#earthrunes

"Well... just... to be in a relationship, you need to be able to give as well as get, right?"

"Yes, I suppose. I would think you have a lot to give though"

"I.. maybe? But... but it's hard to get there. I don't fall in love very easily."

"Nothing wrong with being choosy," She says "Look, I don't know fae life well yet, but you're young too. No shame in having high standards before you open up completely. Me? I try to let a little crazy out a time... not all at once, but not totally walled off. Seems to be best for me. Though like you I still don't have 'the one'"

"Right. And you look at August and Cora... is it... is it really fair, if they aren't the one? I don't know."

"You think they might not be?"

She sighs. "Sometimes it feels like I'm waiting for something... someone... and not giving anyone else a fair chance. That's not right."

"Oh. Mmm well, I do know if you're waiting for perfect youre not likely to find him..pardon me, her."

"I... I don't really remember her. But it feels like betraying her..."

"Wait, this..oh she did exist before... could this be like some before time Oath? Trolls have those sometimes I've been told." Startled "I hadn't considered you..oh wow. That has got to be on your shoulders like a pair of anchors"

"So - is it really fair? There have been people I care for, whose company I enjoy... but..."

"maybe it's fair if you tell whoever you're with what you told me? Warn them. I don't think you're oathed now, in this life...but whoever she was, surely she didn't mean you to be alone for decades?"

A resigned shrug. "She seems happy. She's found someone."

"Yes, I guess... but I mean, whoever is next then? Be open to overtures, be honest with your dance partners? It seems... honorable that way" Trollish out look "But don't say yes to anyone just because ..." She makes air quotes " ...'it's a Fiona hold'... that's like saying all the cool kids are doing it"

A sad smile. "Well, that last one.. yeah, that one's a safe bet."

"And if you ever just want to hang out with a friend close to your own age to go to a movie as buds or whatever, look me up. Sometimes we need people even if ..or especially if, it's not time for more than friends"

The big troll has switched to her kith's default protective nature, but Willow means it. You don't have to be a Gwydion to hear the truth in her voice.

Blushing again, but a smile. "That's sweet of you to offer."

"Well, the offer is there if you need it. And, thanks. I think I will try to talk to Sally Mae and such. So... want to spar? I need practice. And i hear you're really good with a blade"

"Well... I do okay." A mischievous grin. "Let's go."

"Good... I keep wanting to step into the swing and I need to..."

With Sparrow's advice, the two will get her over that bad habit...there maybe some bruises involved, but it's all good

(end scene)