#odyssey

"There are better."

"Could she not herald for Earth Runes, if she were to insist on a noble hold?"

"You could ask Coradel."

"You are Baron, too."

A humble smile. "Of a bannerhouse."

"Feh."

"I am ready to go home."

He nods, silently accepting. "Would you like to call Earl?"

"Nay. We can leave soon, aye?"

"If you prefer, I will call an escort from EarthRunes to accompany you back; I... must stay, a while."

"Whyfore?"

August continues to speak softly, for her ears. "I promised I would speak for those the Balor led astray. Darespark, a Dougal Journeyman... ah, woman.... and a pooka childling."

A soft sigh, and she nods.

"-You- should go home, though." he urges gently.

"You are so good at the diplomatic things, but..."

"But I can protect you, aye? Keep watch..."

A soft chuckle "Good at diplomacy? Me??" disbelieving "Coradel is far my superior. So is Vince, for that matter." wry "Zara, you're not comfortable here; why not go home? I'll be along as soon as I can."