Dreamed This Up (Dreams, Book 1)

Chapter 20: What Happens

At the end of the week, the summons came. The directions were for Rofin alone. The next morning he kissed his sleeping wife and left. Twenty-two weeks now. Will this be the end?

His own wounds had mostly healed, although his ribs were still sore. 

****

He came to the council building. Entering, he gave the required credentials to the attendant. The ordeal passed relatively easily. He was called in before a council of thirteen, the twelve members and the Council Master. The papers and proofs had already been given to each of them to peruse. All that remained was Rofin's testimony.

He gave it, from the day on the track, bringing Sophia home, discovery of her condition. He mentioned the attack, and they nodded sagely. He finished by outlining his plans to work with Loklin to develop a better compatibility test for upcoming harac, and respectfully asked their guidance.

The thirteen were mostly silent, reading the presentation Rofin had submitted before, and occasionally asking a clarifying question. Rofin was then dismissed while they deliberated further. He was shown to the building's central courtyard.

He sat, watching the fish swim in the little pond, and wondered if Sophie would like something like that. It was heated since it was already mid-November and chilly. Finally he was called back in.

Goliran, the Council Master, spoke, "We have considered the case. And your petition for a change in status for the harac female called Sophyaniya. The provisional pass is confirmed, and she is placed on probation as a mother of the new subspecies. Further information will be given you. You will be given a stipend for work on the tests, as well as assistants according to these provisions." Papers were given, and Rofin was pleased. He would be allowed the use of one of the Council's own labs to do the work. On the last page though, he noted, "Living arrangements?"

"Yes. We believe the attack was a warning. It is quite acceptable for one of your rank to live in the Council building, and you will have the added security."

Bowing, Rofin accepted their words. He have to get packing. Sophie might enjoy the fish pond after all! "I thank you. We will transfer our belongings as soon as possible."

Goliran held up a hand, "I would speak to you regarding the arrangements. Members, you may leave."

The others filed out, and Rofin and the council Master sat down together.

"Thank you, again. My mother will be pleased that I have returned to what she considers quality housing"

Goliran chuckled and patted Rofin's shoulder, "Don't I know it! You do know she asked your father to have me make an arrangement for you and my niece?"

Rofin blinked, "Sukila? But she tried to have me reported for harassment! I offered to show her my work, and she nearly passed out in the slums, I had to take her back to her home. You arranged that meeting for us?"

The other nodded, "Yes, yes, indeed. Your mother was quite worried, wanted me to help move things along. But after that particular attempt, she was willing to leave you alone."

Rofin rubbed his head ruefully. "That was the last blind date I accepted. There has been no one since"

"The elusive younger son of the former governor. My wife told me it was quite the buzz of gossip for a while."

Rofin snorted. "Had they made an effort they would have found even richer fodder for the gossip! You know what I've been doing?"

"Oh, yes. The cook swears you healed her granddaughter. The Pala.  You are their doctor." 

Rofin shifted a little, uncomfortably, "I gave her some medicine ..."

Goliran leveled a look at him, "You used the projection on her, didn't you? Why do you do that?"

"I must use the skills I have."

The older Rifan sighed, "There I cannot fault you, but do be careful. You may attract unwanted attention by those activities as well." 

Rofin asked, "Have you any idea who sent the attackers?"

"Not yet, but I do have suspicions. You know Aefrin? He has made no secret of his attitude towards the harac."

"I do. Incidentally, he was also at the track that day. I didn't like his comments."

Goliran 'mmph'd. "Be wary. Can you have your things moved today? I'll send word to have your rooms prepared."

"Yes. I'll speak to Sophia, and I'll have to tell the city harac as well."

"ah. How is she with all this?"

Rofin shrugged, "Sore. And worried."

"I think we all are. Do what you need to. I'll leave word with the house manager."

Rofin took his leave and returned home.

~~~~~~

Sooo sweet:

http://orig10.deviantart.net/0833/f/2013/277/7/3/sleep_in_by_xjasmin3x_art-d6p7d6s.jpg