#earthrunes

The notes from Sir Carowyn on Rivervale, and more accurately, Truthbranch's activities there have come in on Baron August's desk

He opens them carefully, and reads.

Hard work, good work. The COVID situation has made it harder to match make face to face, and indeed, tensions between those who live together or apart make the work of protecting mortal love challenging... and yet there are successes. Aid secretly given to families dealing with unemployment and isolation. Young lovers encouraged to rely on each other for strength and finding that they welcome giving support and less ashamed of.

And yet, there's also a personal note that he fears he may have crossed some boundaries. A confession from Sir Carowyn that he has been courting one Sally Mae DeBuke, technically a mortal...albeit a kinian. He seeks advice if he is somehow 'cheating her' by encouraging what might be a near impossible 'no win scenerio' where her family might disown her if they find out.

Dear Sir Carowyn,
Thank you for your letter, and your worthy deeds. I am heartened to hear you have helped so many, and improved the world in which our Dreamers live thereby.
As to your request for advice.
Although I count several DeBukes as among my closest friends and boon companions, I know little about them save that they are insular and Iowan. And farmers. If I were to judge the clan entire by those among them I love most dearly, I would tell you that the DeBukes will perhaps have concerns but will come to accept and even care for you as you hope Ms. Sally Mae will.
That said, I cannot say that I know the DeBukes at large all that well; I have never been to their farm or met many except Earl and Caspian and perhaps a few others in passing. Perhaps Sir Franklyn might have more insight? I know Rivervale and the DeBukes are strong allies and he might be able to guide you better than I.
There is of course the matter of our House, and how that might strike a group of Trolls and Troll-kinain. Sally Mae might be the one to talk to regarding that, if she seems to return your affections.
I look forward to your next letter. Pray forgive the brevity of this note, and know you are always welcome to return home to our bannerhouse seat here at EarthRunes.
Your humble servant, August Truthbranch

It is ironic, that as Head of the Bannerhouse, Everything August does could be considered establishing precedent. "Your humble Servant" may well be used generations later by those who replace him

August seals the note and puts it aside for Tylar to deliver.

Tylar appears as if by magic "Baron? Did you need me?"

"Ah, Tylar.... yes. Could you take this to Rivervale, care of Sir Carowyn, when you can?"

"Yes, Liege. ANything for Sparrow too?"

A tender smile. "My love. But in addition to that, let me put a few words down?"

"Yes, liege" Happy to wait

And he pens another note. That smile crosses his lips a few more times as he does. He seals it and hands it over.

"Celebration is looking like it will be a big one, Baron" He takes the letters

"Yes."

"Will Velvet and I be free to join in or do you need us to take guard or the like?" A lightr blush

"I will seek to make it so. I'll ask what the duty roster says."

"It woudl be appreciated if possible, my liege" He blushes light "I'll go to send these off now"

And off the Squire goes

August cleans his hands and rises, finished with work in his study for now.