#earthrunes

"She certainly does not." his tone is icy.

The tone is shared "She has always done her duty to the library with dignity and decorum. In this case, immitation is not the sincerest form of flattery" A borderline hiss

"She has done -more- than her duty."

A nod "thank you, my liege. I complained about it and was told to 'lighten up, Francis'. I do not know where that archaic phrase first started, but it should be reburied" mmph

"I take comfort in the absolute fact that when the incident is discovered, there will be satisfaction had."

"Mmm," She ponders "Thank you, my liege. That is an optimistic angle I hadn't achieved"

He nods. "I almost pity them. Almost." uncharacteristically.

(thought I wrote something here, sorry)

"Yes, well, it shall be settled one way or another"

"Yes."

"Can I refresh your tea?"

"Thank you, yes."

She does so, only to have a spider drop down on her shoulder, she bends and listens to a tapping "truly? Oh how marvelous! My faith in Fiona justice is restored"

A brisk knock on the study door. "August?"

A glance at Velvet, and then he stands. "Come in."

"I shall withdraw so you may discuss matters with your trueheart" the girl says

She opens the door with a bit more vigor than the last time she was here.

Velvet might not have an easy time of sneaking out, as Coradel is pacing a bit, burning off the last of her anger. "That was idiotic."

"Thank you, Squire. And thank you for your help today."

"Would you like tea, Coradel?"

"Yes , my liege, most welcome" Velvet curtseys at the angry redheaded sidhe "Baroness, pardon if I could just scootch by?"

When August speaks, she notes the sluagh. "Ah, Squire Velvet. Do you know if Zara has heard of the nonsense here today?"

"I am certain she will know of it, if she does not already. She is gifted that way"

"Mm. Of course, Hume and I did see one of the sisters, so if she doesn't know now, she will shortly. And...yes...tea would be lovely." Her anger is abating, and she moves over to August. "The matter is settled."

Another curtsey, and with tea being offered by the Baron, the squire withdraws

August goes to play mother.

Coradel takes a seat on the cot near his writing table.

He brings her a cup of tea. Teacup, saucer, and fixed as she likes it. He retakes his desk chair.

"I had hoped to avoid it, but I lost my temper. They were so defiant."

"August, you may have to do some crisis management. I dictumed them."

He looks up, puzzled. "Yes?"

"I'm sure they'll resent it."

He takes a deep breath and readjusts his goal and expectations. "I will do what I can. Do you want me to investigate who is upset about the moment or manage those issues brought to the court?"

She considers this as she takes a sip of tea. "If you were to investigate, I hope you would also take the opportunity to express your own disappointment in them. But perhaps it would be better to wait and react if the issue arises."

"I don't believe my own concerns in this are of an issue. So I will wait and determine how best to be of service."

"Fair. Though I do think your own concerns are worth being heard. But...as you wish," she says softly, and takes another sip. "I'd like to stay here a bit, and watch you work."

"I....." he takes a breath and then chuffs a laugh "Am done. I have proceeded as far as I can without more notes and input."

A playful pout. "Then we must find some other way to spend the time," she says, grinning mischievously as she finishes her tea.

((Fade to playful?))

(Fade to playful bom chicka)