Yolen looks around the new serai, nodding as she does so.  It is new, not been worn in yet, and still has those ‘sharp corners’ that every new building has -  but it alright.  But then again, why shouldn’t it be?  DELEM had any number of other serai built to the same pattern …

She watched the teamsters load the mules, ready for their first direct run from Tusk to Restov, a momentous moment for DELEM.  And she had been chosen to lead the trip.  A small smile crossed her face as she waited for the noble guests that were going to accompany them on this first trip.  Many of them would have travelled down on one of her earlier trips, so it would be nice to hear how they have  got on so far.

---

This is one of two Fuzzy RP threads – please only join one or the other.  If you want to go on this trip,  post your entrance to the thread.

Yolen’s Mule Train will leave for Restov carrying the first direct cargo.  Those who wish to visit Restov for RP reasons – or even shopping (if you have any money)  should join this thread by posting your entry to the serai.

The serai is little more than a large barn, with stalls for animals, a paddock and lockable rooms for cargo.   Working teamsters and caravan guard often sleep rough in the loft area, when they are away from home.

Domitius rode into the serai, upon Argos he wore a red cloak marked with the three suns of his house over the right breast. A yellow tabard with a black griffon covered his armour. One hand held the reigns and the other rested upon the hilt of his sword.

He cast his eye over the new serai and nodded appreciatevly, it was similar to pretty much every other serai in Midmarch at least the ones he knew.  He smiled as he saw Yolen and raised his hand in greetings before swinging down from the saddle.  He handed Barbatius the reins before walking over to her.  "Good morning Yolen, how are we looking for time? I hope we will get away without too much delay." he said with a smile.

"Morning Domitius.  I hear you have set up in competition to DELEM, with your own Serai and mules.  I hadn't realised that I had impressed you so much ..." she banters in response to the half-elf's comments.

"Seriously though, we'll be leaving as soon as everyone is here.  And like you, I hope we can get on the road soon.  However, it is only a short trip out to Silverton today.  We stop there, then on to Ringbridge, Outpost, He ... Newgate, I still haven't got used to that ... " she mutters quietly " ...  Fort Sarenko, Nikvata's and then into Henry's new Serai in Restov.  Although it is really just the one we used before, although Henry managed to buy it from the previous ownwer."

"Yes, my grandfather mentioned Lord Henry's expanding his operation into Restov, I think I will probably look at doing something similar." he gave her a wink "Nothing wrong with a little honest competition.   Now how do I get you to run one of my operations?" he said with a grin "The Tusk to Restov run must be second nature to you now."

"It is much easier than my last job." Yolen agrees with a grin.  "All that hanging around in the woods, waiting for someone to go by and then robbing them wasn't a lot of fun ... but Henry gave me a second chance, and I didn't even get branded in the same way as Lex and Big Job." she says holding up a smooth skinned hand as evidence.

"I imagine much more rewarding as well.  Lord Henry does take care of his own."  Domitius replied gravely "He has proven to be a good judge of character.  Have you had any problems with your Aah former associates?"

"What?  Lex and Big Job?  No.  Lex has always been a bit of a softy and Big Job is OK when he doesn't get excited." Yolen  says absently as she watches a teamster  adjust one of the Mule's pack saddle.
This message was last updated by the player at 15:34, Thu 06 Feb 2020.

Domitius followed Yolen's look at the teamster "Aah no, actually I did mean bandits on the road.  Though I believe I know the two by reputation at least." he paused in thought for a second before asking Tell me did you know of someone named Kressle?"

Yolen stiffens at the name and turns to face Dom  "Be careful of her.  She's a right bitch, chop your fingers off as soon as look at you.  I thought she was well gone from here ..."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:00, Thu 06 Feb 2020.

"We ran into her out near the swamps, definitely wouldn't trust her.  When Lord Henry decides to deal with her and her merry men though I would be interested in joining them." as Dom speaks he starts to slide his sword from his scabard just slightly then allowed it to slide back in.

Two riders on horseback joined the mule train. Both wore heavy hooded cloaks and was dressed for travel. The first rider was lithe and armed with a simple dagger. Her hood was down and she seemed anxious to get on the road. "We're here. Let's get this show on the road!" Mikki smiled at everyone present.

"All in good time. It's a long road and it's best to make sure that everything is prepared." Kendrick dismounted. The heavy cloak showed that he was ready to journey north. "Morning. Domitius, Yolen."

"Lord Kendrick, always a pleasure to see you."  Domitius said with a nod of respect, "I was just talking with Yolen about an old acquaintance of ours Captain Kressle of Bogside.

A young man walked into the serai and looked around uncertainly. He was dressed for travel and carrying a quarterstaff and backpack.

A few words with one of the teamsters soon pointed him in Yolen's direction.

"Sergeant Yolen?" he asked as drew near.

"I am Brother Florin, from the Cathedral of Abadar. Bishop Andalon has asked me to go to Restov for him, on church business. He suggested that your mule train might be the best way for me to get there and back again. Would that be alright, mam?"

"All in good time." Yolen responds to Mikki, before turning to nod a welcome to kedrick.

"Welcome Florin.  You are always welcome to travel with us.  Strength in numbers as they say.  Will you be riding or walking alongside the mules?  It is a long way to Restov, if you aren't use to the travel.  It will take us a week to get there, which uses up an awful lot of shoe leather."
This message was last updated by the player at 13:51, Sat 08 Feb 2020.

Barbatius rode in to join the group, he was happily munching away on a large cookie.  He waved it in the air as if in triumph.  "Master Domitius,  Lord Henry has sent us snacks for the road." he was wearing a similar red cloak over his yellow tabard with Domitius's black griffon.  "It will be good to be back on the road again.  Yolen always a pleasure."

Florin looked slightly puzzled by Yolen's question until he glanced around at the rest of the travellers and teamsters. Then he blushed slightly.

"Oh, of course, it's a mule train. When I came out from Restov there were wagons. I will nip back to the Cathedral - there's a mule I can use. Sorry, I should have thought of that."

He asks a few questions about what else he should bring, then hurries away to fetch it.

Florin must have run all the way back to the cathedral as he was back very quickly, considering the changes in his equipment. Now he wore a faded old suit of leather armour and rode a mule loaded with saddlebags and a rolled up tent and bedroll behind his saddle. His quarterstaff had disappeared and been replaced by a light crossbow, with a stout cudgel and dagger on his belt.

"When someone comments about strength in numbers, I figure I should at least try to look like one of those numbers," he explained.

Yolen smiles and nods her approval to Brother Florin

Florin looks a bit embarrassed but smiles and nods back at Sergeant Yolen. He dismounts, looking much more comfortable on foot than on the mule. Then he looks around and when he spots Domitius he walks over to say hello.

"Greetings, sir. I am Brother Florin from the cathedral of Abadar. I hope you don't mind but as I walked in earlier I heard you asking about a woman called Kressel. I have heard that name before. Banker Andalon, our bishop here in Tusk, has told me a lot about Lord Henry's defeat of the bandits in the Stolen Lands to establish Midmarch. He mentioned a woman named Kressel when he told me about the battle of the Orcy Ring. That's the ring fort at the town we now call Ringbridge. Kressel was one of the strongest fighters among the bandits in the ring fort. When Lord Cyrus killed the halforc who was leading the defence of the ring fort, half of the remaining bandits fled out the gate, led by Kressel. It sounds like she was a formidable fighter in her own right and smart enough to realise when the battle was lost, which makes her a dangerous enemy."

"Welcome Brother Florin, I had not known she was one of the Staglords henchmen.  She has set herself up in the swaps it looks like, with a band of bandits. It would appear that Lord Henry will need to mount another expedition out that way to dislodge her." He pauses for a moment and scratches at his chin in thought.  "She had quite a few men with her and it would need to be a strong party."

Florin listens attentively to Domitius's information then asks for more.

"Which swamps? Do you mean the swamps west of the Narlemarches? I remember that Lord Henry sent a team out there to a fishing village called Drowned Trees. It was previously the base of a river pirate before it was cleared by Henry's men. Kressel hasn't set herself up there, has she? Do you know whether her bandits are only a threat to travellers on the land or are they using boats to prey on river traffic as well?" he asks.

OOC: See the Game Map for Group 0.

"That's the spot, Drowned Trees. I think she must have a boat, called herself Captain Kressle.  It was unusual none of the locals really spoke much but you could tell something odd was going on." Domiotius sighed "I had a feeling we should have gone back and taken a closer look."

"That figures. There's an old saying - Nature abhors a vacuum. The same applies to any power structure. If you leave a gap in the system someone will step in to fill it. I don't know whether your report to Lord Henry would have already been enough to alert him but if you think it would be worthwhile we can write a note explaining this possibility before we depart and organise for it to be delivered to him," Florin suggested.

Safiya leads her horse to the serai, nodding a greeting to everyone present. Dressed in worn traveling cloths and a light silver mail, she seems to be traveling with little baggage, though on her hip is a scroll case stuffed full of papers. "Madam Yolen. I hope the roads have proven safer since we last met."

Yolen nods along with the conversation, but keeping an eye on the teamsters as they work.  When  Safiya arrives, Yolen nods her greeting, but grins "Just Yolen  will do.  Although I call the shots when we are travelling, the rest of the tome we are all just riding along together.  And yes, the roads  are safer now, not much to get excited about most trips.  Especially when we have a large guard riding with us." she says looking around at the assembled company.

---

OOC:  Guys, remember we are in Fuzzy Time here :)  Conversations about ongoing adventure threads are OK.  Just  we need keep it all inside this thread.  This is happening after the events and Henry will have been debriefed etc ...

"I can vouch that she does call the shots, while on the road, and indeed has a knack for it," offered Alisa, as she led her steed in.     It wasn't her first time at the serai, nor plainly her first acquaintanceship with this merchant-train leader.

In fact, it was as part of one of Yolen's trains where Alisa had met both Kiera and Stas. Alisa's travel cloak was grey, as was the mare that she rode. Her hair was in its customary braid, a style not common in this region.    Her primary weapon was plainly the spear, and studded leather armor was worn beneath the cloak.    About her neck a symbol in silver, a pair of spears crossed atop a moon, meaningless to most in this age, unless they were scholars of ancient history or religion.

She greeted the others, seeing several faces whom she wasn't familiar with.

"Hope you've been well, Yolen. I too will vouch that Captain Kressle and her operation deserve a harder look.  I was with Domitius and Kendrick when we had the 'pleasure' of being hosted by her, for a short time.  Not short enough.  Her fishermen were far from the only thing that smelled fishy."   
This message was last edited by the player at 21:41, Sun 09 Feb 2020.

Marik walked up to join the mule train, the reigns of his horse held in his hand. "Are you sure he'll have time to see us," he said to the attractive half-elven woman that was walking next to him. "I mean, it wouldn't be a wasted trip exactly, but it would definitely be less productive," he added with a shrug.

He was dressed in his typical adventuring attire, blue loose-fitting clothes with well-worn, yet exceptionally well crafted boots. Surprisingly, he wore no backpack, and his saddlebags seemed to be nearly empty. The only obvious storage device being a simple cloth bag tightly secured to his waist belt.

Alanna smile prettily at Marik's question, "As I told you before...twice, I can be for certain. I did send a message ahead letting him know we'll be coming, but there's no time for him to reply. The best I can say is that he'll know we're coming, and I think I made a compelling argument."

Like her companion, Alanna was dressed for travel, though still found a way to accentuate her rather ample feminine curves. She wore a suit of barely worn leather armor that still allowed for just enough cleavage to show to excite one's imagination while her tight breeches left little to the imagination. Like Marik, she carried no backpack or other forms of storage, only a dagger on her hip accompanied the look.

Whatever Brother Florin had been talking about suddenly didn't seem so important to him anymore.

"Oh, gods!" he murmured. "Is every beautiful woman in the city coming on this journey with us?"

"Excuse me ..." Yolen comments over her shoulder as she marches across to speak quietly with one of the teamsters.  Nodding his head, he rearranges a sack on the mule's packsaddle.

It wasn't the sound of her horse than first showed up- it was the whiff of something very apple-y and rather alcoholic- and indeed, she was taking her first sip of the morning as her horse trotted up.  It was just like the rest of her- black, with a bit of white in places- and while the horse was just white hair, on the woman riding him, it was some, well... rather strategically-placed cutouts on her dyed-black leather armor that let her move more fluidly- at least, it was the excuse she gave for what they were for- and hey, if said secondary purpose was to help her convince some rube, so much the better!  Though she'd at least tied her hair back with a simple leather cord, it still hung down to her lower back nowadays...

Of course, the long, curved blade hung from her back made it obvious that she could handle herself...  as did the seemingly ever-present skin hanging from her waist. She wore a pack, yes- but it didn't look like it was stuffed with all that much- maybe a change of clothes or two and some other things, but other than that, she just gave an easy grin as she glanced around the yard- some get lingering looks, but in all, she just gives a brighter grin as she spots some familiar faces.

"...well, at least the ride won't be completely boring.  Maybe a few new faces, but for the most part, it feels like the first time we came to Tusk.  I'm just hoping the trip will do me some good- after that trip, well..."

Just the thought of it was enough to get her skin from her waist and take another sip, before returning it.

"...so when do we leave?"

Her easy movements and bright grin lent credence to the fact that she was, at least, already relaxed and slightly pickled, if you will- in other words, business as usual for her.

In reply to Domitius (msg # 13):

"Lord LeMaistre had a plan I'm sure of it. But we'll go if we get the call." Kendrick replied with a nod to Domitius. He got off his horse. He knew the road ahead was long.

"He always has a plan ...."  Yolen comments  softly as she overhears Kendrick's comments.  "It won't be long now." she adds with a sideways glance at Kiera.


OOC:   We will move off tomorrow.

Once everyone is assembled, Yolen leads the mule train out of the city and the short distance to Silverton where you will rest uo for this first night.  There isn’y much here yet, but the Holy House of Pharasma and the Watchtower provide whatever hospitality they can.  Next morning it is on to Ringbridge and an overnight stay in the Symphony of Swans.  Next night you are in Outpost, where you pitch camp inside the walls of the fortification itself and the local market is just starting up as you leave the following morning.  Then it is Henry’s newly renamed town -  of Newgate, where the mules and their loads are bedded down in the newly built Serai – and as ‘honoured guests’ you are invited to dinner in the keep – although neither Henry nor Bai are there – and the meal is hosted by Henry’s new business manager – Mia diVentus.
Next day it is a short trip to Fort Sarneko, then onto Nikavta’s Crossing before rolling into DELEM’s’s new serai in Restov -  a week after you left Tusk.  Those of you who have travelled this way previously, will have noticed that the garrisons in Fort Sarenko and Nikavta’s look  to be short-handed, and even then  a number of the soldiers seem very young.  Perhaps it is just you getting old …

You are welcome to stay at the Happy Drover, where DELEM  retain  a large dormitory for  their own use.  However, there are many other places to stay in Restov.

---

Time to go about your own business – General stuff, public conversations in this thread.  Start a PM for private conversations  etc.

Restov - - http://rp.baileymail.net/doku....:brevoy:restov:start

Restov seemed to be just as busy and bustling as it had the last time she'd been there- and if she looked around, and closed her eyes- after one good drink (which was about all she had left of her skin), it was almost like when she'd first started working.

But now?  She had many things- most of them things she wouldn't have thought she'd have nowadays.  A job, a place to live.  Her own bar, for crying out loud.  Not bad for a former wandering layabout.

Taking the opportunity to slide down off her horse, she wastes no time- stretching out her muscles, she simply looks around, and grins.

"So, when are we going to end up leaving, and where should we meet if we all scatter over the town?  Just need to find a place to take my horse, then it's adventure time, I imagine."

"I was planning on staying at the Two Inn the Hand." Kendrick said as he slipped off his horse. "It's in the northern section of the city, next to the Fifth Army Restaurant. We should all enjoy a meal there one evening. How does tomorrow evening sound to everyone?"

Kendrick looked around the city for a few seconds. "What are everyone's plans? Domitius, were you planning on meeting with Sir Ledkno? I remember we discussed the idea of training horses on one or more occasion."

Safiya dismounts as well, relieved she is out of the saddle at last. After all this time she is still not much of a rider. She takes her pack from her mount, planning on just leaving the horse at the serai until it's time to go back. "I'll be staying with my family, should anyone need me. But I'll try to find the time to join you all for dinner tomorrow as well. Until then." She nods a greeting before shouldering her pack and leaving for the city.

"You can leave your horse here in the serai.  We have a paddock and some spare stalls at the moment.  Or else there is The Coeurleon Livery just outside the north gate." Yolen offers helpfully.

Percy was a late addition to the Mule Train, having belatedly received word from his partner Adoven that such a trip was most needful and desireable.  Indeed, the young noble seems to have packed for the trip at an impressive pace so that he's missing many of what he considers the essentials.

That said, Percy is no fish out of water and is familiar with the running of a caravan ... even if most of his experience to date has been in instructing others to perform the necessary tasks.  While not exactly afraid of getting his hands dirty, he is rather reluctant to do so, as is he reluctant to return to his homeland.

"This inn," he asks Kendrick hopefully, wincing as he dismounts, "is it any good ?"

Florin is more than happy to be on foot again after so many uncomfortably long days riding his mule. He gratefully accepts the opportunity leave the faithful creature safely at the serai until it is time for the trek back to Tusk City.

"Thank you, Mam. I will be at the Temple of Abadar here in Restov, or they will be able to get a message to me if I am visiting my family here in Restov at the time. If you could just send me a message when you know the time and date you plan to leave I will return with you to Tusk City," he tells Yolen.

"Thank you too, Sir Kendrick. I would be honoured to join you all tomorrow evening for supper at the Two Inn the Hand."

In reply to ~Percy Arndell (msg # 40):

"The last I was here, the Inn was quite good." Kendrick replied as he handed Mikki his pack. "As long as you have enough coin. I'm sure that Adoven won't mind if you write this off as a business expense."

Domitius had rode into town with mixed feelings, Restov was home but there was a danger to returning.  Still it would take a while for word to get around that he had come back.

He had remained on his horse as the rest of the group began to disperse "I will be staying with my family, I have organised rooms for Alisa and myself there if anyone needs us.  Kiera, Lord Kendrick should you wish to stay with us I am certain we can accomadate.  I will have much to do over our stay but I am sure we can fit dinner in tomorrow night."

He smiles at Kendrick "And yes, Sir Ledkno is one of the people I will be meeting with I will send you the details when he is free." he paused for a moment and looked around the serai. "Be careful my friend, not everyone in the city is to be trusted, there are those who may seek to hurt me through you."

"Dinner tomorrow night sounds fantastic, sure.  I'll make sure to show up.  I have a few things I'm going to end up doing, though it's not really all that important.  Mostly some shopping, a few errands for the Nectar, and just me knocking around town seeing what's going on and being me.  So... mostly doing what I usually do except in a new town and staying out of trouble except the kind that's fun to get into."

She'd just shrug and then, at Dom's offer, she just gets a look on her face for a second- and then hides it behind a smile, walking over to pat him on the shoulder.

"Dom, I appreciate it, but let's face it- am I really the kind of person you want your family to think you associate with?  Especially if you're bringing Alisa to meet them?  I mean, don't get me wrong, I like you guys- but, well... what do you think they'd think of me- constantly carrying a buzz, drinking all hours of the day, and all my other various habits?

Trust me.  Take Ali and introduce her and have some pleasant times with them- and her.  I'll find a room somewhere and shop and entertain myself, and when we get back to Tusk, things'll be normal again, yeah?

Besides, I'd end up talking more than I should, and let's face it- they don't need to hear me talk about the sheet incident the way I usually do, do they?"

She'd give him a bit of a wan smile, patting his shoulder and then stepping back to her horse to collect everything she needed.

"Think I might head to... dammit, what's the name... oh, yeah... I was thinking the Iron Gauntlet.  Figure the Two Inn the Hand might not appreciate someone bringing company home at all hours of the night and such- so I'll just go and manage- maybe hit the baths, the theater if anything's showing... maybe Red Table and watch the duels or something... but if you need me, just leave a message for me there and I'll come find you."

The young noble smiles politely at Kendrick, nodding his head in thanks for the information, but carefully not responding to the costs of the venture.  A gentleman never discusses money ... which was rather a drawback for someone who was once part of a family merchant trading concern.  Old habits die hard.

While his own family can be found in Restov, Percy has no intention of looking them up.  Like Domitius, he'd rather nobody he knows found out that he was here !

Alisa arched a brow at Kiera's response.        She said to her:

"Naturally, Domititus is the one to say what his family will or won't tolerate.   Nonetheless, Kiera, I do know his honorable, elven father is a worshiper of Calistria. You might not at all get the sort of reaction you seem to be expecting."

...there are those who may seek to hurt me through you.

Ah yes, and that would be the particular enemy he'd spoken of, she was relatively sure.   Devious, nasty characters, those.    Hopefully, Sir Kendrick would not take the warning lightly.

Domitius laughed at Alisa's response "It's true, father was a little on the wild side I think that's what mother liked about him.  Of course mother could take a liking to you and make you a "project".   How do you feel about ballgowns?" he grinned at Kiera.

"Maybe we don't mention the sheet incident though...  Especially at The Iron Gauntlet..."

Guys -  time to start Private Messages for those things that you want to accomplish without the group.  So family visits, and questions / politics etc.

I'll start a 'Group Dinner' in here  in a few days time.

Kiera just sighs, and looks more than a little abashed.

"...look.  I'm not used to anybody giving a damn about me after my job's done.  I was raised by trappers and skinners out in the forests before you all came along and started carving a nation out of it.  All I know about my family is one of my parents were First World, the other one wasn't.  I made up my last name.

But... if you want... I'll go with you two... if you- and your family- is willing to tolerate me being there and give me a room far away from yours."

She gave the two the most semi-confident grin she could, trying to imply her usual things.

"...but me, in a ballgown?  ...I'm not that type of girl.  I'm just some wanderer who lucked into a decent paying g- bunch and got extremely lucky.  I've never even been shopping for clothes that weren't just sailcloth or the like.  But..."

She leaned in close, whispering something to the both of them.

"Oh, the thing to remember about all the best families ... is that all of them started out as trappers and skinners or somesuch, though they prefer to forget that now," Percy tells Kiera, kindly.  "And most of them have taken certain liberties with their last names too.  A minor spelling change ... and suddenly they become that much more acceptable to those who played the same game but a few generations before."

"Kiera you could share an apartment with Alisa, or even my sister.  I'll get my own room sharing the apartment with my brother I expect unless he is off on family business.  You are my friend and if I hear any rumours implying anything else." his hand reaches across to the hilt of his sword.  "I will defend both of your honour." he says dramatically.

"Besides when was the last time you got to use a private bathhouse?"

"...Ali, hang onto him with all your might.  He keeps acting like this, I'm bound to try and steal him."

She would sigh, but fall in line behind the two of them.

"...fine, you convinced me.  I can't say I'm worth all the trouble, but fine, let's go.  ...and if I end up in a dress or something else..."

Her voice drops to a mutter, even as she lightly flushes.

Yolen grins at Kiera's discomfort,  as she leans back and puts her booted feet up on the table.  "I think I'll have another ale ..."

Alisa smiled compassionately.  "Kiera, my dear friend.   My mother is an elf of the Mordant Spire.  A people so eccentric, enigmatic, xenophobic and drenched in ancient mysticism, that they may as well be of the First World.   There was plenty of rumor and talk when my father wed her.  When I was three winters, she abandoned my father and I for good, to return home.   There was more rumor and talk.    When I was eleven, a supposedly deceased goddess of old Azlant reached to me, and I began learning her sacred ways through dream.   Sometimes while sleeping.  And other times while yet awake.   When it reached a point where I could work divine magic, without ever having trained in a temple...well, not physically speaking, at least...rumor and talk ran rampant.    Once I declared the source of it, began practicing in that deceased deity's name, I was then whispered about as everything from liar, to witch, to necromancer, to tainted moonbitch." She paused, shrugged.

"I cannot tell you how piss little I care about gossip. The people I need to reach aren't the sort who pay it heed."

She grinned at Dom's chivalrous proclamation, and Kiera's playful threat.

"He is a catch, I'd be the last to deny."  She winked, smiled again.  "Defensive battle is the philosophy of my faith.  And, I'm rarely without a counter move once a would be conqueror tips their hand."

Percy groans inwardly.  Family politics ...

"I think I'll join you," he tells Yolen, gesturing politely for someone to come serve them.

Yolen nods a welcome to Percy and waits until the barkeep arrives with a jug of ale.  "It isn't  the best here, but the ale is OK, and the bunk room is dry and out of the wind.  You noticed the lack of troops?" she asks the merchant.  "It has been happening for a couple of trips now.  Every time I go through now, there are fewer troops and more auxiliaries and, when I ask, I am told that the missing troopers have been deployed to the north.

It looks like it is all coming to a head between Surtova and the Aldori.  He has bided his time as regent,  but now ..."

"You've heard news of Surtova from a reliable source? We should make sure that Lord LeMaistre is aware of this." Kendrick looked troubled, "This may have implications for the Midmarch."

Percy pulls a face, as if his ale has suddenly soured.  The news that war is imminent troubles him, though it merely reinforces his opinion of family politics, this being merely a question of scale and consequences.

Yolen shrugs, "Just the soldiers along the route, and you know how much  marshals actually tell the people on the ground ... they tell them where they are going, not why they are going there." Then she relents slightly  "Still, you will be able to let him know when we get back."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:13, Sun 23 Feb 2020.

A DAY OR SO LATER

The Fifth Army Restaurant has been quiet, and it has  been easy to get a table.  The morning of your booking a young messenger delivers the confirmation of your booking along with details of the restaurant's Dress Code.  No weapons larger than a dagger, no armour and  smartly dressed etc.

When he receives the details of the restaurant booking and dress code Brother Florin makes a few discrete enquiries about what is and isn't considered 'smartly dressed' in Restov these days. Apart from the old suit of leather armour he wore on the journey from Tusk he has only brought his white Abadaran clerical robes. Will they suffice or is it time to go shopping?

Asking around, Florin learns that while some people wear courtiers style clothes to the restaurant, not everyone does.   Work wear, threadbare or travel stained clothes are frowned on, and most people wear their 'Sunday Best'.

---

OOC:

So it is probably time to go shopping - however, there are a number of options  (especially if the clothes are brand new),  some suggestions are ...

Scholar's Outfit
Traveller's outfit  (With a jacket or vest)
Squire's Outfit (with a jacket or vest rather than a Tabard)
... Other non-workwear costumes  might be appropriate as well  :)

Some people choose to jazz those up a bit with a scarf or some minor trim to make it more  'best' ....
https://www.d20pfsrd.com/equip...ners-bags-boxes-more


A Courtier's Outfit works just as well, if you have one or want to buy one  (remember the jewellery)

Styles of formal clothing  (ie courtiers / Noble costumes) can be found here
http://rp.baileymail.net/doku....eral:formal_clothing
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:48, Tue 25 Feb 2020.

Florin decided the most appropriate style for him tonight would be to add to his normal white clerical robe to upgrade it equivalent to a respectable scholar's outfit. No, why not invest in a new robe of better quality than his everyday one? He would certainly have plenty of use for it back in Tusk.  He knew that he would be able to buy that at the temple along with the right sort of cloak with Abadar's golden key subtly represented and just the right amount of yellow trim for a canon to wear, not a priest. Then off to the market for a suitable new cap, belt and soft leather shoes to complete the outfit.

At the restaurant you are shown to the table that has been reserved for Lord Winters, and waiters attend to each of you individually, pulling your chair out for you, seating you and helping get the chair back into position.  Then they take the napkin from the place setting in front of you, flip it open and lay it across your lap ...

You get the impression that you will be paying for this meal in Gold Pieces, rather than silver ....

Percy elects not to attend the formal dinner, instead taking the opportunity to pay his respects to certain citizens who favour late hours, much as he himself does.

The young gentleman seems a little on edge in the city, constantly looking over his shoulder, rather less surreptitiously than he imagines.

Mikki waited in the dining room that was set apart for Sir Kendrick's dinner party. She had changed out of her usual attire. Gone were the simple trousers, shirt and boots. Kendrick told her that she was to entertain his guests until he arrived... "He's over a minute late. What is taking him so long?"

Mikki was dressed in a simple but elegant long sleeved dark brown dress. A brooch of a sun and moon is pinned high on her left chest. She looked over the place settings, again.

Florin entered rather self-consciously and looked around until he spotted Mikki in the dining room. He sighed gratefully to himself as he took in the quality of his surroundings and the clientele in the restaurant, glad that he had spent the money required for new clothing.

"Hello Mikki, that dress suits you beautifully. Are we the first to arrive?" he greeted her.

Domitius arrived at the restaurant in the Solanus family coach with Alisa and Kiera, his squire Barbatius and the priest Thaddeus riding in escort.  He wore a formal military style suit but instead of the Restov city guard colours he usually wore this one was black with a white sash and facings.  He disembarked the coach and offered his arm to the ladies as they exited and headed inside.

In reply to ~Brother Florin (msg # 67):

"Yes. You are the first." Mikki gave an empty glass to Florin. She poured the wine into the glass while holding his forearm. "Wine?" Her eyes focused on his. Her hand squeezed his forearm. "I trust that the other guests will be fashionably late." She lowered her eyes and looked at the glass.

Stepping alongside Dom, Kiera is, well... different.

Her hair is brushed and washed- for once, not left to hang around her head, but styled back and left to drape down behind her.  Just enough in the way of makeup to accent, and a 'green dress' (in reality, it was more of a hunter green, to match her eyes)- and surprisingly, her dress is more conservatively cut than some might think she'd go for.

"...your mother is a force of nature.  Never, in all my years..." she seems to be muttering, even as she walks with him on brand new shoes in the same color.

Domitius had already seen Alisa dressed to the nines on one occasion;  that being the Naming Day, where she'd been deadset on making an impression, and acquired that bank breaking gown.

For this outing, the result of the seamstresses' work was an azure blue, off the shoulder number.    A bit less stylized than the aforementioned gown, but no less elegant.   She'd debated some time on how to do her hair.   The formal priestess braid was out, and she'd undone it prior to getting dressed.    She did not like wearing her hair up, never had, it just never felt like her.   Finally, she'd settled on a low pony tail.   Not the most formal of styles. But it was held in a fine, sterling silver ponytail cuff (her favorite, a gift from her beloved aunt), which added some sparkle and class.    Her shoes were white like her hair.

She laughed at Kiera's mutterings.  "That she is!  You look fantastic! You could get used to it, I bet."        And as for Domitius, she was always more than happy to see him in a suit.

"You both look stunning, I'm sure to be the envy of every man here just for sharing a coach let alone a meal with such beauty." Dom said smiling at Alisa and Kiera as the three climbed the stairs and entered the restaurant.

Florin held Mikki’s gaze for the long, long moment until she looked down at the glass she had placed in his hand. He glanced down too and was surprised to see his other hand resting gently upon hers. He gently squeezed her hand in return and smiled tenderly as his gaze returned to her eyes again. But that moment ended with the arrival of Domitius, Alisa and Kiera.

”No such luck,” he sighed.

He gave her hand another gentle squeeze before letting go and turning ng to face the trio. He raised his glass to them in greeting.

”Welcome, friends. Has your visit here been productive?” he asked.

Alisa smiled courteously at the man with the dark, curly locks.

"Yes, you could say so.   And what of yourself, sir? You serve Abadar, don't you?"

Domitius gave Brother Florin a nod "Brother Florin, Mikki a pleasure.  Moderately productive so far but we have really only just arrived."

Brother Florin nodded and smiled.

”Yes indeed, I am a Canon at the Cathedral of Abadar in Tusk. I came here to obtain a couple of the sacred texts of our church to take back to the cathedral in Tusk. I have been able to secure the copies we need - old and well thumbed, admittedly - but we will scribe and illuminate new copies worthy of the cathedral we have built in Tusk. I am glad that I will have all of you with me on the journey back to Tusk, to ensure they will arrive safely - that we will all arrive safely.”

The Abadarite cathedral was the region's largest and most prominent church.   As a cleric of an all but unknown goddess, she could only imagine what it would be like to practice your chosen faith in such a big and well connected organization.   She inclined her head in respect to Florin's work.

"I'm sure the cathedral will be pleased by that.  And we'll play our part in keeping the train safe.   Bandits or the like would be nothing compared to some of what we've seen lately."      A thought occurred to her; something she would ask of another cleric.   About the peculiar undead they had fought.    But, it would be a darksome thing to bring up at an event such as this.  So she decided against it.

"Lord Kendrick will arrive soon." Mikki turned back to Florin, "More wine?" She poured the glass almost to the brim without waiting for a reply. She looked up and smiled at the Canon of Abadar. She set the pitcher of wine down at the table. Mikki turned with a smile at the two ladies. She approached and curtsied. "Hello and welcome. Care for some wine?"

"Hello - yes, that would be wonderful, thank you."    She noted the woman's brooch, along with the announcement of Kendrick's arrival.   Lord Kendrick -- she'd need to remember the title, in this company.

"Ah, you're a part of Wintersun?"

"Well... I won't lie, I could get used to it.  Could get used to all of this."

Taking a second, she'd just look around the restaurant, simply enjoying the ambiance.  Though she still felt out of place... maybe it wasn't as bad before now.

...but if this was a restaurant, where was the food?
This message was last edited by the player at 03:46, Mon 16 Mar 2020.

Florin smiled back at Mikki but was left holding a very full wineglass when she moved away to join the other ladies. He raised the glass to his lips and quietly drank a quarter of the wine so he would not spill it when he moved.

He turned to Domitius and spoke quietly.

"What news have you heard since you have been here in Restov? Have you heard the rumours that the trouble between the King and the Aldori is coming to a head? The rumour is that war is coming to Brevoy. Civil war."

"Indeed I have Brother, it seems the fires of Rostland still burn and Issia's yolk has been worn too long. Domitius responded quietly with a sigh "The ravens gather and Gorum stirs my friend.  I fear there will be many orphans in New Stetven before too long.  But this is a night to celebrate the success's of Midmarch and enjoy the company of friends and family.  Who knows what tomorrow may bring."

"Are there more of your party to come?"  The Maitre D' asks politely.

OOC:  last calls for dinner.  Anyone coming in  now is fashionably late :P  And I need to get this trip finished.

Kendrick entered the room in military dress but not in the recognizable colors associated with the Restov Guard or its Sword Schools. Instead, Kendrick was dressed in white shirt and jacket with black trousers and sash. The short-waisted military jacket was trimmed with gold thread on the cuffs, sleeves and collar. A wolf head was embroidered over his left chest and right shoulder. He seemed very much at ease with only a dagger at his belt. "Thank you for your patience. Please sit and enjoy. I heard that we'll be having roasted pheasant." He selected a seat by the table and waited for everyone to select a seat before sitting.

Florin waited for a moment or two as others headed for the table then walked around to where Mikki was heading. He smiled at her and pulled out her chair for her as she approached the table.

"May I sit with you, Mikki?" he asked before settling in the chair next to hers.

"Ms Vallani has sent her apologies." The maître d' purrs as he waves his team forwards.

A server comes alongside each of you, settles you into your seat, flaps a napkin open and lays it across your lap.  A few moments later, your servers return with a small plate full of various tasty morsels, and places them before you.

"Buon appetito." says the maître d' as he waves his team forwards again, to place a small glass of a dry white wine - that complements the antipasto superbly.

In reply to ~Brother Florin (msg # 85):

"Why yes." Mikki said with a smile. She sneaked a glance at Kendrick but he appeared to be busy with his other guests. "Thank you, Florin. Um, I'm sorry. I don't know if that's the proper way to address one that's ranked so high in Abadar's favor." She hesitated as she took the offered seat. "Canon Florin?" She tested the words carefully as she spoke them.

Florin smiled back at Mikki. He seemed to be doing that a lot tonight but it seemed the most natural thing in the world, too.

"Within the church I am Brother Florin, but please, you can just call me Florin. You give me more credit than I deserve. We canons are not fully-fledged priests. I suppose you could think of us as religious adepts, rather than clerics," he explained modestly. "My religious calling is strong but perhaps no more so than my love of languages and learning, and I have found myself a good home within the church of Abadar."

"But what about you? Have you trained in any particular field? I must confess I am intrigued by that sun and moon brooch you wear. I can't decide whether it is a religious emblem I am not familiar with or a house motif or simply a fascinating piece of jewellery."

When the first course is finished, the maitre d' waves his team forwards again -   plates and glasses are removed and the second course course is served.

Soup bowls contain small pieces of salmon, wrapped in a soft pastry parcels, and served is a light broth.  It is accompanied by a mellow wine, almost a creamy yellow colour, which complements the food perfectly.

This whole meal- this whole experience, well... is much different than anything she'd ever really had.  Maybe she'd just get some cooked meat of some kind, maybe a bowl of stew, with a bottle or tankard full to wash it all down, maybe a little bit of fresh bread to add.

But this... well, it's not that it's not tasting good... but she'd never thought of herself as the kind that would eat something that took more time to describe it than time to eat it.

But still, it wasn't all that bad.  Though it wasn't much the same.  But the wine was good!

But still, as she ate, she just took the time to... people-watch. It was something to do, and it just let her enjoy what was going on.

Though she wondered how many different things to eat there were...

Florin does justice to the delicious fish soup dish but it is the wine that he seems to appreciate most. He lifts his glass up to the light to admire the colour.

"It is almost like liquid gold," he muses.

He sips the wine and savours the taste.

"There is a reason this is the finest restaurant in all of Rostland Brother Florin" Domitius said raising his glass in salute.  "I am curious what have you heard about events further north."

Brother Florin raised his glass and held Domitius's gaze for a long moment before responding.

"What I have heard is this. War is coming. The king has been pushing for a long time, and the Aldori have pushed back. Now it looks like battle lines are forming. Troops have been syphoned out of the city and are now stationed up by the borders of East Rostland. Restov has been trying to stay neutral but they are concerned they will have to make a choice soon. If you have heard anything else or have any idea which way Restov is likely to turn I would welcome your insight. We need to know where we stand," he replied.

He carefully pitched his voice at a level that might be heard by those seated nearby but not to be overheard by the restaurant staff serving them.

Alisa frowned as she listened.   Now picking distractedly at a vegetable stew with a very tasty seasoning.    The fingers of her free hand were on the stem of her wine glass.   It was a wonderful vintage, as the men had remarked.  But there was now a sour taste in her mouth -  one that had naught to do with anything she was eating or drinking.

"I've no military information," she ventured with serious eyes, using the same low tone, after some moments.  "But, Aldori pride is well known.  And I've heard, more than once, there are places in Restov that are havens for the Firebrands.   Who oppose the King.   And are persuasive, and charismatic.   The sort of people Aldori would idolize, and listen to.  It's like sparks being flicked at kindling, I think."   She shrugged. "And my guess is that there will be fire." 
This message was last edited by the player at 00:57, Thu 02 Apr 2020.

In reply to ~Brother Florin (msg # 88):

"This?" Mikki asked with some surprise. Her hand reached up to her brooch. "This is the sun and sword of Iomedae. Are you familiar with it?"

EDIT: Corrected text :)
This message was last edited by the player at 18:25, Sun 05 Apr 2020.

In reply to ~Brother Florin (msg # 93):

Kendrick nodded as he heard Alisa describe the Firebrands. "If war comes to Brevoy. What do you suppose would happen in the Midmarch? Many of us have ties in Brevoy..."

Brother Florin is clearly startled by Mikki's explanation and he bends closer to inspect the brooch more clearly. Then realising how awkward that might look he begins to blush.

"Oh, of course it is. It must have been the angle ... er, Lord Kendrick is a paladin of the Lady of Valor, isn't he? Are you a worshiper of Iomedae, or are you called to her service as well?" he asked Mikki.

The next course does include roasted pheasant, as Kendick had said earlier.  However, there are also pigeons and quail, while the centrepiece is a  roasted goose.  A servant stands ready to carve and serve the meats.  The course is accompanied by a selection  of roasted vegetables, and a light red wine.

Once the food had been served and the staff had mostly cleared out to prepare for the next course Domitius replied to Kendrick. "I hope Lord Henry stays out of the war when it starts, if he doesn't then I may end up fighting against you my friend.  Rostland is where I grew up and my family all the way back to Taldorian times have lived here.  As for those firebrands, he gives Alisa a wink "Many of them are my friends, indeed I would be with tnem now if I had not entered Lord Henry's service."

Alisa's eyes widened in dismay, once Dom made the remark about possibly fighting Kendrick.   Reactively, she made Acavna's symbol with her free hand, to ward off ill occurrence.

"Friend fighting friend...that's a terrible thought! Such is the hell of war."  She shook her head.  "Issians have a history of feeling entitled, and taking what they want.   And Rostlanders are prideful, and defiant.  And so, there will likely be killing...when a compromise could fairly easily be reached, if either side was interested."    She shook her head again.

"I hate the thought of this war.   Because it is so unnecessary."   She put a hand on Dom's arm.  "Aye, it's easy to imagine you as a Firebrand. But please remember; songs and speeches about war are far more romantic than the ugly reality."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:32, Wed 08 Apr 2020.

Dom placed his other hand on Alisa's,  "I do not look for war, it is the poor and innocent who will suffer most. I have seen what happens in the raids of the centaurs along our borders and it will only be worse if the Issians come south. he pauses "I have prayed to Iomedae for guidance, but I do think even she knows which way the winds blow.  I do not think she would like to see me beating on one of her Paladins though." he grins and winks at Kendrick.

"In all seriousness though Brevoy has always been a Rogarvian nation and with their disappearance I do not believe it can hold together."

In reply to Domitius (msg # 99):

Kendrick stiffened as Domitius remarked on the possibilities of war. He was certain of his priorities, but it would be one wrought with challenges. "Domitius, it would pain me greatly if I saw you across the battlefield. Do not even make a jest of it. My oaths... and yours as well to Lord Henry weaves a tangled web, if we are called from multiple factions. However..."

He paused in mid-sentence as Alisa and Domitius made their remarks....................

"Loyalties and oaths." Kendrick lifted his cup. "Let's not test the bonds of friendship this evening. War should be avoided and oaths must be kept." He drained the cup and quickly poured another.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:23, Wed 08 Apr 2020.

Mikki smiled as Brother Florin leaned in to take a closer look. Her brought her shoulder closer to Florin's face. She breathed in deeply, "Yes, I work for Sir Kendrick." She leaned in closer to Florin, "Between you and me, I'm not too devoted in Iomedae. He's a bit too stern."

"Yeah... I mean, let's not talk of such things tonight, if we can help it.  The problems will still be there tomorrow... and it strikes me that we're going to be needed in Midmarch more than the front lines, if it comes to that.  If the east gets up to war, who's going to be watching the west?  There are still threats out that way- Numeria, Pitax, and who knows which way our new friends out west in Bogside and Drelev are going to jump.

It's like watching a pickpocket work a street-corner bard show- when everyone's engrossed in the performance, nobody's paying attention to anything else, and before you know it, you're missing your valuables and the thief is long gone.

This would be the perfect time for Irovetti and his bunch to start trouble, now that they figure no reinforcements would be forthcoming.  Besides, didn't some Pitaxian already make a scene at the last of Lord Henry's little parties?  Forget north and east- if you're looking for trouble, I'd look west."

She'd been making short work of the food presented- making sure to sample the wine, of course- but felt the need to speak up.

The next course comes in two waves, first a small dish of heavily chilled fruit water - so cold that it is mainly ice crystals.  Cold and somewhat sweet it cleanses the palate before you are served the Taldan public school classic of School Mess - meringue, soft fruits and cream all mixed together.  A  sweet white wine is served  to complement the sweetness of the meringue in the dessert

"Alright, I'm consoled," she said to Domitius and Kendrick.  "You're both men of honor and wisdom."    Regaining some of her good mood and humor, she winked "Some of the time."

To Kiera- "Mm. That's insightful. You've a point. And by the Defender, Irovetti is the last tyrant whose rule I'd want to live under. If I had to daily look at the sort of sculpture that I hear fills Pitax, I think I just might blind myself."

She tasted the chilled fruit water after it was served.  "Huh -  I think I like that."   

Florin smiled at Mikki's words and whispered back, "I look forward to discussing it further with you in the days to come."

He settled back in his seat next to Mikki's but he reached over and gave her hand a gentle squeeze beneath the table, too.

---

Listening to Dom, Kendrick, Kiera and Alisa discuss the threats that might lie ahead gave him plenty to think about while desert was being served.

"I hadn't thought about possible trouble with Drelev in the west if Midmarch and Drelev somehow end up supporting different sides in a civil war.

"But surely Pitax wouldn't just come straight at Midmarch? We are way over to the northeast, whereas Drelev and the Iron Wraiths' lands are immediately north of Pitax. I would be surprised if Pitax wouldn't attack there first, even if that unwelcome fellow from Pitax did say Midmarch is land he claims belongs to Pitax and he was upset that we have banned the worship of Hanspur and that we will not acknowledge their River Freedoms. We must certainly acknowledge the potential threat from the River Kingdoms but if Midmarch is attacked from that direction I think it wouldn't just be Pitax but a larger alliance involving many of the other River Kingdoms as well.

"I don't know what sort of relationship Lord Henry has with Baron Drelev but that will be one more thing for him to think about when we report back after this trip."

Once the School Mess is cleared away, a selection of cheeses are brought to the table, along with savoury biscuits, sweet biscuits, a bottle of port, a jug of steaming hot coffee  (that you just know has been imported from somewhere exotic) and some small chocolate squares (that you know has been imported from somewhere even more exotic).

And you are left alone to finish your meal and conversation.


OOC:  Unless anyone objects, I'll close this thread down next weekend, with a journey back to Tusk.

"Perhaps, but you shouldn't underestimate the power of hurt pride.  They've already made a stink in Midmarch, and if they're attacking here, Drelev might just stay out of it, thinking better us than them- plus if the Pitaxians are focusing on us, then they're not focusing on anyone else- and most people won't go put themselves in the line of fire for someone else.

Irovetti is more prideful and vindictive than a court full of spoiled teenage nobles.  If he thinks Midmarch has slighted him in some way, we're his prime target."

The food had been better than she'd hoped- but she'd been more impressed with the wine selection.  She'd have to see where they got their wines- after all, keeping a few bottles of good stuff back for those that could pay for it would be worth it.

Florin was already full but sampled each of the dishes with true pleasure. Relaxing at the end of the meal with a small glass of port, he studied Kiera thoughtfully.

"I hope your concerns turn out to be unfounded, Kiera. Pitax would be a formidable foe. All the more reason for Lord Henry to make sure of a good, strong relationship with Baron Drelev," he responded.

When the meal draws to a close, you return to your respective accommodation to spend the night.

Shortly after your meal out, together, Yolen calls everyone together, ready for the trip back to Tusk - again the Mule train will call at all all the same locations as on the trip here.  Nikvata's, Fort Sarenko, Newgate, Outpost, Ringbridge, Silverton  and will finally arrive a Tusk a week after it departs.

One thing you all take back with you is the knowledge that Restov and the Aldori are preparing for war - and their sights are set on claiming their lands back from King Nolesi Surtova.  Civil War is coming!

The other thing that you are all aware of, is that Restov isn't doing and deals with outsiders at the moment.  There will be no loans coming from the Bank of Restov, and Restov Council won't sanction any new buildings.  Basically, Restov is closed for new business.

It does raise some interesting questions.  Such as who will be in charge of Restov and the East when this is all over?

Brother Florin is not at all disappointed to be heading back to Tusk without any further delay. The saddlebags on his mule are considerably fuller now with the new set of clothes and the two books he has secured while in Restov. Indeed, he never lets those saddlebags out of his sight on the journey back to Tusk.

He also stays close to Mikki as often as he can, and seems to value her company almost as much as those precious books.

Kendrick rode back on his horse. He suggested that Mikki ride out in front. "Liam suggested that you need to sharpen your skills keeping a sharp eye out. You didn't do so well the last time, so this is another opportunity to practice."

Like Brother Florin, the young gentleman is thankful to be leaving Restov behind before the war that is so obviously coming arrives !  While he has achieved what he set out do, Percy fears that his efforts will amount to naught until the situation here is resolved.

Though he fears that Lord Henry will be forced to choose sides and that the war will find its unwelcome way to Midmarch.

"Yes, m'Lord." Mikki replied. She was back in her brown trousers and white shirt. It was simple, and her dagger was at her side. A large bundle was tied to the back of her saddle. "Care to join me, Florin?" She kicked her horse. She rode the horse better, but she was still far from the horseman compared to Lord Kendrick. She slowed her pace once she was about fifty feet in front of the main group.

Florin sighed sadly and shook his head at Mikki's invitation.

"I would like nothing better if we were on foot," he tells her fondly.

He pats the mule he is riding.

"Unfortunately old Tuppence here is not up to that, and my horsemanship is not worth any more than Tuppence."

It had been a, well... productive trip.  Her bags were full of things she'd been meaning to get- several of them had secured bottles, carefully packed away to avoid breakage, but others, well... contained things she hadn't even known she needed- and things that would help her get more things she needed.

If she was going to grow into her role, well... she'd need to embrace it all.

But still, all the talk of war was concerning.  But while others kept their eyes on the war, she would keep her eyes west.  She still thought the true threat would come from there.

Safiya rejoins the group for their journey south. She offers no comment on it, but it is clear the situation in Restov has her worried as well.

Alisa D'Medvyed -- on her way to being née D'Medvyed, now that she was formally betrothed -- was in very good spirits.  Though as others did she too had concerns, she was resolved to put them aside for the trip back.

Her first meeting with those who would become her in-laws had gone off as well or better than she could have hoped.  And, although it might be incongruous for a lunar priestess to have a solar surname, she would wear Solanus with honor and joy.   Of course, even if Dom's surname was Mudbunk, she'd still be blissed out about becoming his wife.

She traveled the road upon Somala -- her beloved grey mare whose name derived from an Azlant word, Somal, for moon.   She also traveled the road with a very dear friend, who was likewise up to become family...

"So," she asked of Domitius, "did you run that idea past Kiera yet?"

Domitius sat astride Argos, he looked back at the city that had been his home for many years and sighed.  It was with regret he left, his family was sure to be part of the oncoming war and he couldn't be there, not and maintain his oaths to Lord Henry.  He still wasn't sure about what he would do if Lord Henry decided to join in the war with Issia but he would cross that bridge when he came to it.

Now was a time to concentrate on his plans for the future and growing the Solanus house. He looked over to where Alisa rode and beamed a smile at her, she was the most important part of that future, there would be details to work out surely but he was confident they would be overcome.

At Alisa's question he looked across at Kiera "Let's say I have in a general way, she seemed interested.  I spoke to my grandfather about it as well, he approves said the family is getting soft and could use a little more wildness."

Back at Tusk everyone goes their separate ways, perhaps to act on their newly gained knowledge -  perhaps just to ruminate on it for a bit.

The Trip to Restov is over.