The old manor house stood to the south of RhyDin proper. Its once pale grey stone were a dingier version of their older selves. The darker pallor of them seemed to make the mortar black to look on it. Brighter patches of the large, three story dwelling was green with ivy creeping up along one side. Dimple, thick glass windows had an amber color to them instead of being clear. Smoke stacks jutted up from the roof of the manor and its adjoining buildings but were cold without fires burning in the hearths within.


Artur Narul sat on his horse and regarded the house and its outbuildings. His attire was one of a lord of his standing, but lacked the unnecessary regalia and trappings that court demanded in a place such as this. The emblem of the lion emblazoned on the clamshell armor he wore over his tunic and maile could have used with a proper buffing, but he had shooed the squire off from a week ago. There was no need for it to shine when one was simply seeing to a second home.

Over it was a thick, heavy black wool cloak with a cowl discarded against his shoulders. His boots were strong but well worn and comfortable. In his right one was a crop and sheathed knife. About his neck, beneath layers, a thickly roped chain bore the medallion of the House of Shar ? one of the last Noble Houses in Moreth in the Realm of Suilan. He could feel the cold weight of it against his chest, pressed in by maile and armor both.


The High Lord leaned forward and rested a forearm to the thick horn of the saddle while he eyed the main building.


?Will you not come inside? No fires?awarmin? in it, but I can see to that, m?lord!?


Narul kept his mouth from twisting. Then turned a curious look on the short, bald man that was sitting on the horse next to where he was. Both man and beast were less than what one would have expected in a realm of seemingly perfect men, women, and creatures.


?I think not.? Artur replied after too long a time. ?But you can show me inside the main house. If there is so much as hair-line fracture in a ceiling or roofthatch or clay tiles missing, you?ll see to their proper replacement.? By his tone, it was not going to be something acceptable.


He watched the man swallow dry and hard, then give a weak laugh.
?Why..I would not sell you something so rundown, m?lord! Come and I shall show you!? The man kicked his sway back horse into action, but it seemed the old animal could go no faster than a sputtering trot.


Teeth tightened against teeth and Narul exhaled slowly through his nose.


To the boy on the horse to his left, spoke to him but didn?t bother a look. ?Send word to Lady Ilisrai that I have returned. Tell her as well where home will be within these lands?and that it will be ready to receive her before a fortnight passes.?


Listening, he heard the boy ride off while Artur nudged his mount closer to the otherwise grandly large manse. Though it was not in their homelands, it would have to do to suit them both while residing at times within RhyDin as the second House of Shar.

With his mind set on the road that lay ahead, by many means, he dismounted and headed inside.

He looked to the dormant hearth that was large nearly large enough for him to step into without bending his head. Instead, he hand came to rest against its cold, marble mantle. ?Ghen.?


?Yes, m?lord?? Ghen was stealing towards the hall when his name had been called. He turned slowly about to look to the High Lord.


?You will not say that someone has died here. Will you?? A look cut to the man he spoke with. ?Talk of it might upset Lady Ilisrai.?


??course not, m?lord! Never!?


?Hrmm.? Came the dubious sound from Artur. His gaze roamed the room before he moved towards one of the windows and drew one of the dingy, tattered curtains aside. ?Who exactly was it that died here, Ghen?? The smell had been enough for him to notice, but there were other tell-tale signs: darker stains in the velvet and leather of both the divan and armchair within the room and the long curtains bore the same stains and rips.


Ghen was quiet for so long that it drew a look from the man that had already bought the place; sight unseen. The older man shifted nervously from one foot to the other and wrung his hands. His head dropped he stared at the floor while. ?I fear it will anger you, m?lord. It was another, of your sort.?


He stood there between the hearth and the window. ?My sort.? A drag and the old curtain he had just let go of. ?What sort would that be, Ghen??
?A-a royal, m?lord.?


That put his teeth against teeth again and but he calmly regarded the old man. ?I?m not prince or king.?


It seemed to leave him at a loss for words and Ghen hurried on. ?Well, a higher-up. A velvet doffer sort.?


?I am a High Lord, nothing more than that Ghen. But the one that died..?? And waved for the man to continue beyond something more than titles.
?Right, a lord such as yourself. Him, his wife, and children were murdered. Ya know how it is, one brother or enemy killing each other for the right to have even more than they already have an?? Ghen stopped cold to see the look that Narul was giving him.


?I know of such things, Ghen. I do come out of my cave. On rare occasion.? Sarcasm was poisonous in that moment, dripping from his words.


?Oh. Oh please forgive me, m?lord. No harm was meant. No disrespect..?


?None taken. None at all, Ghen.? Then gestured towards the doorway o f the commons. ?Now, while you show me the rest of my home, tell me more of what you know of that lord and his family.?

The ride had been far more then she expected and due to the few hours of sleep the night before she found herself nodding off in the saddle. Seeing this Elsa's voice raised.

"Milady. We should stop so you can rest."

Knowing she was right Ilisrai sighed. "So be it."

The ride cut short the two women slipped to a nearby elderly ran inn. They were greeted with warm smiles and kind hearts. Given the most luxurious room available they soon found themselves standing in a large spanned room with elegance the noble woman didn't expect from such a cozy little inn.

"Elsa."

The multi-colored hair woman stood straight from her curious examination of some pottery and turned to face her. "Milady?"

"Could ye be a dear. Since we are close I would like some fresh fruit from the market for breakfast." Ily was already in the process of disrobing and preparing for her rest within the thick mattresses.

"Of course." Elsa's respond was far too cheerful and got a curious gaze from the noble woman.

Climbing under the sheets to get situated she spoke aloud. "Ye seem awfully excited." The spoken observation fell into laughter as Elsa's face turned cherry red. Laying back into the delightful fluffiness of the pillows she sighed. Even as the soft click of the door closing, which signaled Elsa's leave, she was already drifting into a dreamless sleep.

She was also excited.

And come two moons she would make sure to be in her brother's presence.

Late into the evening Ilisrai bumped into someone she hadn't expected so shortly in her time within the city. Darius.

Her feelings at seeing him were a painful mixture indeed.

Love and adoration.

Sadness and dread.

And after parting with him the only thing she could feel was coldness. A cold even greater then the night wind nipping at her skin.

It was hard and so very painful not to be able to tell him why it was better for him to move on without her. Why she couldn't tell him what had happened. Why she couldn't be with him.

The truth would of hurt him a lot more then what she already had done.

A brief time was taken in the glen to freshen herself up and there she met a strange noble man indeed. He seemed to be the sort that was high on his status which truth be told she didn't care for. He was polite enough and even gave her an apple. He didn't seem to like the fact that she declined his invitation to stay within his home.

She did want to see her brother.

Parting on friendly terms she searched off for her horse that the man claimed to be worthless due to the fact it ran off when the man all but summoned a castle.

What did he really expect?!

When finding the dark steed chewing on some chilled grass she took to the saddle and once more started to ride in the direction the lad had given.

Her brother's pending doom would be there very soon.

The land was mild with only a few knolls to speak of. Most was of good earth for growing to the east and heavily wooded to the west with the road that ran back to the city of RhyDin that lay to the north. It was not an entirely easy place but a good one for any to wander there. Stables, storage buildings, gardens, and the House itself were in need of some repair as there seemed hints that it had stood too long without care. But overall it was sound.


Lord Narul, after hearing the full and gruesome, violent details of how the last owner and his family died in the House had sent for his men. Aric and the others would be on the lands in under a week and at his leisure for the protection of it and those who would reside there. With them would come their wives and children, for those who had them and others of their households that had need to come. The House would be big enough for them all and there was plenty of room enough to build smaller homes on the land along its outskirts.


Ghen assumed he would not be there to even meet them. Had he not already done enough? Had he not already extended himself more than necessary for this Lord? And yet, he found himself wondering if the man would pay more to keep him about for such needs and errands. Ghen could be quite useful. The proverbial wheels were rusting about in his head as he pulled the horses to a stop before the house that would fit the gentle and his kin.


?Out here, I say!? Ghen bellowed and the two, great doors opened. Men had been hired for the day, five of them in all, to haul things into the House and to help with getting things ready. He thought he sought a young woman riding into view but dismissed her as he started shouting orders for the men to start unloading the wagon and cart.


Chairs, tables, beds, trunks, and more were worked carefully into the house so not to leave dents or break anything. There was nothing overly personal among the items. These were just the necessities and what was to come first. He scoffed to think on the High Lord mentioning tapestries. What the devil for? But Lord had said he had ordered some locally, as well as from his homeland of Suilan and some city called Morth or Moreth. Ghen couldn?t remember.

The night had been no harder for him than it would have if he had slept on the ground outside. But Artur Narul was glad to see that the beds were being brought into house. He was drying his face and hands while he moved down the steps. Attire of his was less form, with just a tunic, britches, and boots and nothing was particularly neat about him at the moment other than he had bathed and was freshly shaved. He dried off his mustache and looked at Ghen through the open, large doors.


?More to come?? Narul lifted his voice loud enough to be heard and saw the man watching something on the horizon suddenly spin about and grin.


?M?lord Narul!? He greeted him and hurried inside. ?More to come, yes. Two carts of many. The glass for the windows, wood for the sills, ceilings, and some of the floors, livestock, food, and cloth.?


Artur watched the men bringing the furniture in and leave again, stepping out to where the cart stood. ?What of those hired???


?The cook and stable master are here and the others will be coming shortly.?


Nodding, he pulled a breath in and breathed the cold winter air that was afforded the luxury of rushing in through the open-standing doors of the House. ?Have you found the other I was looking for? Anything sign at all??


?Hm?? It took Ghen a moment to realize what the man meant. But when he remembered their long talk over a few pints the night before, he shook his head. ?No, m?lord. No one that would be considered R?unst property.?


?Mind, they are fair on the eyes and move like ghosts in their grace.? He passed the cloth against his face again, the cold reminding him that had missed a spot of moisture after shaving. The cold pushed him towards the common room of his home where the fire blazed hotly. He stood before it and warmed himself and Ghen followed.

The direction the lad had given was more then enough to have her find way to the land most recently purchased by the high lord. The area was positively bustling with activity and it caused a brow to raise.

Her mind was in and out of things that had transpired over the course of the few days. There was something eating away at Ilisrai and she couldn't figure it out. And Ilisrai was being far too secretive. Something was going on and it had the perky young lady of the house rather down in the face.

But not all things were down. Elsa seemed to of made a few acquaintances and one whom was quite the eccentric fellow.

Fingers loose on the reins she rode closer to the estate but seemed to slow the closer she got. Realizing that Ilisrai may not of been there yet made her question if she should arrive first. Specially when fully aware that the Lord of the home was awaiting her arrival.

Urging the ebony horse, both it and it's rider came to a halt just within the gates she found herself quickly approached by a rather questionable looking figure. An unsteady smile was made as, who she would later be know as Pyke, took hold of the reins and lead her horse to the stables. Pieces quickly placed together realizing this man would be the new stable master.

It seemed that servants and hands were already being hired. A small tug of worry crept to her face as she watched Pyke deal with the horse's harness, having yet to dismount herself from the saddle.

Was there going to be a place for her in this new home?

It seemed that dreadful day laid fresh in both their minds for even ten years later she woke in cold sweat, dreaming of the dread of war that no child should have to witness first hand.

A touch to her thigh caused her attention to pull to one side. One of the helpers offering a hand to assist her down. He was quick to shy back when the High Lord's voice filled the air.

Attention turned on him warm like a summer's breeze. A polite yet kind smile tugged her lips as she looked to the rather ragged man she was being introduced to.

"Hello, Pyke. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Pleasantries over she decided to allow the man to work. Side saddling she accepted the hand that was offered to her, quickly making leave of the saddle that left her rear numb from the long ride. His reward for the assistance was a timid whisper of 'Thank you.'

The distance that had gained close while dismounted was quickly set with more space as she stepped back and bowed her head respectfully.

His words could of so been taken the wrong way. Replacing her? Ouch. But she kept her posture in an amazing grace and patience that she had.

She had watched him as he moved to the stables before turning her eyes to the house that shadowed over them. To say he spoiled his sister was an understatement. It amazed Elsa how despite how spoiled she was, Ily was a gentle and caring woman. Not like the nobles that seemed to care more about their status more then the people under them. The Narul family was a rare breed indeed.

Her eyes turned sharply to him when she heard his voice directed to her. A long time. Yes. It was a bit alarming when Ily had spoken to her about no longer being a house servant. She didn't have to be a servant. It was her choice. It was her way to serve the one who saved her life. To be closer to ..him. If she was no longer a servant then what would she be? Would she even be welcomed in the presence of those she's grown close to?

Humble worries that created a momentary sweep of a somber look. But quickly it was replaced by a cheerful smile. "Aye Milord!" All too quick to speak it out. The thought of warmth was a truly delightful thought and she quickly moved forward to follow in his steps. Not at his side mind you but slightly behind so she heard every word. Brief nods were issued as she considered his words.

True Rhy'din had been unkind to the servant but there were some things that gave it a certain shine. Besides. She was not so ready to just up and leave the woman she called friend. "I will not be returning to Moreth, milord. I wish to remain here if it pleases you." Not to mention she was fairly certain that he would be given hell if he hadn't, in some way, attempted to get her to stay. Ily would of seen to it. She already had once and the fit sent many of the other servants into caution.

Once close to the door she quickly stepped forward to pass at Artur's side and the door was opened for him to pass. Even from her place at the front of the door she could feel the warmth flooding from the inside and she found herself eager to be within.

The commons was paced but she didn't travel far from Artur's point of standing. Briefly she did go rigid when he spoke of his men. Her mind instantly went to Aric. While true to his word to keep his presence in Rhy'Din while under orders from Ily to keep protective watch over Elsa, there was without a doubt in her mind that if Artur demanded it Aric would spill the beans without a second thought.

Brief nervousness had her fiddling with her hair, fingers combing the soft colorful strains over a single shoulder. It was this action she did constantly when remembering what had happened in Artur's missing presence. And aside from a few scars, the inches of hair missing was another reminder. While combing through her hair the shorter strains were more obvious and would be curled into her fingers. Catching herself her hand flew from the locks to lower at her side. "Mmm. It lacks in material things, yes. But the more important things are already here." Her words accompanied by a polite smile to her lord in hopes to ease his mind. Brows suddenly perked up and a finger rose. "Except for her ladyship of course. She would make it complete. I do hope you've set out a garden just for her. You know how she likes her own private sanctuary of flowers."

Turning fully to him she moved to warm herself by the fires. Hands did not stretch out but she did stand at his side. "You've missed a bit while you were gone. She was not ready to be thrust into the position of house head in the sudden absence. Things that needed your attention placed on her shoulders left her weary both mind and body. And heart." Her voice haunting and even more was that side glance towards him. It was a rareness from her. And even more quite brave.

The haunting expression faded as she smiled timidly to him. "But that is something I am sure that will be spoken between you two in time."

She blinked suddenly and turned her head to one side. "If I may inquire, milord. Where will my quarters be?" She was sure with the servants but with the huge home it was a question as to where the servant quarters would be assigned.

His words caused quite a sour look to set on her face. "Those words are unfair, milord." Her next words she knew were going to get her scolded but they needed to be said before he spouted such things to his sister and bury himself a deep hole. "Disappearing as you did only leaves room for panic, people grabbing at power, and your sister's bed." The last two were set with a heavy look at him. A look that was rarely worn by the woman in general let alone towards her lord. "For all knew you were dead hunting deer. And people took advantage of it."

Her hands clasped behind her back and she looked away from him. "She is very able to take charge. When properly informed and not thrust into it on a morning of return from a week long rest. She was jumped by other nobles and those of the house who wanted questions which she had no answers. And she did very well in the face of others who attempted to grind her spirit to the ground." Her look soured more. "But it is not my place to speak of her happenings. She will inform you more upon her arrival."

She obviously didn't appreciate him thinking so low of his sister or that he can so justify his leave with her unable to take proper charge. She would of been able to if he had left some form of word like he was suppose to. Even the queen, herself, must inform those who take charge under her when she goes into hiding or is pulled from her seat. Be it her captain of the guard or her whomever takes charge.

She grew quiet feeling there was no reason for her to inform him of her own problems during the time. And what happened to his sister was better spoken between him and his sister. Her eyes trailed to him finally once her disappointment had subsided. Shoulders slumped faintly as she stood before the fire and her chin dipped. The firelight flickered across her soft planes of her features which were abnormally serious. "I will say, however, that in your absences.." Her eyes raised and her attention settled back to him just in time to catch the frown of her lord towards the chair. As if he was scolding the chair. Her shoulders shook with silent laughter at the very thought of him doing just that. It wouldn't of surprised her really if he was doing exactly that!

The look drifted away as the thoughts she was going to speak on returned. A deep frown was set in place. "Lord Tybier Marqueller came in your disappearance to lay claim to your sister. Proclaiming that your dissolve of the arranged marriage was not complete." She was very sure that the young lord after Ilisrai was from affection and not power. Someone above him, possibly his uncle or grandfather, pushed the young lord to continue seeking Ilisrai hand. Her lips pressed thin as she looked away. She would let his sister fill in the rest.

Nervously her hands twisted, thumbs pressing against the scars that riddled her palms. Burn scars that, thanks to the kindness of some of the people of the realm, were slowly fading. Her own markings of things that had happened in his absences. Turning her palms she glanced at the scars before lowering her hands. "I should go prepare things for her arrival. And you some rest before the night turns into morn." As always it seemed her worry was for her lord's health.

Soft rock of motion kept trying to put her to sleep. There was also the familiar clomping of horse hooves. Every muscle in her form ached and her very being was exhausted. Things never seemed to go as planned. Having planned to be there days before she was far late then she intended but there were many things that had held her back.

First things with Darius, who took things far too hard when all she was trying to do was be considerate. After all the hell she had been through she would think he would understand that she needed time and that the things she had gone through she could not discuss with him. He who was of a noble house should know some things she could not be discussed with someone outside of the house. The more he pressured her and made her feel guilty the more he made her completely uneasy. Acting as if his feelings meant so little to her. Even if he could feel her emotions he could have little knowledge of how it truly hurt her how he acted.

It still caused a very deep pain.

It lingered on her mind more then most of the things that had occurred to her. She didn't know what to do. But she did know she was ready to see her brother after such a long period. With Elsa's lack of presence she was all but sure where the colorfully haired woman was. On numerous times now it made her chuckle how in the past Elsa use to disappear when Artur was around and now..

As she approached the gates she noticed the morning bustle. It seemed Artur was pushing everyone in order to get things settled. Head shaking she chuckled in amusement. For a man of battle his patience didn't seem to extend outside of the battlefield.

Pyke was kind enough to assist her with dismounting and after a brief conversation with the man she turned and started her way towards the doors. Swathe of heavy, simple tailored emerald cloth rushed with the young lady as she hurried through the front doors. Hands slipped down to her sides as she took in the main hall. She was still curious as to why he chose this particular home but for now it remained a lingering thought as her lips parted, her voice raised in a manner she knew would more then likely get herself scolded. "Brother o Brother! Where for are thee?" She called out, unable to contain her excitement.

Parting the doors her heels clicked in rapid session as she moved deeper into the main commons. The doors would fall closed soon after to keep the winter coldness where it belonged. Outside. Delicate digits raised to the cloak clasp, tugging at the bronze piece until it released and her cloak was pulled over her arm.

A sudden thought toggled into her mind. A second house to take care of. Her duties were becoming larger as the years passed.