#odyssey

(Pause or fade as suits)

MEANWHILE as the Baroness and Duchy conspire, August sighs and answers the fledgling "That is a sluagh. It is a wise choice to be respectful of them."

"Oh" She says realizing then "They're ...kind of gross. Sorry" a whisper, unaware it can be heard

She then adds "Is it all so ...amazing?"

August knows sluagh who would be charmed at the description, and doesn't comment except to say "Moreso, Dodri. Very much moreso."

"I feel like I've been trapped in my own skin all my life, and that skin too tight, and suddenly I can breathe again"

"This is called a Dream Dance. You will be fostered at EarthRunes, I believe, for a year and a day. You will learn of our society, and the Dreaming. Tonight, however, is a celebration of you, and EarthRunes. There is food, and drink, and music, and... I believe there are those who would make your acquaintance if you will grant it to them." He nods, indicating other trolls in the room

"I already met most of them earlier, Baron but... I guess I shouldn't be rude. Also, some of that food looks delicious"

"You may find it helps you to eat and drink. It can help stabilize you."

"THank you, Baron" She starts to step away, then remembers and bows

He nods back to her.

And glances at the whispering trio on the dais.

A boggan offers him a tray "A drink, Baron?" Quite a selection of fine wines, beers, brandies, coffee and tea

"Ah, n...." he pauses in the middle of declining it "Yes, thank you. Tea?"

"Yes, Baron " She nods and offers the tea "I can get a diferent type if you prefer something more unique?"

"No, thank you, this is very nice."

She smiles "You're most welcome, Baron" And withdraws to give wine to others

He stands quietly sipping his tea, and waiting for Coradel.

Coradel, makes arrangements with Their Graces for the private audience, then joins the celebration at their bidding.

She moves gracefully across the audience chamber to August, claiming a tender yet lingering kiss from him in quiet victory.

He returns it, decorously. "Congratulations."

She claims a wine glass from a passing server and murmurs, "It's only halfway done."

The new Fledge is meeting and greeting and getting a slice of cake

"Only... half way?" weakly "What... what is left?"

She sips her wine and hides her whisper behind the glass. "The matter of the stolen tithes. I think that is where the money came from to fund some of the deception intended to discredit EarthRunes."

"Regardless...the culprits behind the pooka imposter must be discovered and brought to justice."

"I thought the Duke said he would pursue that?"

"Yes, but neither he nor Dame Bludwen have heard all there is to say about the possible parties involved. I have strong suspicions, and I need to share those. Thus, the private audience."

"That... that was what all that was about?"

"Well, it hasn't happened yet."

"I would like you to be present for that conversation. Perhaps even scribe informally, if you wish."

"I'd be honored."

"I'm sure they'll have a formal scribe, but I'd like to have your version of the discussion, as well."

She scans the room. "Do you happen to see Lady Wynda?"

August looks around as well.

They do not

"No." he reports.

"Pity. I wanted to smile in her face. Well...let us mingle, regardless."

And they do, mingling with the crowds that seem much friendlier than before

August is dutifully by her side.

And they party into the night.

(Or at least until their private audiance at 3 PM;) )

(Fade)