#earthrunes

He finishes after a time, his movement precise and flowing but each move distinct. He holds the final pose, a ready position, then relaxes.

"Nice work" Claire says "Very clean"

"Twas masterful... only less" The Mouse pooka concurs sort of

"I don't think speed was his goal" Claire points out

August blinks, and realizes he's being watched. "Ah, ah.... hello ladies. I hope I didn't disturb you?"

"Nay, my lord, but I hope you brought enough zen for the whole class?" Temerity inquires

"You seemed to be 'in the zone'" His daughter in law observes

"I am willing to explain the kata practice, but I suspect it would be already familiar to you." he offers to Temerity, then to Claire "I suppose I was."

"Then we should apologize for interfering perhaps. How goes?" Dame Claire inquires

"Oh, I had completed the kata, thank you, Dame. I am well, very well. Glad to be home. How are you and the family?"

"We're great, thank you" SHe says with a smile

"I am glad to hear that. Do you think we might take dinner together? All of us?"

"I think I can squeeze it in. Magnus would love it"

"Are we talking out and about? Or your place or ours?"

"Let me ask Coradel. When I catch up with her." wryly.

"Does thou needest a lasso?" Temerity offers

"Ah..." he clears his throat "No. Thank you."

"WIth Fiona, you never know how that will fly" Claire observes

"Indeed." he says, cheeks pink.

Temerity nods "Tell me, my lord, what is this news of a new page?"

He clears his throat again. "Ah. Antony, late of the Duchy of White Trillium. He has some experience but it might not be solid experience. I have found him to be pleasant and willing. I've spoke with Dames Honoria and Leonora about taking him into service but... well, he is a pooka. Would you like to meet him?"

"Fear not, lord, I shall whip him into strength in NO Time" Temerity gloats

"Don't you already have a squire?" Claire points out.

"Do I?" Temerity ponders "Oh..oh dear... did I remember to put holes in the jar lid?"

"Antony, it should be said, seems to have an ant as his animal form."

"Delicious!" Temerity adds

Claire shoots her a look, then says "It's possible he should meet more than one knight before one is selected."

"Ah, Dame Claire wants the lad for herself!" Temerity accuses

"What? Me? A pooka squire or page? No I..." Claire says "I mean, a pooka squire could be fine but...I wasn't asking..."

"You would snub the bub because he's a pooka bub?" Temerity gasps

Claire grits her teethh "I'd be delighted to meet him too"

"He's not quite ready to be a squire yet; page will do."

"Well, one can use more than one of those" Claire admits.

Temerity winks at her liege, perhaps having gotten Claire to add herself to the list of candidates

"I will set up meetings with both of you." August promises.

"Looking forward to it" The Ailil says resigned

Temerity grins "Pooka PI HI, my old Sorority!"

"Well.... thank you for the conversation, Ladies; most productive. I should probably clean up and see if I can locate Coradel."

"Good luck"