#earthrunes

"I nearly killed some of the boys." He related being kidnapped and coming out with a knife.

"New rule. No more kidnapping August." Firmly. "People are just going to have to ask from now on."

"Harsh rule... very hard to get you to parties by asking"

"I tend to kill the mood." Dryly.

"You're you, August. And you shouldn't have to be anyone else. " A kiss on the cheek

"Thank you." Gently.

"For everything."

"You're very welcome"

"You will say if there is anything you need?"

"Yes, but I'll take far too long to tell you"

A pause "Sorry, for some reason that was funny in my head"

"Leonora?" Gently concerned " -Is- there something you need?"

"Actually, no. "

"I think I"m a bit worried about Pennons. " A shrug "My archery is off lately. I heard I have this Storkpooka rival and he's good"

"Well.... Ok. If you say so." Tender.

She smiles "Hey, see you two soon, okay?"

"If you wish." A bit surprised.

And she walks off.

Now baffled by women as well as frustrated by his stigma and the uncertainty of the vote.... August walks on.

CC walks by "Sorry, I'm not even supposed to be here." She sighs "Silly Dreaming."

and trots past.

"Mrs.... Carolos?" Amazed.

"Hi, August. Don't ask, it's very complicated. Smacks of someone running out of ideas."

"I think maybe I should lie down."

And he goes to do so.

And he does.

............to the Dreaming.............