#earthrunes

"Understood."

"Perhaps she could establish a democratic succession." A wry smile.

He chuckles.

"That would certainly make the Barony unique."

"Indeed! And why not?"

"The Duke and Duchess might have something to say about it."

He stares into his cup a moment. "She is... rather firm on the idea of me being next in succession."

"We are in disagreement."

"Are you not?"

"I know, you would be distraught - but would you refuse?"

"As I said, I can't imagine functioning under those circumstances."

"I would find a way to.... to reach her, to help her understand."

"Mm. But.. pardon, do you not have a duty to see to her affairs?"

He nods slowly. "I do."

"But our realms of leadership are seperate; always have been."

"That you could be executor, could see to next steps... having you as her next of kin, 'heir' in fae parlance... I do not know if that is incompatible."

"That, yes, perhaps. But to rule in her place?" He shakes his head.

She nods. "Not what you desire, no. But she wants to be sure the hold goes to good hands. So... that is what you must reassure her."

"I think the only thing that would reassure her is my word that I will rule in her stead." sadly.

"Ah. Have you told her it would make you unhappy?"

"Not that you feared you couldn't do it - the truth is, aye, you could. But it would bring you no joy."

"Life without her would bring me no joy." he confesses and confirms.

"Would Coradel wish that?"

He exhales. "No."

"No."

"Nor would I wish Earl to forever grieve."

"Then neither of you ladies should depart this world before time; because afterwards, you won't get to have a say." he offers a tiny smile.

"Feh. Let us all go at once in an apocalypse."

A soft chuckle.

"It shall simplify things. I have promised to haunt Earl."

"I am sure that will be a comfort to him." August agrees.

"I do plan to speak with Coradel about the situation with Lord Hume."

She nods. "Best to see how to spin the situation to its most positive..."

"Oh, I don't know that spinning the situation will be necessary. I'm sure we can sit down together and arrive at a rational course of action."

Brow.

August watches her guilelessly.

"Well, I wish you the best with that plan."

"Thank you?"

There's an odd sigh of relief through the hold.

It would appear spring cleaning is cominnng to an end for the day

"...ah. Thank goodness."

August looks up/around. "What has changed?"

"I believe the boggans are at rest."

"Ahhhh....." understanding.

There's a knock on the door

"Come in." She whispers.

August glances at Zara, then at the door.

Ivanka comes in a overcoat... she looks tired "Forgive"

"Miss Ivanka, no forgiveness needed. Ah. Will you take a seat?"

"Oh, Miss Ivanka... sit, please. Let me pour you a cup of tea."