Last week.

[henamesthesky]

When I leave the prison for a hospital visit, a guard escorts me. This time it was a guard I'd had before, which was nice, because we could catch up on the things we talked about last time he escorted me. His name is Andre. He has two kids, brothers - so we talk about them a lot

Comments

[dearestdiplomat]

I'd read that you were away for medical reasons. I'm glad to hear that you've returned safely, and of course, I'm delighted that the book and the mints were waiting for you upon your return, Mr. Ken.

It makes me very happy to hear that you're enjoying the scenic views of Cohdopia! I often leaf through that book when I'm feeling homesick. I visited many of the places pictured in it when I was a boy. I lived in a city, but my parents believed very strongly in taking us to the country as often as they could.

The bay leaf mints are a bit odd, aren't they? Certainly a unique taste. I like them well enough, but they're not my favorite. I prefer hazelnut castles.

It's a wonderful thing to have friends to come home to, I think, no matter where home might be.

[henamesthesky]

Thanks again for everything, Mr. Palaeno.
I'll never see the places in the book you sent for myself - but looking at the pictures, thinking of your happy memories, it's almost better. It means more, somehow.

I don't have a big sweet-tooth, so I think the bay leaf mints are just right for me.
I'm looking forward to seeing some aahnruhd played really soon - I'll let you know how it goes.

[dearestdiplomat]

You're most welcome, Mr. Ken. It was my pleasure. Ah, that book never fails to remind me of a happy memory. If you'll turn to page 42, that forest was the first place I ever went camping. My brother and I got lost, and my father had to rescue us! I fear it was my fault, because I was chasing a butterfly, but it lead us to a place where I found a rock with a fossil in it. I still have that very fossil on my desk here at the embassy.

I'm glad I sent you the bay leaf mints, if you're not overly fond of sugary things. Most of our traditional sweets are much sweeter, though we do have an array of savory snacks available at the embassy.

Oh, aahnrühd is an exciting sport to watch! Especially among highly trained players. My husband and his friends from university sometimes get together to play a reunion game, and it's quite a thrilling spectacle.

[henamesthesky]

It's nice hearing you talk about your life, Mr Palaeno - you sound like an interesting person to know.

Do you ever play with your husband - or do you like being in the audience more? From what I've heard about the game so far, the reunion game must really be something to see.

[dearestdiplomat]

How kind of you to say, Mr. Ken. I feel you're a rather interesting person yourself.

Oh no, I would never ever play with Danaus and his friends. They're very skilled, and I'm an amateur player at best. I'm sure I'd only be in their way.

But I do love to cheer Danny on from the sidelines, along with my mother-in-law!