On the outside Kiel does not show any reaction to Zach's sudden outburst, use to stuff like this from several of his kids over the years. Even if he treats them like they are, none of them are little angels and anger is something he's come to understand a lot in these abused children. [i]'Flinching away only causes more problems'[/i] he surmised long ago, however on the inside he always feels the blows in full force. This time is no exception and while his expression doesn't change he can feel the pain of it lashing across his heart. [i]'So sorry little one. I know you said you weren't offended, but I guess this is a little too far, isn't it?'[/i] His hands continue to rub the towel into his head, the cloth hiding most of his face from his guest.

His emotions struggle with each other for a time, the ache keeping him from responding, but when at last he brings the towel down he feels in enough control to respond. Setting the towel aside he keeps his gaze fixed on the small mirror over the sink as he speaks. “A long time ago I was brought to this parish, an orphan.” His voice is quiet but the young man should have no trouble hearing him. “I don't really recall anything of that time, or how I came to lose everything, nor do I really care too.” His gaze lowers a bit, watching the water drip slowly from the faucet a few times before stopping completely, his hands on either side of the basin. “But, there is one thing I remember, it's just a voice, and a couple of words. It's a man's voice, deep and strong, and he said, “You fought well little one.” That's all, but every time I think of it I feel stronger, like I just made it out of the flames of hell itself.”

Rocking back and forth on his hands a bit he finally lets go with one so he swings around to face Zach. The smile on his lips reaches all the way to his eyes, the apologetic tone evident. However on the inside his feelings are still not quite sorted out, on the outside it would be nearly impossible to tell. “I'm sorry, Zach, but I see all of my children as little ones. As ones who have survived hell and can one day escape it altogether like I did.” He lowers his gaze a little sadly, watching the toe of one of his feet waging back and forth slowly in time with his swaying. “I know that it sounds insulting, and I'll stop saying it aloud, but I just want you to know why I called you that. I just wanted to answer your question properly.” Looking back at the boy he continues to smile. “I see you're done with dinner, now on to dessert, right Zach?”