"You'll have to forgive him, Mistress Mikayla," Angus said as he escorted her back to the study where the book was set up.? "He doesn't mean to dismiss you.? It's just... the Master was never very good at social interactions, even when he was human.? Being a dragon has only made it more difficult for him."? Lowering his voice, he added "The truth is, Mistress, he's afraid of running out of things to say.? Always has been. So it's easier for him if he just keeps conversations short." He smiled a bit as he added "But that doesn't mean _you_ have to, Mistress."

The man seemed to blush a bit under his beard when Mikayla spoke of the two of them being friends.? "I'm only trying to look after you as the Master bade me do.? But truth be told, I have in your short time here come to admire you a bit.? You've shown great courage in being willing to stand up to the Master.? And you've given us hope." As they entered the study, he turned to face her, bowing his head respectfully.? "Hope that perhaps there is a way to restore the Master to his former self."

"If you need anything mistress, just give a shout and I'll most likely hear it."? As he turned to go, Angus hesitated, chewing on his lip as if mulling something over.? "And if you need a break from your studies," he said genially, "I'll fix a tray of tea and cakes for you.? You might enjoy them in the..." He stopped, looking like he wanted to say more but was being stopped somehow.? After some false starts, he finally managed to get out "...in a room that's not this room or the master's room or your room but is somewhere in the keep." Looking exhausted by the effort, he bowed his head once again and ducked out of the study, leaving Mikayla to herself.?