Dragoncrest Cliffs he is neither gentle nor kind

Between Ephraim and les petits Étoille has more or less positioned himself as resident puppy-watcher (or at least that is what he aspires to be.) It is, all things considered, a good life. Since his wayward ward's arrival to Drageda the Steltrona has not attempted to leave their borders, preferring to stay close enough to be called upon if he's needed. But Ephraim seems to be adapting nicely with his playmates and as he rises today his thoughts turn to Mirabelle, her teasing proximity. 

She may be right that she would not survive Drageda's culture, but that does not stop him from wanting. And wanting is a strange thing for him to feel.

Perhaps he will see if she has lingered to the north as she suggested -- but he does not make it out of Hougeda, his attention caught by Silkie. He watches the boy for a moment, as always mesmerized by their shared appearance (even if he feels no real pull to them as a paternal figure -- more a friendly uncle -- it is still a miracle, seeing his own genes in action). The poor frog Silkie is tormenting takes a turn towards him and Étoille sidesteps, not wishing to interrupt the boy's play even as he greets him with a "bonjour, Silkie."