This story is about Odo, a carpenter in the Merfaen tiz Ornaru, Alleava, his spunky daughter, and a mysterious, hardworking young man without a penny to his name. It's told from Alleava's perspective.
Also, I haven't said terribly much about Silen Fah language or customs yet, but "bound one" is a reference to someone's spouse.
“Your lunch is ready, Dad,” I said as I came into the room.
Dad looked up for a moment from his work. “Thanks, dear,” he said. “Just leave it on the workbench; I'll get to it once I've finished this headboard.” He looked back down, muttering about how much had to be done.
He was pounding in the last nail when the bell rang and someone opened the door. We both glanced up.
“Sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt your work,” said the young man in the doorway. “I just noticed the 'help wanted' sign.”
“You got trade experience?” Dad asked, straightening up off the floor.
“Yes, sir,” he said. “My uncle was a carpenter; I learned a lot from him.”
“Right,” said Dad. “I've got a test for you; if you pass, the job's yours.”
“Alright.”
“You see this headboard? I want you to make a footboard to match. The supplies are all right here. I'll be over at the workbench if you've got any questions.” Dad sat down and picked up the sandwich I'd made for him.
The young man rolled up his sleeves and got to work.
“I'm finished,” said the young man. Dad looked up from his pie. “Will this do?” he asked, propping up the footboard.
Dad wiped his mouth and walked over, looking the footboard up and down. He checked the nails. He propped up the headboard for comparison. “What's your name, son?” he asked.
“Drackio tiz Ben,” said the young man.
“Congratulations, Drackio,” he said. “You've got yourself a job. Come back tomorrow to start. And here are your wages for this footboard.” He fumbled in his pocket and pulled out three coppers.
“Thank you, sir,” said Drackio, taking the money. “See you tomorrow.” He gave a slight bow, and left the shop.
“What do you think of him, Alleava?” Dad asked, looking at me.
I giggled. “I think he's cute.”
