“You are of Elas,” Kta exclaimed indignantly. “Of this hearth and not simply beside it. Go upstairs.”
“I have to find t’Nethim’s family,” he protested.
“This has been done. I need you,” Kta insisted. “I need you. Elas does. When Ylith-methi knows what you have done-and she will-I have no doubt that she will wish to see you. You cannot go like that, and you cannot go ignorant of the business of your hearth.”
He nodded wearily, felt for the stairs.
“Kta,” said Bel softly. “See to him if you wish, personally. We will keep peace at your hearth until you return with my lord of Indresul. Perhaps we can even find some things to discuss while you are gone if my lady wife will bring us another round of tea.”
Kta considered the two of them, grave old Vel and the young Sufaki of his own age. Then he gave them a bemused slight bow and guided Kurt toward the stairs.
“Come,” he said. “You are home, my friend.”