#elsewhere

"however?" A curious look

"The evidence is against me. No matter."

"How bad is this thing this Squire is facing?" She says brows up

"I am not sure; I'm waiting for more information."

"Ah well, heavy is the head that wears the banner house crown"

A chuckle, soft.

"Lovely night. And you helped.. uhm two folks?"

"It is an honor and a privilege to help anyone, even one." He agrees.

"It starts with one.. something..darn I don't remember which book in the bible it is.. something about the lost lamb being the most treasured of the flock?"

"Luke, chapter 15, verses 1 to 32." He says with a smile "I didn't know you were familiar with the Bible."

"Obviously I'm not or I'd know which book" She laughs then says "Your faith is important to you. You're a dear friend. Of course I studied." She smiles "Really like the song of Solomon by the way"

"Ah. Yes. I am, ah.... unsurprised." With humor.

She laughs merrily, "It is a bit predictable that I would like it yes. But one thing I have to say about studying all those verses. It does let me know you better. What you strive for. For that, I'm grateful for it. " a fond look, "Mind you, I'm rather slap dash and skip around when I do.. after the fourth 'begat' I'm off to another chapter."

He laughs softly. "Stay away from Leviticus, then. "

"Noted" Leonora leans against him as they walk "What food did you like the best tonight? I don't expect you to love it all, but I'm curious- if you had to rank French Cusine options, which did it for you the most?"

"I enjoyed the lamb. The waffles surprised me. I thought the truck was very good too."

"You like the lamb.. mm may have to tell delores to please tell the kitchen crew add it to the menu now and then"

"Oh, that's not necessary." He demures.

"Oh now if you like it, it's good for them to know. They LIKE showing off, the kitchen staff I mean"

"I.... suppose."

"August, you're a gem, but there's no shame in asking for something and seeing if a master of their craft can provide. Most like the challenge"

"Oh, I know."

"Well, then, no harm in asking how they feel about cookinng lamb"

A gentle smile. "If it pleases you."

"It might even please YOU. And that's okay too" A smile back

August seems in a FINE mood tonight.

"How are your squires and page doing?"

"Very well, I think." They walk through the warm spring night. "I have been thinking of some kind of testing for the squires."

"Wow, testing like what? " Curious as they enjoy a slight night breeze

"Something to prove themselves, if they feel ready."

"Are we talking exams with a time limit, or quests into caverns of the Dreaming?"

" I am not sure. It should be something challenging, and in keeping with their interests, but other than that..... I am still thinking."

"mm they're still dating."

" they are. But I am not sure they would need to undertake a test together. Not necessarily."

"Actually, i was wondering how they'd respond if you turned it into a competition."

August Smiles at her fondly " I am not sure. Not all of us delightful competitive streak you do."

"Yeah, itt could go wrong I know." A chuckle "Hey, I'm not THAT competitive" A pause "okay, maybe"

" Maybe." With a smile.

A soft laugh, then she siggghs as the moon has gotten high "Better get you home before you turn into a pumpkin."

" Coradel is staying at the school barn tonight." He observes.

"Maybe we should visit"

He looks almost surprised, then Chuckles " we can be there in about 30 minutes from here. "

"Sounds like a fun suprrise" A wink "Want me to drive?" She says despite it being his car "We'll get there faster"

"Ah, allow me?" politely "She's not going anywhere." he points out.

And he gets her door for her.

"Oh poop. Very well" She moves to the passenger side annd slides in when he gets her door "Thank you"

"You are very welcome." and he kisses her cheek before shutting the door and getting in himself. Off to William Woods University!

(And end scene)

..........

(And resume)