Khanne approaches the area for the Great Spring Falconry and Hound Hunt talking with Drysi who walks at her side. On Drysi's arm (which is covered in leather) is a beautiful Peregine Falcon, currently wearing a little leather hat with a plume at the top. "I don't know if we should enter or just watch. Serenity isn't a hunter, typically..."

Confessor Imori, Rogue, a black falcon arrive, following Tikva.

Tikva drops Asharion Grayson, who has become a super finicky eater.

Valitina is a bundle of excited energy; she has both parents in attendance and paying attention to her as they navigate the outskirts of the Grey Forest to the designated meeting point of the hunt. There's her nurse nearby, sure, but the black-haired girl who looks nearly like a miniature of her mother except for her father's gray-blue eyes, is currently asking Fairen, with an eye on the sky between the trees: "But where do /you/ think the moon comes from?"

While her daughter might be dressed in a simple silk gown of moonlight silk, that will be a pain for some servant to clean later, her mother is dressed in golden armor. Iliana bears her weapons, sheathed, as she takes long strides on the right side of her daughter. She doesn't seem inclined to request the Marquis from the questions right away, as a grin tugs at her lips, but then she finally offers in distraction, "Perhaps we should get some hunting d o g s. I could train them and then they can follow you around."

Valitina frowns and turns even as she walks to tell her mom, "I know what that spelled! You said dogs. I can help train dogs!"

"Dogs are gross," editorializes Asharion Grayson in a high, piping voice from a few feet away. It is a little rare that he is out with his mother without either his father or his sister or his half-brother, but today, he is fitted in his own hunting leathers, his dark curls well-groomed and his eyes wide and bright as he marches in step with Tikva.
"What have we said about other people's conversations, Ash? Just because we are loud enough to be heard in every corner of the forest--" Tikva tousles his hair a little absently, mostly occupied in sorting out the hood on the falcon who she is carrying with her.
"They have slimy tongues," Asharion complains in answer. He sticks his tongue out at Valitina. This is where we're beginning now.

Arriving with a couple of hounds, a falcon, a teenaged boy, and a pair of five year olds is Elora Whitehawk. She carries her bird on her hand, a leather cap covering its head and jesses keeping it firmly in hand; the dogs stick to the toddlers like glue, helping herd them back to their mother. No armour for her, just seasilks and a calm demeanour. When Triton finds her, she gives him a smile. "I'm glad you could make it, my Lord," she greets her intended. "Is Lady Rosalind coming as well?"

"Did you really think she wouldn't be able to spell that?" Fairen says, his low voice pitched with an edge of ragged exasperation as he glances to Iliana over Valitina's head. He is _not_ wearing armor. He is _not_ bearing weapons. He is dressed as a man about town who has only traded stone-and-wood shoes for maybe-mud boots. He glances at Asharion and lowers his voice further, this time to his daughter as he leans down to say, "Remember, answer him with a fact-based argument, so that when he slips and gives in to emotion and illogic, he is the one who looks foolish." This is absolutely a lesson an eight-year old will understand.

Is Rosalind coming? The red head comes flying through the woods, her bird flying close by. "Hello!"she calls out with a wave of her hand, a smile plastered on her lips.

"It was worth a shot," Iliana breathes out in a sigh, her nose wrinkling slightly. "I mean, I don't remember at what age I started spelling. I /do/ remember what age I got my first real sword." The last is said in that sly way, with a pointed look, that might be hinting at something. But then Tikva and Asharion are there, and she grins to the Princess as she greets: "Princess Tikva, nice to see you again!"

Valitina's nose wrinkles much like her mothers, but then her father is leaning in and giving her advice, and her face tightens into seriousness. She nods, accepting the advice, before she tells Asharion, "Actually, in fact, dogs tongues are cleaner than /our/ tongues!"

It's just one of those spring afternoons where the sun is dazzling warm, the sky is that beautiful blue which has lazy white puffy clouds in mythical shapes making their way across one horizon to the next. Out on the plains, the grass has grown tall as it moves with a whispered breeze carrying the perfume of newly budded flowers. Spring in Arx can be a beautiful thing.

There's one area that stands a bit higher than the rest of the plains, three very large rocks jutting up like a giant decided to use them as a makeshift chair and inside is a campsite set up with good food starting to be cooked.

There's quite a few hunters from all walks of life here already. Green ones that have just the biggest grin while showing off their pride and joy. Experts that are talking about how their latest hunt had one of the largest they've ever seen get away. It's good competition.

Titus comes out of a pavilion and lifts his hands, gesturing for folks to come over. The decayed whispered voice says "Welcome and good afternoon to the falconry and hound hunt. You're all my guests and as guests, do be on your best behaviour. Today I'm excited to see your animal partners, I'm interested in seeing the bonds you're forming and hopefully you'll be able to cull a bit around these parts so that the survivors can thrive according to Petrichor. If you'd like to come and declare your name and your hunting partner, we'll start soon."

Louiselle, a liver-and-tan sleuth hound arrives, following Richard.

Triton strides his average bulk into the area on a direct course toward Elora but with grins and waves all around and a yell to Rosalind.

Elora passes the falcon off to the teenager and looks at the red wheaton hound. "Due, watch the twins, please. Onida, come." She smiles at Triton and then Rosalind. "I'll be right back." The soft spoken woman picks a path towards Titus. "Good afternoon, my Lord," she says with a warm smile. "Lady Elora Whitehawk, and I'll be hunting with Onida, who is a hound."

Gunner, the Leary Military Adjutant, Emilie, a plump lady's assistant, Cindel, a short-tempered, short-statured nanny, Minerva, the Northern Hawk Owl arrive, following Iliana.

Richard has been circulating around, admiring everyone else's animals. He's just in time to get in line, with a tan hound at his side, to approach Titus not long after Elora does with a murmured, "Lady Elora," to her. He nods towards Titus, "My lord. Lord Richard Wyvernheart, with Louiselle," the female hound gives a soft /huff/ at the sound of her name, having sat comfortably down while she's waiting.

"Gods, I hope you were spelling by eight." Fairen's not wearing pearls. He can't clutch them. But he does look deeply disturbed by the idea that _his wife_, the _mother of his child_ might not have been penning essays at eight. A slight furrow of concern darkens his brow as he glances at Valitina, who might be able to scent the doom of Educational Drills looming in her future. He transfers his owl to his daughter so that she can give it to her mother, nodding at Tikva as well: "Your highness."

Thump, a yappy pupper arrives, following Lierre.

"Cleaner than YOUR tongue," sniffs Asharion with princely dignity that lasts about two seconds - when he realizes that Tikva has been distracted. He grins with the sudden flash of mischief of his years, and breaks loose to chase towards Valitina. Like he's going to tackle and lick her.
"Oh, yes, it's lovely to see you again, Lady Iliana," Tikva beams and then yelps in the midst of fiddling with Rogue's hood. "Oh no you don't," she says, but her swipe at Asharion's collar comes about a beat and a half too late. He's quick on his feet, just like his father. "/Ash/, what did we /say/ about comportment--" (Clearly, whatever it was, he wasn't listening.)
Meanwhile, Rogue stretches her wings and dances from foot to foot on the falconer's perch she has adopted on Tikva's armored shoulder. She's still hooded, but she's definitely listening. Too clever for her own good, this bird.

Rosalind hurries over to Triton, waving to Elora as she goes wandering somewhere else. "I'm going to try out Spirts,"she says. "You know, the giant hawk El gave me for my birthday?" Rosa looks over at Titus and waves to him too.

Childless as she is, Khanne stands off to the side with Drysi and watches the others as they arrive. Her head is tilted, watching the little families as they interact. She's dressed in a gown decorated with feathers which dance in the spring breeze. As Titus enters and announces the beginning of the competition, she smiles, eagerly looking over the crowd to see who might be competing today.

Triton "Here we go. Rosa and the bird will likely flush game in fifty directoins." This is from Triton to nobody in particvular with the air of long, habitual confidence in his opinion.

Iliana shrugs, carelessly, for Fairen's hopes.

Valitina shrieks as Ashharion comes chasing towards her, a loud, maidenlike cry of distress as she proclaims to half of the Grey Forest, "He's going to lick me! Oh no, oh no!" And then she's picking up her skirts and running off, leading Asharion on a merry chase that leaves Cindel cursing and alternately calling, "My lady, come back here!" Before, of course, she trudges after the noble children to keep an eye on them.

Iliana is left to accept Minerva directly from her husband, nodding her thanks simply as she adjusts the owl on her arm carefully. She announces, "I will be hunting with Minerva." She doesn't seem concerned about her daughter, who will surely return to watch when she wants.

Asharion's villainous cackling can be heard ... widely, as he charges in pursuit of Valitina. Tikva kind of facepalms, but she seems willing to cede the point to let the children have fun, particularly as she observes her own guard casually fanning out to observe while Iliana's dutiful nanny heads off in pursuit. It takes a village, after all. A very expensive, diverse village. "Gack," says Tikva, and laughs. "Uhm, Princess Tikva and Rogue. Possibly Prince Asharion will help when he is QUITE through showing off how slimy his tongue is..."

"He's never going to catch her," Fairen says as he watches them bolt. His arms fold in a cross over his chest as he watches her lead Asharion round and round with distant approval. Attagirl. His gaze crosses back to Iliana as she announces herself, and he can't help but put forward a reminder as he draws a slim notebook from his breast pocket. "Now, remember to take care with her in the trees," he says, flipping open what looks like a small copy of the local forest, color coded by preferred hunting grounds. "Have you had a chance to review this--?" He pushes it before Iliana, interrupting whatever calm she might find before the hunt with his detailed research.

Titus goes and visits each of the competitors that are announcing themselves, welcoming them to the hunt. He's checking over the animals, seeing if there's any wounded or maybe neglected. So far, everyone is passing with flying colours.

"Lady Elora, very pleased to see you here. I'm looking forward to seeing Onida, they're a very interesting breed of hound."

"Lord Richard, welcome to the hunt and you've a beautiful hound with Louiselle. It will be interesting to see how they sniff out the prey."

"Your highness Tikva, I'm glad you're here. And what a beautiful falcon you've brought, look at how the sky reflects from their eyes. Just beautiful."

On and on he goes, welcoming. A clasp of a hand to grip the other's wrist as pale long fingers wrap. Blood red eyes looking into the eyes of the hunters. After he welcomes everyone, he gestures them to come around in a semi-circle.

"There will be multiple rounds. Each round will progressively get more difficult with harder prey that don't want you to find them. I'll be judging how you can communicate with your animal partner and their abilities in flushing out and capturing prey. We aren't looking for anyone to sacrifice their pet, your pet provides unquestionable loyalty and you should reward that by caring for their wellbeing and knowing when to stop."

"We will have three winners, with prizes ranging from diamondplate, a Calderan bloodstone and Cardian snakeskin. Items that aren't simply for decoration but can help protect you as you protect tomorrows that haven't yet arrived."


"So if you all will prepare yourselves, give a prayer to Petrichor and a thought to the spirits and hunt to the best of your abilities. May you all shine."

Richard nods his head towards each of the other human-animal pairings as they announce themselves as contending. The Knight gives a bow of his head at Titus's introduction. "Thank you, my lord," he says, as Louiselle lays down. She doesn't look particularly energetic, but maybe that's just her default.

Rosalind elbows Titon, sharply. "I heard that,"she mutters. She's pretty sure she was supposed to. "Aren't you going to try yours,"she asks. But then things are starting. "I'm Rosalind Ravenseye, by the way,"she greets everyone with a large smile on her scarred face. "It's really nice to meet you." Even though she may not have met them just yet, but she's sincere still in her words.

The kids are fairly amusing to watch and Khanne lifts a hand to cover a laugh before she nods to Drysi and steps forth. "Duchess Khanne, Serenity will fly for me. Even if that is all she decides to do." She steps forward and smiles when Titus mentions giving thought to the Spirits. Seeing Tikva near, she gives her friend a wink. "Good luck, Tikva." She then waves to Rosalind. "You as well, Rosa."

ROUND ONE! Check and then pose!

Players: @check command + animal ken at easy
Retainers: @check/retainer [#]/strength at easy
Retainers: @check/retainer [#]/dexterity + dodge at easy

Lierre arrives dressed in Keaton green, accompanied by a young Keaton hunting hound. She's also wearing a signet ring that marks her as a member of HOuse Keaton, so it's very possible that her lineage is an easy guess. Smiles and waves are given as appropriate (from Lierre, the dog just wags his tail in excitement) before Lierre gets ready to participate. She listens to Titus as he gives explanation, then she turns back to Bash with a little smile. "Your first competitive hunt! How exciting," she says to the dog, quiet of voice.

Lierre checks command and animal ken at easy. Lierre is successful.

Richard checks command and animal ken at easy. Richard is successful.

Rosalind checks command and animal ken at easy. Rosalind is successful.

Elora checks command and animal ken at easy. Elora is spectacularly successful.

"It depends which of them tires first," Iliana counters, as her own blue gaze follows after the children. "We'll see if she's been doing her daily runs." But then Fairen is trying to show her a book, and wrinkles her nose again, bouncing away as Titus calls her forward. "Oh, no," she says in a way that echoes her daughter. "Gotta go! They want us to line up there. Can't sit and read your numbers." She steps next to Khanne, grinning to the Duchess, before focusing on the owl.

Iliana checks command and animal ken at easy. Iliana is successful.

Khanne checks command and animal ken at easy. Khanne is successful.

Tikva checks command and animal ken at easy. Tikva is successful.

"Stray is still in training. He was mostly wild for his first year or so." Triton informs Rosa with a shrug. A finger jabs quickly at Elora with the word 'training'. "Elora is going to bribe him into partnering with me for various duties, though."

Fairen snaps his book shut as Iliana bounces off. A simmer of clear irritation is visible behind the glinting lens of his glasses. "Be _careful_," he says crispy as he folds his arms and lingers with the rest of the spectators, tight-lipped. HMPH.

"Lady Aislin Ashford's old peregrine threw her and a few other eggs, she was a gift," Tikva says proudly of Rogue, tickling the bird's feathered back as she wobbles back and forth, head turning back and forth. "Not so young as she used to be, of course, but smart as a whip." She reveals the bird in a flourish of the hood and sends her flying after a pheasant. It's probably a pheasant. It's not Rogue's finest flight, but that's okay, what are you gonna do.
"Good luck, Khanne! Iliana!" she chortles, waving.

Rosalind is a bit excited about all this. she's practically bouncing on her toes. But she manages to settles herself now, because important things! As Spirits sits on her arm, ready for direction, Rosa murmurs something to him and--off he goes! Large and beautiful. "He's so big,"she says, grinning. She grows more excited when he focus on and brings back a small mouse.

With a cluck of tongue, Richard gestures for his hound, Louiselle, to heel with him as he steps off into the forest. At first it might seem like it's going well. The tan hound finds an interesting scent, body tense as she leads her master through the undergrowth. A low, excited bark comes from her when she spots the rabbit, and she leaps... missing. The rabbit, now wise to the chase, kicks up dirt towards the hound, spraying it into the hounds eyes as it races off and down into the safety of a burrow. Richard returns to the starting area, empty-handed, bending to tend gently to the dirt as he pats his hound consolingly.

There is a transfer of Serenity as the competition is about to get to a start. Khanne slips her arm into the thick leather glove and takes the reigns of the bird before her feathered friend settles on. The falcon gives a screech of complaint, it's feather-plumed cap bobbing a bit as she proests the blind movement. When it is her turn, she leans in close to whisper to the bird. "Soar, my friend. Soar high and free and find yourself a snack." She then takes off the cap and lets the tethers go.

Serenity flies fast and high and for a moment, it looks like the Peregrine may just spend some time up in the air, but suddenly... //WHOOSH!// She dives straight down to catch a mouse. Bringing it back to Khanne, Serenity settles on the glove and enjoys her snack.

Iliana is not careful. Or well, perhaps Minerva is not careful. She unhoods the owl on her golden, grinning to Tikva as she calls back, "You as well! And you, Khanne!" Then she is throwing her arm up, sending the owl into the air with a burst of movement. It takes a moment, but the owl spots a snake on the ground and dives, killing then capturing it. The Marquessa clicks sharply, getting the owl's attention to reluctantly return with her prey in exchange for a bloody treat in a pouch. "Nice! Want a snakeskin, Fairen?"

Elora walks forward, Onida glued to her hip as he falls into a familiar stance. For a long time, they stand together in silence and stillness until her wolfhound's nose begins to twitch. "Go on, then. Away." It's a simple command, but Onida shoots off like an arrow; Elora takes her time slowly following the animal and directing him with thin, high whistles in patterns that change how the animal reacts to its quarry. In no time at all, he's flushed a hare; the death shake brings forth the most ear-piercing shriek from the lapin, but it's cut short. There's another whistle from Elora, a few notes in pattern that causes the dog to bolt back to Elora. She looks down as he sits before her, rabbit in maw. "Good job. Drop it." The dog places the animal delicately on the ground.

Rogue, a black falcon have been dismissed.

Confessor Imori have been dismissed.

Titus does give a prayer to Petrichor and a thought to the spirits and ancestors that might be watching. There might be one person he's watching a little more than others, but the Warmonger does have interest in the hunt as he climbs up one of the huge rocks and stands so he gets the best view. People here are all off in the fields!

And in a flash, the hunters are off chasing their prey as hounds howl and sing and the birds take to the air and begin circling. There's a sharp cry and a tiny dark blot in the sky zooms down which has Titus clap. He takes an oddly shaped black and red horn from his side and blows into it, letting a deep call ring out as already at least one hunter has brought back a trophy! A signal for the hunters to come back and reveal what their animal partners have obtained.

Accompanied by Bash -- who bounds ahead a few steps of his mistress -- Lierre moves deeper into the forest. The young bloodhound sniffs and snuffles at the forest floor every now and then, only to perk up his nose every now and then before taking off in a different direction. He doesn't stray too far from Lierre, instead waiting for her to catch up to him on soft-booted feet. Still, there's a hint of impatience in the wagging of his tail, mirrored by the intent gleam of his dark eyes.

"Tch." File that under 'no'. While Fairen might not be interested in the snakeskin, he does study the captured snake with interest. "That was some clean flying, Minerva, very well done," he compliments the ... bird.

"I don't think she can understand that," sasses Iliana back with a bright twinkle of amusement in her blue eyes. She nods to the pouch of bloody treats. "She'd probably prefer another one. Though-- I don't think we want to overfeed her when we still have more competition."

Eventually Bash digs down into some undergrowth, snuffing and scratching like crazy. He almost comes up with a prize, but the rabbit digs down into a little ditch of mud and twigs, managing to evade the jaws of doom. Bash keeps diggging for a while longer before Lierre calls him back with a whistle.

ROUND TWO! Now we're starting to see a bit of bravery from our animals, and a challenge for our pack leaders on communicating as competitors and prey are making noises and moving around excitedly. Check and then pose!

Players: @check command + animal ken at normal
Retainers: @check/retainer [#]/strength at normal
Retainers: @check/retainer [#]/dexterity + dodge at normal

Lierre checks command and animal ken at normal. Lierre is successful.

Rosalind checks command and animal ken at normal. Rosalind is successful.

Iliana checks command and animal ken at normal. Iliana marginally fails.

Khanne checks command and animal ken at normal. Khanne is successful.

Elora checks command and animal ken at normal. Elora is successful.

Richard checks command and animal ken at normal. Richard marginally fails.

Richard admires the other participants finds, not a trace of envy in his expression. "Fine work," he says, glancing towards Elora's rabbit with a quick smile. Iliana's snake gets a lengthy look. It's a good reminder to be careful in the woods. This time, the Lord Wyvernheart has far less success in coaching Louiselle, setting out far behind the others, and struggling to contain the hound's enthusiastic bound after scents that, it would seem, lead to other competitors rather than actual prey. "Louiselle," the Knight sighs, with resignation. "Come," he coaxes, and when she doesn't, he finally picks her up and carries her back towards the starting point. "It seems she's not of a mind, today. I thank you for allowing me to compete, Lord Titus." He moves to the side, settling in where he can watch the remaining participants bring in their prizes.

The covey is tied with leather cords to a field pack, and a tongue click sees Onida padding beside her. She speaks softly to the animal as they go. "Let's go for something bigger this time," she murmurs. She's got the steady gait of someone accustomed to rambling hunts across open country; the hound isn't even breaking a sweat. All of a sudden, he stills, nose twitching below a death grip of a thousand yard stare. "Easy. Easy... Away." The wolfhound streaks grey and brown across the field, into the tree line and then... CRASH. A young buck flees for its life, with Onida in hot pursuit. Elora contiues to call out commands to her dog, assisting him as he does what he was born to do. Finally, a mighty snarling leap has teeth sink into the back of the neck, dragging the animal down and finishing it. "Good, Onida!" Elora calls. It's probably just as good that he's a big dog, because a basset hound would struggle bringing the deer back.

Winter, A Highhill Puppy, Angeline arrive, following Kiera.

6 Grayson House Guards, Maureen, an unflappable nanny, Clark, an exasperated guard arrive, following Sabella.

Violeta Emili, a Ravashari smuggler dressed as the wind, 2 Rivenshari Clan Guardsman, Kiera, Sabella arrive, following Mattheu.

The mouse that Minerva brings back this time is bloody and useless, disfigured where she missed her killing strike the first time and had to tear it between her talons. Yet still, she brings back something and keeps Iliana and herself in the game for the time being. "Gross," the Marquessa summarizes of the thing Minerva returns, wrinkling her nose as she exchanges a bloody treat for it. "I'm not sure that I will be able to get her to get one more prey-- But I shall try."

Iliana gets Asharion Grayson, who has become a super finicky eater.

Titus gives a glance to Louiselle and lord Richard, nodding. "There is no dishonour in repaying Louiselle's loyalty by accepting that perhaps today is just an off day. Only tyrants push their soldiers beyond their abilities and care not for their welfare but only focusing on winning no matter the cost. Some costs are simply not worth it. I'm looking forward to seeing you and Louiselle grow and compete in the next hunt. That's where true glory is at, not the short victory but the glory of growth." He blows the horn letting hunters know that round two already has one hunter with a trophy.

Titus is overheard praising Richard: There's no dishonour in withdraw. Short victories aren't what we seek, we seek to grasp elusive glory which comes via growing at each encounter.

"If you'd just look at the chart and direct her to where it would be to the most advantage," Fairen says, WHIPPING OUT his color-coded graphs again to hold them out for Iliana.

"I'm not gonna do that!" Iliana huffs in turn, turning her head pointedly away from the book.

Rosalind grins over at Richard. "Your dog is really handsome and handsome!"

More quiet whistles and nonverbal commands keep Bash close on Lierre's heels. Both human and canine seem to be happy enough wending through the forest at a careful pace, the snuffling dog playing leader as he runs his keen-sensing snoot over the earthy carpet below. Then, with a snort of excitement, Bash looks up and ahead to a small clearing, posture tensing and tail wagging. Lierre makes a little clicking sound to signify that he can move ahead apace along the trail of scent, and then he's off with a padding of soft feet. When Lierre finally catches up to him, he's standing a fair observing distance a deer that's drinking from a cool stream. He doesn't make any move to attack the peaceful creature -- Bash is, after all, a trail hound, meant to lead the pack to its prey. Both dog and hound wait for a while before Lierre gestures him back. "I don't think we're winning any prizes, Bash, but you're being very good."

The jingling of bells carries over the winds and hills before Mattheu and two others find their way to the crowd, the colorful Rivenshari's tunic has /cough/ been somewhat retied, the leather laces meant to keep it shut still dangle at sides of a braided sash belt over his shoulder. As the trio get closer, it's Princess Sabella Grayson on his left and Lady Kiera Wyvernheart on his right. A soft laugh is shared with both as he stops with a short stall in bells singing out only to watch a falcon bring a bloody mouse to their handler and he grins softly in a shared word to both Sabella and Kiera

"Oh.. yes.. That's lovely, Serenity," Khanne says to her Peregrine Falcon. "Eat it right in my face. So appetizing." Her nose scrunches up and her lips curl into a sneer. Looking away, she turns her head farrrr to the side, towards Iliana. "Your owl is beautiful," Khanne comments towards her. "Minerva was her name, you said?" When the next round begins, Khanne steps away from the dropped mouse carcas and readies her arm. "Again, Serenity. Feel the wind. Fly proud. Find yourself a snack." As she lifts her hand, setting the bird into flight, she murmurs, "but please do not eat it in my face..." Serenity once more takes off, circling round and round overhead, occasionally over and under another feathered-friend as if playing a game. Again, Khanne thinks Serenity will just fly about, like she so often does, but something eventually attracts her attention and she goes after it. It's a rabbit... a strong one apparently. It tries to hop away. Serenity tries to drag it back, but the tug of war between them lasts only so long before Serenity gives up with a screech. Throwing a little falcon tantrum in the sky before returning to Khanne.

Both dog and hound? HUman and hound. Lierre is not a dog.

"She's my husband's, but he doesn't really have a taste for blood and sport," Iliana answers to Khanne, as if Fairen isn't standing right there as she says it. But then she does gesture to the man who is currently holding a book full of numbers and graphs. "Marquis Fairen Leary, and I am Marquessa Iliana Leary. Khanne, right? That's what Tikva said. Pleasure to meet you!"

Richard's hand settles on his hound's back as she settles comfortably down beside him. "Kind of you to say, Lord Titus. It's a truth that she isn't as well trained as she could be to hunting, however." He gives Rosalind a thankful smile as he pats his hound's back. "She is quite striking, indeed." As he spots his sister arriving, he nods his head towards Kiera and the others with her. "Afternoon sister, Lord Mattheu, Your Highness."

Elora returns with Onida and gives Rosalind and Richard a smile. "I'd be happy to help you train your hound, Lord Wyvernheart," she offers to the man, "should you so desire." She finds Triton, next, settling at his side as she waits for the next hunt to begin.

"Duchess Halfshav," Fairen greets from Iliana's side, something wearied in his voice as he offers her the courtesy that Iliana just plain _forgets_. He snaps his book shut -- then, thoughtful, gives her another look as he leans forward. "If the Marquessa's unwilling to look into the study I made of the sport here, I certainly don't mind lending an advantage to those wise enough to make use of it."

"Mmhmm," Khanne replies to Iliana. "Duchess Khanne Halfshav, Vala of the Northlands. A pleasure to meet you both." She looks from Iliana to her husband, Fairen. "Serenity is not much of a hunter, actually. Still, she seems to be having fun." The bird, meanwhile, rests on Khanne's arm and stares at her.

It was the trio, plus the plethora of Grayson Guards who disperse to various locations when arriving, a nanny and a personal guard, as well, behind the Princess that strolled leisurely into the Gray Forest fields. Sabella on the arm of Mattheu, leaning forward slightly to say something to Kiera. A few faint chuckles and Sabella was detaching from Mattheu's arm to say her pleasantries to all those that were present. Golden blonde hair like spun gold gleaming underneath the sun. Movements fluid and regal. She's politely dips her head in greeting to Richard, "My lord." her voice a soft and soothing cadence, there were some she didn't recognize but she still gives them polite nods and then there was Rosalind to which Sabella was offering a friendly flutter of fingers, "Oh Lady Rosa. So good to see you."

ROUND THREE, hang in there! The competition is getting harder, and now presents an opportunity where potential danger can happen. Sometimes a general needs to encourage a charge, sometimes they need to pull back with a retreat. Check and then pose! The prey our competitors are aiming for might be bigger and badder. Prey that might not always be prey but sometimes are predators too!

Players: @check command + animal ken at hard
Retainers: @check/retainer [#]/strength at hard
Retainers: @check/retainer [#]/dexterity + dodge at hard

Iliana checks command and animal ken at hard. Iliana fails.

Sending a smile to ELora, and a thumbs-up to Rosalind, Triton finds himself a spot to settle so he can watch the next trial from a comfort. Formality be damned, apparently. When Elora arrives beside him, he encircles her with an arm and hugs her supportingly.

Khanne checks command and animal ken at hard. Khanne is successful.

Elora checks command and animal ken at hard. Elora is successful.

Rosalind checks command and animal ken at hard. Botch! Rosalind fails completely.

Lierre checks command and animal ken at hard. Lierre fails.

Kiera smiles to mattheu and lets go of his arm, though brushes it with her finger as she moves towards her brother "Perhaps we should work at training winter for the next hunt as well" she notes

"Nor Minerva, but she gets bored," Fairen admits to Khanne as he watches the last of the hunt return with their prey. "Fly swift, fly safe, ladies." He inclines his head to Khanne and Iliana as they step forward to launch their birds in the next round of competition, but it's hard to deny the obvious concern in his eyes as he leans forward, watching more closely.

Rosalind waves to Sabella with a grin. "Hi Princess Sabella!" But she's then distracted with Spirits, who likely feels all the excited energy from Rosa. And it all goes from there. At least he looks pretty flying. "Hi Kiera and Matti,"Rosa calls over once Spirits is back, a smile appearing.

"I am also enjoying myself," Iliana offers, pausing for a moment to listen for-- yes, there are the yells and laughter of children still playing nearby as she nods. "As is Valitina! I really hope she popped him in the nose if he licked her." She goes to launch Minerva again, and while the bird does strike at something-- she brings nothing back. Whatever it was will be left dead on the forest floor and Iliana is left frowning at the bird as she bargains, "You have to bring it back if you want a treat! No treat this time!"

Elora gives Triton a smile before she walks away with her dog again. "A little more, I think," she says as they go. "Something a little riskier, don't you think?" She smiles at the animal. They range here and there until Onida picks up another scent. Again, he dashes; again, she guides him with whistles. But. Some animals are troublesome, and this time, Onida finds himself face to face with a thoroughly unimpressed badger. He's a big badger, too. Oh, there's a struggle, both animals spitting and hissing and circling each other; Onida lunges... and misses by less than an inch. That is, however, just enough distance for the badger to start a counter attack fierce enough to prompt Elora in her decision to whistle the dog off. "Off, Onida! Come!" she calls, voice cutting through the air with razorsharp authority that might seem totally at odds with her otherwise quiet and gentle manner.

Richard turns his gaze onto the puppy, then towards Kiera. "I think it prudent to do so with the Highhill line. Perhaps we could hire an expert to work directly with them," he nods towards Elora, with an expression of thanks for the offer, as he says to his sister, "Perhaps we can ask Lady Elora. She seems to show great skill with her bird."

Triton nods approval when Elora calls back her canine, a subtle but assertive agreement that would leave anyone watching no doubt that he had been concerned for the critter.

Perhaps Lierre should not have tempted fate. With a long leash in hand, she bends besides Bash as she ties it to the collar around his neck, ready to guide him onwards further. In so doing, however, she manages to spook the nearby deer, which just *legs it* away from the stream in a flash. As if already seeing how this is going to play out, Lierre issues a stern command to her dog -- but it's all for naught as Bash hurtles after the fleeing deer with an unearthly baying, dragging his stumbling mistress behind him until the two of them trip straight over a fallen tree trunk. It's a tumble easily righted, but it takes Lierre a few moments to recover from the fall.

Serenity takes off into the sky once more as Khanne talks to the falcon. While Serenity glides in the wind, Khanne says to Fairen, "and thank you for the offer, but, Serenity is a very free spirit. I am not sure she would listen unless it is something she wanted to do." She lifts her eyes to the bird, but speaks to Iliana now. "I would certainly have popped someone if they licked me when I was that age." When Serenity returns well, but without a prize again, Khanne tsks and admonishes, "you need to strengthen your legs, my friend." It is said with a laugh though. Serenity blinks and stares at her some more.

Mattheu nods to Kiera, and looks down to the pup Winter with a grin. "Winter should be proud to be trained to hunt as such." He crouches down to pet the dog's head "wouldn't you Winter?" Standing to wave to Richard, "Lord Richard, good to see you again!" Then a smile to Rosalind, "Who do you have hunting, Rosa?"

Sabella is eagerly watching the range of participant's expertise with their animal companions, giving a nod of approval for some before she's noting Rosalind again. Taking a few steps towards the woman she grins, "I do hope that I didn't distract you or your dear friend from the task at hand, Lady Rosa." the princess asks inquisitively, watching her hawk with an appraising gaze.

"What say you, my lord? Would you pop someone for licking you at that age?" Iliana asks of Fairen teasingly, but her grin is shared with Khanne. She laughs brightly for the chiding, adding, "No one should skip leg day!"

ROUND FOUR. There are times where hunters have a rare glimpse of a trophy in the distance. Where you connect with nature in its raw form of powerful strength and presence which demands respect. This is probably the hardest challenge now, a rare opportunity to get that story where your animal companion and you saw a great target and more importantly, lived to learn from the encounter. It could be that a great eagle has challenged your bird as a queen of the sky. Or perhaps a mighty elk with a crown of horns as a lord of the forest.

What will you encounter? How will you as a leader learn from this crucial moment of growth?

Players: @check command + animal ken at daunting
Retainers: @check/retainer [#]/strength at daunting
Retainers: @check/retainer [#]/dexterity + dodge at daunting

Lierre checks command and animal ken at daunting. Lierre fails.

Khanne checks command and animal ken at daunting. Khanne fails.

Iliana checks command and animal ken at daunting. Iliana fails.

Elora checks command and animal ken at daunting. Elora is successful.

Rosalind checks command and animal ken at daunting. Rosalind marginally fails.

Kiera smiles to Rosa "What a beautiful Bird you've got" she offers and then offers agreement with Richard "We do need a trainer and I think zlady Whitehawk a perfect choice if she's amenable

"It ... it wasn't a _concern_," says Fairen, who looks less concerned by the possibility of licking happening somewhere in the forest and rather more concerned with the prey. "Iliana, Iliana, take this seriously, look--." He's waving the book again. The color coding. It's red!! Danger!! There's danger in those hills! And dales! And forests! And grasses! And they are gone again. Fairen sighs, nudging his glasses back up his nose as he looks to the sky in a prayer for patience. And probably for a safe return.

Leaning back against a sapling off the to side, Triton appears to be in a semi-dize as he eyes the various hunting teams when the try again.

Titus is watching the hunt from on top of the large rock. He's seeing something interesting out there in the plains.

"If you want to take this so seriously, you should have flown her!" Iliana counters, stubbornly turning her back on the book that Fairen is waving. This is when she launches Minerva up into the sky, not taking care for the hawk that is watching above them. There's a screech, a cry, and a flurry of feathers that sees Minerva diving into a nearby tree for cover. It's going to take some doing to get her out of the tree again.

Elora drops to a knee in the field with Onida, looking him over post Badger Exposure. There's a sense that she knows exactly what she's doing there, touching and inspecting with practiced hands and speaking quietly with the dog as she does so. "Ready?" she asks as she stands, adjusting the sling of her field pack; the dog lets his tongue loll. Then they head into the treeline together. It's a while before anyone hears anything from them, until a mighty roar pairs with the sound of excitable barking and snarling. Through it all, Elora's whistling floats in and out, a few urgently shouted comamnds carrying as well. Whatever is happening in there is... intense and it carries on for a long, long time.

Finally, there's a thud and utter silence.

The cracking of twigs and a loat of huffing and puffing finally reveals a disheveled Elora and an Onida who is limping a little. "Can I get some help?" she yells. "I don't think I can drag this much further." This? This is a grizzley bear.

Triton rises from the ground, apparently awake the whole time despite appearances, and strides toward Elora. "Coming, coming. WHat did you do to that poor bear?"

Mattheu nods to something said quietly with Sabella watching the flights of birds take off and come back with grace.

Sitting on the floor, Lierre is not going anywhere, and her firm grasp on the leash lets Bash know as much. Measured commands are given as she tries to get the waggy-tailed young dog to stop pulling, but in the end she's forced to just pull him in closer. His leggies are still scratching the floor even as he tugs at the leash. Lierre's not budging, though. It's only when Bash calms down that she stands up carefully, brushing dust and bits of forest detritus from her breeches. She sighs and squints as she looks around. Where are they now?

Richard nods his head in agreement with Kiera, and turns his gaze towards the forest as the hunters and their parnters head out again. And then his brows go up. Did Elora just say grizzly bear? Surely he must have misheard. He's up and moving towards the pair after Triton; he's a physician, after all. "Are you well?" his gaze goes from Elora, to her dog, and finally to the prize with surprise. He glances to Triton. "You take left side, I'll take right?" he offers to the other lord, reaching to lift it.

Titus spies a large bear being dragged and he gives a clap of praise towards Elora who is coming back with a trophy of great size. "Excellent job. Well done." he says towards the hunter and her companion. He takes his horn and once more, sounds it, alerting other hunters the round has had a winner already.

Sabella was near leaning over like she was about to tumble unto the ground before she catches herself, clearly intently watching what Lady Elora and her dog were doing. It wasn't until she was coming out of the woods with a..... a bear! The Grayson Princess is clapping excitedly for the woman. "Wow, what an incredible feat. Truly skilled." she praises the woman.

Sabella is overheard praising Elora: An incredible feat of strength with her dog during the Hunting event, she should be proud.

Triton nods once to Richard. "Of course, m'Lord. Thank you. Poor beast...feel sorry for it after it had to tangle with the Lady Whitehawk. Maybe it is not dead yet." He grins and squares up to the other side, thews rippling as he bends and grabs.

"Well, good luck getting her down out of that tree," Fairen says as he catches up with Iliana to look up to see that the owl is scared, but whole. He folds his arms. Not helping, not helping, not -- oh! Someone else needs help. Leaving Iliana to coaxing Minerva back into the hunt, he strolls over to ~supervise~ those who have already stepped up to help Elora. "Yes, good, keep the weight distributed!" he calls encouragingly.

LAST ROUND!
We've seen our competitors flush out prey, that spirit of the hunt driving both human and animal to work together in concert for a reward that benefits both. That sportsmanship and competitiveness that seeks not to harm the loyalty given to owners, but instead that special quickening of a heartbeat as you see that connection between owner and companion grow.

There's a small group of myrmidons of Titus that appear, each holding a great bow with an arrow that has a small leather pouch which has raw meat to attract birds and hounds. The arrows are fired off into grass. Titus says "The thrill of the hunt can be exceptionally sweet, and it isn't actually the trophy which is important but the story and journey of the hunt itself. Go find your prize and retrieve it, you'll earn an object from the Vaevici. Run and fly swift before they're all taken, there aren't that many!"

Players: @check command + animal ken at easy
Retainers: @check/retainer [#]/luck at easy

Elora's hand shoves curls out of her sweaty face as she tries to catch her breath. "I'm alright," she says heavily. "Onida caught a paw, but he'll be okay. We really didn't have a choice in this one. The bear found us. I'll need to give it to the Lodge to distribute; there's surely a family somewhere in need." Oh, she's tired, and her dress has a couple of tears in it. "Thank you, Lord Triton. Thank you, Lord Richard." Eventually, they all get the beast back.

Rosalind checks command and animal ken at easy. Rosalind is successful.

Rosalind checks command and animal ken at easy. Rosalind is successful.

Elora checks command and animal ken at easy. Elora is successful.

Another round has begun and Khanne sends Serenity off with another wish for luck and good fortune. Serenity screeches at Khanne's face. "Rude." Khanne says to the falcon with a scowl. "I thought we were friends. What, are you tired? Have you been cooped up too much? Go! Fly!" Khanne tries again and Serenity flies up, just a bit, then lands on Khanne's head. Those talons are sure to leave a bit of a scratch or two behind. When the falcon takes off, she takes Khanne's hairpin with her, dropping it nearby. "You little... that was uncalled for! I told you to have fun! Fine, I won't make you hunt for competition again..." Is she actually trying to converse with the bird? Yes. That's a shaman for you... While Khanne is busy fetching her hairpin, Serenity does take off for a bit. She disappears into the trees with a swoop, but soon, there is a loud screech followed by another, that of a different bird. A very angry, smaller but mighty blue jay chasing after the falcon and trying to peck her until Serenity flies further up than the blue jay cares to follow.

Lierre checks command and animal ken at easy. Lierre is successful.

"I hope not, my lord, or we'll be in trouble," Richard grunts back to Triton as he helps the other lord carry the kill back towards the starting area. "Lord Richard Wyvenheart," he introduces himself to Triton as he goes. Elora's reassurance of her wellbeing is met with another quiet nod as he moves.

Khanne checks command and animal ken at easy. Khanne is successful.

Triton quirks a lip and nods at Elora after looking her and Onida over. Seeming satisfied, he speaks gravely, "You should pick on victims your own side, m'Lady." Doesn't seem winded at all by the dragging, but the carcass does get a regretful glance after he has assured himself of his intended's safety.

Bartolomeo, protege of Signora Lauretta Tessere arrives, following Yuri.

Iliana might mutter a curse under her breath, her nose wrinkling as her husband abandons her. She stares up into the tree hopelessly, and then sighs and leans back against the tree in a clear sign of defeat. Minerva isn't coming down. Of course, the Marquessa only lasts for about a minute, leaning against the tree. Then she announces, "Fine, you know what, if you won't come down, I'll come up." The armored knight begins climbing the tree to fetch an errant owl.

Havard, a battle-scarred gentle giant, Runa the clever, seafaring raven, Bryndis, another redheaded northern Prodigal arrive, following Aella.

"Triton Ravenseye, Lord Wyvenheart. Brother to the Ladies Rosalind and...her." He points at the newly arriving Aella and then waves to her. "Pleasure. We are bear-dragging brothers now."

Serenity has not yet returned after the blue jay debacle, so Khanne holds a hand near her mouth to yell up, "Could you at least get yourself a prize! Free food! Your favorite!"

"I generally try to, my Lord," Elora says softly. There seems to be something akin to an apology in the tone. She and her dog split off to find him an arrow with a treat, though they take it at an easy stroll. Both of them are exhausted, after all. The arrow collected and meat fed, they walk back.

Aella saunters into the outskirts of the Gray Forest with a wide grin along her face, and curved great axe along her shoulder as if she was intending to go for a hunt and - not - actually watch one. But she's here and she spots her brother, Triton, and sister, Rosalind and her soon to be sister in law, Elora. Stormy grey eyes look at the bear before a brow raises, "Oh... perfect you fetched supper." she laughs heartily.

"Yes, chase after the bird into the tree!" Mattheu calls out to Iliana, "Would something shiny such as a bell help call her down"

Richard laughs. It's rare, but it does happen, particularly when he's caught off guard. "Not a bond I can ever honestly say I've hard before, Lord Triton, though I bet far more common in the north. I heard about your impending marriage. I've already offered my congratulations to the Lady Elora, but let me extend it to you, also, my lord." Once they set down the prize he straightens, and turns in time to see the competitors vanishing back into the trees again. "Countess Aella," he nods towards her.

After a good long moment catching her breath and scoping out the terrain, Lierre has seemingly got Bash under control. He stands beside her very obediently, albeit with some sniffing of the air and yet more wagging of tail. She looks up as arrows fly through the sky, and her hound perks up even more. It seems Bash has already got the scent of the meat that is flying through the air like a meteor. A meatior, if you will. Ha.

With a loosening of the leash around her hand, Lierre lets out a quiet whistle to let Bash know that he can drag her towards the prize. This he does with much enthusiasm, squiggling low to the ground as he snoots out some good eatings.

Khanne grins to Rosalind, Aella, Elora, and Triton. "Funny. Just a few days ago, I told someone you don't eat a bear in one bite. They were astonished that people ate bear at all! Too bad they are not here to witness this."

Yuri paced off into the outskirts from the beach-line proper, canting his head somewhat. The vantage he had had from the Institute was enough to garner somewhat of a view of the festivities but not exactly the clamor that was on display here. He lingered quietly, taken with the green apple he had within his hand before pacing in a wide berth toward some of the canines strutting about or already preoccupied with their tasks.

Kiera was watching with concern as richard dashed off and is now watching in utter disbelief as he comes back with lord triton carrying a bear "How in the name of the gods..that's amazing, is it not, matti?"

"Thank you, m'Lord." Triton looks back at Elora and acknowledges, "We are a good match."

"It might? Why, do you have one?" Iliana calls down to Mattheu, peering down from him from half-way up the tree. She sits down on her current branch, more of a slink down onto it with her bear-hug method of climbing, as she scans the forest nearby before looking back to Mattheu.

When Aella is walking towards her family, she does offer a little boot tap to the bear just to make sure it wasn't going to wake up. Seems she's been in a similar experience with a habit of doing that just incase. A sly smirk graces her features, "Ah, good to see you again Lord Richard. Brother, Lady Elora." The Countess dips her head, and then offers a pat along Triton's head, - and - ruffles his head if he'd let just to annoy him, because why not. Aella then looks to Khanne, "Bear can be tough, but if you cook it the right way, it's so incredibly tender. And the furs make nice blankets on a romantic picnic in the forest." she waggles her eyebrows with a chuckle.

Fairen stands well back of Iliana's tree climbing adventures -- but near enough, still, to be able to offer a hand. "A bell certainly couldn't hurt. She's easily distracted by curiosities," he says to Mattheu.

"Do I have a bell!?" Mattheu grins as he waves over his clothing, bells upon nearly every end of scarf, braided into his hair, and tied upon head scarves. He pulls a scarf off and ties it into a knot to head over to the tree Iliana is climbing. "I can bring it up to you, or toss it."

"Someone's supper, Countess," Elora tells Aella, still tired. "I'm going to give it to the Lodge." But she blinks rapidly at Khanne. "Do they not have bears where this person comes from, Duchess?" she asks, totally sincere in her confusion. Triton gets a smile. "It will be good for the Houses," she says with a chuckle. "Hawkhold and Stormheart will be stronger for the union."

Triton growls lightly at Aella, although his eyes twinkle brightly. "I am asking Elora if I can have a coat made." He nods, but again the dead animal gets a serious look that is laced with regret. Then he shrugs lightly and speculates, "At least the poor beast did not stumble into Whirlwind Rosa. Elora is more lenient than my little sister."

"I can't imagine there are many bears in the south. Their coats would make it uncomfortable, indeed," Richard says, as he regards the bear, then Khanne at her words. "Though, I can say I have never eaten bear myself, though I imagine it would feed many."

It's been a long day, very physical and mentally challenging for animal and human. The sun has started to set as stars begin to fight the darkness and twinkle. As competitors are returning to the camp, the scent of delicious roasted meats waft in the air and a very large bonfire. There's distinct southron music being played as Arvani bards are singing about every competitor today and the amazing job they did.

When everyone and their animals have been carefully looked after and tended to, food and drink are given out and Titus appears near the group who are resting on logs and soft grass.

"You all have risen to a challenge today, one that doesn't just test you but also the ripples you cast in this great dream to others. You can inspire, you can uplift. You can use your choice as leaders to ensure the loyalty given to you isn't spent on selfish desires but instead something that benefits others. Petrichor desires us to protect the wilds, the lands and all the things which live in those untamed places. These are places and times where we can grow and test ourselves, and hopefully find us becoming stronger."

"In first place, lady Elora with Onida! You have two ingots of diamondplate, and that is a tremendous bear trophy. Maybe a nice rug? Or set of necklaces or hairpins. I'm told hairpins are nice."

"In second place, we have a tie. Lady Rosalind with Spirits and Duchess Khanne with Serenity! You each are given a Calderan bloodostone so that you might be reminded that with every battle or challenge you face, you face it with honour and an unyielding heart."

"In third place lady Lierre with Bash! I award you two bolts of Cardian snakeskin and perhaps a khati story later on about the Serpents. May it protect you so you might protect others."

"And while we have had many competitors, I do wish to single out lord Richard and Louiselle. It takes a great leader to understand limitations in themselves and those they lead. It's a wise leader who chooses life as precious rather than spending a life on a poor choice."

With that, the feast is on for those who desire.

"Fairen, maybe you can ring it," Iliana suggests with a nod to her husband. She grudgingly says, "She does like you better, after all." She grins to Mattheu, telling him, "That's my husband, Marquis Fairen, right there." She doesn't start slipping out of the tree, yet, but instead peers out to the forest. "I see the kids from here. Once we get this damn bird down, we should go get them, too, and head home, Fairen."

Lierre is overheard praising Titus: 4

Lierre is overheard praising Titus.

Titus is overheard praising Iliana.

Aella wrinkles her nose, "Oh come now, you owe me for having to put up with you for as long as I have. I should get dibs on a new bear blanket." she grins teasing her brother, and then shrugs before looking to Elora, "Congratulations, you are already doing Stormheart proud." Aella doesn't offer /many/ compliments to just anyone and so she says this with a genuine tone of voice. The Countess does glance to Richard, "Well if your ever in the mood to try something new we usually have bear in Ravnsholm to eat.. Make it, a, uh... A dinner?" she gestures towards the Wyvernheart.

Fairen holds his hand out to Mattheu, palm flat, as he gives him an amused, sidelong glance over the glint of his glasses. "Don't worry, I'll return it. I'd hate to deprive a man who so clearly loves a bell," he promises, somber-voiced. "Very well, Marquessa. Once I've had a chance to make sure she's well."

Bartolomeo, protege of Signora Lauretta Tessere leaves, following Yuri.

Smiling, Khanne shakes her head towards Elora. "They don't. Southerners... am I right?" She then sends a cheeky grin towards Titus. "No offense, of course, Lord Titus." She nods towards Richard, who guessed the answer. She quiets then as Titus begins to speak, listening close. She applauds for Elora's win and says, "congratulations!" She finds out she is tied with Rosalind then and smiles at her, accepting the Bloodstone with a bow of her head. "Thank you." And then to Iliana, "I do hope she comes down for you..." And then Serenity swoops down and lands on Drysi's arm instead of Khanne's, carrying one of the arrows in her beak.

Minerva, the Northern Hawk Owl have been dismissed.

Triton picks a twif from Elora's hair and wonders of her, "Hairpins? Cute...keep you from getting stuck in the branches, maybe...:

Khanne is overheard praising Titus.

Triton is overheard praising Titus.

Khanne is overheard praising Elora.

Richard straightens, paying attention as Titus awards the winners. He claps for each of them, nodding approvingly as they're given their gifts. He does seem surprised to be singled out, and bows his head to Titus in thanks. "A fine hunt, thank you for arranging it, Lord Titus." He looks at Aella with interest. "Perhaps my work with the Knights of Solace will take me that way, one day."

Khanne is overheard praising Iliana.

Richard is overheard praising Titus.

Khanne is overheard praising Rosalind.

Richard is overheard praising Elora.