#elsewhere

"I will speak to her."

A nod "My thanks. She is..very tiring to watch, but interesting. This is an excellent blend by the way. There's a new girl in the Earth Runes Kitchen who , well, I don't know where she buys it, but it's almost presweetened of late" A face

Hisss. "Terrible."

"Aye, one does not sip tea for rainbows and lollipops in ones cheeks"

she savors the quality tea

Zara sips in silent solidarity.

it is soothing, relaxing, silence and tea shared. While Earl has learned proper behavior and she does enjoy tea with him, there is something truly magical about fellow sluagh at the table. A bond of leaf and vapor

Finally, cup empty, the girl says "I fear I must get back. Thank you for the notes and lore regarding willworkers, and for the excellent tea, Miss Zara"

"Travel safely, Miss Velvet."

"A blessing on your house, Miss Zara" Hand to chest, as she departs

Zara cleans up before she retreats to hide in her room

She finds a simple dark rose twined in cobwebs. Earl is thinking of her even as he paints

A soft smile.

Solitude, yet remembrance, it is a pleasant combination

And perhaps enough to let her find ease

(end scene)