#earthrunes

"Yeah well.. she has these shadows working for her"

A blink. "Shadows?"

"Shadows... all along the river. I cann't PUNCH shadows" A huff

"Oh, now that's interesting." Coradel looks to August.

August does not seem surprised at the description.

" she protects what is hers."

"Well, another reason to avoid that section of the River. AND to take good care of the books."

"Fine. I'lll look at these books, and treat the books, which I didn't ask for, really nicely for the lady who is no here to apolozgize too... this conversation has gotenn weird and I'm gonna go now. Thanks"

Coradel laughs. "Enjoy, Daria."

She nods, and then trots off. Mannerly behavior not her strong suit

Coradel grins to August. "I like her."

" she seems a pleasant challenge for you."

"Oh, I don't see her as a challenge. She seems just right for where she's at. I think I can image where she's going to end up. Of course...she may prove a challenge yet. We'll see."

He nods, thoughtful.

"And what of you, my love?" she asks, taking his arm and leaning close. "Any pleasant challenges for you?"

"Only and always you." With a soft kiss.

"Mmm." A pleased sound at the kiss. When they part, she murmurs, "Right answer," and kisses him again.

"How has your day been?" his arms encircle and hold her lightly.

"Good! I have my classes set for the fall, so that's one thing out of the way so summer can be thoroughly enjoyed." She slips her hands around him in return, comfortable in his embrace. "Court later, and I think it'll be brief. And...well, some time with Hume at some point." A shrug.

(Pause)

"Tylar was saying he'd been sparring with Lord Hume. I don't think he's had a regular sparring partner since.... for a few months now. It may be good for both of them."

"Oh, good. Hm. Tylar is closer to him in size and power. That might be a very good match, yes."

"Tylar has expressed interest in knighthood." quietly.

"He has?" Coradel is clearly surprised. "I did not see that coming, did you?"

August makes an equivocating gesture. "I'm not surprised. He sought a post as a squire, normally a first step."

"Well, yes, but...I suppose I should have. Silly of me. Well...he's not ready yet, certainly. Have you given him a goal?"

"I suggested that he and Velvet might consider a quest, together or seperately. They are discussing it."

"Oh, splendid! Oh, I hope they go together."

"It can certainly strengthen a relationship if that is something they wish."

She smiles. "It can, indeed."

"I agree he's not ready yet, though. I have considered, albeit briefly, sending him to study outside EarthRunes in pursuit of his spurs."

"Oh? Where were you considering?"

"An excellent question. Somewhere perhaps more... Liam." He offers her a seat near the tea set.

"Well, there's Jude....?"

August nods. "Count Jude, there's Rivervale of course, with Sir Franklyn. There's a Liam Duke who's taken a small Duchy in Feathered Serpent. I will right to all of them. There are some other smaller holdings but as he's interested in knighthood....."

"You think he could not learn enough through you?"

August laughs softly and pours them tea (assuming she accepted) "Of combat? How to do it badly, perhaps, but I'd prefer he'd learn to do it well."

She rolls her eyes and smiles. "Fine, fine."

"And, there is more to learn than combat." he points out "I wasn't thinking of sending him away; more ... the occasional trip for a week or so."

"Perhaps in Texas to start."

"Excellent. And yes! Oh, yes, we must send him to Derynwydd!"

"And I'm open to the idea of Velvet accompanying him. When they wish."

"What will you do then, without your squires?"

"I've lived without squires before." he points out mildly, seating himself beside her "And I have Benny."

"True. Oh, Benny is sweet."

"He's a good boy. He's getting on well with the other childlings. He's learning."

"Well, then...is there anything I can do, my love, to help with Tylar's training?"

August chuckles. "Not that I can think of at the moment. When I know more about any plans for quests, and after I've had word back about Tylar visiting elsewhere, we'll discuss?"

"Please, yes." She strokes his arm lightly.

"Of course." August smiles at the touch.