#debukefarmhold

A sympathetic look, "but it troubled you even then?"

"But naught else. And I was hurt when I caught wind of the truth - that they knew. They knew, but told me not. They dodged and hid and lied."

"To protect me, they thought. But it was my own story, I needed to know the story of myself. Much of it was unpleasant. Some... some still aches. But it is mine, and I own it."

"Maybe I should buy your uncles a drink some time. Just to compare, and sympathize." A sigh "Protecting people. Rather trollish"

"Oh, try telling Hirim THAT."

"I met hirim once, over a year ago... I think I was blind for a week"

"Feh. You have not seen him in Holiday gear."

"Don we know our... mm better not finish that" He says 'Wouldn't want to offend"

"Indeed!"

"You have good family. How long did it take you to forgive them for hiding the truth?"

"A while. Them helping me find Miriam was part of it."

A frown and nod

"So. You cannot undo the wrong. And the mother is also dead?"

"Far as I know she faded... and then later died of natural causes"

Zara nods. "So, Banneath is alone."

"You cannot force aught. But... you should follow her lead, on what she may need from you."

"I'll ..see what I can do. She's hard to spy on though"

"Do not spy. But... perhaps make yourself available, somewhere neutral?"

"There is a goblin market in Poughkeepsie..."

"Mmm The Pocket. I heard of it." He ponders "How's she gonna know I'm there?"

"She's perceptive."

"Zara, if I don't always say it? You're a good person as well as a brilliant mind. No matter how powerful you get, you hold onto that, okay?"

"Ah.. pardon?"

"Just I've seen more than one person let their power make them detatched... sorcerers who assume because they can do so much and know so much, they're 'more better important' than the 'common kit hain'" A snort "It's a trap. It tried to snare me once. I'll come for you too. You dodge it , okay?"

Brows crease. "I shall try."

"Sorry, just.. " A hem.. "Sorry. " He seems thoughtful

"...She was hurting."

"I know you did not wish me to pry."

"She was, probably still is. But.. maybe this will help the healing like you said. I.. I sure hope"

"I too."

"mm now.. before I forget, we should work on the next leve lof naming while you're here... if you're interested? or would you prefer Soothsay?"

"I.. have mastered Soothsay. So, aye. Naming."

"Mastered good lord, you're doing it regular now? I.. mmph..darn me. I'll get tested for Bedlam." A smirk "But beforee that, let's practice naming. " He motions her to join him out in the shadowyfield where they can work in private

Zara walks with him, ready to get to work... and pester him with questions!

Which he might enjoy more than he lets on.

(End scene)