I have said that storytelling, like harping or calligraphy, is a skill that may be taught. He therefore did make me an offer, including all the strictures that my religion does impose, to teach the art at the upcoming Atlantian University. Alas, an unbreakable conflict prevents me from accepting his fine offer. So, therefore, do I offer to the readers of these words my own thoughts upon the art and practice of storytelling. Those who have heard my tales know my worth.
Awards are vain and foolish.
If you will not be satisfied, I shall say that I have won some few prizes, and have received from some gracious lords tokens of their regard. Yet no king has called me before court to award me a scroll for my tales. Do not think that I should presume to set down the one true way of the storyteller. If such a thing could exist, I am not the one to draft it. Better tellers of tales there are, and of greater fame.