The next day Nimue was preparing breakfast before she left for her duties at the Tor. She was stirring the oatmeal with heavy cream and fresh butter, adding in honey to sweeten it. Maric came in adjusting his belt and looking as if he had washed his hair in the lake. Nimmie stopped what she was doing, to press against him and accept an open mouthed kiss, full of tongue and promise.<br/><br/>“I love your sweet word and your desire for me, “ she said, when she reluctantly returned to the task at hand. You make me feel valued and precious, so much more than just another hand to work but truly  a heart that matters.”<br/><br/>He kissed her again and sat at the trestle table for Nimue to serve him.<br/><br/>“Maric, I have mastered the little wooden sword, but I know it isn’t nearly as heavy as your broadsword, but don’t I need to build the strength for a real sword? What do I need to do for that to happen? When will I get my own blade?”<br/><br/>Maric choked and blew out his tea, turning red in the face.<br/><br/>At the Tor, when Nimue walked in, the Lady called her aside and informed her,<br/><br/>“From now until further notice, you are to call upon Layla to carry you to and from work. Is that clear?” she didn’t go into detail or even acknowledge the quizzical look that Nimue gave her.<br/><br/>"That is no hardship, riding Layla, I mean." she answered, "I love soaring among the clouds and looking down at the tops of the trees. I haven't been riding as  much because I know that Maric isn't fond of heights, even though he is sweet and doesn't come out and say so. He worries, despite his protests to the contrary. I know that Layla will enjoy seeing the Black more often. I had at first thought she was seeing him as a potential mate, but after watching her interact with the other horses, the mare and the gelding, I would say that she really misses being part of a herd. Do dragons even have herds?"<br/><br/>She followed the Lady off down the hall, chattering away and missed the concerned look the Lady threw her direction.