#d20lb

Because it's interesting to take note of just how many interactions between them end with Hob feeling both confused and wounded. Their first real moment during the Hart Hunt ending with Hob being publicly challenged for committing a slight he does not understand. Their conversation at the Tailor's Shop ending with Hob "on the verge of tears" after their critiques of his service to his court. Their conversation in Andhera's Quarters ending with Hob actively crying after their obvious dismissal of his perception of honor & service.

And it's interesting, how Hob does not have very good insight, and does not consider himself very smart nor adept in social matters. And here is a fae that he has such deep empathy for -- because he feels an incredible Resonance for how they feel so isolated and disconnected from their own court -- who tells him constantly that they look down on the way he processes those same emotions. So, what if Hob is wrong? What if Rue -- so much smarter and more socially knowledgable than Hob could ever be -- is the one who is right? Objectively so. What if Hob is simply more foolish than he thought?

And so it's interesting how often Hob leaves interactions with Rue seeming to feel so similarly to how he feels leaving interactions with Boil and Blemish. Hob feels disconnected from his court, but still gives so much weight to them, still clearly feels a loyalty and respect for his own. So, to be corrected and corralled and even insulted by a superior, this is how his court shows their love for him. Hob offers them his service, and in return they offer him the Rules and Admonishments that help him stay in line and be better at serving. That makes sense; it's How Things Work.