Post by Fehu Isa on Jan 19, 2009 22:38:12 GMT -6
Elise Haraldr: ::she too needed the time to roam freely having been cooped up in a holding cell for so long, she makes her way to the Jarl's hall, eager to do whatever is needed. She steps up to the guards at the door and gives them a warm smile:: Tal Sirs::the guards smirk at her since they had witnessed her humiliation, not to mention every hort of her body the day before::
Lady Kessa: Unwrapping her head, the draped cloth there to keep her hair from going crazed in the wind was laid over the peg before the cloak was, and she proceeded with a flittering wave of hand toward the bondmaids in the kitchen, having come through the back way, to move through and take her seat without having to go the long way. Looking up at the opening doors, she smiled softly from behind the high seat, in full 'Mistress of the Hall' mode, until she noted who they were letting in. "Lady Elise." She spoke up. "Welcome." Settling down in her seat, she motioned her in, then took up her sewing from beside her seat adjacent to the High Seat of the Jarl.
Elise Haraldr: ::yup, those guards had seen every bump, curves and goose pimple on her yesterday, she feels like she will simply vanish with shame, but the Lady's greeting warms her as she heads into the hall:: Tal Lady
Lady Kessa: She had not been present for the judgement, for more reasons than one. But she had done her best, knowing beforehand that unless Elise threw herself into the circle, she was not to come out enslaved, she'd made certain that Comfort had done her best to add fuel to the fire. The next time, it would be wholly real, and there would be no kind Magistrate to save her bacon. "Tal. Tea?" She smiled softly, glad to see her alive and unfettered. "Your family is well I hope?"
Elise Haraldr: ::she nears the Lady of the hall and settles comfortably on a brace of furs:: aye, Lady, tea would be delightful ::her feet are still a little sore, but she would be hornswaggled if she would limp, with a quick nod:: aye, Lady, my family is well, thank you, and you? you're doing well too I hope?
KyrstenErikdotir: ::coming up the path not far behind her daughter, she notices the guards' reaction and frowns sternly at them as her daughter steps inside. After greeting them politely, she follows her daughter into the hall and walks up it to where Kessa and Elise are, taking a seat next to Elise and setting her bag down beside her:: Tal, Lady Kessa.
Lady Kessa: "Tal, Lady Kyrsten." She smiled more openly. "Mother of the best archers in Fehu Isa." She chuckled. "And not so bad herself." She motioned Fire to come bring the ladies tea. "What has passed, let it be the past. If anyone should be overtly rude, Lady Elise..."pinning her gaze on her. "You are to tell the Magistate, the Jarl, or myself and we will see to it."
NorthernWanderer: ::Tor walked back into the hall without a sound, other than the door opening and then closing behind him. He looked around slowly while he stepped into view. Blue eyes scanned the room, though the right side of his face was concealed beneath long, unkept sandy blonde hair. He was clean shaven though. He stood up perfectly straight while he looked over the room at a height of six feet six inches. Hand sewn black larl furs covered him in the form of a vest, pants and a pair of knee high boots that more resembled moccasins, which would explain the silent steps. He stood in the entrance then, just listening and watching for a few moments before he moved further into the room and gave the women each a nod in greeting::
Lady Kessa: She looked up at the man stepping in, one who she knew by the description given by Sweetness who had
Elise Haraldr: ::she smiles at her mother as she sits beside her, leaning into her automatically and beaming at Garrick's pride in winning the archery contest, Gerhard had done well for himself too, both of them cocked up like a "rape patrol" of jake turkeys, she nods at the Lady with a warm and sheepish smile:: thank you Lady, I shall
Lady Kessa: shown him to his room. Rising from her seat, one hand laid across her belly, the other's fingertips on the table before her to steady her. "Tal, Sir. Though you are no doubt welcomed by thought, be welcomed by voice. Sit, if it please you." The tea set down on the table, she shooed Fire who made quick steps toward the Jarl to bow her head, the heavy kirtle of white wool embroidered at the neck and high-cut legs with gold and red flames that fit her name begging what she might do to aid him in gaining happiness and ease.
Elise Haraldr: ::she looks at the man entering:: Tal Sir
KyrstenErikdotir: ::out of the bag comes her sewing box and a large, half-sewn tunic of finely woven deep blue wool. She pulls loose the needle that was tucked into the seam she is currently sewing and continues where she left off, nodding her head politely to the new arrival:: Tal, sir.
Lady Kessa: Resuming her seat, the tea poured from the pot, as it was done here simply to suit the way that they went through it. It was hot, and it was not intoxicating. She drank it like a fish, frankly. A horn-carved cup poured for Kyrsten, one for Elise, and lastly herself.
NorthernWanderer: ::he looked down at the girl who came to stand before him. He looked her over for a few moments more then before he waved her off in silence before he made his way further into the room and took a seat at the table nearest the fire.
Elise Haraldr: ::she shifts a little on her rump, still sore from the licking her Da gave her the night before, something she knew she deserved, he was kind enough to only use a strap, however, when one of the boys would have gotten a good whipping, she reaches into her Ma's bag and pulls out a skein of wool yarn and begins to straighten the strands and roll it into a ball::
NorthernWanderer: He looked around the room to the women again but he still decided to remain silent. He produced a small, leather pack from behind him and from that he pulled a piece of fruit. He took a bite then and remained sitting perfectly in his chair::
Lady Kessa: "I took the liberty of laying out a kirtle for your girl, Sir. No doubt her other clothes will be insufficient for the climate." She'd offer out the sugar, then honey to sweeten, whichever the ladies preferred. "If you were not aware, I am Kessa, companion of Jarl Franz Castellan, and Mistress of his Hall. The ladies I am sharing tea with are the Lady Kyrsten Erikdotir, and her daughter Elise Haraldr. The finest weavers that I've ever met, here or any other place. Hazels rose to pin to him over her lifted cup. "Now we are all acquainted."
KyrstenErikdotir: ::would take honey in her tea, pausing to take a sip now and then once it is in front of her but mostly concentrating on her sewing as the lady speaks to the man who must be a new guest of the Hall::
Elise Haraldr: ::she nods sweetly at the man, not having caught his name:: well met Sir ::she shifts again in her seat to ease the discomfort in her rump, pausing in her yarn rolling to sweeten her tea with honey and taking a sip, savoring the quiet community and industry::
KyrstenErikdotir: ::sews with neat, tiny stitches, making a sturdy seam that will hold up under hard work on the farm. The making of clothing is a never ending process with six men in the family::
NorthernWanderer: ::he nodded then when the woman, Kessa, told him she had laid out a kirtle for his girl.:: Many thanks, Lady Kessa. ::he leaned back then and listened while Kessa introduced the three of them. He nodded to each in turn then and took another bite of his fruit before he spoke:: I am Tor. Well met, Ladies.
KyrstenErikdotir: Well met, sir.
Lady Kessa: The tea was strong and hot, burning its honeyed way down her throat with reminder just how many supplies would be needed when they departed for the Se'Var festival tomorrow. It provided the best opportunity to have merchants from as far as Schendi available for the purchase of things. Not to mention that on the last day, the prices would be cheapest as they'd not want to haul it all back with them.
Elise Haraldr: ::she smiles warmly at Kessa's compliment of her family, especially her mother's weaving abilities, glancing up at her mother she gives her a smile of pride before returning the freshly balled yarn to the bag and pulling out another skein to roll::
Lady Kessa: "Well met, Tor. If you have anything needing written, I, on occasion, function as something near the scribe of the outpost. While I hold no caste, no person of the North is said to, and we follow the laws of the Jarl here, and his are very Torvaldslandic." She meant that she could do paperwork, but it wasn't worth the paper it was written on outside of Torvaldsland.
NorthernWanderer: ::he nodded then and took another bite of his fruit before he reached into his pack, producing another, which he offered to Kessa.:: I do appreciate your offer, but I doubt I will have anyone to write to ::he chuckled quietly then and leaned back in the chair a bit::
KyrstenErikdotir: ::watches her daughter rolling yarn for a moment between stitches, sewing quickly so that she can finish the tunic for her companion in time to pack it for the journey::
Lady Kessa: She took the offered fruit, turning it over in her fingers, checking the skin, not because she didn't trust him, merely a habit from the old days. "Thank you, Sir." She set it down and took out her knife, slicing the fruit into quarters and offering out one to each of the other ladies. "You are waiting, no doubt, to speak to Franz?" It was really a rhetorical question, obviously he needed to. New folk always did. "He's gone hunting." That what he was after was not larl or sleen, but men, that she did not speak of. He was a good man, but she knew him well enough to read what he did not say between the words of what he did. "But I will make certain he speaks with you soon."
Acheron Sinis: After time spent alone, he walked back to the main Hall from the beach. He entered as he normally did, hanging his cloak to one of the pegs by the door.
Lady Kessa: She looked to the door and smiled again. "Ah, Tal, Papo." She almost felt the brush of air as Comfort moved past, her legs flicking the edges of her kirtle up as she hastened to his side to see if he wished tea or mead or any other thing.
KyrstenErikdotir: ::secures the needle in the fabric long enough to take the offered piece of fruit, nibbling one end of it a bit before she sets it beside her cup of tea so that she can start stitching once more::
NorthernWanderer: Many thanks. ::he nodded again while he finished his fruit and folded his hands together in his lap while he looked around the hall slowly and relaxed a bit:: He goes hunting often? ::he looked back to Kessa then before he heard her greeting Papo. He looked over his shoulder at the man then and nodded his greetings. He pulled a bondsmaid aside then and sent her into the kitchen for water::
Lady Kessa: "Of late." She answered Tor and then slipped to quiet, eating the bit of given fruit and washing down polite bites with her tea.
Acheron Sinis: "Tal."
Elise Haraldr: ::having finished rolling the skein, she reaches into her mother's bag and pulls out a set of stockings to darn, rummaging around inside, she looks up as Papo enters the hall, despite his torment of yesterday, she still considers him her rescuer, her smile beams at him, even as she squirms a little on her sore rump:: Tal Sir
Acheron Sinis: He greeted all the same. He walked over to a table and sat to the chair. He gave a nod to Elise.
SweetnessNPC: Sweetness with a nod moved the moment he let her go, strawberry-blonde hair whipping round her black-iron collared throat so quickly did she turn. Hastening to the kitchen she gave a nod to Ilsa, the kitchen mistress, and then from the water barrel a pitcher of cold fresh water. The stoneware glinting lightly in the already rising condensation from the heated room, she took down a wood-turned mug and hastened back on bare feet, the little flowers that lined the edges of her kirtle twitching with her bouncy frame's movement. Setting down the tankard she poured his water, pressing close enough to show her pleasure, but not enough to be 'up on him'. Stepping back with the pitcher, she bowed her head. "Should I leave the pitcher, Jarl?"
KyrstenErikdotir: Tal, Papo. ::nods politely to him as she reaches into the sewing box and hands her daughter the darning egg of smoothly polished wood::
Acheron Sinis: Another polite nod to Elise's mother.
Annalyn Sinclair: ::entering quietly she would pause within the hall, a small bowl in her hand. A gift for the Lady Kessa:: Quietly, she spoke :: tal Sirs, Ladies..
Elise Haraldr: ::with a smile at her mother, she takes the darning egg and runs it through the stocking, she reaches down again for a needle and thread, threading it through the needle, she begins her darning, she leans into her mother to show her the stitches to make sure they were small enough, looking up at the Lady entering, she smiles at her:: Tal Lady
Acheron Sinis: As far as what Papo had done to Elise, he was an equal opportunity tormentor.
KyrstenErikdotir: ::nods to her and gives her a quiet reminder to weave the woolen thread in well among the knitted stitches so that the repair will last, then looks up and smiles at Annalyn:: Tal, Lady.
Lady Kessa: She smiled. "Tal, Lady Annalyn." She swallowed the last of her fruit and with a slight sigh, rose from her seat. "Welcome. Forgive my lapse, I was chewing." She motioned to the ladies. "Do you know everyone? Lady Elise and her mother Lady Kyrsten." She knew that Papo was known. "And the Sir is Tor, who is newly arrived in our company."
NorthernWanderer: ::he looked up at the girl after she poured his water for him and he nodded a bit, taking the tankard from her slowly. He set it carefully on the table before he dismissed the girl and picked up the tankard, taking a small sip of the water. He looked over again and noticed someone he recognized, though he could not place her face. He set the tankard down slowly then and nodded to the new woman::
KyrstenErikdotir: ::her eyes go back to her sewing, though her ears follow the conversation as she whips the thread around the needle a few times before tying a neat little knot to finish off the seam::
Elise Haraldr: ::nodding at the Lady:: well met Lady ::her brow furrowing slightly as she attends to her darning::
Annalyn Sinclair: :::a gentle smile given all as she approached the Lady Kessa. Placing the bowl beside her:: A small token of my appreciation your kindness since I have visited here Lady.
Lady Kessa: The bowl lifted, she turned it round in her hands, smiling. "It is quite beautiful, Lady Annalyn. May I thus assume you have succeeded in finding space to erect your kiln? If you need anything more, you have but to say so. The builders Franz has under his employ are directed to aid in any way that helps the village to grow and expand. To turn their hands toward your task, whatever it might be, is within that directive. Thank you.. it is lovely. Will you stay and have tea?-d
KyrstenErikdotir: ::the needle is jabbed into the pincushion in her sewing box and she shakes out the completed tunic, folding it neatly and placing it in the bag that rests between her daughter and herself::
Elise Haraldr: ::she whips her thread through to tie it off and bites off the end, folding the stocking, she places it into the bag and runs the darning egg through the next stocking to begin darning that one, her brothers are very hard on their footwear. ::she glances at the bowl brought by the Lady and smiles in appreciation of the beauty of the work::
Annalyn Sinclair: :::Blushing faintly as the bowl did turn out nice she thought, the blue green glaze one she had been working on for some time. :: I would love a cup of tea Lady.. and yes for the moment I have all I need.
Acheron Sinis: He motioned Comfort to him..
Elise Haraldr: ::she returns her attention to her darning, her brow furrowed, her tongue caught between her teeth in concentration::
ComfortNPC: Comfort sidled up to him with a wriggle of joy to be called, sinking in a crouch beside him her hands tucked behind her back, thumb and forefinger looped, waiting.
Acheron Sinis: "Bring me some hot tea with honey, please.." he spoke low.
Lady Kessa: She motioned Sweetness over with her pitcher and had her retrieve another cup from the kitchen, and when it was brought back, more tea would be poured for Annalyn. "These ladies are the finest workers with wool. I am now near to bursting with the fine blankets they wove for the Festival that went unused." She chuckled again and offered Annalyn sugar or honey to sweeten her tea. "You must forgive my tone of annoyance. Some folk sent word they were coming and they did not." She wrinkled her nose in peevishness being pushed aside.
Acheron Sinis: He stood having needed to relieve himself...And went to the indoor outhouse. He would expect to see Comfort out there to serve him by that time..
Elise Haraldr: ::she glances at Kessa at her compliment, murmuring:: thank you Lady
Annalyn Sinclair: :::smiling as she drew a dollop of the honey and added it to her tea stirring slowly she nodded:: I am all thumbs when it comes to stitching, so I envy anyone who can create such beauty with such ease.
Lady Kessa: "Your work is beautiful, Lady Annalyn. Would it be possible, do you think, to make a set of simple cups and plates? Not that this work is not exceptional, but something a bit finer than the wood we use everyday but not so fine that if it fell to the floor and was shattered it would break my heart?" From the corner of her eye watching Comfort bring out the tea tray for Papo. Something might have to be done about that.
KyrstenErikdotir: Pottery is so much easier to clean than wood, as well, as it is not ruined if it needs to soak in hot water for a time. ::nods at Kessa::
Annalyn Sinclair: ::taking a sip of the tea she nodded:: I can do this.. perhaps not in china but rather stonewear so it will appear dressy but not be as subject to chip or break so easily. ::smiles to the Lady Kyrsten:: I suppose we both have our burdens when it comes to our art.
Lady Kessa: She had a mouth full of tea, but gave a nod and a movement of her hand toward Elise that said without words 'I agree with what she said'. Swallowing, another nod would be given. "Stoneware is perfect, Lady Annalyn. There is no hurry." She looked around the circle of women. "We are departing tomorrow for the journey by sea around to Ko-Ro-Ba Station to make our way to the Se'Var Fair. Will any of you be coming along?" It was a long trip, frankly, and any feminine company would be wonderful. Ivan was staying to watch over the Hall, and she was sure that if Marius planned to go, he would make sure that the village was well protected in his absence, and if he remained, there would be even less a reason for worry.
Elise Haraldr: ::she smiles at Kessa and nods, continuing with her darning. She looks at her mother to see if the family was planning to go to the Faire, she knew she wanted to, but there is much to be done on the farm::
Annalyn Sinclair: I would enjoy such, if I might join you. I've never been to such but have heard quite a great deal about them.
Elise Haraldr: ::she pauses in her darning and squirms a little on her rump as she reaches for her cup of tea and takes a swallow::
KyrstenErikdotir: Bjorn and I are going. Selig, being the eldest, is staying to oversee the farm and those who stay. Macken is coming and Garrick is, this time.
Lady Kessa: "I've been to the En'Var... once. It was .." She chuckled and shook her head, smiling in a bemused way "Very big. But there are few places to get as much in one place. Spices and chocolate and Odin knows we need our tea..." She
Elise Haraldr: ::she raises her eye brows to her mother since she didn't say anything about herself going. She gives her mother that "oh please oh please oh please{/i]" look she is so familiar with::
KyrstenErikdotir: ::gives her daughter a rather severe look:: And Elise is going but had best remember that she is to stay with me or with one of the men at all times.
Elise Haraldr: Elise Haraldr: ::with a happy chuckle:: aye Ma
KyrstenErikdotir: As it is more than any woman has a right to expect that she should be rescued twice.
Elise Haraldr: ::she looks at Kessa and Annalyn with eyes glowing with pleasure::
KyrstenErikdotir: ::mostly she doesn't trust her sons to remember they're supposed to keep an eye on their sister...and that is the real reason she's going::
Lady Kessa: nodded to Kyrsten. "I am pleased to know you're going. As well as knowing that young Garrick was going. And Elise. "No doubt the Lady Elise will be like an egg under a vulo. Smothered but safe." She gave her a look of her own but said no more on it, as Kyrsten had said it all.
Acheron Sinis: Having leaked out a flood and shaking it only once..! He then returned to his seat. After all...You shake it more then once...And you're playing with it.
KyrstenErikdotir: Elise, shall I leave the bag? I must go oversee the evening meal but you can continue the mending here, if you like. ::under the eyes of the Lady and Papo, of course::
ComfortNPC: Comfort was waiting, her eyes on his approach and unabashedly so. She'd cradle the tea tray against her stomach, at the very end of that deep V and wait for him to want it poured.
Elise Haraldr: ::she rolls up her darning:: nay, thank you Ma, I'll go back with you and help with dinner
Lady Kessa: Not to mention the eyes of the quartet of guards, and the phalanx that moved in constant shift from post to post around the village like ants keeping the anthill guarded. In Fehu Isa, anyone trying to get at one of their women would have to dig through the bodies of at least ten people to do so. "Then I bid you good health and safety, Lady Elise, Lady Kyrsten. And I look forward to seeing you aboard the ship."
Acheron Sinis: He smiled to the girl and then watched as she fixed his tea for him. He gave a nod for her to proceed.
KyrstenErikdotir: Good. ::closes the sewing box and puts it back in the bag, then up she gets:: Thank you for having us, Lady Kessa. Sewing is boring without company, necessary though it is.
Acheron Sinis: And Papo, by the way was in charge of the guard trainings.
KyrstenErikdotir: ::collects the darning from her daughter's hands and tucks it in the bag as she picks it up, then makes her way down the hall to leave::
Elise Haraldr: ::packing the stockings into the bag, she stands and smoothes down her finely woven kirtle before turning to Kessa:: I wish you well Lady and Odin's blessings ::turning to the other Lady and Papo:: I wish you well Sir, and Lady
Annalyn Sinclair: ::her tea finished she rose as well:: I too must go, but I shall work on the dishes for you. I have several glazes, ranging in color and tone. Please let me know which you favor. ::turns to Lady Krysten:: I bid you well Lady and well met. ::Smiles::
KyrstenErikdotir: Be well, all.
Acheron Sinis: "Be well, lady.." He stood politely.
Elise Haraldr: ::she follows her mother out of the hall::
Acheron Sinis: "Be well, lady Elise.." He bowed his head respectfully.
Lady Kessa: "Be well, Lady Annalyn, I will make my choice, of course." She sighed to herself, figuring that it would be no rush job, since they'd be gone for nearly a hand. -d
Elise Haraldr: ::she turns back to Papo and gives him a beaming smile:: thank you Sir ::she hurries out the door after her mother::
Acheron Sinis: He smiled to her.
Annalyn Sinclair: ::nods:: It takes a while to fire them and my kilns won't hold an entire set at a time, so I will need to get started soon on them.
ComfortNPC: Tea poured and sweetened, Comfort lifted up the cup, her lip ensnared between her teeth, a little shudder running through her for a moment, waiting with infinite patience for the cup to be taken.
Lady Kessa: "I'll come down this evening, if that is alright. Overseeing trips to the docks to load things is one of the more pleasant tasks I have before me today." She laughed lightly.
Acheron Sinis: He smoothed his hand over Comfort's and then to the handle of the cup..Winking to her with a soft smile as he took hold to it.
ComfortNPC: As ever, the touch of the Jarl was pleasure even if it were only faint and fleeting. The wink made her smile and she, though loathe to do so, rose from her crouch and stepped back, assuring fully she was dismissed before she just walked off. Comfort was fond of him. She was frankly fond of most everyone, but especially Jarl Papo.
Annalyn Sinclair: ::with a nod then she turned toward the door:: I need to get back I have a few things that will be almost ready now.. I just wanted to drop off the bowl and thank you all again for your hospitality.
Lady Kessa: "It is beautiful, Lady Annalyn. And know you are welcome in Tyr'Odal anytime you wish to come. Even without presents." She admired the bowl again under her fingertips as she watched the lady go. She was giving thought to what she wanted for the Hall's 'fine' dishes. Sturdy, that would be first thing. But something brown or blue. Maybe a green... something that brought to mind the charms of Fehu Isa. The earth, the sea, the forest. She did not doubt the Lady had exceptional skill, but this was a task to test even the most patient person, and so she'd been sure to ask well in advance.
Annalyn Sinclair: ::a warm smile given:: Be well Sir, Lady..
NorthernWanderer: ::Tor walked back in from his quarters after a bit and looked aorund slowly then. It seemed to have cleared out quickly...he nodded to Papo and then Lady Kessa then before he moved into the kitchen, fixing himself a tankard of cool water before he made his way back out to the main hall and found a seat::
Acheron Sinis: He nodded.. He was still sipping the tea Comfort had served him..
Lady Kessa: "Tal, Tor, Sir." She said with a dip of her chin, heating up her tea with the addition of fresh from the pot. She'd have to stop or risk living in the bathroom for the next hand.
NorthernWanderer: ::Once seated, he took a drink from the tankard before he leaned back in his seat a bit, looking around the room once more:;
ComfortNPC: Risking rebuff, Comfort pushed back a hank of blonde as she stepped closer, still cradling the tea tray against her hip with her other arm. "Jarl...are you alright?" She was worried, he didn't seem himself today.
Acheron Sinis: He looked to Comfort... "I'm fine, girl.." he smiled to her. It was true he was not himself. Anni seemed...Well...Distant.
NorthernWanderer: ::he looked to the fire slowly then and seemed to lose himself in thought while he stared off, seemingly looking past the embers in the fire. He had a light grip on the tankard at first and while he zoned out, his grip slowly tightened a bit more::
ComfortNPC: She nodded. "If you want... more tea." She smiled to herself and flushed pink. "I will happily get you anything you want." Her steps backed away and with a toss of sun-kissed sa-tarna hair, she sauntered back toward the kitchen.
Acheron Sinis: He leaned his hand to her cheek.."No...I'm fine.."
ComfortNPC: Her eyes fell on the new Jarl, looking him over beneath her lashes and then biting away a grin by pressure of teeth against her lip. She bowed her head to her Mistress as she passed, then vanished again into the kitchen to keep the tea hot.
Lady Kessa: "Looking over at the new guest, she folded her arms atop the table, though she actually had to scoot her backside away from it slightly to make room now. "Tor, Sir.. I would know if you plan to accompany us on our trip to the Se'Var. I know you've only just arrived and likely have no wish to be gone again, but... I thought it polite to invite you, and let you know you're more than welcome."
Acheron Sinis: "We are all going, Tor.."
NorthernWanderer: ::he jumped a bit then and his free hand quickly went to his back and under his vest before he looked up and relaxed again, forcing a small smile:: Se'var? ::he leaned back in the chair and relaxed his grip on the tankard slowly while he lifted it to take a short drink::
Lady Kessa: "Well, not all." She chuckled gently. Ivan is remaining here to tend to the Hall and prepare Tem Reach for the upcoming season. And many of the guards are remaining behind, of course." She wasn't keen on taking more than a few but after the events with Elise, it was considered imprudent to go without a good number.
NorthernWanderer:What is a Se'Var? ::he took another drink and slowly set the tankard down while he folded his arms over his chest, relaxing a bit more now while he forced himself to lean back in his seat::
Acheron Sinis: "Sardar faires, Tor.."
Lady Kessa: "Yes, the Sardar. Huge gathering of merchants and all the castes have tents and there are... fighting events and slaves for sale and ... well, suffice it to say that if you want anything... it likely can be found there."
NorthernWanderer: ::he shrugged a bit then but he offered a polite smile then:: I'm not too keen on large groups of people...perhaps I will go, but I will most likely not attend the fair...::he smiled some and lifted his tankard to take another drink
Acheron Sinis: "I know the feeling." he said looking to him.."But it is good to go...and test your skill among other men."
Lady Kessa: "The encampment will benefit from your company, Sir, even if you never venture into the fairgrounds." She smiled politely. "Though it is good, as Papo says, to be able to test yourself with other men. Learn things. And no doubt teach them more than few things of your own."
NorthernWanderer: ::he looked over to Papo and nodded a bit before he shrugged:: I have nothing to further to prove to anyone. I have lived my life. ::he chuckled quietly then and looked over to the fire for a moment again before he glanced back to Papo::
Acheron Sinis: He looked to him.."You challenge only yourself."
NorthernWanderer: ::he nodded to Lady Kessa again and offered a small smile before he looked to Papo once more:: With all due respect sir, I've learned my limits.
Acheron Sinis: He smiled...Faintly. "Dont worry...There will always be someone to test them."He then looked away and sipped to his tea.
NorthernWanderer: I suppose I could travel with the people though. ::he nodded a bit to Lady Kessa again and he actually smiled to Papo then, a genuine smile::
Acheron Sinis: He looked to him and saw the smile. He smiled some...There were very few he considered friend. Papo was a hard man to get to know.
Lady Kessa: She would let the subject be dropped, returning the smile before she reclaimed her sewing, more for the need to keep her hands busy and away from the sweet cakes that she knew were in the kitchen. "You missed a festival here, a tiny one.. but it was diverting." She glanced at Papo and chuckled. "Even if some of us could not participate." She dug out the needle and worked it through the fabric. "You'd have done well, I'm sure, Sir." Glancing to Tor to show it was to him she was speaking. "We'll have to do it again sometime after the cold months are past us. "
Acheron Sinis: Assassins could not participate. They had to forever keep themselves separate from warriors and their competitions. Nor could they let others know their secrets.
NorthernWanderer: ::Tor looked back to Lady Kessa again and smiled some:: Perhaps I would have... I have found out things about myself that I do not trust though. ::he smiled a bit then and nodded to the Lady:: Perhaps I will wander around during the next festival.
Acheron Sinis: Papo had to admire the positive attitude there and then in Tor. It was good to hear.
Lady Kessa: "You are welcome to wander, Sir. And there was axe throwing and...a contest to unload a ship, where one of the men who work the docks actually won the ship itself!" She had been watching and he and his sons had busted their butts to win it. "Have you wandered far from the Hall since you arrived? I am sure I could find someone to give you a tour of the village and where everything is, if you like. Fresh air never does anyone ill, that is my way of thinking anyway."
NorthernWanderer: I haven't wandered too much. I have been relaxing a bit first. Better to wait to see the Jarl...Administrator? Before I leave the town. I can assure you though, Lady Kessa, that I intend to journey the lands around.
Lady Kessa: Glancing to the shifting of the guards at the door, the two who stood outside switching with the two interior ones every half ahn, simply to keep them from being distracted by the cold when it was upon them. It made, to one who watched that dance every day over and again, aware of the time. "I am sure Franz will be home in a few ahns, and will happily speak with you." Rising with a slight groan, palm resting on her back, as she'd sat too long on that rock earlier and now it was haunting her. "Speaking of fresh air..." which she had been, a bit earlier." I have to go speak with the Lady Annalyn over the dishes and see that the things being loaded are all finding their way to the right place on ship." She meant 'her things' really since she didn't know where other things went. She just didn't want to have her stuff put out of easy retrieval. "I hope you will excuse me."
Acheron Sinis: He looked to Kessa... He smiled to her and he stood politely. "Be well, Kessa."
NorthernWanderer: ::he nodded to the woman and chuckled quietly. He lifted his tankard then and took a long drink before he set it back down on the table slowly. When he noticed Papo stand, he stood slowly, thinking everyone was leaving::
Lady Kessa: She was going to find the nearest physician and suggest the idea of the down-stuffed butt doughnut for pregnant women and those who had broken their butt by sitting on rocks for two ahn. Or, in her case, both. She knew the girls would take care of the Jarls in her absence, and so, after dressing and stepping to the door, she waited until the pair who she knew were going to be following her around a good deal once she left the city seemed to appear from the corner of the table far into the back of the room. They had their cloaks on already and she was, at last, let out of her own door to go do her thing. Penalty of being a woman she supposed.
Acheron Sinis: It was etiquette. Hanging around Papo might actually be a good thing for Tor...Papo put into practice what some Warriors did not. When she walked out, he then sat down.
NorthernWanderer: ::he watched the Lady leave, and then looked to Papo. He still thought the man was leaving until he sat down. Tor sat back down then, looking a bit puzzled but he didn't say a word. He lifted his tankard again and downed the rest of the water::
Acheron Sinis: He looked to Tor. He smiled to him sincerely. He believed in giving all a chance. And he thought to the confusion on his face..."It is...Customarily and polite for men to stand when a lady enters, and stand when she bids fair well."
NorthernWanderer: ::he looked back to Papo and nodded then while he listened. he was still learning and had no qualms about admitting it:: I see...he leaned back in his seat then and looked over Papo for a moment then:: What is it you do for a living, Papo?
Acheron Sinis: "I am an Assassin." He looked to him calmly.
NorthernWanderer: ::he nodded a bit then and narrowed his gaze for a moment, pondering something:: How do you cope?
Acheron Sinis: He looked away. "The world in which we live in...Needs balance."
NorthernWanderer: I understand that. But how do you deal with seeing their faces? How do you deal with the blood on your hands?
Acheron Sinis: He did not dwell on who he killed. They did things that warranted his being contracted. He looked to him calmly. "Their deeds led me to their demise. I no more think to their blood then I would killing an animal." Oddly...No one ever asked him such questions. "If a larl stalked your camp...And killed your slaves...Or someone you cared for...Would you not hunt if down and kill it..?"
NorthernWanderer: You never think of them again? ::he leaned back a bit then and looked to the man, honestly interested. It was probably the first conversation he was actually interested in since his arrival::
Acheron Sinis: "No...Never."
NorthernWanderer: ::he chuckled quietly and shook his head a bit, looking down for a moment before he lifted his gaze to Papo again:: My camp has been stalked by larls. I didn't have to track it down. It tracked me down.
Acheron Sinis: He listened..
NorthernWanderer: ::he chuckled quietly, and darkly then, while he thought back. He slowly pulled that knife from his back then and held it up to the man:: Say hello...::he chuckled quietly:: I brought him with me, in a way.
Acheron Sinis: "Hm..Well...That could be the thinking of the average man. Wait until the criminal arrives to do harm and then deal with him. But what of those the criminal has already done offence..? A city's laws do not extend beyond her walls.. That is why the Assassins Caste exist." He smiled looking to the knife."I have mugs...A few of those who were...Difficult kills." The mugs...Were made of the skulls of his marks.
NorthernWanderer: ::his smile disappeared while he looked at the knife a few moments longer before he tucked it away again and looked back to Papo. He nodded then and remained silent for a moment:: Everyone collects something different I suppose.
Acheron Sinis: "I like to think fondly on how they almost sent me to the city of dust.."
NorthernWanderer: ::he looked at his arms then and back to Papo:: I seem to collect scars...::he shrugged then::
Acheron Sinis: "Scars are considered badges of honor." he smiled some..."Women find them...Exciting...And fawn over men with many."
NorthernWanderer: I wouldn't know...::he chuckled quietly and shrugged a bit:: I've been in the forests for a while now, and scars are just a way of life.
Acheron Sinis: He looked to him with a sincere expression. "Your face...The scar there...Would actually impress a woman."
NorthernWanderer: And then there would be questions...::he reached up
pushing his hair back for a moment, revealing the bite mark again:: I don't
like thinking back to that moment.
Acheron Sinis: "When you speak of the past...Show no remorse. None. The past is behind you now."
NorthernWanderer: Oh it's not remorse. ::he chuckled quietly:: It's the idea that I had my head in a larl's mouth...
Acheron Sinis: He swallowed as he looked away..."I had my head cracked wide open by the axe of a kur. I nearly died... I lost my speech for an envar.."
NorthernWanderer: ::he nodded some:: Oh believe me, I understand. I laid in that camp with a fractured skull...Don't ask me how I made it through that one.
Acheron Sinis: He looked back to him with those dark eyes.
NorthernWanderer: ::he stood slowly then:: I enjoyed the conversation, Papo. however, I think I'm going to go for a walk...if you'll excuse me. ::he nodded respectfully to the man before he turned and made his way out without another word::
Acheron Sinis: He nodded.."Be well."
Lady Kessa: Unwrapping her head, the draped cloth there to keep her hair from going crazed in the wind was laid over the peg before the cloak was, and she proceeded with a flittering wave of hand toward the bondmaids in the kitchen, having come through the back way, to move through and take her seat without having to go the long way. Looking up at the opening doors, she smiled softly from behind the high seat, in full 'Mistress of the Hall' mode, until she noted who they were letting in. "Lady Elise." She spoke up. "Welcome." Settling down in her seat, she motioned her in, then took up her sewing from beside her seat adjacent to the High Seat of the Jarl.
Elise Haraldr: ::yup, those guards had seen every bump, curves and goose pimple on her yesterday, she feels like she will simply vanish with shame, but the Lady's greeting warms her as she heads into the hall:: Tal Lady
Lady Kessa: She had not been present for the judgement, for more reasons than one. But she had done her best, knowing beforehand that unless Elise threw herself into the circle, she was not to come out enslaved, she'd made certain that Comfort had done her best to add fuel to the fire. The next time, it would be wholly real, and there would be no kind Magistrate to save her bacon. "Tal. Tea?" She smiled softly, glad to see her alive and unfettered. "Your family is well I hope?"
Elise Haraldr: ::she nears the Lady of the hall and settles comfortably on a brace of furs:: aye, Lady, tea would be delightful ::her feet are still a little sore, but she would be hornswaggled if she would limp, with a quick nod:: aye, Lady, my family is well, thank you, and you? you're doing well too I hope?
KyrstenErikdotir: ::coming up the path not far behind her daughter, she notices the guards' reaction and frowns sternly at them as her daughter steps inside. After greeting them politely, she follows her daughter into the hall and walks up it to where Kessa and Elise are, taking a seat next to Elise and setting her bag down beside her:: Tal, Lady Kessa.
Lady Kessa: "Tal, Lady Kyrsten." She smiled more openly. "Mother of the best archers in Fehu Isa." She chuckled. "And not so bad herself." She motioned Fire to come bring the ladies tea. "What has passed, let it be the past. If anyone should be overtly rude, Lady Elise..."pinning her gaze on her. "You are to tell the Magistate, the Jarl, or myself and we will see to it."
NorthernWanderer: ::Tor walked back into the hall without a sound, other than the door opening and then closing behind him. He looked around slowly while he stepped into view. Blue eyes scanned the room, though the right side of his face was concealed beneath long, unkept sandy blonde hair. He was clean shaven though. He stood up perfectly straight while he looked over the room at a height of six feet six inches. Hand sewn black larl furs covered him in the form of a vest, pants and a pair of knee high boots that more resembled moccasins, which would explain the silent steps. He stood in the entrance then, just listening and watching for a few moments before he moved further into the room and gave the women each a nod in greeting::
Lady Kessa: She looked up at the man stepping in, one who she knew by the description given by Sweetness who had
Elise Haraldr: ::she smiles at her mother as she sits beside her, leaning into her automatically and beaming at Garrick's pride in winning the archery contest, Gerhard had done well for himself too, both of them cocked up like a "rape patrol" of jake turkeys, she nods at the Lady with a warm and sheepish smile:: thank you Lady, I shall
Lady Kessa: shown him to his room. Rising from her seat, one hand laid across her belly, the other's fingertips on the table before her to steady her. "Tal, Sir. Though you are no doubt welcomed by thought, be welcomed by voice. Sit, if it please you." The tea set down on the table, she shooed Fire who made quick steps toward the Jarl to bow her head, the heavy kirtle of white wool embroidered at the neck and high-cut legs with gold and red flames that fit her name begging what she might do to aid him in gaining happiness and ease.
Elise Haraldr: ::she looks at the man entering:: Tal Sir
KyrstenErikdotir: ::out of the bag comes her sewing box and a large, half-sewn tunic of finely woven deep blue wool. She pulls loose the needle that was tucked into the seam she is currently sewing and continues where she left off, nodding her head politely to the new arrival:: Tal, sir.
Lady Kessa: Resuming her seat, the tea poured from the pot, as it was done here simply to suit the way that they went through it. It was hot, and it was not intoxicating. She drank it like a fish, frankly. A horn-carved cup poured for Kyrsten, one for Elise, and lastly herself.
NorthernWanderer: ::he looked down at the girl who came to stand before him. He looked her over for a few moments more then before he waved her off in silence before he made his way further into the room and took a seat at the table nearest the fire.
Elise Haraldr: ::she shifts a little on her rump, still sore from the licking her Da gave her the night before, something she knew she deserved, he was kind enough to only use a strap, however, when one of the boys would have gotten a good whipping, she reaches into her Ma's bag and pulls out a skein of wool yarn and begins to straighten the strands and roll it into a ball::
NorthernWanderer: He looked around the room to the women again but he still decided to remain silent. He produced a small, leather pack from behind him and from that he pulled a piece of fruit. He took a bite then and remained sitting perfectly in his chair::
Lady Kessa: "I took the liberty of laying out a kirtle for your girl, Sir. No doubt her other clothes will be insufficient for the climate." She'd offer out the sugar, then honey to sweeten, whichever the ladies preferred. "If you were not aware, I am Kessa, companion of Jarl Franz Castellan, and Mistress of his Hall. The ladies I am sharing tea with are the Lady Kyrsten Erikdotir, and her daughter Elise Haraldr. The finest weavers that I've ever met, here or any other place. Hazels rose to pin to him over her lifted cup. "Now we are all acquainted."
KyrstenErikdotir: ::would take honey in her tea, pausing to take a sip now and then once it is in front of her but mostly concentrating on her sewing as the lady speaks to the man who must be a new guest of the Hall::
Elise Haraldr: ::she nods sweetly at the man, not having caught his name:: well met Sir ::she shifts again in her seat to ease the discomfort in her rump, pausing in her yarn rolling to sweeten her tea with honey and taking a sip, savoring the quiet community and industry::
KyrstenErikdotir: ::sews with neat, tiny stitches, making a sturdy seam that will hold up under hard work on the farm. The making of clothing is a never ending process with six men in the family::
NorthernWanderer: ::he nodded then when the woman, Kessa, told him she had laid out a kirtle for his girl.:: Many thanks, Lady Kessa. ::he leaned back then and listened while Kessa introduced the three of them. He nodded to each in turn then and took another bite of his fruit before he spoke:: I am Tor. Well met, Ladies.
KyrstenErikdotir: Well met, sir.
Lady Kessa: The tea was strong and hot, burning its honeyed way down her throat with reminder just how many supplies would be needed when they departed for the Se'Var festival tomorrow. It provided the best opportunity to have merchants from as far as Schendi available for the purchase of things. Not to mention that on the last day, the prices would be cheapest as they'd not want to haul it all back with them.
Elise Haraldr: ::she smiles warmly at Kessa's compliment of her family, especially her mother's weaving abilities, glancing up at her mother she gives her a smile of pride before returning the freshly balled yarn to the bag and pulling out another skein to roll::
Lady Kessa: "Well met, Tor. If you have anything needing written, I, on occasion, function as something near the scribe of the outpost. While I hold no caste, no person of the North is said to, and we follow the laws of the Jarl here, and his are very Torvaldslandic." She meant that she could do paperwork, but it wasn't worth the paper it was written on outside of Torvaldsland.
NorthernWanderer: ::he nodded then and took another bite of his fruit before he reached into his pack, producing another, which he offered to Kessa.:: I do appreciate your offer, but I doubt I will have anyone to write to ::he chuckled quietly then and leaned back in the chair a bit::
KyrstenErikdotir: ::watches her daughter rolling yarn for a moment between stitches, sewing quickly so that she can finish the tunic for her companion in time to pack it for the journey::
Lady Kessa: She took the offered fruit, turning it over in her fingers, checking the skin, not because she didn't trust him, merely a habit from the old days. "Thank you, Sir." She set it down and took out her knife, slicing the fruit into quarters and offering out one to each of the other ladies. "You are waiting, no doubt, to speak to Franz?" It was really a rhetorical question, obviously he needed to. New folk always did. "He's gone hunting." That what he was after was not larl or sleen, but men, that she did not speak of. He was a good man, but she knew him well enough to read what he did not say between the words of what he did. "But I will make certain he speaks with you soon."
Acheron Sinis: After time spent alone, he walked back to the main Hall from the beach. He entered as he normally did, hanging his cloak to one of the pegs by the door.
Lady Kessa: She looked to the door and smiled again. "Ah, Tal, Papo." She almost felt the brush of air as Comfort moved past, her legs flicking the edges of her kirtle up as she hastened to his side to see if he wished tea or mead or any other thing.
KyrstenErikdotir: ::secures the needle in the fabric long enough to take the offered piece of fruit, nibbling one end of it a bit before she sets it beside her cup of tea so that she can start stitching once more::
NorthernWanderer: Many thanks. ::he nodded again while he finished his fruit and folded his hands together in his lap while he looked around the hall slowly and relaxed a bit:: He goes hunting often? ::he looked back to Kessa then before he heard her greeting Papo. He looked over his shoulder at the man then and nodded his greetings. He pulled a bondsmaid aside then and sent her into the kitchen for water::
Lady Kessa: "Of late." She answered Tor and then slipped to quiet, eating the bit of given fruit and washing down polite bites with her tea.
Acheron Sinis: "Tal."
Elise Haraldr: ::having finished rolling the skein, she reaches into her mother's bag and pulls out a set of stockings to darn, rummaging around inside, she looks up as Papo enters the hall, despite his torment of yesterday, she still considers him her rescuer, her smile beams at him, even as she squirms a little on her sore rump:: Tal Sir
Acheron Sinis: He greeted all the same. He walked over to a table and sat to the chair. He gave a nod to Elise.
SweetnessNPC: Sweetness with a nod moved the moment he let her go, strawberry-blonde hair whipping round her black-iron collared throat so quickly did she turn. Hastening to the kitchen she gave a nod to Ilsa, the kitchen mistress, and then from the water barrel a pitcher of cold fresh water. The stoneware glinting lightly in the already rising condensation from the heated room, she took down a wood-turned mug and hastened back on bare feet, the little flowers that lined the edges of her kirtle twitching with her bouncy frame's movement. Setting down the tankard she poured his water, pressing close enough to show her pleasure, but not enough to be 'up on him'. Stepping back with the pitcher, she bowed her head. "Should I leave the pitcher, Jarl?"
KyrstenErikdotir: Tal, Papo. ::nods politely to him as she reaches into the sewing box and hands her daughter the darning egg of smoothly polished wood::
Acheron Sinis: Another polite nod to Elise's mother.
Annalyn Sinclair: ::entering quietly she would pause within the hall, a small bowl in her hand. A gift for the Lady Kessa:: Quietly, she spoke :: tal Sirs, Ladies..
Elise Haraldr: ::with a smile at her mother, she takes the darning egg and runs it through the stocking, she reaches down again for a needle and thread, threading it through the needle, she begins her darning, she leans into her mother to show her the stitches to make sure they were small enough, looking up at the Lady entering, she smiles at her:: Tal Lady
Acheron Sinis: As far as what Papo had done to Elise, he was an equal opportunity tormentor.
KyrstenErikdotir: ::nods to her and gives her a quiet reminder to weave the woolen thread in well among the knitted stitches so that the repair will last, then looks up and smiles at Annalyn:: Tal, Lady.
Lady Kessa: She smiled. "Tal, Lady Annalyn." She swallowed the last of her fruit and with a slight sigh, rose from her seat. "Welcome. Forgive my lapse, I was chewing." She motioned to the ladies. "Do you know everyone? Lady Elise and her mother Lady Kyrsten." She knew that Papo was known. "And the Sir is Tor, who is newly arrived in our company."
NorthernWanderer: ::he looked up at the girl after she poured his water for him and he nodded a bit, taking the tankard from her slowly. He set it carefully on the table before he dismissed the girl and picked up the tankard, taking a small sip of the water. He looked over again and noticed someone he recognized, though he could not place her face. He set the tankard down slowly then and nodded to the new woman::
KyrstenErikdotir: ::her eyes go back to her sewing, though her ears follow the conversation as she whips the thread around the needle a few times before tying a neat little knot to finish off the seam::
Elise Haraldr: ::nodding at the Lady:: well met Lady ::her brow furrowing slightly as she attends to her darning::
Annalyn Sinclair: :::a gentle smile given all as she approached the Lady Kessa. Placing the bowl beside her:: A small token of my appreciation your kindness since I have visited here Lady.
Lady Kessa: The bowl lifted, she turned it round in her hands, smiling. "It is quite beautiful, Lady Annalyn. May I thus assume you have succeeded in finding space to erect your kiln? If you need anything more, you have but to say so. The builders Franz has under his employ are directed to aid in any way that helps the village to grow and expand. To turn their hands toward your task, whatever it might be, is within that directive. Thank you.. it is lovely. Will you stay and have tea?-d
KyrstenErikdotir: ::the needle is jabbed into the pincushion in her sewing box and she shakes out the completed tunic, folding it neatly and placing it in the bag that rests between her daughter and herself::
Elise Haraldr: ::she whips her thread through to tie it off and bites off the end, folding the stocking, she places it into the bag and runs the darning egg through the next stocking to begin darning that one, her brothers are very hard on their footwear. ::she glances at the bowl brought by the Lady and smiles in appreciation of the beauty of the work::
Annalyn Sinclair: :::Blushing faintly as the bowl did turn out nice she thought, the blue green glaze one she had been working on for some time. :: I would love a cup of tea Lady.. and yes for the moment I have all I need.
Acheron Sinis: He motioned Comfort to him..
Elise Haraldr: ::she returns her attention to her darning, her brow furrowed, her tongue caught between her teeth in concentration::
ComfortNPC: Comfort sidled up to him with a wriggle of joy to be called, sinking in a crouch beside him her hands tucked behind her back, thumb and forefinger looped, waiting.
Acheron Sinis: "Bring me some hot tea with honey, please.." he spoke low.
Lady Kessa: She motioned Sweetness over with her pitcher and had her retrieve another cup from the kitchen, and when it was brought back, more tea would be poured for Annalyn. "These ladies are the finest workers with wool. I am now near to bursting with the fine blankets they wove for the Festival that went unused." She chuckled again and offered Annalyn sugar or honey to sweeten her tea. "You must forgive my tone of annoyance. Some folk sent word they were coming and they did not." She wrinkled her nose in peevishness being pushed aside.
Acheron Sinis: He stood having needed to relieve himself...And went to the indoor outhouse. He would expect to see Comfort out there to serve him by that time..
Elise Haraldr: ::she glances at Kessa at her compliment, murmuring:: thank you Lady
Annalyn Sinclair: :::smiling as she drew a dollop of the honey and added it to her tea stirring slowly she nodded:: I am all thumbs when it comes to stitching, so I envy anyone who can create such beauty with such ease.
Lady Kessa: "Your work is beautiful, Lady Annalyn. Would it be possible, do you think, to make a set of simple cups and plates? Not that this work is not exceptional, but something a bit finer than the wood we use everyday but not so fine that if it fell to the floor and was shattered it would break my heart?" From the corner of her eye watching Comfort bring out the tea tray for Papo. Something might have to be done about that.
KyrstenErikdotir: Pottery is so much easier to clean than wood, as well, as it is not ruined if it needs to soak in hot water for a time. ::nods at Kessa::
Annalyn Sinclair: ::taking a sip of the tea she nodded:: I can do this.. perhaps not in china but rather stonewear so it will appear dressy but not be as subject to chip or break so easily. ::smiles to the Lady Kyrsten:: I suppose we both have our burdens when it comes to our art.
Lady Kessa: She had a mouth full of tea, but gave a nod and a movement of her hand toward Elise that said without words 'I agree with what she said'. Swallowing, another nod would be given. "Stoneware is perfect, Lady Annalyn. There is no hurry." She looked around the circle of women. "We are departing tomorrow for the journey by sea around to Ko-Ro-Ba Station to make our way to the Se'Var Fair. Will any of you be coming along?" It was a long trip, frankly, and any feminine company would be wonderful. Ivan was staying to watch over the Hall, and she was sure that if Marius planned to go, he would make sure that the village was well protected in his absence, and if he remained, there would be even less a reason for worry.
Elise Haraldr: ::she smiles at Kessa and nods, continuing with her darning. She looks at her mother to see if the family was planning to go to the Faire, she knew she wanted to, but there is much to be done on the farm::
Annalyn Sinclair: I would enjoy such, if I might join you. I've never been to such but have heard quite a great deal about them.
Elise Haraldr: ::she pauses in her darning and squirms a little on her rump as she reaches for her cup of tea and takes a swallow::
KyrstenErikdotir: Bjorn and I are going. Selig, being the eldest, is staying to oversee the farm and those who stay. Macken is coming and Garrick is, this time.
Lady Kessa: "I've been to the En'Var... once. It was .." She chuckled and shook her head, smiling in a bemused way "Very big. But there are few places to get as much in one place. Spices and chocolate and Odin knows we need our tea..." She
Elise Haraldr: ::she raises her eye brows to her mother since she didn't say anything about herself going. She gives her mother that "oh please oh please oh please{/i]" look she is so familiar with::
KyrstenErikdotir: ::gives her daughter a rather severe look:: And Elise is going but had best remember that she is to stay with me or with one of the men at all times.
Elise Haraldr: Elise Haraldr: ::with a happy chuckle:: aye Ma
KyrstenErikdotir: As it is more than any woman has a right to expect that she should be rescued twice.
Elise Haraldr: ::she looks at Kessa and Annalyn with eyes glowing with pleasure::
KyrstenErikdotir: ::mostly she doesn't trust her sons to remember they're supposed to keep an eye on their sister...and that is the real reason she's going::
Lady Kessa: nodded to Kyrsten. "I am pleased to know you're going. As well as knowing that young Garrick was going. And Elise. "No doubt the Lady Elise will be like an egg under a vulo. Smothered but safe." She gave her a look of her own but said no more on it, as Kyrsten had said it all.
Acheron Sinis: Having leaked out a flood and shaking it only once..! He then returned to his seat. After all...You shake it more then once...And you're playing with it.
KyrstenErikdotir: Elise, shall I leave the bag? I must go oversee the evening meal but you can continue the mending here, if you like. ::under the eyes of the Lady and Papo, of course::
ComfortNPC: Comfort was waiting, her eyes on his approach and unabashedly so. She'd cradle the tea tray against her stomach, at the very end of that deep V and wait for him to want it poured.
Elise Haraldr: ::she rolls up her darning:: nay, thank you Ma, I'll go back with you and help with dinner
Lady Kessa: Not to mention the eyes of the quartet of guards, and the phalanx that moved in constant shift from post to post around the village like ants keeping the anthill guarded. In Fehu Isa, anyone trying to get at one of their women would have to dig through the bodies of at least ten people to do so. "Then I bid you good health and safety, Lady Elise, Lady Kyrsten. And I look forward to seeing you aboard the ship."
Acheron Sinis: He smiled to the girl and then watched as she fixed his tea for him. He gave a nod for her to proceed.
KyrstenErikdotir: Good. ::closes the sewing box and puts it back in the bag, then up she gets:: Thank you for having us, Lady Kessa. Sewing is boring without company, necessary though it is.
Acheron Sinis: And Papo, by the way was in charge of the guard trainings.
KyrstenErikdotir: ::collects the darning from her daughter's hands and tucks it in the bag as she picks it up, then makes her way down the hall to leave::
Elise Haraldr: ::packing the stockings into the bag, she stands and smoothes down her finely woven kirtle before turning to Kessa:: I wish you well Lady and Odin's blessings ::turning to the other Lady and Papo:: I wish you well Sir, and Lady
Annalyn Sinclair: ::her tea finished she rose as well:: I too must go, but I shall work on the dishes for you. I have several glazes, ranging in color and tone. Please let me know which you favor. ::turns to Lady Krysten:: I bid you well Lady and well met. ::Smiles::
KyrstenErikdotir: Be well, all.
Acheron Sinis: "Be well, lady.." He stood politely.
Elise Haraldr: ::she follows her mother out of the hall::
Acheron Sinis: "Be well, lady Elise.." He bowed his head respectfully.
Lady Kessa: "Be well, Lady Annalyn, I will make my choice, of course." She sighed to herself, figuring that it would be no rush job, since they'd be gone for nearly a hand. -d
Elise Haraldr: ::she turns back to Papo and gives him a beaming smile:: thank you Sir ::she hurries out the door after her mother::
Acheron Sinis: He smiled to her.
Annalyn Sinclair: ::nods:: It takes a while to fire them and my kilns won't hold an entire set at a time, so I will need to get started soon on them.
ComfortNPC: Tea poured and sweetened, Comfort lifted up the cup, her lip ensnared between her teeth, a little shudder running through her for a moment, waiting with infinite patience for the cup to be taken.
Lady Kessa: "I'll come down this evening, if that is alright. Overseeing trips to the docks to load things is one of the more pleasant tasks I have before me today." She laughed lightly.
Acheron Sinis: He smoothed his hand over Comfort's and then to the handle of the cup..Winking to her with a soft smile as he took hold to it.
ComfortNPC: As ever, the touch of the Jarl was pleasure even if it were only faint and fleeting. The wink made her smile and she, though loathe to do so, rose from her crouch and stepped back, assuring fully she was dismissed before she just walked off. Comfort was fond of him. She was frankly fond of most everyone, but especially Jarl Papo.
Annalyn Sinclair: ::with a nod then she turned toward the door:: I need to get back I have a few things that will be almost ready now.. I just wanted to drop off the bowl and thank you all again for your hospitality.
Lady Kessa: "It is beautiful, Lady Annalyn. And know you are welcome in Tyr'Odal anytime you wish to come. Even without presents." She admired the bowl again under her fingertips as she watched the lady go. She was giving thought to what she wanted for the Hall's 'fine' dishes. Sturdy, that would be first thing. But something brown or blue. Maybe a green... something that brought to mind the charms of Fehu Isa. The earth, the sea, the forest. She did not doubt the Lady had exceptional skill, but this was a task to test even the most patient person, and so she'd been sure to ask well in advance.
Annalyn Sinclair: ::a warm smile given:: Be well Sir, Lady..
NorthernWanderer: ::Tor walked back in from his quarters after a bit and looked aorund slowly then. It seemed to have cleared out quickly...he nodded to Papo and then Lady Kessa then before he moved into the kitchen, fixing himself a tankard of cool water before he made his way back out to the main hall and found a seat::
Acheron Sinis: He nodded.. He was still sipping the tea Comfort had served him..
Lady Kessa: "Tal, Tor, Sir." She said with a dip of her chin, heating up her tea with the addition of fresh from the pot. She'd have to stop or risk living in the bathroom for the next hand.
NorthernWanderer: ::Once seated, he took a drink from the tankard before he leaned back in his seat a bit, looking around the room once more:;
ComfortNPC: Risking rebuff, Comfort pushed back a hank of blonde as she stepped closer, still cradling the tea tray against her hip with her other arm. "Jarl...are you alright?" She was worried, he didn't seem himself today.
Acheron Sinis: He looked to Comfort... "I'm fine, girl.." he smiled to her. It was true he was not himself. Anni seemed...Well...Distant.
NorthernWanderer: ::he looked to the fire slowly then and seemed to lose himself in thought while he stared off, seemingly looking past the embers in the fire. He had a light grip on the tankard at first and while he zoned out, his grip slowly tightened a bit more::
ComfortNPC: She nodded. "If you want... more tea." She smiled to herself and flushed pink. "I will happily get you anything you want." Her steps backed away and with a toss of sun-kissed sa-tarna hair, she sauntered back toward the kitchen.
Acheron Sinis: He leaned his hand to her cheek.."No...I'm fine.."
ComfortNPC: Her eyes fell on the new Jarl, looking him over beneath her lashes and then biting away a grin by pressure of teeth against her lip. She bowed her head to her Mistress as she passed, then vanished again into the kitchen to keep the tea hot.
Lady Kessa: "Looking over at the new guest, she folded her arms atop the table, though she actually had to scoot her backside away from it slightly to make room now. "Tor, Sir.. I would know if you plan to accompany us on our trip to the Se'Var. I know you've only just arrived and likely have no wish to be gone again, but... I thought it polite to invite you, and let you know you're more than welcome."
Acheron Sinis: "We are all going, Tor.."
NorthernWanderer: ::he jumped a bit then and his free hand quickly went to his back and under his vest before he looked up and relaxed again, forcing a small smile:: Se'var? ::he leaned back in the chair and relaxed his grip on the tankard slowly while he lifted it to take a short drink::
Lady Kessa: "Well, not all." She chuckled gently. Ivan is remaining here to tend to the Hall and prepare Tem Reach for the upcoming season. And many of the guards are remaining behind, of course." She wasn't keen on taking more than a few but after the events with Elise, it was considered imprudent to go without a good number.
NorthernWanderer:What is a Se'Var? ::he took another drink and slowly set the tankard down while he folded his arms over his chest, relaxing a bit more now while he forced himself to lean back in his seat::
Acheron Sinis: "Sardar faires, Tor.."
Lady Kessa: "Yes, the Sardar. Huge gathering of merchants and all the castes have tents and there are... fighting events and slaves for sale and ... well, suffice it to say that if you want anything... it likely can be found there."
NorthernWanderer: ::he shrugged a bit then but he offered a polite smile then:: I'm not too keen on large groups of people...perhaps I will go, but I will most likely not attend the fair...::he smiled some and lifted his tankard to take another drink
Acheron Sinis: "I know the feeling." he said looking to him.."But it is good to go...and test your skill among other men."
Lady Kessa: "The encampment will benefit from your company, Sir, even if you never venture into the fairgrounds." She smiled politely. "Though it is good, as Papo says, to be able to test yourself with other men. Learn things. And no doubt teach them more than few things of your own."
NorthernWanderer: ::he looked over to Papo and nodded a bit before he shrugged:: I have nothing to further to prove to anyone. I have lived my life. ::he chuckled quietly then and looked over to the fire for a moment again before he glanced back to Papo::
Acheron Sinis: He looked to him.."You challenge only yourself."
NorthernWanderer: ::he nodded to Lady Kessa again and offered a small smile before he looked to Papo once more:: With all due respect sir, I've learned my limits.
Acheron Sinis: He smiled...Faintly. "Dont worry...There will always be someone to test them."He then looked away and sipped to his tea.
NorthernWanderer: I suppose I could travel with the people though. ::he nodded a bit to Lady Kessa again and he actually smiled to Papo then, a genuine smile::
Acheron Sinis: He looked to him and saw the smile. He smiled some...There were very few he considered friend. Papo was a hard man to get to know.
Lady Kessa: She would let the subject be dropped, returning the smile before she reclaimed her sewing, more for the need to keep her hands busy and away from the sweet cakes that she knew were in the kitchen. "You missed a festival here, a tiny one.. but it was diverting." She glanced at Papo and chuckled. "Even if some of us could not participate." She dug out the needle and worked it through the fabric. "You'd have done well, I'm sure, Sir." Glancing to Tor to show it was to him she was speaking. "We'll have to do it again sometime after the cold months are past us. "
Acheron Sinis: Assassins could not participate. They had to forever keep themselves separate from warriors and their competitions. Nor could they let others know their secrets.
NorthernWanderer: ::Tor looked back to Lady Kessa again and smiled some:: Perhaps I would have... I have found out things about myself that I do not trust though. ::he smiled a bit then and nodded to the Lady:: Perhaps I will wander around during the next festival.
Acheron Sinis: Papo had to admire the positive attitude there and then in Tor. It was good to hear.
Lady Kessa: "You are welcome to wander, Sir. And there was axe throwing and...a contest to unload a ship, where one of the men who work the docks actually won the ship itself!" She had been watching and he and his sons had busted their butts to win it. "Have you wandered far from the Hall since you arrived? I am sure I could find someone to give you a tour of the village and where everything is, if you like. Fresh air never does anyone ill, that is my way of thinking anyway."
NorthernWanderer: I haven't wandered too much. I have been relaxing a bit first. Better to wait to see the Jarl...Administrator? Before I leave the town. I can assure you though, Lady Kessa, that I intend to journey the lands around.
Lady Kessa: Glancing to the shifting of the guards at the door, the two who stood outside switching with the two interior ones every half ahn, simply to keep them from being distracted by the cold when it was upon them. It made, to one who watched that dance every day over and again, aware of the time. "I am sure Franz will be home in a few ahns, and will happily speak with you." Rising with a slight groan, palm resting on her back, as she'd sat too long on that rock earlier and now it was haunting her. "Speaking of fresh air..." which she had been, a bit earlier." I have to go speak with the Lady Annalyn over the dishes and see that the things being loaded are all finding their way to the right place on ship." She meant 'her things' really since she didn't know where other things went. She just didn't want to have her stuff put out of easy retrieval. "I hope you will excuse me."
Acheron Sinis: He looked to Kessa... He smiled to her and he stood politely. "Be well, Kessa."
NorthernWanderer: ::he nodded to the woman and chuckled quietly. He lifted his tankard then and took a long drink before he set it back down on the table slowly. When he noticed Papo stand, he stood slowly, thinking everyone was leaving::
Lady Kessa: She was going to find the nearest physician and suggest the idea of the down-stuffed butt doughnut for pregnant women and those who had broken their butt by sitting on rocks for two ahn. Or, in her case, both. She knew the girls would take care of the Jarls in her absence, and so, after dressing and stepping to the door, she waited until the pair who she knew were going to be following her around a good deal once she left the city seemed to appear from the corner of the table far into the back of the room. They had their cloaks on already and she was, at last, let out of her own door to go do her thing. Penalty of being a woman she supposed.
Acheron Sinis: It was etiquette. Hanging around Papo might actually be a good thing for Tor...Papo put into practice what some Warriors did not. When she walked out, he then sat down.
NorthernWanderer: ::he watched the Lady leave, and then looked to Papo. He still thought the man was leaving until he sat down. Tor sat back down then, looking a bit puzzled but he didn't say a word. He lifted his tankard again and downed the rest of the water::
Acheron Sinis: He looked to Tor. He smiled to him sincerely. He believed in giving all a chance. And he thought to the confusion on his face..."It is...Customarily and polite for men to stand when a lady enters, and stand when she bids fair well."
NorthernWanderer: ::he looked back to Papo and nodded then while he listened. he was still learning and had no qualms about admitting it:: I see...he leaned back in his seat then and looked over Papo for a moment then:: What is it you do for a living, Papo?
Acheron Sinis: "I am an Assassin." He looked to him calmly.
NorthernWanderer: ::he nodded a bit then and narrowed his gaze for a moment, pondering something:: How do you cope?
Acheron Sinis: He looked away. "The world in which we live in...Needs balance."
NorthernWanderer: I understand that. But how do you deal with seeing their faces? How do you deal with the blood on your hands?
Acheron Sinis: He did not dwell on who he killed. They did things that warranted his being contracted. He looked to him calmly. "Their deeds led me to their demise. I no more think to their blood then I would killing an animal." Oddly...No one ever asked him such questions. "If a larl stalked your camp...And killed your slaves...Or someone you cared for...Would you not hunt if down and kill it..?"
NorthernWanderer: You never think of them again? ::he leaned back a bit then and looked to the man, honestly interested. It was probably the first conversation he was actually interested in since his arrival::
Acheron Sinis: "No...Never."
NorthernWanderer: ::he chuckled quietly and shook his head a bit, looking down for a moment before he lifted his gaze to Papo again:: My camp has been stalked by larls. I didn't have to track it down. It tracked me down.
Acheron Sinis: He listened..
NorthernWanderer: ::he chuckled quietly, and darkly then, while he thought back. He slowly pulled that knife from his back then and held it up to the man:: Say hello...::he chuckled quietly:: I brought him with me, in a way.
Acheron Sinis: "Hm..Well...That could be the thinking of the average man. Wait until the criminal arrives to do harm and then deal with him. But what of those the criminal has already done offence..? A city's laws do not extend beyond her walls.. That is why the Assassins Caste exist." He smiled looking to the knife."I have mugs...A few of those who were...Difficult kills." The mugs...Were made of the skulls of his marks.
NorthernWanderer: ::his smile disappeared while he looked at the knife a few moments longer before he tucked it away again and looked back to Papo. He nodded then and remained silent for a moment:: Everyone collects something different I suppose.
Acheron Sinis: "I like to think fondly on how they almost sent me to the city of dust.."
NorthernWanderer: ::he looked at his arms then and back to Papo:: I seem to collect scars...::he shrugged then::
Acheron Sinis: "Scars are considered badges of honor." he smiled some..."Women find them...Exciting...And fawn over men with many."
NorthernWanderer: I wouldn't know...::he chuckled quietly and shrugged a bit:: I've been in the forests for a while now, and scars are just a way of life.
Acheron Sinis: He looked to him with a sincere expression. "Your face...The scar there...Would actually impress a woman."
NorthernWanderer: And then there would be questions...::he reached up
pushing his hair back for a moment, revealing the bite mark again:: I don't
like thinking back to that moment.
Acheron Sinis: "When you speak of the past...Show no remorse. None. The past is behind you now."
NorthernWanderer: Oh it's not remorse. ::he chuckled quietly:: It's the idea that I had my head in a larl's mouth...
Acheron Sinis: He swallowed as he looked away..."I had my head cracked wide open by the axe of a kur. I nearly died... I lost my speech for an envar.."
NorthernWanderer: ::he nodded some:: Oh believe me, I understand. I laid in that camp with a fractured skull...Don't ask me how I made it through that one.
Acheron Sinis: He looked back to him with those dark eyes.
NorthernWanderer: ::he stood slowly then:: I enjoyed the conversation, Papo. however, I think I'm going to go for a walk...if you'll excuse me. ::he nodded respectfully to the man before he turned and made his way out without another word::
Acheron Sinis: He nodded.."Be well."