Work Text:
Abarbluom was rapt in keen focus. In one large hand was a carving tool, the other curled over the upper side of his removed boot, holding the sole to his face. With gentle repeated strokes, the utensil followed the chalk lines he had drawn earlier, following the plan with a sort of serene clarity. He had begun earlier carving in large swathes, digging the material out and discarding it onto the floor below, and was now refining the shapes with small and swift strokes.
He blew once, twice, to clean the debris, leaning back to admire his handiwork. “I think it’s finished.”
Y’shtola rose from her seat across from him at the table to skirt about it, taking his other boot from the floor and offering her palm for Abarbluom to pass her the other. Once in hand, her thumbs began to explore the sole’s surface, one for each, eyes closely scrutinising the surfaces. Soon enough, she gave a satisfied smile.
“Well done, very impressive.”
Abarbluom let loose a breath he didn’t know he was holding, taking the boots back from her. He studied them himself for a second, running a finger along the grooves.
“All due to your diligent instruction, Master Matoya,” he teased.
“Now, now, young pupil,” she swiftly countered, belying the rose in her cheeks. “It was your own hands which toiled, you mustn't neglect your own efforts.”
Some suns ago, Y’shtola had kindly offered to impart her wisdom regarding leylines, and their magic-enhancing properties when physically carved into a surface. Today she had at last invited his company here to Slitherbough, for a small lecture and demonstration regarding the craft. After some theoretical study, she had Abarbluom practice carving on some other pieces of material, before deeming him ready for the real thing.
“I’m quite happy with it myself.” He hummed contentedly. “I just hope the next time will be just as much of a success, I have far too much footwear as it is.”
“You’ll do fine,” she beamed. “Come, I tire of the dark for once; let us catch some sunlight.”
Abarbluom returned the smile, leaving the newly carved boots to the side and rising from his own seat to accompany her. He offered his elbow as courtesy and she gently took it in hand as they strode side-by-side into daylight.
“Do you think we’ll see rain later today?” he wondered to himself aloud.
“I certainly hope not, I have some fresh laundry out.”
The pair trailed off as they stepped into the warm of day, embracing the small joys and comforts of a friend’s company.