"Yes," The Dragon replied.? "Thank you for joining me."? He gestured to a nearby chair, elaborately carved and upholstered with fine needle work.? As if at a signal, Angus came in with a tray, carrying a human-sized tea set. Taking a place next to the chair, he waited for Mikayla to sit so that he could serve her.

"I apologize for the mismatch in our respective services," The Dragon said, taking up the enormous cup before him along with the matching spoon. Judging by the sounds being made when he began stirring it, the tea in the cup amounted to gallons.? "But we did not have time in which to make a matching set.? Particularly considering how elaborate and artful these new ones are." He nodded his great head to indicate the cup and spoon in his talons, both of which he was holding comfortably and both of which were adorned with intricate colorful designs.? "Ones _you_ created," he added, eying her meaningfully as he took a sip.

"I must also apologize for having the book removed." The Dragon was noticeably more recovered, his scales having regained much of their luster since the last time she had seen him.? "Given how your initial efforts left you so exhausted, I was concerned about what might happen if you were to attempt another spell too soon.? I will have Angus bring it back to you as soon as we are done."

"_Are_ you feeling better, mistress?" The Dragon asked, actually sounding solicitous instead of demanding.? It was not easy to read his reptilian face, even now, but it seemed slightly softer, more... human... somehow.

Mikayla?

Mikayla didn’t speak...she couldn’t speak. Was he telling her...”I made those?” She said looking to the tea cup. Surprise awe and confusion filled her tone. “I made those?” She repeated as she stared at the tea cup. Was he being honest? Of course he was being honest he wouldn’t have said it if he wasn’t.?

“I made those,” she said squealing in delight. She clapped her hands together a big smile on her face. “I made those. I wasn’t sure. I thought I failed...but I made those.” She said giggling. Before she knew it she was up hugging him. Throwing her arms around his neck. “I made those! I didn’t fail!”