#earthrunes

"Hey August" Earl says nearby "Looks like folks are paying tribute to Zara's birthday" Proud

"As well they should, if she does not mind the acclaim." he says.

A nod "I have a portal passage if she ever wants an exit wherever she is" He nods

"Very wise."

"how are you doing?" he inquires

"I've been well. Hoping to speak with Zara but... ah, no doubt she has been busy."

"She's been weavey of late" He nods

"Weavey?"

"In both senses... she can weave in and out of places before you know she's there, and she's made some lovely socks and a shawl with Vashti"

"Ah." he nods understanding.

He shows off his new socks to demonstrate... as he is wearing them

"Those are wonderful!" August enthuses.

"Comfortable as anything" He admits

"Of course." he says with assurance based on their origin

"How's Coradel?"

A gentle smile. "She is very well, thank you for asking."

"You're welcome" He says as folks go about bringing gifts, leaving a few in the library and going by again

Bronte is swooping down to inspect all of the tribute.

"Hello, Bronte."

'Hey Bronte" He smiles as the little dragon is inspecting then to August "She's sniffing for books. "

August pats his pockets, offers a small book with a maroon cover and gilt edges.

Bronte perks up “For it is in giving that we receive.”
― St. Francis of Assisi "

"Well said." she can have the book if she wishes.

She does wish it, of course

It's a book of hours.

"Is that your work? The illumination?"

Zara is just there.

Earl starts a bit, then softly chuffs. He should be used to it

"Hello." he smiles warmly "Ah, no. I have played with the idea of illuminating work by others, -in- work by others but... I dislike the idea of defacing a book."

"Mm. Mayhaps I should commission thee..."

"you really have grown as an artist, August" Earl nods

"Thank you, Earl. That means a great deal, coming from a talent like yours."

"Merely deserved respect between peers" A smile

"I'm hardly your peer when it comes to art, Earl."

"Thou are an artist yet, and a scribe."

Earl nods at Zara's words

"Perhaps so." he allows.

"And I delight in all of your works." She picks up the book to examine it.

"You.... do?"

"August, she loves art, she loves reading... you make letters an art. How could she not delight?"

"Of course I do."

"I am not inclined to dishonesty."

"Discretion, Deviousness , Distraction, but not dishonesty" a grin

"I apologize; I didn't intend to suggest you did." humbly.

"This is a lovely present. My most sincere thanks."

"You are very welcome." he says fondly.