Difference between revisions of "AWRR Chapter 7"

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===Leonora and Zanne discuss Thurston's Villainy===
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Narrator: Leonora will receive a note from Justiciar Zanne Machel, Marquess Lownmont, requesting a meeting with her at her earliest convenience.
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Leonora: will  attend, guessing some of what the conversation must surely be about.
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Leonora: (is Zanne about the same age as Thurston, or older?)
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Narrator: (How old is Thurston again? I think they're of similar ages. Zanne should be in her late 30s.)
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Leonora: (yeah that sounds right)
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Lamont: (I think that makes her younger? I think we figured out Thurston is like early 40s)
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Narrator: (Again, similar. She might be a little younger)
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Leonora: (am I meeting her at her home, or at some official office in the city?)
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Zanne Machel: will have arranged for lunch at a social club, ensuring privacy while not provoking too much notice.
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Leonora: arrives slightly ahead of time to ensure that the place is secure and no obvious signs of anyone looking for such a meeting.  If there is, I depart immediately.
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Narrator: There doesn't appear to be, and Leonora is pretty good at spotting that sort of thing.
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Leonora: awaits the arrival of Lady Lownmont, then.
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Zanne Machel: will have been waiting. She's a tall, wiry blond woman with a shorter haircut than is strictly fashionable, dressed in relatively modest clothes for the heir to House Machel.
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Zanne Machel: stands when Leonora enters and beckons her over.
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Leonora: comes to join her.
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Leonora: Lady Lownmont, a pleasure to make your acquaintance.
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Zanne Machel: Likewise, Lady Wengal, despite the circumstances. It's a shame we haven't met previously. Please, sit. Would you like something to drink?
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Leonora: Just tea, for now, thank you.
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Zanne Machel: will make a gesture, and an invisible servant will bring tea.
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Zanne Machel: All things considered, I thought it best to rely upon magical service for this meeting.
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Narrator: (unseen, rather)
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Leonora: Yes, and if you don't mind, I'm going to activate my dragonmark.  Just in case.  It will protect us from any sort of espionage.
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Zanne Machel: nods.
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Leonora: does so.
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Zanne Machel: I shouldn't think mine is necessary, and it's more polite if I don't, but your's would be prudent.
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Zanne Machel: Thank you.
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Zanne Machel: I was very troubled by what's been brought to me regarding my cousin.
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Zanne Machel: Moreso given the possibility of his involvement in my brother's death.
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Leonora: I can't speak to that directly.  But I have known Thurston for many years.  So I don't take any of this lightly.
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Zanne Machel: The two of you were romantically linked?
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Zanne Machel: Forgive my directness; hazard of the job.
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Leonora: Almost fifteen years ago now.  Romantic is too strong a word, but yes, there was a courtship for a time, and discussions of a marriage.
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Zanne Machel: And now?
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Leonora: And now what?
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Zanne Machel: You've had little contact with Thurston in the intervening time?
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Leonora: Very little.  I wrote him earlier this spring, upon making the acquaintance of Lamont.
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Zanne Machel: nods.
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Leonora: Other than that, though, no, we were clearly not a good match, in retrospect.  Not that I saw it quite that way at the time.
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Leonora: When one is eighteen and new to the social scene, it is easy to see a failure to match as a personal failure.
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Zanne Machel: Rather than an arrow dodged.
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Zanne Machel: I'm familiar with the feeling.
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Zanne Machel: Again, forgive me, but what is your relationship with Lamont?
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Leonora: Well, nothing is official yet.  But Lord Wengal and I are planning on contracting with Lamont to provide us an heir.
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Leonora: Provided that this matter does not intervene.
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Zanne Machel: Ah, of course. I shouldn't think that it would, and I hope such an arrangement will prove beneficial to all parties.
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Zanne Machel: Lamont and I are not close, but he and my brother were, and, well, he's had more sorrow than anyone as young as he is should have to face.
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Zanne Machel: What can you tell me about the attack on Therma Alba? I've spoken to Curiate Amathalis, as well as Fyan Nabari, but the report of a second Sentinel scion would be beneficial. We have...different training than most.
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Leonora: nods.
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Leonora: It was organized, in a sense.  In the sense that they clearly knew that there were high-value targets there.  My sense is that they had not anticipated the degree of resistance from individuals other than their top targets.
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Leonora: If it had just been, say, Fyan Nabari and a few others, plus the small number of guards at Therma Alba, the outcome likely would have been different.
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Zanne Machel: Foiled by a party. Embarrassing.
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Zanne Machel: says mirthlessly.
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Leonora: Lord Wengal and I are not unaccustomed to interruptions to our social lives, being from Nachtur.
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Zanne Machel: So the recovered letter most likely had its cipher broken, then.
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Zanne Machel: does smile slightly at that.
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Zanne Machel: I'm familiar. I was with the first wave of soldiers in the retaking.
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Zanne Machel: If I hadn't already been settled in Highmark, I might have moved out that way myself, but people needed allies here.
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Leonora: I have to ask, because you have known him for much longer and far better than I have ... what is Thurston aiming at here?
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Zanne Machel: I'm not going to lie, Lady Wengal, this investigation is proceeding, but slowly. I'm near certain of Thurston's involvement, and I take a very dim view of those who truck with primordials and their cultists, but...he's done this sort of work for years. He's good at covering his tracks.
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Zanne Machel: In a personal sense, I believe he wants to retain control of House Allard, however he can.
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Zanne Machel: As to the attack, and the cultists, well, it wouldn't be the first time people have tried to use them for their own purposes.
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Leonora: The ends and the means seem ... disproportionate.
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Leonora: To cause no end of damage to property and life, in order to achieve a political end.
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Zanne Machel: The Confederacy has seen worse, for less.
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Zanne Machel: But I agree.
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Leonora: To think that I could be married to a man like that ... it is nauseating.
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Zanne Machel: Hopefully, no one will ever suffer that fate.
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Zanne Machel: Nor, if I can help it, suffer at his hands ever again.
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Leonora: How else can I be of assistance to you?
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Zanne Machel: Given your history with Thurston, would you be willing to meet with him? Perhaps you would be able to finesse confirmation of his involvement out of him?
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Zanne Machel: I'm approaching this from all possible angles.
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Leonora: I would, in principle.  It would need to be approached with great care.
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Leonora: I have not been greatly looking forward to the possibility that I might have to talk to him about this other business of mine and Lamont.
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Leonora: But perhaps that is the way forward.
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Zanne Machel: nods.
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Zanne Machel: If he's not aware of the arrangement just yet, perhaps it is another point on which to press.
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Zanne Machel: I and my team are working our way back through his network of agents, but...I'm sure I don't need to tell you how complicated the intelligence work of the Houses and the Confederacy can be.
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Leonora: I will be most cautious not to disclose anything that would jeopardize your team's work.
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Leonora: The question of whether I can raise the existence of the letter is very tricky.  Without some mention of it, it's hard to see how the discussion becomes productive.
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Zanne Machel: I can have an exact copy supplied, if it would help.
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Zanne Machel: Perhaps you could bring it to confront him with? Or to inquire, at least.
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Leonora: That would be helpful.
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Leonora: How would you want me to say I acquired it?
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Zanne Machel: Recovered at Therma Alba. It has the benefit of being close to the truth.
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Leonora: And how much of this would you like me to share with Lamont?
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Leonora: He seems like he has much on his mind right now.
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Zanne Machel: I'm trying not to overburden him, but I also don't want to keep him out of the loop. I'll leave it to your discretion; it's unlikely he'd let anything slip.
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Leonora: Understood.
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Zanne Machel: I appreciate your aid, though I'm sorry you've gotten pulled into Thurston's orbit. Or blast radius, as the case may be.
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Leonora: It is as it must be.  We are called to serve, so we serve.
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Zanne Machel: Our watch never ends.
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Zanne Machel: raises her glass to Leonora.
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===Nik and Coifárë Visit Lamont's New Apartments===
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Lamont: will have invited a few select people to the place he's rented for the rest of the season
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Nik: (what's the place like? 🙂
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Lamont: has managed to find a furnished townhouse in Highpark - the decoration style is a bit older,  a bit ostentatious for his personal tastes,  but respectable.
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Nik: It's quite nice!
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Nik: says encouragingly
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Lamont: Thank you.  If I were keeping it longer, I would definitely make some changes
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Coifárë: Oh? Who knows, maybe you'll want to keep the bachelor's getaway. 😉
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Lamont: well.  If I do, I will be changing a few things.  But I think with more time I could find something more suitable, also
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Lamont: the privacy has certainly been a relief
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Nik: Oh, are you saying you'll want to get away from me? 😉
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Lamont: and, thank you both for coming
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Nik: teases
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Coifárë: chuckles at Nik's teasing.
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Lamont: Maybe you'll want to get away from me
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Lamont: teases back
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Nik: smiles
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Nik: I can't imagine.
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Nik: But maybe if I want to do a little writing in a quiet location...
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Lamont: Yes.  And honestly at this stage, just the idea of having such a retreat is... somewhat appealing, regardless of circumstances
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Coifárë: Having something and somewhere that is your own?
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Lamont: Indeed.
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Lamont: But outside of the season, who knows where I may wind up, anyway.
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Lamont: For now, I will be grateful for it, and to my cousin, who helped with find a steward to manage with getting everything set up so quickly
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Nik: I'm glad that it was possible to find such a fine place this far into the season.
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Coifárë: Oh, is there any gossip as to how you managed it? Someone had to leave town quickly for some reason, perhaps?
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Lamont: Nothing too outrageous, or I wouldn't have wanted the association - I feel as though I've been the center of enough talk for several seasons.
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Lamont: It actually belongs to the Bressnet's, the Earl of Laiss's younger brother Malorix
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Coifárë: gives Lamont an encouraging smile.
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Coifárë: Oh?
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Lamont: He was recalled to Morrow a few weeks ago
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Lamont: so not too dramatic, except that it may be a general foreshawoding of events to come
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Coifárë: frowns.
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Coifárë: Yes, I keep hearing things are deteriorating down there.
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Lamont: nods
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Lamont: My own unit was recalled to Highmark while I was ill, but my leave still stands for the moment
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Nik: looks a bit worried about that
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Coifárë: Do you think they'll be deployed?
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Coifárë: specifically refrains from asking whether Lamont will be as well.
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Lamont: it seems highly likely, but it could not be until the end of the season
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Lamont: glances between the two of them
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Lamont: My own situation is, at present, less certain.
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Coifárë: Well, it's progressing, at least?
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Lamont: Yes.
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Lamont: I told Nik, but Zanne has decided to have the inquiry about what happened with Gerry's patrol reopened.
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Coifárë: That's...good, right?
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Lamont: Yes....  He was her brother, though they were not close
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Lamont: Of course my feelings are... complicated, but I am hopeful
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Coifárë: nods.
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Lamont: says, only a little bit like he's trying to convince himself
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Lamont: smiles a little
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Nik: If there is anything we can do to help, of course you need only ask.
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Lamont: I didn't meant to bring us to such heavy topics
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Coifárë:
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Of course my feelings are... complicated, but I am hopeful
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Lamont - jump
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As we should all strive to remain, I'm sure. Marquess Lownmont (Zanne's current individual courtesy title) serves Bahamut; she'll see justice done.
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Coifárë: And you don't need to apologize, though we can move on to more pleasant things if it will help set your mind at ease.
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Lamont: It's alright, I don't want to keep anything from ether of you - though this is meant to be a holiday
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Lamont: please though - tell me what you think of the lunch
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Narrator: (What're we having? 😛 )
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Lamont: (Salad with some early summer fuits, a cold soup and cold cuts, with some nice bread and butter plus various pickles, cheese condiments etc?)
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Nik: Everything is very nice!
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Lamont: (cold cults more lied cold sliced roasted chicken and beef rather than like salami or whatever)
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Nik: I received a letter from my parents, in response to my telling them of our engagement.  They wished us all the best, of course.  My father intends to be back in Highmark in a few days' time, as most of the injured have recovered enough to depart by now.
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Coifárë: That's good to hear on all counts, Nik.
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Coifárë: smiles brightly.
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Coifárë: Hopefully you'll be able to announce soon.
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Coifárë: And, yes, the food is scrumptious, Lamont.
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Lamont: Thank you.
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Lamont: My uncle  insists on a 'proper' meeting.  I said I would host here but, we will see.
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Lamont: I don't know how quickly any of the investigations are proceeding, or what my situtation will be even if there is ny move against him
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Nik: Should we arrange that for after my father has returned, so that he may be there?
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Nik: I mean the meeting.  not ... the other things.
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Lamont: Yes, that would be wise.
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Lamont: and proper
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Nik: nods
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Nik: Maybe I could set up a little writing table over by that window...
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Nik: considers, looking around the room for possible places
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Lamont: It does get quite good light
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Nik: would it be in your way?
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Lamont: Not at all
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Coifárë: smiles mostly to themself at that exchange.
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Nik: Oh, good.  Because I do think my editor has been very patient but at some point will really think I should get back to work...
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Nik: says carefully
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Lamont: Your editor?
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Narrator: (Has Nik revealed anything to these two at this point, vis a vis his book?)
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Nik: (no, he's kept it quiet.  I think just because it never seemed like the right time to bring it up when Lamont was dying or people were being attacked etc. always other stuff going on.)
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Lamont: 9I think just to kitty)
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Nik: (yeah he did tell Kitty)
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Coifárë: (to Lamont) Did we know he has an editor?
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Coifárë: I think you've been holding out on us.
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Lamont: no - have you found someone to publish your poems?
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Nik: Well, I did write a book...not poetry though, a romance. And since it's done rather well, they think I ought to do another one, only I haven't had a good idea yet...  I know I hadn't told you but it never seemed like the right moment to mention it.  I wasn't trying deliberately to be secretive.
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Lamont: oh.
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Lamont: Well.  You should publish your poems.
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Nik: Well... perhaps 🙂
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Coifárë: What's the title of your book?
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Nik: At Last The Night...
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Nik: says, a bit embarrassed
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Coifárë: At Last the...Nikession Amathalis! You're Melodye Fayre?!
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Lamont: of course does not react because this means nothing to him
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Nik: Um... yes.  I thought my parents likely would not approve of my name being on such a work, so I used a pen name.
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Coifárë: Be that as it may, how did it take this long to tell, well, me? I don't think Lamont has read the novel...
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Lamont: watches the exchange, and shakes his head
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Nik: I don't know! I wanted to say something earlier but when people were saying such nice things about it, it seemed like I would be bragging if I was to interject with the claim that I wrote it.  People might not believe me... I didn't mean to hide it, really, it just never seemed like the right time to tell you.
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Coifárë: Hmph. Punishment will needs be forthcoming, of course.
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Coifárë: says with a smirk.
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Nik: of course I'll accept whatever you think suitable :3
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Coifárë: Though I daresay Lamont and I can help provide inspiration for your next book.
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Lamont: frowns a little at that
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Nik: Oh... well, maybe a little? At least in terms of, um, making some of the elements more, well, true to life?  But I wouldn't feel right using things from my friends' actual lives in a story.
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Coifárë: chuckles.
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Coifárë: Yes, Nik, that's more what I meant.
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Coifárë: I don't particularly plan to have my life serialized, though I suppose it has its perks.
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Nik: chuckles at that
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Nik: I haven't actually, um, well, looked at how much money the book has brought in.  I just asked to have it all set up so I wouldn't have to deal with that.  I probably should, though...
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Lamont: well,  you shouldn't need to.
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Nik: no, but I mean... I think there are things one can do with income like that, I don't really know all the details, but perhaps invest it or something? Or use it to help people?
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Coifárë: There's an idea. Anything in particular catch your interest?
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Nik: I don't really know.  Would you have any suggestions?
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Nik: looks at both of you
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Coifárë: Not as such, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Miss Allement's cause. Which, of course, is Chitara's as well, but from, perhaps, different angles.
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Nik: Ah, that's true... perhaps worth thinking about?
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Lamont: 's frown deepens a bit
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Lamont: I'm sure Nerath has many worthy causes..
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Nik: oh, I'm sure.  I had not made any particular decision on such matters.
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Lamont: nods
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Coifárë: Not a fan of their work, Lamont?
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Lamont: I'm not familiar with Miss Allement.  I have spoken some to Miss Kitus, but I don't believe our perspectives are entirely in alignment.
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Coifárë: I appreciate their passion, though I'm certainly familiar with the opposing arguments. My family, as a whole, is...not sympathetic.
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Lamont: I'm sure.
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Coifárë: Perhaps I could persuade you both to attend one of Victorina's speeches? She is, at the very least, quite energetic.
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Nik: Certainly, I'd be willing to attend.
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Lamont: I feel as thought I have enough matters to attend to for the moment, thank you.
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Coifárë: Yes, of course, I don't mean to be putting anything else on your shoulders at the moment.
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Lamont: It's such a complex issue, in any case
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Coifárë: As you say.
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Coifárë: In any event, hopefully today's festivities will lift your spirits, and you two should be joyful in any case.
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Nik: smiles at that
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Nik: Yes, I hope so 🙂 Lamont, you will come to the celebrations, won't you?
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Lamont: What, today?  I thought that was the plan...
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Nik: Yes, well, it was, but if you were feeling as though you had too much else to do, I would quite understand.
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Lamont: Oh, I had been looking forward to it.
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Lamont: says, sounding surprised
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Nik: Oh, good then 🙂
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Nik: leans over and gives Lamont a kiss on the cheek and squeezes his hand
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Lamont: smiles
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Coifárë: Splendid. 😄
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Lamont: Well, if we're all finished with lunch, we could consider venturing that way?
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Nik: Certainly!
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Coifárë: Of course.
  
  

Revision as of 04:37, 29 May 2023

AWRR Chapter logs
Previous Chapter 7 Next

Summary

Session date: 2023-05-14
In Game date: Founder's Day!

Lavinia brings Gueiris to meet her mother, who approves the engagement. They next move to face the next hurdle: Gueiris's aunt Alexeria. Fortunatey she also gives her blessing to the union.

Leonora meets with Zanne Machel to discuss the letter and plan a trap for Thurston

Lamont invites Nik and Coifárë to join him for lunch at his new apartment in advance of the Foudner's Day celebrations, and the three discuss various personal and politcal matters.

Sébastien opens the celebrations with a speech, the joins his sister until the run into Chitara. He then takes her around the park. Meanwhile, Rosalie meets up with Juno, and the two decide to start formally courting. Nik, Lamont, and Coifárë run into Kitty and Lavinia while waiting in line to get their faces painted. Sébastien ends the night with a bang, proposing to Chitara just as the fireworks begin.

Session

Lavinia and Gueiris Face Lavinia's Mother

Lavinia: will arrange for Gueiris to visit her family's home in the late morning and will have tea ready when he arrives to see her and her mother.

Gueiris: arrives dressed in fine black pants, a pressed collared white shirt, and navy vest with silver buttons.

Leonora: (how much have you told your mom about the purpose of the meeting?)

Lavinia: will greet you in a bright, pale cream dress with long sleeves and gloves. Her arm is no longer in a sling, and the cutson her face are almost all healed, though a few of them look like they may leave small scars.

Gueiris: smiles seeing her

Lavinia: (Probablynot a whole lot? Just that Gueiris is coming by to discuss our plans for the future.)

Maria Orsino: Maria is wearing a simple blue dress and a gold necklace, sitting in the waiting room.

Lavinia: lights up at seeing Gueiris

Lavinia: Please, come in!

Lavinia: Mother, you know Lord Kyrnon, of course.

Gueiris: steps in and stands next to Lavinia

Maria Orsino: Yes, of course. Lord Kyrnon, welcome to our home.

Gueiris: Thank you very much for having me here, Lady Orsino.

Maria Orsino: Of course. Come, have a seat. Lavinia has prepared some tea and biscuits. She's very good at that sort of thing, you know.

Lavinia: smiles

Gueiris: looks at the tray

Gueiris: Do you recommend anything?

Maria Orsino: Try one of these, they're very nice.

Lavinia: Those are the strawberry tarts I've been working on. I think I may have finally cracked them.

Gueiris: nods and takes one to try

Lavinia: Mother, Lord Kyrnon and I were hoping to discuss some... important matters with you.

Maria Orsino: All right.

Lavinia: glances at Gueiris.

Gueiris: Yes, about our future. Together.

Lavinia: We would like to ask your blessing to be... betrothed.

Maria Orsino: Oh! Oh my goodness! I don't know what to say.

Maria Orsino: Lord Kyrnon, you know, my daughters are to me so precious, and I have always wanted the best for them.

Maria Orsino: One hopes to think that some lord will come and sweep them off their feet. But, you know, it has not been easy for Lavinia.

Gueiris: I am aware that this journey has not been easy for Lavinia. I assure you my intentions are genuine and am more than resilient to handle any struggles that we may encounter, especially with Lavinia's help.

Maria Orsino: You are in good health, then? 

Katherina: is definitely not listening outside the door and v-i-b-r-a-t-i-n-g with excitement

Gueiris: is a little taken aback by the question

Gueiris: I... yes, I am in very good health.

Maria Orsino: Good. I am glad to hear it.

Lavinia: nods.

Maria Orsino: I would be remiss if I did not ask about your situation, Lord Kyrnon. My daughter's financial security and wellbeing is of highest importance to me.

Gueiris: That is understandable. While I am not the heir to the Kyrnon family, that does not leave me without standing. My Aunt and Uncle, have fully adopted me into theirs.

Gueiris: I also have some personal holding from the dissolution of the mercenary company my birth parents founded.

Maria Orsino: Would your plan be to reside here, in Highmark?

Gueiris: looks at Lavinia

Lavinia: /me looks up at Gueiris and then back at her mother

Gueiris: I don't believe we've come to a final decision on that. I am open to it or other locations.

Lavinia: I don't know where we would settle, but I should very much like to travel with Lord Kyrnon for a while. I want to see the world.

Maria Orsino: Well, that is a good thing to aspire to, dear.

Maria Orsino: Lord Kyrnon, as for the matter of your occupation, it does give me some concern that a mercenary's wife, or a military wife, is not what I envision for my daughter. To sit at home, awaiting the return of your husband ... or not.

Lavinia: That's why I will be going with him.

Gueiris: I am eager to travel with her.

Lavinia: And I cannot think of anyone else I would rather see the world with.

Lavinia: looks up at Gueiris with a smile.

Gueiris: My youth offered me the opportunity to see much of the realm. I want to share that with Lavinia.

Maria Orsino: That is very reasonable. I want to make sure that my daughter is secure, throughout those travels, and then the entirety of your lives together.

Maria Orsino: Having said that, Lord Kyrnon, you have impressed me with your seriousness of purpose and your devotion to my daughter's wellbeing.

Maria Orsino: How long of a betrothal period are you envisioning?

Lavinia: We were hoping to be wed on the midsummer holiday.

Maria Orsino: Quite soon, then. There would be many preparations to undertake, of course.

Lavinia: Well, given my previous record, it seems best not to drag it out overmuch.

Maria Orsino: And then, you would expect to leave on your travels shortly after that?

Gueiris: nods

Gueiris: although that would not preclude returning for winter holidays.

Gueiris: to visit family.

Maria Orsino: Well. In that case.

Maria Orsino: I am pleased to give my assent for the two of you to be betrothed.

Gueiris: Thank you very much

Gueiris: is beaming

Lavinia: Oh, Thank you mother!!

Lavinia: will leap up and hug her mother

Maria Orsino: Katherina, dear, no need to hide any longer.

Maria Orsino: You can come out and congratulate your sister.

Katherina: opens the door and runs over to Lavinia

Lavinia: will hug her sister as well. 

Katherina: gives her sister a big hug

Lavinia: Kitty, you will of course be maid of honor!

Gueiris: looks happily at the sisters

Maria Orsino: Lord Kyrnon, welcome to our little family. I hope you will find all the happiness your heart desires, in this union.

Katherina: Well of course! Congratulations, I know how happy you are for this. It pleaases me to the bottom of my heart to know it.

Katherina: looks to Gueiris

Katherina: and you as well, I am happy for, because I do believe you care for her, and how could she not make anyone happy that she has chosen and has chosen her in turn?

Lavinia: :3

Gueiris: finally eats the strawberry tart

Gueiris: if he gets a moment alone with Lavinia, he will take the opportunity to hug her close and give her a quick kiss

Lavinia: will absolutely return the gestures


Round 2: Gueiris' Aunt

Gueiris: later Gueiris has invited Lavinia and her mother to Kyrnon Manor, to meet with his Aunt Alexeria, the Lady Kyrnon

Gueiris: brings Lavinia to his aunt's study

Gueiris: Aunt, may I present to you the Hersir of Feigrsteinn, Lavinia Francisca Whitbottom Orsino.

Lavinia: will curtsy.

Lavinia: My Lady, it is an honor to finally meet you.

Alexeria Kyrnon: And an honor to meet you as well, Hersir Feigrsteinn. May we offer you refreshments?

Lavinia: Oh, just tea, thank you.

Alexeria Kyrnon: will pour it for Lavinia herself.

Alexeria Kyrnon: And, may I ask, to what do we owe this honor? My son has been cagier than usual.

Lavinia: Well, Lord Kyrnon and I... we were hoping to discuss something with you.

Lavinia: puts down her teacup and braces herself.

Alexeria Kyrnon: I should think that was obvious, but, please, continue.

Lavinia: We would like to ask for your blessing to be betrothed.

Gueiris: Yes, I've asked Lavinia to marry me.

Lavinia: I love your nephew, My Lady, with all my heart. I have a title, and lands, and a family with no small prestige. I believe that it would be an advantageous match for all involved.

Gueiris: and I am so grateful for your encouraging our meeting.

Alexeria Kyrnon: smiles indulgently at that.

Alexeria Kyrnon: Have you spoken to your family about this already, Hersir?

Lavinia: Yes, we have. Just this morning.

Alexeria Kyrnon: You both seem very motivated and committed to this.

Lavinia: We are.

Lavinia: looks at Gueiris.

Gueiris: smiles at Lavinia

Lavinia: smiles back, though a bit nervously.

Gueiris: I am committed to this.

Gueiris: looks back to his Aunt, his eyes stern

Alexeria Kyrnon: Then I am pleased to offer my assent as well. I hope you will both be very happy.

Lavinia: feels her heart skip a beat in her chest and smiles with relief.

Alexeria Kyrnon: There will, of course, be many things to discuss before the day is upon us.

Lavinia: Thank you, My Lady! Of course. We will need to make preparations.

Gueiris: Lady Orsino is here, if you two would like to meet and discuss.

Gueiris: we hope to be wed on the midsummer holiday.

Alexeria Kyrnon: (to Gueiris) Just a tad presumptuous perhaps, but prudent. I should be happy to speak to her.

Alexeria Kyrnon: That leaves us little time. There are no pressing concerns, are there?

Gueiris: You doubt I cannot behave myself as a gentleman, Aunt?

Lavinia: blushes a fairly deep pink

Lavinia: Ummm... no, My Lady... nothing pressing.

Gueiris: I have not been that long from Highmark.

Alexeria Kyrnon: Many a gentleman has made many a mistake, but, please, forgive me. I mistook ardor for haste, and apologize for any offense.

Lavinia: Oh, no, none taken, of course.

Gueiris: This is happy news for both families.

Alexeria Kyrnon: Indeed, and we'll need to celebrate. An announcement will need to precede the date, so we haven't much time.

Gueiris: I'm sure there is some event coming up that will be approprate.

Alexeria Kyrnon: Something Lady Orsino and I can discuss, I'm sure.

Gueiris: We'll bring her in and you can do so.

Lavinia: Thank you again, My Lady. You've made us both very happy today.

Alexeria Kyrnon: You are most welcome, Hersir, and allow me to offer a preliminary welcome to our family.

Gueiris: will step out with Lavinia to fetch Lady Orsino

Gueiris: I don't know if she is up to something, but I don't care. We're one step closer.

Lavinia: What would she be up to? Why would she give her blessing if she did not want us to marry?

Gueiris: She is always planning something, but it doesnt make a difference. Its not stopping us.

Lavinia: will squeeze Gueiris' hand reassuringly.

Gueiris: squeezes right back and smiles.


Leonora and Zanne discuss Thurston's Villainy

Narrator: Leonora will receive a note from Justiciar Zanne Machel, Marquess Lownmont, requesting a meeting with her at her earliest convenience.

Leonora: will attend, guessing some of what the conversation must surely be about.

Leonora: (is Zanne about the same age as Thurston, or older?)

Narrator: (How old is Thurston again? I think they're of similar ages. Zanne should be in her late 30s.)

Leonora: (yeah that sounds right)

Lamont: (I think that makes her younger? I think we figured out Thurston is like early 40s)

Narrator: (Again, similar. She might be a little younger)

Leonora: (am I meeting her at her home, or at some official office in the city?)

Zanne Machel: will have arranged for lunch at a social club, ensuring privacy while not provoking too much notice.

Leonora: arrives slightly ahead of time to ensure that the place is secure and no obvious signs of anyone looking for such a meeting. If there is, I depart immediately.

Narrator: There doesn't appear to be, and Leonora is pretty good at spotting that sort of thing.

Leonora: awaits the arrival of Lady Lownmont, then.

Zanne Machel: will have been waiting. She's a tall, wiry blond woman with a shorter haircut than is strictly fashionable, dressed in relatively modest clothes for the heir to House Machel.

Zanne Machel: stands when Leonora enters and beckons her over.

Leonora: comes to join her.

Leonora: Lady Lownmont, a pleasure to make your acquaintance.

Zanne Machel: Likewise, Lady Wengal, despite the circumstances. It's a shame we haven't met previously. Please, sit. Would you like something to drink?

Leonora: Just tea, for now, thank you.

Zanne Machel: will make a gesture, and an invisible servant will bring tea.

Zanne Machel: All things considered, I thought it best to rely upon magical service for this meeting.

Narrator: (unseen, rather)

Leonora: Yes, and if you don't mind, I'm going to activate my dragonmark. Just in case. It will protect us from any sort of espionage.

Zanne Machel: nods.

Leonora: does so.

Zanne Machel: I shouldn't think mine is necessary, and it's more polite if I don't, but your's would be prudent.

Zanne Machel: Thank you.

Zanne Machel: I was very troubled by what's been brought to me regarding my cousin.

Zanne Machel: Moreso given the possibility of his involvement in my brother's death.

Leonora: I can't speak to that directly. But I have known Thurston for many years. So I don't take any of this lightly.

Zanne Machel: The two of you were romantically linked?

Zanne Machel: Forgive my directness; hazard of the job.

Leonora: Almost fifteen years ago now. Romantic is too strong a word, but yes, there was a courtship for a time, and discussions of a marriage.

Zanne Machel: And now?

Leonora: And now what?

Zanne Machel: You've had little contact with Thurston in the intervening time?

Leonora: Very little. I wrote him earlier this spring, upon making the acquaintance of Lamont.

Zanne Machel: nods.

Leonora: Other than that, though, no, we were clearly not a good match, in retrospect. Not that I saw it quite that way at the time.

Leonora: When one is eighteen and new to the social scene, it is easy to see a failure to match as a personal failure.

Zanne Machel: Rather than an arrow dodged.

Zanne Machel: I'm familiar with the feeling.

Zanne Machel: Again, forgive me, but what is your relationship with Lamont?

Leonora: Well, nothing is official yet. But Lord Wengal and I are planning on contracting with Lamont to provide us an heir.

Leonora: Provided that this matter does not intervene.

Zanne Machel: Ah, of course. I shouldn't think that it would, and I hope such an arrangement will prove beneficial to all parties.

Zanne Machel: Lamont and I are not close, but he and my brother were, and, well, he's had more sorrow than anyone as young as he is should have to face.

Zanne Machel: What can you tell me about the attack on Therma Alba? I've spoken to Curiate Amathalis, as well as Fyan Nabari, but the report of a second Sentinel scion would be beneficial. We have...different training than most.

Leonora: nods.

Leonora: It was organized, in a sense. In the sense that they clearly knew that there were high-value targets there. My sense is that they had not anticipated the degree of resistance from individuals other than their top targets.

Leonora: If it had just been, say, Fyan Nabari and a few others, plus the small number of guards at Therma Alba, the outcome likely would have been different.

Zanne Machel: Foiled by a party. Embarrassing.

Zanne Machel: says mirthlessly.

Leonora: Lord Wengal and I are not unaccustomed to interruptions to our social lives, being from Nachtur.

Zanne Machel: So the recovered letter most likely had its cipher broken, then.

Zanne Machel: does smile slightly at that.

Zanne Machel: I'm familiar. I was with the first wave of soldiers in the retaking.

Zanne Machel: If I hadn't already been settled in Highmark, I might have moved out that way myself, but people needed allies here.

Leonora: I have to ask, because you have known him for much longer and far better than I have ... what is Thurston aiming at here?

Zanne Machel: I'm not going to lie, Lady Wengal, this investigation is proceeding, but slowly. I'm near certain of Thurston's involvement, and I take a very dim view of those who truck with primordials and their cultists, but...he's done this sort of work for years. He's good at covering his tracks.

Zanne Machel: In a personal sense, I believe he wants to retain control of House Allard, however he can.

Zanne Machel: As to the attack, and the cultists, well, it wouldn't be the first time people have tried to use them for their own purposes.

Leonora: The ends and the means seem ... disproportionate.

Leonora: To cause no end of damage to property and life, in order to achieve a political end.

Zanne Machel: The Confederacy has seen worse, for less.

Zanne Machel: But I agree.

Leonora: To think that I could be married to a man like that ... it is nauseating.

Zanne Machel: Hopefully, no one will ever suffer that fate.

Zanne Machel: Nor, if I can help it, suffer at his hands ever again.

Leonora: How else can I be of assistance to you?

Zanne Machel: Given your history with Thurston, would you be willing to meet with him? Perhaps you would be able to finesse confirmation of his involvement out of him?

Zanne Machel: I'm approaching this from all possible angles.

Leonora: I would, in principle. It would need to be approached with great care.

Leonora: I have not been greatly looking forward to the possibility that I might have to talk to him about this other business of mine and Lamont.

Leonora: But perhaps that is the way forward.

Zanne Machel: nods.

Zanne Machel: If he's not aware of the arrangement just yet, perhaps it is another point on which to press.

Zanne Machel: I and my team are working our way back through his network of agents, but...I'm sure I don't need to tell you how complicated the intelligence work of the Houses and the Confederacy can be.

Leonora: I will be most cautious not to disclose anything that would jeopardize your team's work.

Leonora: The question of whether I can raise the existence of the letter is very tricky. Without some mention of it, it's hard to see how the discussion becomes productive.

Zanne Machel: I can have an exact copy supplied, if it would help.

Zanne Machel: Perhaps you could bring it to confront him with? Or to inquire, at least.

Leonora: That would be helpful.

Leonora: How would you want me to say I acquired it?

Zanne Machel: Recovered at Therma Alba. It has the benefit of being close to the truth.

Leonora: And how much of this would you like me to share with Lamont?

Leonora: He seems like he has much on his mind right now.

Zanne Machel: I'm trying not to overburden him, but I also don't want to keep him out of the loop. I'll leave it to your discretion; it's unlikely he'd let anything slip.

Leonora: Understood.

Zanne Machel: I appreciate your aid, though I'm sorry you've gotten pulled into Thurston's orbit. Or blast radius, as the case may be.

Leonora: It is as it must be. We are called to serve, so we serve.

Zanne Machel: Our watch never ends.

Zanne Machel: raises her glass to Leonora.


Nik and Coifárë Visit Lamont's New Apartments

Lamont: will have invited a few select people to the place he's rented for the rest of the season

Nik: (what's the place like? 🙂

Lamont: has managed to find a furnished townhouse in Highpark - the decoration style is a bit older, a bit ostentatious for his personal tastes, but respectable.

Nik: It's quite nice!

Nik: says encouragingly

Lamont: Thank you. If I were keeping it longer, I would definitely make some changes

Coifárë: Oh? Who knows, maybe you'll want to keep the bachelor's getaway. 😉

Lamont: well. If I do, I will be changing a few things. But I think with more time I could find something more suitable, also

Lamont: the privacy has certainly been a relief

Nik: Oh, are you saying you'll want to get away from me? 😉

Lamont: and, thank you both for coming

Nik: teases

Coifárë: chuckles at Nik's teasing.

Lamont: Maybe you'll want to get away from me

Lamont: teases back

Nik: smiles

Nik: I can't imagine.

Nik: But maybe if I want to do a little writing in a quiet location...

Lamont: Yes. And honestly at this stage, just the idea of having such a retreat is... somewhat appealing, regardless of circumstances

Coifárë: Having something and somewhere that is your own?

Lamont: Indeed.

Lamont: But outside of the season, who knows where I may wind up, anyway.

Lamont: For now, I will be grateful for it, and to my cousin, who helped with find a steward to manage with getting everything set up so quickly

Nik: I'm glad that it was possible to find such a fine place this far into the season.

Coifárë: Oh, is there any gossip as to how you managed it? Someone had to leave town quickly for some reason, perhaps?

Lamont: Nothing too outrageous, or I wouldn't have wanted the association - I feel as though I've been the center of enough talk for several seasons.

Lamont: It actually belongs to the Bressnet's, the Earl of Laiss's younger brother Malorix

Coifárë: gives Lamont an encouraging smile.

Coifárë: Oh?

Lamont: He was recalled to Morrow a few weeks ago

Lamont: so not too dramatic, except that it may be a general foreshawoding of events to come

Coifárë: frowns.

Coifárë: Yes, I keep hearing things are deteriorating down there.

Lamont: nods

Lamont: My own unit was recalled to Highmark while I was ill, but my leave still stands for the moment

Nik: looks a bit worried about that

Coifárë: Do you think they'll be deployed?

Coifárë: specifically refrains from asking whether Lamont will be as well.

Lamont: it seems highly likely, but it could not be until the end of the season

Lamont: glances between the two of them

Lamont: My own situation is, at present, less certain.

Coifárë: Well, it's progressing, at least?

Lamont: Yes.

Lamont: I told Nik, but Zanne has decided to have the inquiry about what happened with Gerry's patrol reopened.

Coifárë: That's...good, right?

Lamont: Yes.... He was her brother, though they were not close

Lamont: Of course my feelings are... complicated, but I am hopeful

Coifárë: nods.

Lamont: says, only a little bit like he's trying to convince himself

Lamont: smiles a little

Nik: If there is anything we can do to help, of course you need only ask.

Lamont: I didn't meant to bring us to such heavy topics

Coifárë:

Of course my feelings are... complicated, but I am hopeful

Lamont - jump

As we should all strive to remain, I'm sure. Marquess Lownmont (Zanne's current individual courtesy title) serves Bahamut; she'll see justice done.

Coifárë: And you don't need to apologize, though we can move on to more pleasant things if it will help set your mind at ease.

Lamont: It's alright, I don't want to keep anything from ether of you - though this is meant to be a holiday

Lamont: please though - tell me what you think of the lunch

Narrator: (What're we having? 😛 )

Lamont: (Salad with some early summer fuits, a cold soup and cold cuts, with some nice bread and butter plus various pickles, cheese condiments etc?)

Nik: Everything is very nice!

Lamont: (cold cults more lied cold sliced roasted chicken and beef rather than like salami or whatever)

Nik: I received a letter from my parents, in response to my telling them of our engagement. They wished us all the best, of course. My father intends to be back in Highmark in a few days' time, as most of the injured have recovered enough to depart by now.

Coifárë: That's good to hear on all counts, Nik.

Coifárë: smiles brightly.

Coifárë: Hopefully you'll be able to announce soon.

Coifárë: And, yes, the food is scrumptious, Lamont.

Lamont: Thank you.

Lamont: My uncle insists on a 'proper' meeting. I said I would host here but, we will see.

Lamont: I don't know how quickly any of the investigations are proceeding, or what my situtation will be even if there is ny move against him

Nik: Should we arrange that for after my father has returned, so that he may be there?

Nik: I mean the meeting. not ... the other things.

Lamont: Yes, that would be wise.

Lamont: and proper

Nik: nods

Nik: Maybe I could set up a little writing table over by that window...

Nik: considers, looking around the room for possible places

Lamont: It does get quite good light

Nik: would it be in your way?

Lamont: Not at all

Coifárë: smiles mostly to themself at that exchange.

Nik: Oh, good. Because I do think my editor has been very patient but at some point will really think I should get back to work...

Nik: says carefully

Lamont: Your editor?

Narrator: (Has Nik revealed anything to these two at this point, vis a vis his book?)

Nik: (no, he's kept it quiet. I think just because it never seemed like the right time to bring it up when Lamont was dying or people were being attacked etc. always other stuff going on.)

Lamont: 9I think just to kitty)

Nik: (yeah he did tell Kitty)

Coifárë: (to Lamont) Did we know he has an editor?

Coifárë: I think you've been holding out on us.

Lamont: no - have you found someone to publish your poems?

Nik: Well, I did write a book...not poetry though, a romance. And since it's done rather well, they think I ought to do another one, only I haven't had a good idea yet... I know I hadn't told you but it never seemed like the right moment to mention it. I wasn't trying deliberately to be secretive.

Lamont: oh.

Lamont: Well. You should publish your poems.

Nik: Well... perhaps 🙂

Coifárë: What's the title of your book?

Nik: At Last The Night...

Nik: says, a bit embarrassed

Coifárë: At Last the...Nikession Amathalis! You're Melodye Fayre?!

Lamont: of course does not react because this means nothing to him

Nik: Um... yes. I thought my parents likely would not approve of my name being on such a work, so I used a pen name.

Coifárë: Be that as it may, how did it take this long to tell, well, me? I don't think Lamont has read the novel...

Lamont: watches the exchange, and shakes his head

Nik: I don't know! I wanted to say something earlier but when people were saying such nice things about it, it seemed like I would be bragging if I was to interject with the claim that I wrote it. People might not believe me... I didn't mean to hide it, really, it just never seemed like the right time to tell you.

Coifárë: Hmph. Punishment will needs be forthcoming, of course.

Coifárë: says with a smirk.

Nik: of course I'll accept whatever you think suitable :3

Coifárë: Though I daresay Lamont and I can help provide inspiration for your next book.

Lamont: frowns a little at that

Nik: Oh... well, maybe a little? At least in terms of, um, making some of the elements more, well, true to life? But I wouldn't feel right using things from my friends' actual lives in a story.

Coifárë: chuckles.

Coifárë: Yes, Nik, that's more what I meant.

Coifárë: I don't particularly plan to have my life serialized, though I suppose it has its perks.

Nik: chuckles at that

Nik: I haven't actually, um, well, looked at how much money the book has brought in. I just asked to have it all set up so I wouldn't have to deal with that. I probably should, though...

Lamont: well, you shouldn't need to.

Nik: no, but I mean... I think there are things one can do with income like that, I don't really know all the details, but perhaps invest it or something? Or use it to help people?

Coifárë: There's an idea. Anything in particular catch your interest?

Nik: I don't really know. Would you have any suggestions?

Nik: looks at both of you

Coifárë: Not as such, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Miss Allement's cause. Which, of course, is Chitara's as well, but from, perhaps, different angles.

Nik: Ah, that's true... perhaps worth thinking about?

Lamont: 's frown deepens a bit

Lamont: I'm sure Nerath has many worthy causes..

Nik: oh, I'm sure. I had not made any particular decision on such matters.

Lamont: nods

Coifárë: Not a fan of their work, Lamont?

Lamont: I'm not familiar with Miss Allement. I have spoken some to Miss Kitus, but I don't believe our perspectives are entirely in alignment.

Coifárë: I appreciate their passion, though I'm certainly familiar with the opposing arguments. My family, as a whole, is...not sympathetic.

Lamont: I'm sure.

Coifárë: Perhaps I could persuade you both to attend one of Victorina's speeches? She is, at the very least, quite energetic.

Nik: Certainly, I'd be willing to attend.

Lamont: I feel as thought I have enough matters to attend to for the moment, thank you.

Coifárë: Yes, of course, I don't mean to be putting anything else on your shoulders at the moment.

Lamont: It's such a complex issue, in any case

Coifárë: As you say.

Coifárë: In any event, hopefully today's festivities will lift your spirits, and you two should be joyful in any case.

Nik: smiles at that

Nik: Yes, I hope so 🙂 Lamont, you will come to the celebrations, won't you?

Lamont: What, today? I thought that was the plan...

Nik: Yes, well, it was, but if you were feeling as though you had too much else to do, I would quite understand.

Lamont: Oh, I had been looking forward to it.

Lamont: says, sounding surprised

Nik: Oh, good then 🙂

Nik: leans over and gives Lamont a kiss on the cheek and squeezes his hand

Lamont: smiles

Coifárë: Splendid. 😄

Lamont: Well, if we're all finished with lunch, we could consider venturing that way?

Nik: Certainly!

Coifárë: Of course.


Reputation

Rumor and Scandal

(include only every second chapter)

Epistolary

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