Moving Day

Yesterday, Rome and Rei dropped Virga off at home and headed back to Deucado. However, they couldn't go back to their own house because the would-be assassins Troutman and Steele had blown it up. Rome's parents let the three Bieraks crash there until their house was rebuilt. Here is how it went down:

     It was early afternoon. Rome’s parents had taken the day off to spend time with their daughter and Aason. Rome was sitting at the dining table showing her parents the card game she and Rei had discovered inside the casino at the top of The Hand. She promised not to use her new powers to cheat.
     They tried a few hands and Binoda and Fridone were quick to pick up the strategy as long as Rome played normal. The lesson was interrupted by Rei bursting into the house with a huge smile on his face.
     “What is it, mau emir?” Rome asked, pleased to see her husband in such good spirits.
     “You want the good news or the better news?” Rei asked, beaming.
     Rome shrugged. “The good news, I suppose.”
     “The good Doctor MINIMCOM said I don’t have to wear that stupid vest anymore.” He pulled up his shirt to show his chest was actually visible to the world again. Rome was thrilled to see his somewhat hairy chest was as buff as ever.
     “Wonderful,” Rome said, clapping her hands together. “And what is the better news?”
     Rei smoothed his shirt down then pumped his fist in the air. He came over and hugged Binoda and Fridone. “I love you folks and we truly appreciate you letting us stay here but…” He turned to look at Rome. “Our house is done!” he said. “Woo hoo.” He pumped his fist again.
     “We can move back home?” Rome asked excitedly.
     “Yep,” Rei said. “As soon as you like.”
     “Hooray,” Rome said, standing up. “Mea, Beo, no offense but I am ready to leave.”
     “No offense taken,” Binoda said. “I understand completely. She stood up and pulled Fridone to his feet. “We will help you pack,” she said. “I am very happy for you.”
     It took the rest of the day but by evening, the three Bieraks were back in their rebuilt house. From the outside, there was no longer any evidence of the violent explosion that had blown it apart. Even the trellis had been restored although it would be a while before the fragrant vines came back completely. Inside the house, while the physical structure was identical to before, the homey touches Rome had applied over the years would take some time to replace.

There really is no place like home. Remember, though, we have a few loose ends to tie up.