how much he had enjoyed them and it seemed like Senshi was under the impression it was his favorite food or something.

“At least that takes care of dessert. Go get them, I’ll slice the bread.”

Eager to get away from her half eaten vegetables, Izutsumi skittered off. Chilchuck scarfed down the last of his omelet before going in search of the loaf.

-

Izutsumi returned with the goods as Chilchuck set a few slices of wheat bread on a dish in the center of the table. She wasted no time in getting back to her seat, vegetables forgotten. She popped the lid off the jar of treasure bug jam and scooped a generous dollop onto one slice, then smashed it between a second slice. With the way Izutsumi was inhaling the sweet sandwich, one would never guess she just had dinner. Chilchuck took the time to toast his slice on the stove before spreading a thin layer of jam.

“How is Senshi?”

Izutsumi just grumbled.

“Huh?”

“How should I know, he’s not here right now is he?” She sassed, pieces of bread and treasure bug flying everywhere.

Yeah, just like having a moody teen in the house all over again. Chilchuck tried to relax the twinge in his brows.

“Alright alright, at least try keeping the damn bread in yer mouth.”

Chapter Text

Chilchuck had set off for Flertom’s before dawn. It was a cold, wet morning; the mist hung heavy in the air. Not being able to see more than two feet in front of him put Chilchuck on edge, he hadn’t even been able to relax on the cart that took him into town. This only aggravated the nerves already twisting in his stomach at the thought of seeing his estranged wife and daughters again. Meijack had been out to his place a couple of times, but he had only heard from Flertom through letters. Puckpatti hadn’t responded.

He arrived in town mid afternoon, he was in the final stretch now. Chilchuck kept an eye out for Flertoms’ house as he walked the stone path; he hadn’t told anybody about where he was going, but now he wished he had at least consulted Marcille. The bouquet of flowers in his hand felt like it was made of lead. The stems were probably drinking up his sweat.

Finally, he caught sight of the cottage Flertom had described. A light composite exterior covered with dark wood lattice and a complimentary sloped roof. A colorful garden surrounded the house. He couldn’t help but think how much it suited her and for a moment the nerves were overtaken with pride. His daughter had made a home for herself. She really was grown.

With renewed resolve he marched up to the door and gave it a sharp knock. After a moment, he could hear footsteps coming toward the front door. Chilchuck took a deep breath and brought the bouquet to his chest.

The door opened to reveal Whitbelle, she was wearing a tan apron over a blue linen dress. Her hair was longer now, done up in a complicated braid, and the lines in her face had deepened a bit, but this was still the woman who had walked out on him 6 years ago.

“Whit-“

“Chilchuck,” she quickly cut him off with a polite smile, “we just finished having lunch,  but there’s enough left over. Please come in.”

Hearing his full name from her threw him off completely, whatever grand words of love he could have conjured up were lost.

“I got these for you,” he replied lamely.

She shifted on her feet, a few awkward seconds before she figured out what to do. The bouquet grew heavier in his hand.

Finally, she alleviated Chilchuck’s suffering by reaching out to take them, “Oh, thank you! Fler will love these on the dining table.”

Whitbelle retreated into the house and Chilchuck followed a few paces behind, taking his time to look about the living room. It was too organized. There’s no way Fler kept it this way, at least not on her own. Whitbelle disappeared into the kitchen and soon after a commotion could be heard. Before he could prepare himself, Flertom came bounding towards him. She threw her arms around Chilchuck and squeezed with surprising strength.

“Papa! It’s so good to see you, the flowers are beautiful! Are they from the Golden Castle garden? They must be they’re sooo beautiful! If not, you should bring some next time!”

Chilchuck wrapped his arms around his daughter and ruffled her hair. He could feel the big stupid grin on his face but he kept his voice steady. “Afraid not, but next time for sure.”

She pulled away with a stern look. “Next time,” she pointed accusingly, “you said it, no going back on your word! And you can’t go no contact for years on end! Me and Mei were fine, but did you consider poor Puck? She’s a sensitive girl! You’ll apologize when you see her for dinner!”

He awkwardly scratched his head and avoided eye contact, “I will Fler, that’s why I’m here.” 

Her sweet smile quickly returned, “Good! I’ll bring you some lunch.”

-

When Flertom announced she was going to get started on dinner, Chilchuck immediately offered to help.

“You cook?” Flertom’s eyes widened, “Since when?”

Chilchuck crossed his arms and puffed out his chest, “Did you expect your old man to starve? I’m a regular in the kitchen.”

She tilted her head in thought, “Well I figured you were eating better,” she said with a poked to his stomach, “but I assumed maybe…” she lowered her voice playfully, “you had a new girlfriend or something.”

“I can take care of myself,” he huffed, “Now what’re we making?”

-

Flertom put Chilchuck to work cutting up various meats and veggies for the meat pies she planned to make. While she prepared the dough, he was peeling and cutting up potatoes.

“You learned to cook by cooking monsters in the dungeon?!” 

“Oh yeah, I was down there deep frying bats and rats.”

“Ewwww!” she squealed, “how are you not dead from food poisoning?!”

He chuckled, “It was all surprisingly tasty, we had a cook in our party who spent years learning to cook monsters.”

“Hmmm that seems really sketch-“

At that moment Whitbelle appeared in the doorframe holding a pair of gardening gloves in one hand. So that’s where she’d been all afternoon.

“Mei’s here,” she announced, “she’s in the living room.”

Flertom clapped her hands together in delight, causing flour to float up into her face. “Tell her to join us in the kitchen!” she said between coughs.

Whitbelle laughed sweetly, “Careful dear. I’ll go get her.”

Chilchuck couldn’t help but smile watching them. How many moments like this had he missed out on?

Moments later, Meijack appeared in the place of her mother. She crossed her arms and leaned against the doorframe.

“Evening Fler. How was the trip into town, Pop?”

Chilchuck was about to answer but he was cut off by Flertom.

“Mei come help us! Look, even papa knows how to cook now! You’ll end up an old maid if you don’t learn to cook!”

“What about you? You’re still single,” was her blunt reply.

Flertom’s face flared red and she pouted. “Well if I end up a spinster I’ll just have to move in with you and your roommate!”

“There’s no way in H-“

“Alright, dinner's never gonna get done like this,” Chilchuck tried to sound authoritative but there was too much amusement in his voice, “Mei cooking is a good skill to have, for your own sake. Come ‘ere and help me with the potatoes.”

Meijack huffed, but complied. Flertom giggled triumphantly.

-

Puckpatti was the last to arrive, showing up as the meat pies had been placed in the oven. Both Whitbelle and Flertom had gone to their rooms to freshen up, leaving Meijack and Chilchuck to receive Puckpatti in the living room. Upon seeing Chilchuck her eyes filled with big goopy tears. It had taken some coaxing, but they managed to get the sobbing Puckpatti seated between them on the couch. Neither of them knew what to say so they simply sat there in a sort of group hug as Puckpatti cried into Chilchuck’s chest.

“Y-you coul-dn’t even s-end a letter in f-five years,” she hiccuped.

Chilchuck rubbed soothing circles into her back and rested his chin on her head. “I’m sorry Puck, I’ll write from now on.”

“N-no! You di-didn’t even miss me…”

“Course I did! Never went a day without thinking of you.”

“What i-if you d-died an we n-never saw you ag-gain forever?”

“You’re right Puck, I was stupid. Not to think of how you were feeling, you don’t have to forgive me.”

This only made Puckpatti cry harder, burying her face deeper into Chilchuck’s neck. “Just d-don’t disap-ppear again-n.”

He gently started to rock her back and forth, Meijack went along with this motion. 

“Never again, I’m sorry,” his voice cracked. He suddenly became aware of the tears streaking down his own face.

Puckpatti’s cries eventually quieted to a whimper. Once her breath steadied she spoke quietly, “I love you papa.”

Chilchuck squeezed both of his daughters, “I love you Puck, and you too Mei I love you.”

“Love you too…” she coughed awkwardly.

Puckpatti giggled, untucking her head from under her father’s chin to press a cheek against the side of her sister’s face, much to her dismay.

“And with that I think dinner should be ready!” came Flertom’s disembodied voice. 

She came out from her hidden spot in the hall that led to the bedroom along with Whitbelle. Both seemed a little teary themselves but cheerful as they moved toward the kitchen. Meijack quickly untangled herself, muttering something about needing fresh air. 

Chilchuck wiped away his own tears and looked over at Puckpatti, “Crying is a good way to work up an appetite. Come on.”

-

It had been so long since they had all sat together for a family dinner. Even before Whitbelle left he was just always so busy. Maybe it was the atmosphere, but the meat pies were the best thing he had ever tasted. Warm and hearty, it tasted like coming home; like being part of a family. It had almost been enough to bring him to tears again. Maybe he had underestimated how much he had missed his girls. Chilchuck wanted to cook meals with them forever.

After dinner, he stepped out for a smoke. The sky was cloudy, allowing just a sliver of moonlight to illuminate the night. He prepared his pipe, he had done it a million times before so he didn’t need much light to do it. As he lit a match with the heel of his boot, he heard the kitchen door open and light footsteps pad towards him. It was Whitbelle.

She cleared her throat, “I’m really glad you were able to make amends, it means a lot. Especially to Flertom and Puckpatti.”

Chilchuck took a moment to exhale the smoke down wind from her before responding. “Yeah. I don’t think I realized how it must’ve seemed to them,” he answered sheepishly, “I’m sorry to you too, Whit. I never was too considerate of your feelings either.”

“Chilchuck I,” she paused, thinking over her choice of words, “there’s no need, I forgave you years ago. I am simply glad the girls will have both their parents from now on.”

“Chilchuck huh? Should I be calling you Whitbelle?”

“Yes, if you please,” she looked down at her shoes, toeing at the dirt before continuing quietly, “and I’ll give you an explanation this time, if you’re willing to listen.”

“Course, all ears.” Chilchuck could feel his hands grow clammy as he took a nervous puff of his pipe.

“There was a time when… I really didn’t believe I could survive without you. When I left our home, I was petrified. I had thought you would find me. I had no long term plan; we were married so young I didn’t know how to exist on my own. But after some time, it became clear you would not come after me and somehow, I made a life for myself. I like who I am now, Chilchuck. Our marriage wasn’t an unhappy one and I will always have a space for you in my heart as the father of our children, but I can’t lose my sense of self to you again, not after I’ve found it.”

She still wouldn’t look at him. He couldn’t say he felt all that surprised hearing this, but it was still a shock to the system. Whitbelle had never been so straightforward.

“I uh, I understand,” he responded awkwardly.

Finally she looked up at him, a bittersweet smile and a steel in her eyes he had never seen there before. “Thank you.”

He nodded before looking down at his smoldering pipe. Better late than never in sharing his feelings.

“I guess I never really understood what you wanted from me. It took me a long time to figure out why you left…” he slumped forward, “I wish you would’ve told me sooner.”

“You were never the type to listen, or at least that’s what I believed. How could I be open with you when you never did the same?”

“I s’ppose you’re right… So where do we go from here?”

“Well first, a formal separation is in order. But Chilchuck, I want to make it clear we are still a family. Please do not see this as me casting you out. The girls love you and I still want the best for you.”

“Alright, just let me know what you need me to do. And with your blessing I’ll stick around.”

After another puff of his pipe, he raised his eyes to meet hers. His stomach churned with a myriad of emotions. He searched Whitbelle‘s dark eyes, for what exactly he wasn’t sure. It gave him heart to see her so resolute, only he wished it wasn’t against him.

“Of course, please visit us here again. And we will be sure to come see you in the Golden Kingdom, Fler and Puck have been dying to go.”

“Well, in a few weeks they’ll be holding a party on the castle grounds. To celebrate the re founding of the kingdom or something. You all should come.”

Whitbelle grinned, “Go invite them yourself. I'm sure they’ll be ecstatic.”

Chapter Text

At the end of the week-long festival commemorating the 7 day feast of Faligon, there was a celebration held on castle grounds. More dancing, more food, more festivities. Actual dragon meat wasn’t in abundance as it had been last year, but it seemed Laios had insisted on modeling all the food after dragons; cookies were cut in the shape of the monster, chocolate tinted red in the shape of scales, chunks of breaded meat that looked like the monster in abstract. At this point Chilchuck was tired of every meal being dragon shaped.

It was evening now and the castle garden was alive with music and dancing. The partygoers were so preoccupied with their merriment that they didn’t seem to mind the giant topiaries resembling dragons, chimeras and the winged lion that leered down at them. Laios’ request no doubt. Chilchuck stood at the edge of the festivities, leaning against a manicured hedge that made up the enclosure for a chimera topiary. Far enough away to give his sensitive hearing a break and a nice spot to enjoy his fourth glass of mulled wine. 

His eyes surveyed the scene before him; the party was illuminated by magic orbs of light, the mass of people moving like a wild river in time with the upbeat music. He hoped his daughters were a part of the joyful scene. Then he noticed a figure hustling over to him, it was Falin.

Seeing that she had caught his attention, she waved a hand in salutation, “Chilchuck!”

He gave an amused wave back, “Good to see ya Falin, were you looking for me?”

She smiled gormlessly and shook her head. Upon reaching the hedge she took a seat on the grass beside him, Chilchuck couldn’t stop his parental instincts from kicking in.

“Your dress! Grass stains are impossible to remove you know!”

Falin looked down at the fawn silk dress she wore, before looking back up again with her usual relaxed demeanor, “It’s alright,” she smiled.

Chilchuck sighed but let her be, taking a sip of his wine. Glancing back at Falin she was still smiling up at him, judging from the color in her cheeks she must’ve also had something to drink. 

“What?”

“How did you propose to your wife?” she blurted out, before adding, “Oh! Ex wife.”

His eyes narrowed. Well, the Touden siblings weren’t known for their tact. “Why?”

“You’re the only person I know who’s been married!”

“What about your parents?”

“Oh… But I’m asking you, Chilchuck you have to tell me!”

“I don’t have to do anything.”

“If you don’t tell me, I’ll have no choice to bring up the idea to Marcille. I’m sure she would be much more persistent in badgering you for the story,” she said sweetly.

Chilchuck gaped at her, he knew when it was time to surrender.

“If you’re that curious. I courted Whitbelle for a while and I took her to the nicest restaurant I could afford at the time. I asked her after I walked her home. Nothing big. The ring was something I got a deal on through a friend of a cousin of a former party member, blacksmith or something,” he furrowed, trying to conjure the image of the ring in his mind, “Simple silver band, think it was engraved.”

Falin nodded thoughtfully, seeming to mull it over for a few minutes. Chilchuck took a deep drink of wine.

“Do you think Marcille would like that?”

Chilchuck choked, spitting wine back into his glass, “Huh?! Like getting that kind of proposal?”

She responded with an impish grin and nodded calmly.

He scratched his head, “Are you courting Marcille?”

“No,” she giggled, “but I don't think she'd mind.”

“You can’t propose to her out of the blue!!! She would be in hysterics before she could get a yes out!!!”

Her giggles grew into a full, hearty laugh. 

Chilchuck rolled his eyes but smiled despite himself. He gently punched her arm, “Elven courtship can last years.”

Falin hummed thoughtfully, “I’ve know Marcille a long time.”

“Well if you’re dead set on it, do something more romantic. Fairytale prince on a white horse. That type of thing, sweep her off her feet. She’s a romantic.”

“What about,” she clasped her hands together, “noble dragon whisks away the princess to be his bride?”

“Don’t do that unless you want to be rejected.”

That got another laugh from Falin and she turned to face the party once more. Chilchuck was content to sit in silence for a moment, but as he was close to emptying the glass he figured he should be heading back soon. He also wanted to check in on the girls, particularly Meijack, he knew she wasn’t as social as her sisters.

“Falin, did you see Meijack on your way over? The one that looks most like me but with freckles.”

She shook her head, “No I don’t think so, maybe you ask your w- ex wife. I saw her dancing with Namari.”

“WITH NAMARI???!!!”

And with that Chilchuck went storming back towards the crowd.

—

Sure, he had no say in who Whitbelle could and couldn’t dance with, but it was too weird for his old colleague to be dancing with her. There had to be some social rule against it.

He found Namari at the bar, which worked for him; he had spilled the last dregs of his wine in his search. Two birds, one stone. 

On his approach, Namari raised her tankard of beer to the half-foot, “Hey hey! Chilchuck!” 

Chilchuck plopped down in the seat next to her, slamming the empty glass on the counter harder than he should have before swiveling around to face Namari with a squint.

“Who were you dancing with?”

“Oh you know her? Finest half-foot woman I’ve ever met, great legs considering her height.”

“THAT’S MY EX WIFE.”

“HUH??? HOW WAS I SUPPOSED TO KNOW THAT?!” Namari shouted back, quickly matching Chilchuck’s energy, “YOU NEVER TALKED ‘BOUT HER!”

Chilchuck slumped over the counter, “It’s weird if you dance with my ex wife,” he grumbled, weakly reaching for the new tankard the bartender had set out for him.

Namari patted him between the shoulder blades, “For the record, she asked me to dance. But it’s none of your business anyway.”

He groaned, “Yeah yeah…”

She shook him by the shoulder with drunken force, “Lighten up Chuck! Plenty o’ walking shrooms in the dungeon or however that goes. Have another drink!”

She held out her tankard in his direction.

Chilchuck exhaled deeply, sitting up and raising his tankard up to Namari’s. They met with a dull thud and the two knocked back their respective drinks. His turned out to be ale.

“And besides,” Namari whispered conspiratorially, “I wouldn’t worry ‘bout me, I see her chatting up Senshi now. Turned out to be a bit of a dwarf hunter, ay?”

His spine snapped up straight, frantically looking in every direction. Sure enough, there was Whitbelle and Senshi on the opposite side of the party. Now that was somehow worse. He sprang into action, leaving behind the empty tankard and a howling Namari.

In his buzzed state, Chilchuck decided it would be fastest to go through the dance floor. He wasn’t a very strong man, but he forced his way. For every elbow he took to the face, he returned with a kick to the shin. He may have tripped a few partygoers as well, but they should have watched their step.

Finally escaping the labyrinth of dancers, he approached his targets. Whitbelle noticed him first, followed by Senshi, turning to see what had caught her attention.

“Good evening Chilchuck,” she greeted politely, “you should have warned me that your friend here was a bachelor, I had to rescue him from Flertom and Puckpatti.”

“Now miss yer mistaken,” Senshi interjected, “I just ain’t in the business of dampening the spirits of young ladies.”

She chuckled, “Very considerate of you sir, but that kindness is like blood in the water to my girls.”

Chilchuck watched this exchange as he caught his breath. He was starting to feel a little ridiculous. What had been the plan anyway? 

“Er yeah Senshi, don’t marry my daughters,” Chilchuck said weakly.

Senshi chuckled, “Nothing to worry yerself over Chilchuck, they weren’t too impressed by my lack of fortune.”

Chilchuck stared dumbly, flexing his hand slightly. He sure wished he had another drink in it.

“Senshi come with me. Good to see you Whitbelle, if you see Meijack send her my way will you?” He started suddenly, putting a hand on Senshi’s shoulder and pulling him in the direction of the bar. Around the dance floor this time.

“I see. Well it was good meeting ye Miss Whitbelle,” Senshi bowed his head in her direction.

“Likewise,” she smiled before turning to Chilchuck, “I’ll let her know.”

And with that, Senshi allowed himself to be led away.

-

“Now Chilchuck, as a comrade I’d always respect yer wishes. But it’s not your place to be controlling the lives of others, ‘specially not your ex wife’s.”

Chilchuck groaned into his hands, “I know, it’s stupid.”

“I didn’t say that. I can understand where yer coming from, yer a private person-”

“Too late for that now,” Chilchuck interjected, taking a swig from his newly acquired tankard of ale.

Senshi nodded, “Suppose so, the Miss was hoping you’d bring me by to make dinner sometime.” 

Chilchuck groaned louder, Senshi laughed and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.

“I know Whitbelle has moved on. It’s been what… 6 years now? And I don’t know how long since she emotionally checked out. Not that I helped the matters,” Chilchuck sighed, “I still loved her when she left.”

Senshi nodded, softly patting his shoulder before retracting it to take a sip of his beer, “And now?”

“I… I don’t know. I feel like, like I’m supposed to love her, and if I love her it’ll take me back. Back when our kids were young and life felt easier.”

The dwarf hummed thoughtfully, “The past always seems easier, but ye know better Chilchuck. Yer kids are grown, you should cherish them now.”

“Easier said than done,” taking another gulp of ale, “The girls know I’m human now.”

“How do ye mean?”

“Well,” Chilchuck searched his fuzzy brain for the words, “When they see me, I… I feel they see my flaws now. Like the deep ones, different from the brutal honesty of young kids. Kids will tell you you’re ugly to your face, but my girls won’t tell me they think I’m a cold-hearted bastard that drove their mother away.”

“Is that what they think?”

“I don’t know,” he huffed.

“Guess yer not much of a telepath. Chilchuck, life will pass ye by if you live on assumptions. They’re sweet girls, I’d wager they still want ye in their lives, bastard or not.”

“I don’t know why I’m telling you all this,” Chilchuck smiled tiredly, taking a hardy swig of his ale.

“How much did ye have to drink?”

Chilchuck laughed and swatted at him, “Shut up. I could drink you under the table and be just fine.”

“I got no doubts about that, but try to take it easy. Hangovers are a young man’s game.”

“Now you’re calling me old?” He snorted.

“Yer never goin’ to let that go are you?” Senshi said sheepishly, “After closer observation it’s obvious, yer grey hair, fine lines and crotchety attitude give away yer age. Not to mention the thin skin,” he concluded with a pinch of Chilchuck’s exposed forearm.

“Hey!” Chilchuck reeled back the assaulted appendage to pay Senshi back with a punch to the shoulder. This only got a hearty laugh from Senshi.

“Well if you’ve been observing so much whaddya think?” Chilchuck framed his chin with his thumb and forefinger, “This old man still got it?” His attempt at a dashing smile looked more pained than anything.

Senshi took a sip of his beer and hummed, taking in the half foot before him before nodding playfully, “Aye, yer a vision Chilchuck. Have ya been eating?”

“Been tryin’, it’s easier to feed yourself when you know your way around a kitchen.”

“Course. Yer diligent when you set yer mind to something, it’s good to see you put that energy toward yerself.”

Chilchuck waved a hand, “Yeah sure, I just want to get Izutsumi to admit my food is better than yours.”

A gravelly laugh rang out from Senshi, Chilchuck smiled into his ale. This was the most relaxed he had felt all night. Maybe alcohol had finally got to him, but he was more inclined to attribute it to Senshi. Talking with him was different than anyone he’d ever known, but Chilchuck found comfort in that. Senshi’s words always gave him something to chew on. And those dark doe eyes of his; they never looked on him with pity, just an unwavering gentleness. He brazenly stared into them, noticing the way his eyelids crinkled from laughter around them. From his prominent nose and square forehead, joy softened his stony features. Maybe it was the alcohol b-

“Pop,” Meijack’s sudden voice was like a bucket of cold water being poured over his head, “Mom said you were looking for me.”

Chilchuck snapped up, he didn’t realize how much he had been leaning towards the dwarf. “Mei! Yeah I was, wanted to see how you were holding up.”

Meijack loosely crossed her arms, “I‘m alright, who’s this?” She nodded toward Senshi.

“I told you about Senshi, he’s the cook from the party,” Chilchuck put an arm around the dwarf’s shoulder and pulled him to his side. It was surprisingly easy, Senshi must have gone along with his movements.

“Aye, am guessing yer Meijack? Glad to make yer acquaintance,” Senshi put out a hand in greeting.

Without missing a beat Meijack took his hand and firmly shook it, “Thank you for looking out for him. How much has he had to drink tonight?”

“Hey-“

“Enough that he’ll be payin’ for it tomorrow,” Senshi said with amusement before turning to Chilchuck, “I’d offer to make ye my tried and true hangover recovery in the morning, but I’ve an early start tomorrow. Gimme a moment, I’ll write it out for ye.” With that, Senshi pulled his field journal and a pencil from his pocket, scribbling his recipe down on a blank page.

Chilchuck took the moment to look around, it was getting late. The crowd had thinned out and the music was quieter, as if to put the remaining guests to sleep. In the distance he spotted Whitbelle in the company of Marcille, he grimaced. Turning to Meijack, she gave him a curious look, but she remained silent. 

The sound of Senshi tearing the sheet from the binding broke the silence, he folded it up and handed it to Chilchuck.

“I included some substitutions, just in case. Try it,” the dwarf said warmly.

“I will, but you don’t need a place to stay the night? Just cause you’re not making breakfast doesn’t mean you’re not welcome to crash.”

Senshi shook his head, “I’ll be alright. Laios offered me a room in the castle.”

Chilchuck snorted, “‘Fancy. Well don’t be a stranger, Izutsumi knows where I live.”

“Will do,” Senshi hopped off the stool, “G’night, good to meet ye Meijack.” And with a courteous wave, he was off.

Chilchuck watched him, absently tucking the paper into his trouser pocket.

“I didn’t know you were uh… putting yourself out there,” Meijack commented with an awkward cough.

His eyes bulged, responding with an incredulous “HUH?!”

“Mom did say it’d be good for y-“

“That’s not what was happening!” Chilchuck responded more forcefully than intended, taking a breath and continued calmly, “Senshi’s a friend is’all.”

“Okay… Well I’m making sure you get home,” she said flatly.

Chilchuck nodded and hopped down from the stool. He could hold his liquor and one wouldn’t be able to tell how much he had while he was seated. His speech would stay fairly clear. However, once on his feet his legs felt like jelly. As he swayed, Meijack swooped in to steady him, bringing one of his arms over her shoulder and holding him up around his upper back.

“Good kid Mei,” he brought a hand up to ruffle her hair and plant a kiss at her temple.

Meijack only nodded and they began their trek to Chilchuck’s home.

-

The walk back was peaceful. The half moon shone bright in the sky and the heat of the day had mellowed, leaving the air temperate.

Chilchuck glanced down at this daughter as she helped him along the dirt path. Mei really was his spitting image, only with her mother’s eyes. He loved each of his daughters fiercely, but the way Mei reminded him of himself made Chilchuck painfully sentimental. He was incredibly proud that she had followed in his footsteps, but knowing the business as well as he did he couldn’t help but fear for her. He had always dreamed of opening up a locksmith shop with Mei right near the family home. Somewhere he could keep her safe, something he could leave to her once he passed. Of course life had other plans.

In his lowest moments, he worried she had also inherited all his emotional failings. He couldn’t bear the thought of his little girl being all alone in the world. Hot tears welled up in his eyes. Despite his best efforts, one came loose and fell to Meijack’s shoulder.

“Pop?” she spoke with apprehension, “You alright?”

Chilchuck took a minute to respond, getting the tears under control before clearing his throat, “Mei, don’t end up like me, ok? You take care of your family and, and you always tell them you love them. Pride ain’t worth a damn if it means driving ‘em away.”

“You didn’t drive us away,” she sighed, “Sure, things between you and Ma are different now, but we’re still family.”

He choked, “I wanted to give you girls everything. It’s my fault you don’t have a normal family.”

“We’re not kids anymore, we’ll live. You’re the one beating yourself up over it,” she deadpanned, before softly adding, “I’d rather you both be happy, in wherever you go from here. I know Puck and Fler feel the same.”

Chilchuck took a deep, shaky breath, squeezing her with the arm slung around her shoulders and pressed a kiss to her hairline.

“Another one? Damn, that dungeon sure did a number on you,” Meijack muttered under her breath.

He tugged her ear lightly, “Watch it now.”

The house now came into view, of course he would invite Meijack to stay, but a question burned at the front of his mind.

“Mei, am I a bastard?”

She looked at her father, considering how she should answer for a moment before speaking up, “Yeah,” she said, pressing a kiss to his cheek, “but we love you anyway.”

Chapter Text

Chilchuck wasn’t necessarily avoiding Marcille, but he wasn’t exactly trying to get caught in a conversation with her either. Unfortunately for him, she managed to catch him at the castle gates on his way home, distracted after a particularly intense meeting with the locksmith union.

“Why didn’t you tell me you went to visit your wife!!! You have to tell me everything!” 

Chilchuck cursed under his breath, his retirement from dungeoneering must have really dulled his skills if he hadn’t heard Marcille’s clumsy approach.

“There’s nothing to tell.”

“Chilchuck you can’t still be so private after everything we’ve been through!” she whined.

“What did you want to hear? That we’re separating?” he snorted.

“WHAT! Then why did she come to the festival?”

“It’s not a big deal, we can still be friendly.”

“And you’re not even going to try? You can’t give up so easily! Chilchuck, we can win her back!”

“We? Marcille, this isn’t one of your dramas.”

Marcille flushed, a scowl coming over her features, “I just want you two to be happy.”

“You spoke to Whitbelle at the party didn’t ya? Did she seem miserable?”

“No… but Chilchuck she’s so beautiful and sweet! How could you just let her go! You just need to be more open!”

“Yeah, why didn’t I think of that,” came his flat reply, “Look, it’s for the best. I don’t need you sticking your nose in it. If Whitbelle is happy, so am I.” 

Marcille let out a frustrated groan, “You don’t need to be so self-sacrificing! You still love her, go tell her!”

“Marcille,” he sighed with annoyance, “not anymore, ‘least not like that. Sure I miss the life we had together, but there’s no going back now.”

The elf’s eyes got big and watery, “How cold… Now you’ll be alone forever…”

“Now you’re casting me out?! What happened to ‘after everything we’ve been through’!” he snapped.

“I guess we are all you have left,” she sniffled, “after abandoning your family… What will become of your children without their father?”

“They’re adults. I’m sure they’ll be fine.”

She sighed dramatically, “If only you had confided in me before your visit, but if you are so determined to give up on true love…”

“Instead of putting all this thought where it’s not wanted, you should focus on yourself.”

Marcille tilted her head slightly, “What do you mean?”

“What do I mean? Bein’ in a room with you and Falin is painful.”

With this, the elf’s face went up in metaphorical flames, burning bright red as she stammered dumbly, “What are you talking about?!”

Chilchuck smirked, feeling the situation had turned in his favor, “Are you serious? You may as well have gloated in Shuro’s face when Falin turned down his proposal. Suspicious for someone so obsessed with romance.”

“It wouldn’t have been good for Falin! She said it herself! She needs time alone!”

“Yeah okay. And how do you explain your shitty attitude when she’s been gone for more than a few weeks? You’re worse than a sailor’s wife.”

She glared down at her feet, “I worry about her.”

“There you go, spend more time worrying about her then.”

Marcille was silent for a beat, Chilchuck wondered if this would be his chance to make his escape, until he saw how solemn her expression had become.

“Do you think being part chimera really extended her life?”

The half-foot shifted awkwardly, “I wouldn’t really know but that’s what they’re saying. Guess you’ll find out.”

She looked down at him sadly, “I wish you could be there too.”

Chilchuck really had not been prepared for the emotional honesty, especially not in broad daylight. He felt exposed.

“It doesn’t bother me much. I live my life best I can, I’m alright with what I got out of it.”

“But you’re not the one being left behind.”

“I s’ppose not.” 

-

Marcille’s words echoed in his mind as he prepared dinner that evening. A light chicken soup; it was one of those days where his hunger was almost nonexistent, but he knew he needed to eat.

He stared into the broth on the stove. Would it be a big deal when he died? As long as it wasn’t a painful dungeon death, it wasn’t something that could be avoided anyway. In a way, he had left his family before. Not that it was permanent – maybe that’s why Chilchuck hadn’t been in such a hurry to reunite with them, he knew that they’d still be there. Thinking about it now it seemed selfish; to leave them in suspense while he decided when he would reappear, once he felt prepared. The memory of Puckpatti crying in his arms materialized in the boiling pot and he grimaced. All that time – thinking of the right words to say to keep the pain to a minimum, to express his love, his regrets; no matter what he couldn’t have changed how she would react. At Least he could make things right now, but what could he do for her when he died? He couldn't comfort her at his own funeral. Considering their lifespans, they probably wouldn’t be long without him. Actually he wasn’t sure if he liked that thought.

And what about Marcille? She would definitely outlive him, he would most likely be the first of the former Touden party to kick the bucket, would it affect them? Most of them would live long enough to forget their grief, to forget Chilchuck entirely; as was the privilege of the longer lived races. Marcille did have some kind of complex about it, was she worried his life was too short to be fulfilling? He scowled, he didn’t like the condescension of the imaginary Marcille in his mind. They weren’t family, but, albeit begrudgingly, Chilchuck had to admit he cared about the former Touden party— he didn’t want to cause them pain. Chilchuck crossed his arms and furrowed at the boiling soup. Well what was he supposed to do about it? Not die? He wasn’t good at this. He wasn’t sure if he cared to be remembered at all, but it wasn’t about him. Over and over the question looped in his mind, what about the people he would leave behind?

Deciding the soup was done, the half-foot took the pot off of the stove and set it directly on the dining table. He was too tired to do dishes, so he grabbed a spoon and dug in. Ah— he forgot the chicken.

Chapter Text

It would take almost six months, but Senshi would make the trip out to Chilchuck’s home.

The half-foot had been tending to the small garden he had set up in his yard some months prior. He had mostly planted what he thought would make for versatile ingredients; potatoes, lettuce, carrots, onions and the like. He had also decided to plant a few strawberry seeds at the edge of the garden. He figured it’d be good for Izutsumi’s sweet tooth. Chilchuck knew this living situation wasn’t permanent, but it was a good way to keep busy. Also a great way to save money. 

He was crouched over the struggling strawberry seedlings when two figures approached him unnoticed.

“What is that,” came Izutsumi’s monotone voice.

With a jump, Chilchuck whipped his head around – the sudden movement threw him off balance and he landed on his ass.

“Oi Chilchuck! Are ye alright?” Soon Senshi’s broad hand filled his vision.

Chilchuck swatted it away and scrambled to his feet, dusting himself off. “I’m fine,” he grumbled. He was really out of practice if these two had managed to sneak up on him.

“It looks dead,” Izutsumi remarked, tugging at the wilting leaves of the strawberry sapling.

“Aye, what is it?” 

“Strawberries,” he said with annoyance, shooing Izutsumi away from it, “Every other plant looks fine ‘cept these god forsaken things.”

Senshi took a closer look at the dying plant, turning a few leaves over with his large hands. It was impressive how gentle he managed to be, as if the plant were made of tissue paper. 

“Looks like there may be a fungus in the soil causin’ it to wilt, ye may want to check any vegetables ya may have harvested.”

“Oh,” the half-foot scratched the back of his head, “well I haven’t gotten sick from anything yet.”

Senshi eyed the soil, “I’ll help ye pick out a better plot, not as good as a golem garden but it’ll be better fer yer crops.”

-

Most of the day was spent setting up a new garden plot; based on the state of the other plants, Senshi found the garden’s soil was teeming with fungus. With the dwarf’s expertise, they found a better spot. The autumn day was cool, making the process of loosening the soil less miserable than it had been in the summer when Chilchuck had originally begun his garden project. It didn’t hurt to have an extra pair of hands to lighten the load. Izutsumi supervised the pair from a nearby tree branch as they worked till the sunset. 

Chilchuck looked out over his new garden. His back was aching from all the manual labor and the nerves shot pain down his left leg, but he felt satisfied in spite of this. Though he wasn’t going to push himself any further.

“Senshi! I’ll get started on dinner,” he called out to the dwarf, who was making his final appraisal of the garden. Hearing “dinner” made him perk up.

“Now Chilchuck, I already had green dragon steaks prepped fer dinner.”

“You’re the guest I-“

“Let Senshi cook,” Izutsumi interrupted, “I’m not eating your rotten vegetables.”

Chilchuck gaped, but before he could give Izutsumi a piece of his mind Senshi was already jogging past him. To the kitchen no doubt. He gave up on defending himself, choosing instead to hobble after the surprisingly quick dwarf. 

-

In the end, they compromised. Senshi got to work over the stove while Chilchuck was on chopping duty once again. It was a sight watching Senshi bustle about the small kitchen. The counters were perfectly suited to his own height but Senshi had to hunch over them, the stove was also somewhat low but Chilchuck figured it wasn’t too different from cooking over a campfire.

Chilchuck listened as Senshi described aloud his cooking process. He had managed to get his hands on some choice cuts of green dragon, smoking it to preserve it long enough for his visit. As they finished up the myriad of sides, Senshi seared the steaks. The smoky aroma made Chilchuck’s mouth water and at the table behind them he could hear Izutsumi’s stomach growl.

“Izutsumi! Come help set the table at least,” Chilchuck commanded.

There was no way she didn’t hear him, but she made no sign of lifting her head from the table.

At this, Senshi came to his aid, “I’d greatly appreciate yer help, Izutsumi. Faster ye get this done, faster we eat.”

She sighed dramatically but did as she was told, setting out utensils and dishes and whatever else she thought necessary. Chilchuck placed the various side dishes at the table as Senshi served up the steaks. Chilchuck wasn’t as wild about dungeon food as Laios, but as long as it was delicious he couldn’t complain – and Senshi delivered on flavor every time. He eagerly took his seat and as soon as everyone was seated he took the first bite. The steak was more tender than he had been expecting and whatever spices Senshi had rubbed into the meat were spicy. Chilchuck savored it, he’d have to ask Senshi to teach him to smoke meat sometime. 

“Isn’t there anything to drink?” Izutsumi asked impatiently.

“Huh?” Chilchuck spoke with a mouthful of steak before swallowing, “Oh yeah. Senshi ya want anything? I’m gonna pour myself some ale.”

“Aye, ale’s fine thank ye.”

Chilchuck nodded and got up, locating a jar of cranberry juice in the icebox and a nice bottle of ale. He had guests after all. Turning back to said guests at the table, the domesticity of the scene thwacked him over the head. The room was warmly lit by the wall lanterns and the fire smoldering on the stove. Izutsumi and Senshi ate with gusto, with Senshi occasionally chiding the girl for her table manners. It seemed an effort was being made on her part to comply, but after a few minutes Izutsumi would begin her ravenous consumption once more. He still hadn’t gotten around to picking up new furniture more suitable for his taller guests, but Senshi fit the half-foot style dining set surprisingly well. Was it his age making him so sappy? Whatever the case, at that moment the house felt more like a home. 

Breaking from his thoughts, he poured some juice in Izutsumi’s cup and two tankards of ale for Senshi and himself. Izutsumi took a sip and wrinkled her nose.

 “It’s sour,” she stuck her tongue out as if to emphasize the assault on her taste buds.

“All I had was cranberry,” Chilchuck replied flatly.

“We would’ve announced our intent to visit, but it wasn’t really planned. We were already headin’ in the direction,” Senshi chimed in.

Chilchuck raised a brow at him, “Yet you had the foresight to smoke enough dragon steaks for three?”

The dwarf’s eyes widened, but he remained silent instead choosing to turn his attention to his ale. His normally ruddy nose seemed to darken.

Izutsumi snickered, “Senshi said he was going to write, but when he got his hands on the dragon meat it was all he could talk about. He can be kind of an air head.”

Well, at least the thought was there. He chuckled.

- 

After dinner the trio settled in the hearth room, with Izutsumi curling up in front of the fireplace and her two companions sitting on opposite ends of the small couch with their respective tankards of ale.

“I never got the chance to thank you for that hangover recipe, it’s a real winner Senshi,” Chilchuck raised his drink to the dwarf, “maybe I’ll have it for breakfast tomorrow.”

Senshi rolled his eyes, “Unless yer plannin’ on downin’ a barrel of ale in the next few hours, I doubt that single drink will have the effect yer looking for.”

Chilchuck snorted, “Too bad, it’d be great to see how a pro makes it.”

“If yer not opposed to it, Izutsumi and I could use a place to stay fer the next few days. Would earn my keep by makin’ it for ye.”

The half-foot waved a hand, “You guys are welcome to stay whether you cook or not, but it’s definitely a bonus. There’s more than enough room in the house anyway.”

Senshi responded with a grateful smile. Chilchuck rubbed his nose, hiding a smug smile.

“Anyway where have you and Izutsumi been? Is she with you often?”

“As often as she pleases. I wouldn’t worry much Chilchuck, the lass is more than capable of handling herself.”

“Yeah, you should be more worried about Senshi! Especially when he’s fumbling through a dungeon he doesn't know that well,” Izutsumi interjected.

Senshi sighed, “Aye, the different styles of dungeon have been tough. And ye have the dungeons where it's more town than dungeon. Seems I’ve yet to find my place.”

Chilchuck took a hearty gulp of ale. It was comforting to hear he wasn’t the only one at a loss. Laios and Marcille had new roles to fulfill, whether they liked it or not, and Falin would always have a place to return to with them. All of his plans had been upended in one way or another, at some point he would finally move into that long empty home in Kahka Brud – it was just a matter of when. Chilchuck felt like he was in some kind of nebulous transition period, transitioning to what he didn’t know, but he couldn’t stay here forever.

“Well if you figure it out let me know, maybe I’ll come with ya.”

“Yer company would be welcome,” the dwarf chuckled, “but don’t think yer family would be too happy with me.”

“Surefire way to keep my daughters uninterested in ya? This is shaping up to be a great plan.”

“Ye really shouldn’t worry. That’s never been in the cards fer me.”

“Never thought about having a family?”

Senshi sipped his ale, “It crosses everyone’s mind ‘least once. It’s what’s expected, but it doesn't fit with the life I lead. ‘Sides, seems harder than it looks.”

Chilchuck leaned toward him and spoke in a low voice, “Think you’re doing a good job with her.”

This got a smile out of the dwarf, at least that’s what it seemed like to Chilchuck considering how much his beard obscured his face; his inference based on the way his brow softened and how the apple of his cheeks rose. He knew Senshi was handsome, this was simply a fact, but in the glow of the fireplace he was like some kind of dwarven angel of the kitchen. Had Chilchuck been more drunk, maybe he would’ve reached out to trace the curves of his cheeks or the hard lines of his nose, run a hand through his dark hair, measure the width of his shoulders; to have a man of Senshi’s stature under him —

Senshi now surveyed him with an eyebrow raised. Unbeknownst to Chilchuck, his own expression had morphed into a scowl. The half-foot pulled back suddenly, loosening the vice grip he had on the tankard and downed the last of his ale. He gave Senshi what he hoped was a casual smile, but the tightness in his face wasn’t reassuring.

“‘s late. Want me to show ya to your room?”

-

Once his guests were settled Chilchuck retreated to his own room. Man what the hell was that. He knew it’d been a minute since he got any action, pretty much since Whitbelle left, but really? Senshi? Again Chilchuck could admit the guy was attractive but when had he become attracted to him? And what happened to his own rule? He supposed they weren’t a party anymore but still. He didn’t want to complicate things with a one night stand, especially not with Senshi. There was so much that could go wrong and the thought of alienating Senshi bothered him more than he’d like to admit. Maybe he should try to get out there, there were other dwarves…

The half-foot groaned and dragged his hands down his face. He was too old for this.

Chapter Text

Chilchuck had been in the castle garden with Laios when Senshi returned from another long absence. Laios spotted him first and all but pounced on the dwarf.

“Senshi! Finally you’re back! You never answered my letter about centaurs, I was starting to think they’d trampled you! They’re very territorial,” If Laios had a tail it would be wagging with excitement.

Chilchuck stood with his hands behind his head, watching the two as Laios launched an assault of questions about centaurs and what parts would be non-human enough to eat. It always surprised him how much patience Senshi had for the tall-man, guess it didn’t hurt that it was a topic he was also passionate about.

“Breathe lad, let’s go to the kitchen and I’ll share what’s fer dinner,” came Senshi’s reply. With a quick nod to greet Chilchuck, he walked back to the castle with an excited Laios at his heels. Maybe Chilchuck would pass on joining them in the kitchen, he didn’t have the patience to handle Laios when he got like this.

-

It wouldn’t be till after dinner that Chilchuck would have Senshi to himself. Laios had retreated to the drawing room to record all the new monster information he’d learned from Senshi before Kabru dragged him back to more official matters and Marcille and Falin had settled in the library. Chilchuck and Senshi had the parlor to themselves, seated on a fine sofa sharing an expensive bottle of wine. The castle always had an excellent selection of liquor and spirits for the taking, so he often overindulged. Tonight was no different, except for Senshi’s agreeable company.

“‘m tellin’ ya Senshi, you’re the only one Laios wouldn’t cannibalize,” Chilchuck laughed drunkenly.

Senshi shook his head, “Yer not giving the boy enough credit, he wouldn’t eat ‘is friends. Unless it were fer survival.”

“Sure, but me personally? I wouldn’t be eatin’ anyone under any circumstances,” Chilchuck snorted, swirling the wine glass in his hand.

“Don’t think most of us would taste very good anyhow,” the dwarf stroked his beard, “Muscle use makes the meat tougher. And you ain’t got much mass to begin with.”

The half-foot took a drink of wine and suddenly leaned toward his companion, “Yeah? Don’t think I’d taste very good, Senshi?”
Senshi’s eyes widened in surprise, he tried to lean back but was met with the sofa’s armrest. Chilchuck threw his head back in laughter.

“Easy now,” rumbled the dwarf, “ye’ll spill yer wine if yer not careful.”

“We still got half the bottle,” he took a sip, “and I‘m sure no one would notice if we helped ourselves to another.”

“Maybe not the rest, but Kabru has noticed fer sure. You’ll drink 'em out of house ‘n home.”

“Yeah well what’s he gonna do about it? It’s not like Laios is drinking the stuff.”

Senshi shot him a disapproving look, but silently took a drink of his wine. Chilchuck’s eyes were drawn to the movement, watching the dark liquid disappear between his mustache and chapped bottom lip. No matter how much time had passed, the dwarf’s appearance never seemed to change, but Chilchuck’s impression of him had. It wouldn’t be inaccurate to call it ogling though he’d rather not call it that. He had always admired the broad build of his companion, but now the sight of it excited something in his gut. Senshi was solidly built, his muscle definition softened by a layer of fat; given his preference for cooking over manual labor it made sense, suited him even. And the hair that adorned every curve of his rugged body, once it would have inspired jealousy, now all he wanted to do was follow every trail to its end. His eyes had fallen to the hem of Senshi’s skirt, the measly thing riding up the dwarf’s large hairy thighs; imagining his own thin hands wrapped around them, he’d hardly be able to hold them… What about a bite? If he sunk his teeth into the exposed flesh, would it be tough?

“What would you taste like?”

Senshi choked on his wine, the liquid dribbling into his beard, “What?”

Chilchuck set down his glass and took on a playfully chiding tone, “Now hold on, weren’t ya just complainin’ bout spilling wine? You gonna drink that?” He pointed to his beard.

Senshi furrowed, but his nose seemed to grow more red, “Yer not serious.”

“Dead serious Senshi, ‘s expensive stuff,” Chilchuck slung an arm around the back of the sofa for support as he lurched toward the dwarf, using his other hand to point at the offending area, “If you’re not gonna drink it, I’ll help myself.”

Chilchuck looked up into Senshi’s face, those dark eyes shining in the dim light of the parlor; it reminded him of a startled doe. He could almost see his own reflection, but he was glad he couldn’t. He didn’t want to imagine the mess Senshi was seeing on his end.

Finally, Senshi nodded, adding something under his breath, but Chilchuck had already sprung into action. He placed his free hand on Senshi’s thigh to stabilize his clumsy movements as he brought his face to Senshi’s. He experimentally licked the area of his beard directly under his lip, sure enough he could taste the wine, along with it came flavors of salt and smoke; tasted as Senshi should taste. Emboldened, Chilchuck scrambled into the dwarf’s lap and straddled his thigh. He sloppily licked around his mouth and chin, savoring the flavor as if it were his favorite meal; eventually taking Senshi’s lower lip between his own and sucking on it. He heard the dwarf inhale sharply as he did. Chilchuck wasn’t sure if Senshi was just shy or inexperienced, but it was cute. If Senshi could feel him growing hard against his thigh, he gave no indication. Chilchuck felt two large hands cautiously encircle his waist, it made him crazy. He took the initiative, a messy collision of lips and teeth. His bony hands frantically ran up the dwarf’s sides; feeling up his arms and thighs and whatever exposed skin he could get his hands on. It was the kind of kiss usually reserved for the inexperienced or the desperate. At the moment Chilchuck was the latter, he wanted to devour Senshi.

The half-foot was growing desperate for friction and was about to grind down on the man under him when he heard a door slam followed by hurried footsteps. He pulled away from Senshi to look at the parlor door.

“Shit. If that was Marcille I have to kill both of us,” he groaned, the arousal leaving his body.

Senshi looked as if he was still getting his bearings, but nonetheless he responded in a gravelly voice, “What’s the problem?”

“Come on Senshi, Marcille is the last person you want meddlin’ in your personal affairs. ‘Sides, wouldnt be surprised if the sight of two old men fucking was enough to turn her stomach.” Chilchuck went to remove himself from Senshi’s thigh but found his knees stiff and aching, “Ah damn it.”

The dwarf stifled a laugh and came in with the assist, gently lifting Chilchuck up and placing him on the sofa next to him.

He mumbled a tired thanks. He was too old for this, but as much as he wanted to, Chilchuck couldn't muster the energy to pull himself from the sofa. He sidled up to Senshi, resting his head against his broad shoulder; resigned to the hangover and aches from a less than ideal sleeping arrangement he’d be feeling in the morning. At least Senshi would be there to suffer it with him.

-

A strong hand shook Chilchuck awake. He blearily opened his eyes, “Hmm Sen-”

Falin’s round face filled his vision. With a shriek, the half-foot launched himself backwards; hard enough to send him flying over the back of the sofa, the pounding hangover making his head spin.

A giggle could be heard from the other side, “Good morning Chilchuck, Senshi is already in the kitchen making breakfast.”

The half-foot stumbled to his feet clutching his head, “Okay. Why the hell are you here?”

Falin’s sweet smile never faltered, “I figured you’d like to get a head start before Marcille came down. I was shocked to see how red she was when she returned from the parlor last night.”

“Of course, it had to be Marcille,” he groaned.

“She does live here, but if you and Senshi needed a private bedroom we w-”

“Absolutely not.”

“Then don’t have sex in the parlor.”

Chilchuck ran a hand over his face, “We didn’t okay? Marcille made sure of that. Now I’m goin’ for breakfast,” he snapped, shuffling past Falin as fast as his body would allow.

-

As Falin had said, Senshi was already at work over the counter kneading dough. Chilchuck watched him from the doorway. Seemed he had the time to freshen up, his clothes were unwrinkled and his hair was up; giving Chilchuck a better view of his back and the way the muscles shifted with each kneading motion. The half-foot felt a smug smile spread across his lips. All that strength and the guy was like a timid forest creature beneath him.

“Mornin’ Senshi, what’re you making?”

Senshi didn’t miss a beat, responding without taking his eyes off the dough, “Sourdough, had the starter on me. Figured it’d be good for yer hangover.”

Chilchuck shuffled over to a stool near Senshi, “I’d offer to help, but I feel like horseshit.”

He chuckled, “Can’t be surprised, but am just about finished here anyway. All’s left is to put it in the oven. I’ll cook the eggs and sausage when it’s done.”

The half-foot nodded, eyes shut in pain as a headache washed over him. The kitchen was silent except for the sounds of Senshi moving about. When he heard those heavy footsteps coming toward him, he opened his eyes. Senshi held out a mug of some kind of herbal tea and a lump wrapped in cheesecloth.

“Had a little leftover bread. The tea’s made of medicinal herbs, to tide ye over till breakfast’s ready.”

The non-monstrous birds chirped outside, the mid morning sun shone a pale light through the arched windows; a single beam caught the crown of the dwarf's hair like a halo. It was as if the patron saint of drunkards had come down from on high to offer him sweet succor in the form of day old bread. He could feel the headache clearing already as he reached for the bread.

“CHILCHUCK!” Marcille’s rang out, piercing the half-foot’s brain like a hot knife through butter.

“NO! GO AWAY!” He frantically snatched the bread and tea from Senshi, desperately scarfing down the loaf as if it would save him from Marcille’s lecture.

But Marcille was on a mission, her red face sported a look of determination. She marched toward the pair, greeting Senshi politely, before dragging a struggling Chilchuck away.

-

“What if someone else caught you! What if there were foreign dignitaries! Or the Queen of the Elves!” Marcille paced back and forth on the garden lawn, dragon topiary watching over them.

Chilchuck was glad he still had the tea, the morning was brisk and his rumpled button up and dress pants from yesterday didn’t provide much warmth. He watched her blankly from the iron garden bench, only responding with the occasional grunt. He prayed she would tire soon or Senshi would come to announce breakfast was ready, his ass was starting to hurt.

“And really? Senshi? I didn’t think your type was –”

“What? Men?” He interrupted sarcastically.

Marcille flushed, “I was going to say burly! He’s nothing like your wife! It doesn’t make sense! Though…” she trailed off, bringing a hand to her chin, “He did somewhat resemble her when he got changed into an elf.”

He stared at her unimpressed, “Is it the black hair? That’s it?”

She cried out, “That's the only explanation that makes sense!”

“Does it have to make sense? It’s nothing serious.”

“So you’re just.. using Senshi to fulfill your base desires?”

“Eugh, why do you have to say it like that? Do you actually want to know? You look like you’re gonna be sick.”

Her distress only grew, “I care about you both!!!”

“Then why am I the only one getting a talking to?,” he raised a brow, “What about Senshi?”

“Ah well,” she scratched her face nervously, “I trust Senshi to know better…”

“What am I corrupting him or something?!”

Before Marcille could defend herself, Falin appeared to cheerfully announce breakfast was ready. Marcille made her hasty retreat with Falin in tow. Thank god, he was starving.

-

“You’re in good spirits tonight Chilchuck,” Namari chuckled, “who's the lucky lady?”

Chilchuck waved a hand, “It’d be a stretch to say lucky. Nah, just a good lunch. Senshi cured a bunch of dungeon meat. Not sure what it all was but anything Senshi makes is good.”

“Does he live with you? He’s always over there.”

“Some people enjoy my company and they visit, Namari.”

“Is he still there now?” she asked, amused.

“Yeah?”

“Don’t think it’s polite to leave guests in your home.”

Chilchuck rolled his eyes, “Should I have stayed home? I hadn’t seen you in a minute cause you’re always so busy I wasn’t gonna cancel. ‘sides Izutsumi is with him.”

Namari guffawed, “Married life suits you well.”

He choked on his ale but forced it down. He could feel his ears burn. “It’s nothing like that.”

The dwarf tried to compose herself but the amusement didn’t leave her voice. “Listen Chilchuck, I’m not judging you. Seems like he makes you better company.”

Chilchuck rubbed his face with one hand sighed. Throwing his head back he drained the tankard and slammed it on the table. His face betrayed his discomfort, red faced and lip twisted downward, but what the hell? Maybe admitting things out loud would help.

“I mean it when I say it isn’t anything, like I’m not courting him,” he said, before leaning in and lowering his voice, “but I wouldn’t not want to… I don’t know, I don’t want to make things complicated, but it’s hard as hell, ‘specially when you’re five glasses of wine deep in the arms of a brick shithouse that just cooked ya a fine dinner.”

Namari swallowed her laughter along with a slug of beer, “You’re cuddling up with the guy after he wine and dines you? What happened to no inter party relationships?"

Chilchuck learned back and pursed his lips, eyes now fixed to the floorboards. Guess that kind of what was going on. It was different hearing it spoken back to him. His brow furrowed.

“I like when he’s around.”

She nodded, “Well try to keep this one around, alright?”
-
The tavern wasn’t far from his cottage so Chilchuck made it back without incident. From the outside the house was quiet, the midnight moon cast a cool glow over the stone walls, but a candle had been left burning in one of the windows. The warm glow invited him back home.

Unlocking the door revealed a welcoming scene in the living room. There was Senshi on the couch with his field journal in hand, his usual gear replaced with a lighter dressing gown. Across his lap was a sleeping Izutsumi, seemed like Senshi was taking the opportunity to sketch her.

“It’s late,” mumbled the half-foot, taking his shoes off before shuffling around to the back of couch. He leaned on it, crossed arms perched near Senshi’s head. Looks like he was about done with the sketch, soft shading capturing the soft texture of Izutsumi’s fur in the light of the fireplace.

“Didnt have the heart to wake her,” came Senshi’s tender reply, “The lass needs the rest more than I.”

Chilchuck hummed. The way Senshi’s hair caught the firelight made it look just as soft. Emboldened by the booze still in his system, he rested his cheek against the side of the dwarf’s head. Seemed like it was freshly washed, the dark waves were soft against his cheek and they smelled of whatever herbs Senshi put in his soap. But underlying the fresh smell was something more smokey, as if all the open fires Senshi had cooked over had permanently left their mark. Chilchuck turned to bury his nose further, brushing against the back of Senshi’s ear before inhaling deeply. He decided he liked the smell.

Senshi clearly heard this. The sound of pencil against paper ceased and he turned to face the half-foot, big dark eyes quizzically searching his. They were almost nose to nose. “Chilchuck?”
He decided to play it off, shrugging casually. “Hm? Well I’ll wake ‘er then.”

The half-foot shuffled back around to the front of the couch. He suddenly shook Izutsumi by the shoulder till she woke with an angry yowl, claws flying. Chilchuck managed to dodge most of it by leaning back but it looked like Senshi caught a few stray swipes to his cheeks and exposed arms.

Chilchuck waited for her anger to go from a boil to a simmer. “You trapped Senshi on the couch. Go to bed.”

Her eyes narrowed, looking between the two men before standing up. With a grumbled apology to Senshi she shuffled off to her room.

“Problem solved, see ya tomorrow,” Chilchuck said with a yawn.

“That’s one way to do it,” said the dwarf with an exasperated sigh, “G’night.”

-

The summer brought new life to the garden. While Chilchuck got to work plucking weeds, Izutsumi lounged in a shady spot by the strawberry patch. Every now and then she reached out a fuzzy hand to pluck a berry from the plant. She seemed to be enjoying them, if the growing juice stain around her mouth was anything to go by.

“Chilchuck.”

“Izutsumi?”

“You need to plant more of these.”

Chilchuck stood up and turned to see the now bare strawberry patch, “You finished em already?”

-

“D’you ever think you’ll marry?”

The question came out suddenly, in a tone he hoped was nonchalant. Chilchuck kept his gaze on the flask in his hands. He was comfortably tucked into the corner of the couch with his back against the arm rest and his legs draped across the dwarf’s lap. It was a good sized couch but they took up less than half the available space.

He felt Senshi shift beneath him. The dwarf hummed, turning the question over in his mind.

“Don’t think so, never been of interest.”

Chilchuck took a swig of whiskey before looking up at Senshi. His large dark eyes stared back at him blankly.

“That’s a shame, what a househusband you’d be.”

Senshi brought a hand to stroke his beard. “That’d be the tricky part, staying at home.”

Chilchuck brought an arm across the back of the couch, hand resting near Senshi’s head. “Unless you lived in the dungeon,” he deadpanned.

Senshi chuckled, “ I s’ppose so.”

Chilchuck offered the flask to Senshi, he took it with a curt thanks and took a sip.

“What ‘bout you Chilchuck? Would ya marry again?”

He snorted, “Think I’m too old for that now.“

“That shouldn’t stop you from living as you please.”

“Well I don’t want to anyway.” As he said this he ran a clumsy hand through Senshi’s dark hair, gently tugging some knots free. It was oily but it still held on to the smell of soap. “Felt more important when I was young. Now ‘m alright.”

“What do you want now?”

“What I want? Think I want to make you breakfast tomorrow.”