"It seems my timing is still right." Donella says, flashing a smile to the newcomers and adjusting herself just so she'll be more comfortable in her own special seat. The Princess offers leans in for a bow as the first newcomers arrive, keeping the smile as each of them are greeted, "Be welcome, I hope you'll feel yourselves most comfortable at our home."

Signe has joined the plush red couch.

Teiddwen the Otter, A fiery headed prodigal named Gwddfgwyn arrive, following Asger.

Asger is as his usual in pretty good mood, dressed today in clothes more befitting a commoner then a Duke his pants and boots simple leather with his shirt comprised of loose fitting black linen and rolled up to his elbows. The duke whistles softly to himself what is known to be a common northern prodigal drinking song as his otter follows along at his heel.

Tiny Tom, Wilhelm the Iron Messenger arrive, following Sparte.

A low table is laid out with a spread of bottles containing various liquors, a tray of fine glassware, and sundry snacks and finger foods. As Donella takes her seat beside him, Darren leans forward, filling two glasses on his desktop, one with whiskey, the other with rum, and offers the rum to his wife. "Please be welcome," he announces in a loud voice that echoes in the wood-paneled chambers of the study. "It's been too long since I opened up my home and my time to you, so please forgive my haste and poor planning in calling these open office hours with such short notice. I want you all to know I will be resuming a regular cadence of audiences, and in the meanwhile, please enjoy our hasty hospitality." He raises his glass to the room at large, draining its contents down his throat in a few quick swallows. He returns Petal's greeting with a warm smile. "And greetings to you, Petal. Please, be at your ease." The Prince's eyes track Asger thoughtfully as the Duke enters the room.

Balian, a Templar squire, Guy, a hunting kestrel arrive, following Preston.

Signe's not to travel far beyond the Redrain ward without her furry companions. Joining the others she's offering greetings to all in passing on her way towards the red sofa. Of course both High Lord and consort are acknowledged by a nod of her head. Seated, Atila places himself at her feet, lowering onto his rear while Tempest, the wolf pup, finds himself comfortable against a wall that allows him to see everyone.

Petal has recently arrived in the office. The tiny seamstress is adorned in a simple white linen dress and a blue apron. She goes to find a place to sit. There are shadows beneath Petal's eyes and she looks very exhausted. "Thank you, High Lord Darren." She says toward him, speaking with the heavy accent of a Northern Shav.

Zelda, the royal messenger, 13 King's Own Guardsmen arrive, following Alaric.

Sparte slips in, just another nosy commoner face here to see what is going on and be sociable. He offers a smile to the room, attempting at avoiding too much attention draw as he goes to find a seat that seems nice and safe and out of the way.

Sparte has joined the Redrain Family Map Table.

Petal waves over to Sparte, maybe hurting his attempt to be discrete. "Hi, Sparte." She says in her heavy accent.

For now, Donella remains with her greeting smile, open to anyone that comes inside their house. The Princess takes the glass of rum into her hands to appreciate the drink for a while, which certainly brings some memories from days long past. However, attentive eyes gaze upon the guests, as if trying to recognise some familiar faces or memorise the new ones.

Enter another Redrain Duke -- Vercyn Halfshav arrives fashionably late, but only just slightly. Unhurried, the Wolf Duke does what he usually does when entering a room: pausing at the threshold to scan and sniff, before stepping into the Red Study. "I hear there is free drinks to be had!" The man booms aloud, more to announce his arrival than actually looking for free drinks. But speaking of free drinks, that low table does hold the most allure, so that's the way he will head towards. Enroute though, he pauses to bow his head towards Darren and Donella (since they /are/ being the gracious hosts).

Preston steps into the red study, pulling back the wolf's head of his cloak - his helmet being held by Balian as the squire follows at a distance, waiting outside the door with the kestrel on his arm. The Templar Knight Marshal offers a bow of his head to Donella and to Darren before he looks across, trying to spy familiar faces in the northerners.

Sparte blinks at hearing his name, smiling over at Petal and giving a little finger wave while responding quietly. "Miss Primrose, nice to see you." He takes a moment to tug off his helmet, setting it on the table so as to not be quite as... Well, floofy. His chittering stoat, Tiny Tom, sticks her head out from a pouch to see what is going on in.

Asger lets out a rumble of deep hearty laughter and dips his hea after Vercyn speaks, the man's voice definitely carrying the inflections and accent of one who grew up speaking the shav tongue "Aye, I heard the Redrain larder as being opened for this." finding a place to stand, he leans back against the wall and crosses his arms.

Petal stifles a yawn behind one small hand, seemingly quite exhausted. She looks toward Vercyn, Asger and Preston as they arrive having a smile of greeting for the men, but she doesn't seem to know them very well. "Its good to see you too, Sparte." She says, still being far from discrete.

Lots of knights in distinctive Crown tabards file in, clearly the advance guard of the King of the Compact. Sure enough, Alaric strides in with his typically energetic sociability with the rest of his borderline swarming retinue. "Your Grace, Your Highness, splendid to see you both back again from Farhaven," he tells Darren and Donella warmly. He gives Zelda a brief little go-fetch-some-rum-for-me nod before smiling regally. "Congratulations on the birth of the heir!"

Preston pinches the bridge of his nose as the large crown retinue starts before he looks over to Asger "Duke Asger. How goes the rebuilding, and the shrines? It will be good to one day revisit Stormwall." And then it's Royal Majesty time, and Preston gives as deep a bow as a knight in armour can give to Alaric.

Darren refills his glass, sipping at it thoughtfully as he watches the people filing into the study by ones and twos. "I apologize for the fairly simple fare," Darren offers apologetically toward Asger. "My wife and I couldn't wait to see this room filled with the strength and solidarity of Redrain. I will endeavor to be better prepared in the future, but still, there is the booze." Darren lifts his glass suggestively, helping himself then to a long drink. He gets to his feet behind the desk as the knights begin filing into the room, for all know what's sure to follow. Darren offers a deep bow to the King, carefully holding his glass out wide. "King Alaric, my liege, the pleasure is entirely ours, I'm certain." At mention of heirs, Darren's face breaks in a broad and, to be fair, somewhat goofy proud grin. "Thank you my liege. I couldn't be more proud. My heart is full."

Pellinor, 4 Thrax Guards, Honey Snuggle, a Velenosian Angora cat arrive, following Alarissa.

Signe tucks both legs to fold beneath her while seated on the red sofa. More bodies file in to greet and claim their space. "

"It feels good to be back in the city, Your Majesty." Donella says with a more curved bow as Alaric makes his entrance, her tone always polite and mildly excited, "The city is boasting with life as always, so I hope all of our guests will feel the same warmth in here." The Redrain Princess adds as she turns her attention back to her glass and then towards the guests as more of them coming in, now definitely there are some more familiar faces in the room.

Asger dips his head to Petal before offering an easy going grin over towards Preston "Aye the rebuilding of Stormwall is going swimmingly, we've managed to rebuild the harbor and most of the city right now construction is carrying on for the castle and religious structures." lowering his voice to a faux whisper he shares aside to the templar "This time we went and rebuilt in stone to prevent arson in the future." despite the light jab at thermal affluent victory strategies his tone is easy going and doesn't seem to bare any illwill

"I hope they are saving the whiskey for winter." Vercyn notes wryly to Asger, but has already moved on towards the table with the booze and is pouring himself a glass of rum. The arrival of Alaric's entourage only distracts him momentarily, not enough so to dissuade him from his all-important task. In fact, Zelda's approach to the low table is waved away by the Wolf Duke, who now has two glasses of rum in hand as he moves towards Alaric instead, offering one of the glasses to the king. "My king. You wanted Redrain rum?"

2 Redrain novice guards arrives, following Gwenna.

Arriving a bit after the official hours began, Gwenna dips her head respectively and makes her way quietly to a seat.

Gwenna has joined the plush red couch.

One of those familiar faces to DOnella is Alarissa, making her way in - depositing the retinue outside those doors- with a pause once inside to see who all is present before stepping off to the side for the moment.

"All the Compact takes great joy and reassurance to hear of the continuation of the line of one of our Great Houses," Alaric agrees proudly. "But! I don't mean to overly intrude on your open hours. I do like to attend these affairs to lend support and enjoy a little hospitality away from the Palace, after all, but Redrain's internal affairs ought to be foremost. If you'll kindly excuse me then, I'll leave you both to it." His assistant brings him Vercyn's glass of rum and he raises it with an amiable grin before dispatching himself to one of the seats. "Duke Vercyn, much obliged," he says as he sits down and regards its existing occupant. "Lady Signe, lovely to see you again. How are you?"

Alaric has joined the plush red couch.

"The Nightgold Firewhiskey is soon to arrive, Duke Vercyn. We'll be well prepared for the southern 'winter'." Signe quips while reaching forward to give Atila a gentle pat on the head as he sits at her feet. The shaman smiles broadly as Alaric joins the red sofa. "I am well your Majesty. Very comfortable really. What's in these cushions? Goosefeather? I could melt right here!" Signe patted the sofa and shifted further into it's plush embrace.

"Of course, Your Highness. My home and my hospitality are open to you always," Darren answers, suiting his words with another neatly elegant bow. From his place behind the desk, he watches the King join Signe, and his eyes rove about the crowd as if measuring the distance between himself and his vassals. After a moment of this he nods resolutely, a decision made. Quickly topping off his glass, he heads out around the desk with it and into the crowd at large. It is Asger that he approaches first. "Duke Crovane, how goes the rebuilding? I was proud to hear of how you saw to the rebuilding of housing for your people even before your own keep."

"Very good, Duke Asger. It will be good for it to return to normal. And thank your people for their assistance in recovering the dead - they are interred now safely by Sanctum. You should see the result - white marble, golden doors. It rivals even our Cathedral here in Arx." Preston says, answering Asger before he bows his head to Alaric again "And, your majesty, we have left sufficient space and indeed your own area should the Silver Swords of your King's Own wish to be interred there. I know they take their oaths under the Gods seriously." As Alarissa joins the room, Preston offers a warm smile to the Thrax Princess

Sparte sits and listens attentively. Occasionally his attention is drawn to the map on the table in front of him during drier bits of the conversation, before bouncing back.

Preston's smile is noticed by Alarissa and she moves in further in search of Donella, not interrupting the other conversations in the room.

With the king accepting the rum, Vercyn is now free to sip his own. After which he bobs his head slowly towards Signe, of all people. "Indeed, Lady Signe. I am in fact looking forward to a nice, warm Arxian winter." He pauses momentarily, gaze shifting to Signe's wolf pup sitting against the wall. "Well, hello again, Tempest." The Duke rumbles to the pup, even crouching down in order to cup the wolf's muzzle fondly, and then rubbing the beast's neck. "You look well enough. Being in a city must be dull for you, hmm?"

Lifting the glass of rum in a way to signal for Alarissa, Donella leans a bit to the side, letting her husband proceed with the formalities of the event. Yet, an occasional glance to the public shows that she's paying close attention to what's being said, "Your Highness, how is Prince Victus and the Maelstorm faring recently? I have yet to meet him since my return into the city."

Asger crosses his arms thinking for a moment before responding "Rebuilding goes well, I had contacted several men of note in the area of construction before the battle knowing that the city would suffer for the worst for it. Right now we have the majority of the city rebuilt though the ornamentation of the builds has yet to begin. Right now we're working on the castle though I'm not expecting miracles now that we are ramping into winter, it will be near impossible for the crews to get anything done." with a faint quirk of his lips he expresses simply "Aye, my people come first. The clans have no traditionally followed the Crovane simply because of our strength but because they know the people of our lands will always be our first priority."

2 House Deepwood Guards arrives, following Grady.

"You know how it is. Adoring that cat, encouraging Astrid to play with pointy things and getting excited about his new ship. It's on it's way to us." There's a kiss pressed to Donella's cheek. "We need to have the both of you over for a meal before we depart for the tour. I came to see if there was anything that Redrain may need of Thrax." She's looking about the room too, paying attention to others. A glance to sparte and raised brows at his presence.

12 Thrax Elite Guards, Crow - Thraxian Steward, Lilybelle - Maimed Maine Coon arrive, following Victus.

Alaric smiles regally to Preston. "Thank you for the kind offer, Grandmaster Preston. I do hope to be able to travel to Sanctum to see the work you've all done. I've heard the most excellent descriptions of the place, although even those are said not to do it justice in comparison to being there in person." He regards Asger's report with interest, sipping rum while he listens.

Tempest seems very pleased when he is given attention by Duke Vercyn, the wolf-pup's tail sweeps against the floor and occasionally gives a lick to the Duke's hand, nuzzling and nudging.

Grady ambles into the room with a genial smile on his face, relaxed as he pauses to look around the room. He bows to the King and the High Lord and then hooks his fingers through his belt and then starts looking around for a seat, content to watch before just barging in and making a scene.

Victus lumbers through the door to the study, his cadre of guards having been left at the gate save for his stewardess and the infamous Claw of Arx. He wears a ashen coat around his shoulders, though no shirt underneath, which reveals a fine number of bandaged wrappings that cover his chest. Quick glances are given this way and that to those he recognizes, nods of greeting as well. The big Thraxian skulks through, eyeing any potential seats that catch his fancy.

Petal is still here, but the seamstress is being rather quiet as she listens to the conversation.

"Now that was fast." Donella smirk widens as Victus makes his entrance and nods towards Alarissa, "Now that's something I'd like to see. While I have never been one to fight aboard a deck, sailing does wonders to relax my mind." She says, gesturing for the bottle of rum, "And we should, indeed! You both should feel free to come here whenever you're a little more free."

"Gods. Victus, get a shirt on." Alarissa presses her lips together looking to Donella. "I apologizze for his state of undress." A beleaguered sigh.

Darren nods solemnly to Asger. "Still, it pleases me greatly to see you embrace the policies of selflessness and care for your people. When tragedy strikes a man and his house, this is when you might take his true measure. You show yourself to be a man of great quality." He reaches out to give Asger a congenial pat on the shoulder. "You've been too much a stranger in my house, milord. We must remedy this going forward. I have often missed our long talks over too many drinks." As Victus enters, Darren's gaze shifts to watch and study the Highlord of the Mourning Isles, but he holds his thoughts closely, his face giving away little.

Arik arrives in the crowded study with a hand on the pommel of one of his two swords dressed down in loose linens that would mark him as a well to do commoner at first sight but they let him in and he does have a House Blade so he must be somebody afterall. Upon entry he lifts a rough hewn hand in greeting to Darren and Asger before making his way towards Vercyn, "Uncle."


Another soon enters as well, this one a redheaded young woman dressed in a simple gown, though she wears a longbow against her back along with a quiver, both items excellently made. She doesn't move too far into the room, but stands to the back, hazel eyes to sweep those gathered, taking each one in turn quietly.

Vercyn seems rather focused on the wolf pup in the corner, letting it lick at his hand for a moment. "We will get you out to have a run around the woods. Yes, we will bring Lady Signe and Atila along too; I know they are your pack." He gives Tempest another pat on the head, then rises to head towards the red couch, evidently intent on informing Signe of this plan... but pauses when Arik arrives. "Arik. Come join me. You know everyone here?" He gestures at the occupants at said couch and offers casually - deliberately so. "Lady Signe. Princess Gwenna. King Alaric."

"I am sure you are always welcome, your majesty. Solace have a waystation there to help protect pilgrims. Though I fear Ailith might be trapped in the city for a time, now she has to be Dominus for a time. Which does remind me of the reason I came." Preston turns his head to look to Darren "Your grace, I had one question. And it was a simple request, if I may be so bold to make it. I know many of your people mistrust the Templars, but. That kind of mistrust is only overcome by us trying harder. Thrax were for a long time....minimised in the Faith, despite their great love of tradition and the deep connection. That has been overcome. I would hope you might encourage your ducal houses to consider asking their family members who might wish to join the Faith Militant, to learn our ways as disciples, and show an example?"

Vercyn has joined the long table.

Vercyn has left the long table.

Vercyn has joined the plush red couch.

Arik has joined the plush red couch.

"My Lord, Duke Vercyn," Gwenna offers kindly and with a bright smile. She scootches over a bit to make room for those coming to join them. Arik, as well, is offered a friendly smile.

Asger lets out a chuckle "Aye we haven't enoyed each other's company much in the past few years that's for sure, but with the changing tides I'm sure we'll see that reversed." Asger says with a dutifully before offerin a nod over to Arik as he enters "Other then that things have been quiet on the Stormcoast front."

Arik follows along with Vercyn to join the couch with the others, dipping his head as he approaches and banters something in northlands shav while easing down.

Arik says in Northlands shav, "Princess Gwenna, I am unsure if we've ever formally met. It is a pleasure."

"Shirts make the fucking cuts itch." Victus replies to his wife with a roll of his eyes. "You try getting some serrated bullshit tearing your breasts and see how much better ya' fair." He moves along, coming to stand beside Donella who receives a thin grin from the High Lord. "Back from Farhaven at last are ya'? It's been too long already, Cousin. I've missed you something awful to tell ya' the truth."

Signe flashes as smile as Vercyn bonds with the wolf pup Tempest. When both arrive to the large red sofa the shaman lifts her head a little, "Yes yes do. Your Majesty? This is Lord Arik Halfshav, Sword of Whitehold. And Duke Vercyn Halfshav. Our kin of the north." In case names were unknown. "Please join us."

Grady looks over at Preston. "The Legate, you mean? The Dominus is still alive and well is he not?" And then he's looking over to Darren. "Your Grace, I'll apologize for showing up late to the party, but did I miss any discussion of actions taken to help Stormwall? I'm aware of Grayson sending people and materials under Prince Ainsley, but I know too that Crovane and Redrain are making their own efforts. Are you planning to open that up to the rest of the Compact? We work together for the good of all, after all." He pauses. "Oh. I'm Lord Grady," he adds as an afterthought. "Not one of your subjects but our people went to Stormwall to help twice so far, so I'm interested in continuing aid if wanted."

Something over by Darren, Asger and Grady draws Arik's frosted gaze with a mild squint as if trying to decide something. He shakes his head after a moment and returns to the conversation at the plush red couch.

"Oh no, I think I'm quite used to that scene by now." Donella says, waving a hand at Alarissa and turning towards Victus with a broad smile on her face, "Aye, back in town and I've already received news about your new adventures. What's that about your new ship?" She inquiries, taking a short pause to sigh, "I've missed you too, cousin."

Alaric is overheard praising Asger for: Excellent progress made thus far in Stormwall.

Alaric is overheard praising Victus for: Best to err on the side of caution where healing is involved.

Darren blinks towards Grady, his attention drawn away from both Asger and Victus as he considers the man. Darren's answering smile is pleasant and personable. "While the Crown was quick to support Crovane's efforts to rebuild, and Redrain has sent what aid we could, there is still much to do and any who wish to help won't be turned away." His ice blue eyes wend their way towards Donella, and seeing her in discussion with Victus, fires a brief look of love and gratitude toward her.

Asger says in Northlands shav, "Wait....Did this southern lord just ask Darren's permission to help me...In front of me? Am I misunderstanding something here?"

"You'd think I was. I'm going to leave you to his claws now and go take my leave before I can no longer move. We will visit again soon, I promise." A look to Victus. "And yet leather is fine. Silk would be just fine, feel just fine." But with that Alarissa's making her way toward the door. "Prince Darren, treat the Princess Donella well. I am watchcing." Jovially spoken.

Darren says in Northlands shav, "Soft, my good Duke. I don't think he meant to offend."

Arik says in Northlands shav, "Mayhap he wishes to pay Redrain a charity tax, Duke Crovane? He wishes to not only help you, but the High Lord at once?"

Arik speaks up from the couch to Darren and Asger with a wry note to his rumbling voice and a shake of his head at the end, evidently he cannot resist.


Rosalind listens to what is said, gaze moving back and forth between the various groups. For the moment, the young woman seems content to be a wallflower, though she seems both curious and intrigued by comments made by certain people.

"Ah, you told her about how the old girl met a grisly end in Setarco?" Victus asks of Alarissa, a brow quirked on that scarred face. Something of grief washes over his expression briefly as his eyes turn back upon Donella. "Aye. I'm afraid the old flagship was blown to pieces while I was leading the navy. Not before she took quite a few fuckers down herself, mind. I've got a new one in the works now. As big if not bigger. I just need to see a man about a nice figurehead before I can properly unveil it. Need to make a proper show about this ya' know, it's real shit."

Victus is overheard praising Alaric for: He gets it.

Signe tucks in her bottom lip, watching and listening the conversation between Darren, Asger and Arik. She then asks Victus, "High Lord Victus, will there be a mock battle at the unveiling? Please say yes."

Pellinor, 4 Thrax Guards, Honey Snuggle, a Velenosian Angora cat leave, following Alarissa.

Sparte is still sitting off out of the way, attempting to follow the conversation. He isn't doing a great job. A quiet chitter from his belt causing him to grow distracted again in an attempt to keep his little pal contained. Mini snack for the stoat again.

"The Dominus is quite busy with religious contemplation of late. Just as the Legate has been having to step in for him lately, so Ailith will have to step in as the Dominus' voice while he attends to other matters. She is quite capable though. She will see matters dealt with." Preston says in answer to the query, his tone quite friendly.

Alaric is overheard praising Ailith for: Quite capable indeed!

"It takes time to build anything worth doing. Having not seen it myself," Grady says with that easy air, "I couldn't say I know what is needed, but is Redrain as a whole working under someone, or should I look for Duke Asger or Duchess Ann if we're looking to offer aid?" He just smiles pleasantly. "And do forgive the interruption. I find I'm still new enough around Arx that I don't know the who's who so I tend to blunder and stumble around and hope no one minds too much." He bows to Preston. "Ah, I see. Thank you."

Signe checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 18 higher.

Asger cracks a wry grin and speaks up "Generally my friend if you wish to help someone you go to them directly. The Redrain don't direct our rebuilding efforts or plan them in any way, nor should they the burden of a man's people and land rests on his shoulders. So if you wish to help, my wife or myself would be more then willing to talk with you to see in what way you'd like to aid in rebuilding the city."

Darren replies quickly to Grady. "It would be best to coordinate directly with Crovane. I have left the Duke and Duchess to oversee rebuilding as they see fit, and they have delivered on my trust in them admirably." As Asger seems to take the matter firmly in hand, Darren nods his approval, with a friendly smile of support towards Asger. His gaze strays back towards the gathering near his desk and his wife, and with a quickly muttered "Please, excuse me," he leaves Asger to handle the matter, making his way towards the desk.

"Ah! You'd be Duke Asger then," Grady says with a grin, "and so the joke's on me. I didn't think they'd be taking over what's rightfully yours man, just that the Great Houses often seem to offer aid when we need it. The least they can do with our tax money, yes?" He winks at Darren and then moves over to Asger, holding out a hand. "Pleasure to meet you then. I'm Lord Grady and nevermind my tendency to just blunder in. I'm a firm believer in the Compact working together to help each other, and my wife and sister-in-law were both at Stormwall." That smile fades slightly in memory. "The stories they brought back, well. I'm sorry for all your people have suffered."

Signe chuckles as Grady discover who the Duke Asger Crovane is. "At last. He is found."

"Mock battle?" Victus inquires, scratching at his bearded chin a moment. "... Hm... Maybe... Maybe yes." He carries that thought with him to the red couch nearby, mumbling something about how easily barrels would be broken and how much fire could be safely used.

Victus has joined the plush red couch.

Preston looks over to Victus and smiles "Once they return, you /could/ always pit your new vessel against that vessel the Lycene and the Faith built together, Prince Victus. It could raise a decent number of donations to put towards war orphans and your wife's release of child thralls? I know Dame Thena is trying to expand the naval forces." The conversation about Stormwall does cause that mirth to drop from his features however "Stormwall was a bloody affair for all involved. But. They were kept away from inland, where they could reinforce and it would have taken a greater force to unseat them. The land recovers, in time the levies will as well."


Rosalind ducks her head slightly as Stormwall is discuss, a brief prayer perhaps muttered beneath her breath before she once more raises her head to continue watching those within. The animals likely gain her attention in some ways as well, a hint of a smile to touch her lips.

"And the rescued orphans!" Signe adds from the sofa. "They endured much while held captive the Silent Warren. They are also in need."

Asger snorts softly "Aye Great Houses have been known to sometimes help when their vassals suffer catastrophe." drumming his fingers against his elbows he dips his head "The battle of Stormwall was a slaughter on both sides, far too many good people there lost their lives for a myriad of reasons. Once my people have a home again and I have a seat from which to protect the region then we will see to the construction of memorials to the fallen." With a gleam to his eye he says "The Crovane have never let the land fall though, no matter who has met us on our land all they have found are storms and death."

Darren changes his path as Victus takes a seat, approaching to stand before the Thraxian Highlord with a dip of his chin. "Prince of Maelstrom, you honor my house with your visit," he intones weightily. He lifts his glass indicatively. "Have you availaed yourself of the refreshments? I have rum -- from the North but Donella finds it meets her standards."

Grady nods at Asger's comment. "The strength of Crovane is renowned, even far to the west from where my family comes." He gestures at the armchairs. "If you're not too busy, would you be willing to discuss how we might best offer our aid to you and your people? You do know them best, after all. And while I'm willing to blunder about when only I look stupid, I am certain I'm not interested in blundering around with people's lives and resources." A pause. "If not today, then perhaps another day would be better? But if you're interested in speaking about it, we're interested in helping a fellow family in the Compact for bearing the brunt of an attack meant to destroy us all eventually. We do not forget that Crovane held the line."

"Don't forget to invite me for it." Donella says towards her cousin, waving to Alarissa as she departs, but also raising from her seat and whispering something towards Darren as she turns towards the guest, "Once again, it was a pleasure having you at my home, I look forward to more occasions like this, I'll leave you to the care of my husband." She turns towards him once again, smirking, "Just don't indulge Prince Victus too much, Darren."

"Now that ain't a bad idea either." Victus replies evenly to Preston. "From the look of the Carlotta I wouldn't think her much of a combat-heavy vessel. Suppose it wouldn't be a bad idea to see how it really stacks up to our warships today. Provided we don't break each other's toys, of course." A rather mischievous smirk spreads across his face a moment. "And that damn thing is expensive last I heard." As his dark eyes move from Templar to fellow High Lord, Victus had a look for Darren like the man had just grown a separate pair of heads. "Prince of Farhaven, where's all this formality come from? Ain't we both barbarians of a different cut?" He chuckles in good humor. "Aye, I'll pilfer some drink from ya'. I wouldn't mind a bit of whiskey to tell ya' the truth. Freja kept it stocked to the ceiling the last time I came 'round to visit."

Signe gets Swift Strike Scorpion Whiskey from a half-moon satchel carved from a fine wolf pelt.

Signe drops Swift Strike Scorpion Whiskey.

Signe pulls the fur line satchel onto her lap, digging within it's contents to withdraw a favored whiskey. The young shaman was ever prepared, the bottle held out to Victus as an offering.

"I would advise looking at the lists of the dead from Stormwall, m'Lord." Preston suggests, looking to Grady "As Duke Asger says, it was a slaughter on both sides. But it was not Crovane alone - that was the beauty of that day, even in the midst of horror. It was the Compact, united. I watched Lord Alban of the Valardin unhorsed. Sir Armel fell at those walls. Troops from across the Northlands. And Templars from every corner of the Compact. Over half the order fell on those beaches and in the passes to allow the Shamans and out wounded to escape. That was the beauty of Stormwall, because it did not matter that it was Stormwall. We all defended it like it was home." There is a slight tug at the corner of his lips "Though I might have wished it was home, that everfrost is cold." PReston's attention turns back to Victus and he gives a little shrug, and a smile "Expensive. But. Father Orazio does oversee the Disciples of Gild. He can find coin for most projects. And I cannot complain, as he found me the coin for my armour after a.." and Preston pauses before he chooses his next words carefully "Rather large gentleman who would have appeared to be on fire due to a trick of the light reaved through my previous set."

Darren gives a wry grin, crossing quickly to his desk to snatch his own bottle from it and fill a short glass, returning to offer it to Victus. "My own private stock, direct from Farhaven," he offers. "If there's finer to be had, I can't find it. How fares Thrax, my friend? I know we all have our wounds to lick and Redrain doesn't suffer alone." Amidst a muted clattering of buckles from his armor, Darren eases himself down to a seat on top of a short cabinet full of documents near the Thraxian prince's perch.


Rosalind is quiet, but at Preston's curious words about who destroyed his armor, she peers at him a little further, "He appeared on fire?" Her words are spoken just loud enough to be overheard, and like many here, carry the northern accent.

Rosalind wields Raven's Final Whisper, a longbow.

"Oooh, fancy." Victus praises as Darren hands him a glass, which he wastes no time in taking a generous swig of. "Things ain't as bad as they could be my friend, which I will always count as a win when the apocalypse was loomin' just months prior. We lost a lot of life, life that can't be replaced. But ships, those are certainly replaceable and we've done a bang-up job of it. I would say Thrax's standing navy is just about at its strength prior to shippin' out to Setarco. We've been graced with the time to lay our dead to rest with our shores well-protected. The healing will come with the years, but the Isles are a harsh place. We're a people used to wounds being opened and closed all the time anyhow." His grin grows a bit wider. "How goes the rebuilding of Stormwall?"

Sparte has left the Redrain Family Map Table.

Tiny Tom, Wilhelm the Iron Messenger leave, following Sparte.

Victus would also add to Preston, "I would recommend avoiding any latent fire-men. I've not much experience with 'em myself but it certainly sounds like an awful fucking headache."

Donella has left the regal hardwood desk of the High Lord.

2 Redrain novice guards have been dismissed.

A burly man in armor and furs arrives to the study by himself, late. A large, calloused hand rests on the rounded sword pommel that juts out of his leather scabbard, what must be a force of habit. His regal swordbelt carries the sigil of House Halfshav, and indeed the young man presents himself with the strength and pride of a Northerner. Seax keeps to himself as he takes a few meandering steps further into the study, dark green eyes flicking about.

Darren takes a long drink from his glass, his eyes watching and considering Asger across the rim while he collects his thoughts. "The good Duke Crovane reports Stormwall all but rebuilt," Darren responds in an impressed tone, scratching somewhat bemusedly at his short, neat beard. "The support from Crown and Compact for Stormwall was for more than we could have hoped or expected, and Duke Asger's stewardship of the matter has been nothing short of exemplary. He does his house great credit."

Darren is overheard praising Asger for: Duke Asger's stewardship of matters in Stormwall has been nothing short of exemplary. He does his house great credit.

Preston is overheard praising Asger for: For seeing to the needs of his people, in body and in soul, with the rebuilding of their home and their places of worship.


Rosalind stands just within the doorway near the wall, the ranger female quietly studying each, though she remains watching Preston after speaking up finally. Curious as to his answer is she, though as another steps inside, her gaze turns to Seax, head tilted as she takes him in as well.

Tempest rises onto all fours, padding away from his wall flower resting place to curiously sniff at Rosalind's feet, then limbs.

"Some people have very odd habits, M'lady" Preston answers to Rosalind, smiling as he offers a small bow of his head "He, I suppose, must have got too close to the accidental fire that had started. And was swinging wildly. Thankfully Dame Thena was behind me, but it did tear straight through my steel. There were a number of good noble men there too, who kindly assisted in subduing the gentleman."

Alaric has left the plush red couch.

Quill, the grunty little porcupine arrives, delivering a message to Arik before departing.

Arik receives a message from a Halfshav livered servant and stands up from the couch. "It was nice to see you all, I should be writing you some letters in the future and High Lord Victus thank you for responding to my Thrax questions in the whites. I couldn't think of a better source."

Grady looks obviously impressed. "Well, that's excellent to hear then," he says cheerfully. "Duke Asger, I'll look forward to talking to you, but I didn't realize the time - I'd best be getting home before my Jessa has a word or two to say about my absence." He smiles and bows - to Darren and Donella, to Asger, and the rest as well. "I'll look for you again."

2 House Deepwood Guards leaves, following Grady.

"Glad to hear it. The man has a good head on his shoulders and a good arm for whackin' shit too." Victus intones back to Darren. "An excellent kinda combo. You got yourself one hell of a man. I'm lookin' forward to seeing how Stormwall is revitalized when its time for their people to settle in again."

Victus says in Northlands shav, "I appreciated someone taking the time to learn. Safe travels, Lord Arik."

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Gwenna before departing.

Arik perks up his eyebrows and flashes Victus a reckless grin after a moment.

Arik says in Northlands shav, "Impressive. Be Well."

Arik has left the plush red couch.

Seax catches Rosalind's gaze and turns that way, lips clenched in a thoughtful purse. He nears and comes to a halt a few paces away, squared jaw dipping in an easy nod of introduction, "Good day. Lord Seax Halfshav, Knight of the Hills. I don't believe we've met."

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Asger before departing.

As well, a messenger arrives for Gwenna and the princess wrinkles her lips thoughtfully before dipping her head politely to those on the couch. "I've something that needs attending. It was such a pleasure listening and speaking with you all," is offered in a genuine tone before she stands and offers yet another bob of her head. "If you might all pardon me. Your Grace, this was exceptional and I'm so glad the study has been full of life again with your return."

Gwenna has left the plush red couch.

2 Redrain novice guards leaves, following Gwenna.


A blush might be spied to color Rosalind's cheeks when the large man turns her way, but she steps away from the wall to offer a hand towards Seax, "It is a pleasure to make your aquaintance, Lord Halfshav." A dip of her head comes then before she lifts it and answers, "Lady Rosalind Ravenseye of Stormheart, here with my family." New, it would seem. "I only arrived a few days ago myself again.." Still, those that come and go get a look from the redheaded ranger along with perhaps a quiet word of goodbye or nice meeting you from her.

"Ravenseye? Ah I met one of your kin in the Grotto some days past. Lord Danvir I believe." Signe says to Rosalind after hearing her family name.

Darren drains his glass, rising to his feet. "You speak the truth, my friend. The Duke is a quality man." As he crosses the short distance to snag the bottle from his desk, he watches the exchange between Victus and Arik. "I'm impressed that you speak Northlands shav," he tells Victus as he refills his glass. "Not many in the wider Compact ever bother to learn."

Preston can't help but lift a curious brow at Victus speaking Shav "Now there is a party trick, your grace. So you can swear in front of Astrid without Ailith chiding you?"

Vercyn must have wandered off to refill his glass during the multi-directional conversation, and only now returns to his seat after spending another minute patting Tempest on the way back. "Looks like I missed some of the departures, including our King." He muses aloud, lifting a hand to stroke at his beard before his attention goes to the exchange between Darren and Victus.

After a short pause, Seax Halfshav takes the offered hand and gives it a firm squeeze. Unabashed, he gives a loose nod of recognization and there's a slight, amiable quirk to this thin lips, "Lady Rosalind. Well met. This is about my... third week in Arx. Still getting used to it, myself. Perhaps we can help each other along."

Teiddwen the Otter, A fiery headed prodigal named Gwddfgwyn leave, following Asger.


Hearing Signe, Rosalind speaks up to the shaman, "Cousin, yes. Hopefully he left a good impression?" A half tease offered before she turns back to Seax, "I came briefly, but no sooner was I here, then I had to return home for a little while.." Oh the fun of that trek back and forth. A sparkle in her eye appears as she smiles, "Perhaps we could. I found a wonderful weaponsmith when I first came in who was able to get me a new bow after mine was stolen." And this pleases her greatly.

Darren is near the desk now, drinking and talking with Victus.

Coming back from the main hall, Donella takes a look to see who is still inside their home, smiling politely towards them as she makes her way back towards her husband. Whatever it is that kept her away seems to be solved by now and the woman seems pleased to see both sides of her family drinking and talking to each other, "Well, that's just lovely. Who's winning?"

Victus lets out a gruff chuckle. "I endeavor to learn about folks I have respect for. As Preston over there says, the party trick it provides ain't bad either. Rarely does someone expect me to know anything that ain't axe, drink, and sail." He takes another conservative sip of his drink, his eyes grazing to Preston again. "It's a lost cause that she ain't gonna hear a couple of naughty words before she's talking herself. Sailors ain't known for their conservative nature in speaking light and fluffy. But it does help, certainly." His eyes move back to Darren. "I'm hoping to learn the Isles Shav's tongue before too long. It's killer trying to find the time though."

"I'm not the one who has to answer to Seraph Ailith or your wife, your grace, when her first words are 'Kill the fuckers'. But. I also grew up in the Rectory, so perhaps I was sheltered. But then, it did mean hanging around with a lot of soldiers, and that did mean hearing things. But. Well. Only person who worried about me was Fawkuhl, and he was rather busy being Legate or Dominus." Preston lifts his shoulders and offers a broad grin to Victus "Still. It is a good thing to learn the language. I do not have the skill for it, but, it helps. I was trying to talk to the Shamans during the Gyre War and it just didn't go well. I spoke louder. I spoke slower. Just didn't work."

Petal is here and she was so exhausted that she started to drift off to sleep. She awakes with a start and has a sheepish smile for all here. "OH, sorry about that." She says still in the accent of a Northern Shav.

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Darren snorts, nearly choking on his whiskey, at the idea of spare time for linguistics. "I feel your pain on that front keenly," Darren empathizes. His brilliant smile at Donella's return is honest and open. "Welcome back, my love. Is Taran well?"

"Interesting," Seax responds, giving an idle nod as he regards Rosalind, "I suppose if you need somethin' made, this is the best place in the Compact." Absently, he tilts a glance around the room, studying each face.

Oh! There is one thing that Vercyn keeps forgetting (despite the constant nagging of Arik)! He changes directions and heads for Seax... and by association Rosalind. "Lord Seax. My lady." He address each in turn when he joins the pair. "I hate to interrupt but this seems like a good time to discuss Prince Darren's offer to you, nephew."

"Mmm not really." Signe laughed again while answering Rosalind, herself resuming her drinking from the rum glass. "We'll see if next time is even more memorable." While there were some still here, mostly of the north. Signe then unfolded her limbs from the seat and spoke aloud, "Speaking of shamans. Admist all the efforts of replinishing what was lost, the change of the seasons is quickly coming upon us. The shamans will be gathering to preform rites to celebrate the arrival of winter." Signe looks to Preston then, a smirk deepening. "We do speak Arvani. If they didn't answer they perhaps had nothing to say to you." She chuckled.

Petal looks over to Seax. "Oh, Lord Seax, I did get your message, but I didn't respond yet. At least I think I didn't. Did I?" She says, not sounding fully sure. Maybe she is absent-mined or sleep deprived or something.

Donella for once, seems to have some spare time for linguistics, "I did manage to find some time in order to learn Northlands shav. Would you like to see, cousin?" She says, perhaps a bit too proud of herself and nods to her husband with a more solemn expression, "He's well. Despite the best efforts of our nurses, he still prefers his mother."

Seax responds to Petal in fluent Northlands Shav before turning to watch the Duke's approach: "Uncle Vercyn. Aye, I'd be more than happy to." Briefly, he adjusts his swordbelt and shoots a glance over at Darren.

Seax says in Northlands shav, "I don't recall, Petal. We'll have to figure it out later."


"The place is called Seaborn Weaponry, it's owner a weaponsmith by the name of Felix Meadson." Rosalind offers to Seax before they are joined by Vercyn. She falls quiet, glancing between the men and Petal when she speaks up to Seax as well. To Signe, she hmms, nodding her head, mention of upcoming rituals to be taken note of.

Petal looks over to Seax nodding in response to his words. She has a gentle smile for Rosalind as she notices her attention. "I am Petal." She says toward the woman in her heavily accented voice.

Petal says in Northlands shav, "Oh, no worries, we can talk later, Lord Seax"

Preston hearing the ever familiar name, Preston chimes in "Master Felix is a fine smith - he made Banisher, which the former Dominus gifted to me. So his skill even with Diamondplate is worthy of note, and of Faith patronage." But, still, he looks to Signe and lifts his shoulders "I cannot imagine why. I think they were sore that we refused to come into the city for their blessings, perhaps. But. Still. They understood well enough in the pass. Though then, we were yelling 'Run' and many people were demonstrating this. Perhaps that is the key. Talking loudly, slowly /and/ gesturing. For those who struggle more with Arvani."

There is business to discuss, but that doesn't mean Vercyn is going to dismiss Rosalind and Petal, both of whom are now speaking to Seax. Each is studied briefly, but with interest. Still, business first. "I do believe the offer is one of simple patronage. Are you confident you can carry out whatever duties Prince Darren requires of you, as well as your obligations of House Halfshav?" Beat. "If so, I see no reason to deny you this honor."

"Whatever they may say, if that's the first words outta my little girl's mouth? I would be more proud than you could imagine." Victus replies with absolute sincerity behind his tone to Preston, before he'd join in on Darren's laughter. "I'm lucky I've had as much free time as I have now already. Speaking of, it may be about time for that to be winding down." He stands, emptying his glass into his maw before handing it back to Darren. "Thinking I should go see my little girl before I find out she's tried to challenge the nannies to single combat again."

Seax stands at ease before Vercyn, a large hand still resting on his sword pommel and the other on his belt with a thumb hooked inside. In this manner, he delivers a firm, confident nod: "Aye, Uncle. I am."

Petal doesn't seem to know Vercyn, but she has a brief smile for the duke. She is curled-up on a couch and seems to be struggling still with exhaustion. "Congrats, Lord Seax." She says when he takes the offered honor.

Darren smiles to Victus, taking the glass and stretching himself out to set it on his desk. "Well, thank you again for blessing our home with your visit, my friend. I hope you will return soon to catch up with myself and your cousin more intimately." If he has noticed the conversation taking place between Seax and Vercyn, his focus is on the Thraxian Highlord for now.

Signe stands from the sofa and makes a small gesture to both Atila and Tempest, both rise onto their feet. "Yes, that is the very core of communication." The young shaman chuckled then whispered towards her animal companions, the trio depart with no word of warning.

Signe has left the plush red couch.

Tempest, Atila leave, following Signe.


Rosalind nods to Petal, "A pleasure to meet you then, Petal." Uncertain is she perhaps if there should be a title or not, and half hoping she doesn't get in trouble for using the other's given name only. Falling quiet, she seems curious as to what honor is being given to the knight. Behind on the local news is she. To Preston, she does smile, "He crafted my longbow.." She gestures gracefully to the longbow on her back at the moment, "And did so quickly... and understood I didn't want anything fancy.." Let her shush now before she gushes about her bow.

Vercyn nods to Seax, reaching out to clasp the younger Halfshav on the shoulder. "Then go. You can inform the High Lord yourself." He releases Seax's shoulder and gestures him to go right ahead. Which means he can now address the ladies. "Pardon the interruption." The Duke notes to both Rosalind and Petal. "Are you both associates of my nephew?"

Tempest, Atila arrive, following Signe.

Tempest, Atila leave, following Signe.

Petal is wearing a simple white linen dress and a blue apron, so its safe to say she probably doesn't have a title, although one never knows for sure, especially in the North! She seems to be in a friendly sort of mood, but there is a pallor to her cheeks and shadows beneath her eyes, suggesting to the more alert that not all is well with the tiny seamstress. "I know him a little bit, Your Grace." Petal says in her heavy accent.

Seax gives a contented nod to his Uncle before turning away, taking a few paces in the direction of Darren and Victus. He makes no move, however, to interrupt their conversation and stands there, patiently, by himself.

Wrapping an arm around Darren, Donella waves towards Victus, "I'll take up your wife offer for a dinner together!" She warns, flashing just another smile before she turns to focus on her husband, "Seems like most of the matters were addressed by now, is there something you need me to assist?" She asks, eyes vaguely roaming through the room as she listens a bit of the other conversations.

"Right, I had better get back to the Rectory and ensure no-one is doing anything unseemly now the Legate is gone. Disciples arranging statues in amusing ways and the like." Preston offers a bow of his head to the High Lords still rpesent "Prince Victus, I look forward to seeing you on the tour. Just...don't tell Father Orazio, but I have had some miniature portraits done of him for the Orazio's Sentinels. Prince Darren, thank you for your hospitality. It is enjoyable to come to such things, see the fealties operate."

Petal peeks over to the High Lady of Redrain, seeming admiring and having a smile for her.

"Oh you'll be seein' one of us soon enough I'm sure. Been too long since we all got together for some drinks. Fuckin' politics take all the fun out of things, aye?" Victus lets out a last rumbling bit of laughter, turning to Donella to lay a hand on her shoulder. "I'll have to meet your little one too. Eventually. I still ain't great with my own kid." He gives an even nod to both the Prince and Princess of Farhaven as he steps away, pausing to cock his head in Preston's direction. An amused snort follows. "Oh, that old man is gonna fucking /frown/ at you somethin' awful." And with that, he's off!

Victus has left the plush red couch.

12 Thrax Elite Guards, Crow - Thraxian Steward, Lilybelle - Maimed Maine Coon leave, following Victus.

Balian, a Templar squire, Guy, a hunting kestrel leave, following Preston.

Vercyn shakes his head towards Petal. "Your Graces are over there." He lifts a big hand and gestures in the general direction of Darren and Victus. "I am Duke Halfshav of Whitehold, uncle of Lord Seax." Then there is a sniff in Petal's direction, followed by a peer. "Are you not feeling well? You look like you may need the attention of a healer."