Courtyard Gardens: Tiras Lorn, Caemlyn

Large white stone surrounds the courtyard of House Hune. Set into the western wall is the gate, leading out of the manor. The manor house itself lies to the east. A large marble portico runs down the middle of the courtyard in a north/south direction, effectively dividing the large yard in half. It is large enough to hold several wagons, and contains the stables in the northwest corner. The half of the yard closest to the manor house is contained by the portico which runs along the courtyard walls as well, and connect to the house. This creates a covered walkway to protect you from the elements; shade from the sun, and a roof to keep off rain and snow. The ground here is paved with stone, with only a few weeds growing up here and there. In the center of the paved area is a square flower garden.

Aeliss opens the door of the house and joins you in the courtyard.

Aeliss glides gracefully down the stairs, her cased harp slung casually over one shoulder. "My Lady Rennar," she greets, with a curtsey. "I am glad to have found you. Would you care to accompany me to the Arts Reception at the Palace? I only returned from Illian yesterday, and have heard this event should attract a small, though finely turned out, group."

A slender brow lifts as Rennar is addressed by her Bard. "It sounds like it will be lovely, but I must decline, Aeliss." As she speaks, her words come out in a soft manner. She offers the other woman a fond smile, staying upon her seat on one of the benches that grace the gardens.

Aeliss lifts a brow, much in her Patroness' manner. "If I may speak freely, my Lady? I do believe the short outing will do you good. It seems a shame for one of the most brilliantly plumaged beauties of Andor to stay locked inside her gilded cage." She smiles charmingly.

The protest continues, "I rather like my cage, Mistress Aeliss." Rennar lowers a hand to tenderly caress one of the autumn flowers, "The beauty of the gardens fill my eyes with enough charm and grace that I need not travel outside. I have plenty of fresh air here, and more importantly, I am right where Demonder wants me to be." She gives a small shrug of her shoulders, looking away from Aeliss as she speaks the last. Stubborn is the word that most accurately describes her.

"And the Lord Demonder wishes you to stay locked up?" Aeliss begins, tentatively. "Even at the risk of one of the most influential patrons of the arts being conspicuously absent at this affair, which means to glorify Caemlyn's artists?" She shakes her head, making a faint tsk tsking sound under her breath. "You shan't even show your own support for your own Wards?" A dark brow arches at this last, as she waits, somewhat breathless, perhaps fearing she has gone too far in her urgings.

And perhaps she has, for Rennar allows a small touch of a frown to grace her lips. "You know you have my support Aeliss, otherwise you would not be employed within House Hune. Your music is lovely, however I will listen to it in the folds of my own home, when you've the time to play." There is a brief pause, "I do not fancy getting into another argument with my husband over the propriety of my going out, how, when, where and why. So, I am staying here, for whether I am here or out there," she pauses a moment, motioning with her hand, "I am still within the cage, and it might as well be within the comforts of my own home."

Aeliss hmmms under her breath, perhaps not understanding this. With genuine concern, she inquires, "Forgive me, my Lady. How does the cage extend to encompass areas not within your own House?" She idly shifts the weight of her cased harp to her other shoulder, looking at you with curiosity.

This is a point of irritation for Rennar, though she keeps it well hidden as she responds to Aeliss, her irritation not directed at the woman, nor her question, just her circumstances. "The situation in which my... former uncle... took my person has put a strain on my relationship with Demonder. He seeks to keep me safe, and in doing so he seeks to have someone watching over my shoulder every step that I am out of the House. Used to my freedom, and desparately needing it when I leave Tiras Lorn, and it being similar to circumstances where I was led around by my uncle before the House was surrounded by guards, I took and still take immediate objection to the circumstances under which Demonder wants me to live, therefore... I stay where they can most watch me best. Home."

Aeliss listens attentively to this, though from her expression, she seems to denote that she does not understand how such an apparently strong-willed woman can live under these restrictions. "I see, my Lady," she murmurs quietly, although apparently not truly seeing. "You cannot go...not even were you within the confines of the Palace, where there are many Guards? And it is just such a very short distance from Tiras Lorn to the Palace...."

Because no one has ever really set her straight on this particular matter, or because Rennar is too stubborn to hear truth when it is presented to her, she states quietly, looking away from Aeliss, "Unless summoned by the Queen, I will not enter Palace grounds. And still, I'd be watched every step of the way even at such a short distance. It is just better that I stay here. I'm quite certain you are more than capable of giving an exact counting of what you've seen and heard."

Aeliss smiles wryly at this, and nods. "True. I would be able to give an exact counting. But is it not better to see for yourself." She shakes her head, and decides to give up the issue for the moment. "My Lady, there is something I have wished to give you...something I chanced to find on the night the falling star blazed in the sky. Since I left for Illian, under your most gracious permission, I had not chance until now to present it to you. I am not sure exactly what it is, but it is most curious." She dips into a small bag tied to her belt, and produces a rather largish gleaming object which she sets on the bench next to you.

Aeliss dropped Crystal Bird.

Vaguely reminiscent of a bird, this crystalline object is just larger than two hands cupped together. It resembles a bird only in the most stylized of ways - a column in the middle with two wide flanges flaring out to either side. The "body" and one wing are both of a bright green crystal, the other wing being a clear crystal of purer clarity than any piece of glass you've ever seen. The crystal sparkles in the light, creating the illusion that the bird is moving slightly. The material seems unusually heavy compared to other minerals of similar appearance, and it would take both hands for most people to hold it aloft.

(OOC NOTE: If you enter a role-play scene that includes a channeler character of any variety (Aes Sedai, male channeler, etc.), please give them this object and ask them to look at it. They will see different information than this for their use in role-play. To check whether someone is a channeler, type '+verify name', or type 'res .who' to list all currently connected channelers. If you have any questions, please contact Saidar.)

Aeliss bids her farewell and leaves at this point.

Turail pulls open the gate and comes in from the path.

Lady Rennar is already outside, though that's not particularly surprising. Her eyes are on the gates, waiting for Turail to arrive, a slight worried expression upon her features.

Demonder's cousin does arrive shortly, as indicated by the message he sent accepting the offered location of Tiras Lorn for the meeting. In fact, he's not five minutes behind the messenger. "Lady Rennar," His bow is sweeping, though his eyes are very serious. "Thank you for entertaining my request so quickly."

"It sounded urgent." Rennar speaks in a quiet manner, "Might I ask why the hasty need for a meeting?" She inquires lightly, motioning for Turail to take a seat upon one of the many benches.

Very businesslike, Turail takes a place upon one of the benches, sitting straight, which gives him a much more intense air than when he sprawls. "Indeed, I shall come right to the heart of the matter, Lady Rennar. I recieved evening last a request by the hand of Child Inarin, a request that while on the surface was seemingly innocuous and charitable in nature, I believe it may have consequences of more reaching extent if there is not some effort to deflect some of those consequences, and quickly."

Gracefully, Rennar takes her own seat not too far away from Turail. A slender brow lifts in response to Turail's words, "And what, pray tell, was that request, Lord Turail?" She folds her hands within her lap, after gently smoothing over her skirts.

"He wished to speak with me concerning House Roesone aiding the Children in supplying them with money, manpower, and other items to assist those who have been left without home, or injured in the wake of the disaster from the heavens." Turail's expression is decisive, as if he knows exactly where he's going with this, and what must be done. "This may seem innocuous, and indeed the relief is needed, until one contemplates that the Child also did mention using the relief center to preach the philosophies of the Children. This could be dangerous, in ways I'm sure that you can see the implications of."

Slowly, Rennar nods her head, "Indeed, quite dangerous, particularly for the Queen, and those Houses that got mixed up with the Children in such a manner."

"Exactly. But.." A hint of crafty intelligence leaks into Turail's expression, "Not responding to the needs of the people is as dangerous, not to mention personally repugnant to those who care for Andor's people, as you and I both do. House Roesone is as of yet still too entangled to refuse outright... but if another house were brought to the table..." Here his eyes glint triumphantly, "Versyr...we dilute both the means of preaching ill concerning the queen, and the effectiveness of such preaching heavily. But in order to make this a bargain that cannot be refused.. I need to bring more than just Versyr to offer assistance." His eyes are direct. Its clear what other house he is suggesting.

That slender brow seems to lift once more, "You are not suggesting that I aid the Children in their endeavour, are you?" There is a touch of disapproval upon her features, "I will give aid to efforts that the Queen makes, however actions that support the Children's efforts may lead them to believe that House Hune supports them entirely, which it does not."

"I am indeed suggesting it, Lady Rennar, but if you will hear me out, I will explain what I hope to accomplish in this, and how." Turail tilts his head, "You know that I have no love for the Children.. especially in their preaching against the Queen, but I do see a way to make THEM appear affiliated with the Queen in this, which would negate much of what they might do to the minds of the people at this time. But for that, it must not be obvious what is done."

The frown remains upon Rennar's features, the idea of being associated with the Children not sitting well with her at all. However, she does give Turail a chance to explain himself, "Go on." She comments quietly, however whether or not this particularly blunt lady listens is another thing entirely.

Turail nods, apparently satisfied with the opportunity to explain himself for the moment. "Thank you Lady Rennar." He pauses considering what point to start with in the plan that has been fomenting in his head since the previous evening, troubling his sleep as his mind turned on it. "Firstly, I think we both see that in offering a helping hand when one is desperately in need, one gains a portion of trust with that person. A sort of 'savior' status, if you will." He smiles briefly. "The request, if you recall, was for money, men to distribute supplies, and supplies. I propose to give only the latter two, and under conditions they need not be told of beforehand, not be able to reasonably protest. The men will be handpicked, and will work in livery of the house that supplied them, thus decreasing the appearance of the children being in charge or solely responsible for this."

The Lady Hune seems to wait, allowing her frown to melt away into an unreadable mask. Turail might still get the impression that this is something that Rennar is not liking, though she tries to work through that. "Please continue." She prompts, waiting to hear the full idea behind Turail's request for aid.

Nodding his head, Turail does continue. His own expressions vascillate between crafty, mildly angry at the threat the children pose, and overwhelmingly serious. He himself does not entirely like the idea.. but believes perhaps that this is the best of the available options. "Secondly.. the supplies.. food, blankets, other items of need.. we will see to it that the crates and other containers bear the sigils of the houses that supplied them. The children will not be able to remove these en masse, therefore the association of the help in the minds of the helped will rest with the houses, and not the Children. Additionally, we will make sure that they do not by sending the supplies WITH the men to distribute them." Everything he has suggested so far seems directly designed to make the children seem less leaders, and more followers in the endeavor.

"And what do members of House Versyr think of the idea? Have you approached the Queen upon the matter?" Rennar quietly questions, carefully regarding Turail as she waits his response. "And more so, what of the people who will still think the efforts are largely maintained by the Children, particularly when tehy start to take claim for the effort they put into the matter?"

"I have a meeting scheduled with Prince Theowyn to discuss it this evening." Turail replies seriously. "It is he I intend to bring to the negotiation table, not the Queen, though certainly, it is imperative that she both know and approve. Theowyn and I are on very good terms, and while he is Tower trained, he neither channels, nor is bond to any Aes Sedai. Yet his association with the Queen, as her brother is close enough to infer in the mind of people that the Children cooperate with her.. and thus validate her. Denouncements of her will seem hypocrytical in the face of a direct coopertive tie, or the appearance of one." He pauses and taps his thumb on the bench. "There is something else as well. Surely you have heard rumors fly about the possibility of some oath between the Queen and the Lord Commander, Emrich? This will serve to make that seem truer."

Turail stretches out his legs and adds, "If you wonder why I leave it to Theowyn to discuss with her Majesty, I must confess it is because she does not like me, in any measure, no matter what my intents, no matter what my actions.. I cannot seem to win even a sliver of her confidence. According to what I have heard, Daric has verbally attacked her openly... and yet it is me she dislikes." He looks vexed, puzzled, and resigned to this state of affairs.

"I have heard rumors, but nothing to substantiate them. If I find out what this particular Oath is, my support for the Queen may very well become void. I have no love for the Children, and wish to keep them as far away from my life as possible. In part, they were responsible for my father's death." Rennar pauses briefly within her words, a tingle of a frown coming to her lips once more, "I cannot claim to know the Queen's mind or why she does anything any more. We do not speak to one another."

Turail quirks an eyebrow, "Perhaps you think I enjoyed carrying the sword of the Lord Commander back to the Manor, and seeing it hung over the mantle in honor, as a reward for taking four of our own as veritable hostages? Lady Rennar, you took Daric into your home, a serpant to the bosom as it were, for the greater good of knowing the movements of your enemy. Can you not see that we have the opportunity not only to know their movements, but to disappoint them in their efforts greatly? Think of it, Three major houses, one of them the Queen's own involved in assissting the sick, injured and destitute. If only the children do this, only the children appear to care for Andor, and they will not hesitate to claim that the houses who refuse are callous and uncaring. But if three houses undertake this, and make sure to display their hand in it, the children are reduced to a small section of the credit."

"There is a difference between giving aid to a single man, than to giving yourself to the entire serpents nest, however." Rennar speaks in quieted tones, watching Turail through slitted eyes. She remains calm, at least outwardly. On the inside she tries to understand the logic with Turail's notions. "Where a house to give such open support to the Children, then they are bound to give that aid a second time, then a third time and son on and so forth. It is an open invitation for them to come to you for aid, and should you refuse after you begin, you become suspicious within their eyes. Who is to say that we cannot coordinate our own relief effort? Rather than working in conjunction with the Children?" No matter how Turail explains it, Rennar is still not thrilled with the idea, and not eager to see things his way.

"It is not aid TO the Children, Lady Rennar. If money were given, it would be, and they would be able to use it for whatever they might wish, and we would never be able to prevent it, but in sending only men to distribute items to those in need with those items, we carefully cut them off from benefiting themselves. The whole point of this plan is to force them to appear to associate themselves with the Queen, or appear as the serpents they are. It is, I must bluntly say, a trap I wished to bait for them." His expression has cooled a touch itself, not longer showing much of what he is thinking. Briefly he ponders the wisdom of getting married, for some reason. "I admit I am dissapointed that you cannot see the value of that from a political standpoint, but of course, it is your decision. I thank you for hearing me out, however."

You say "It is not aid TO the Children, Lady Rennar. If money were given, it would be, and they would be able to use it for whatever they might wish, and we would never be able to prevent it, but in sending only men to distribute items to those in need with those items, we carefully cut them off from benefiting themselves. The whole point of this plan is to force them to appear to associate themselves with the Queen, or appear as the serpents they are. It is, I must bluntly say, a trap I wished to bait for them." His expression has cooled a touch itself, not longer showing much of what he is thinking. Briefly he ponders the wisdom of getting married, for some reason. "I admit I am dissapointed that you cannot see the value of that from a political standpoint, but of course, it is your decision. I thank you for hearing me out, however.""

There is a long pause as Rennar thinks more over the issues that Turail passes to her, "I will need time to think on the matter, and consult with Demonder. As my husband, I try to include him in some of the more important decisions affecting the House. I'm not entirely at all cetain he will be pleased with hte idea either. To me, it smells more of a trap for the Houses than of the Children, something that can go badly either way, so please forgive my caution in the matter." She pauses a moment, silently watching Turail, then her expression ligtens a bit, "How is Lady Cathryn?"

Turail nods, once, a mere dip of his chin. "Of course, Lady Rennar. I brought this plan to you because of your close alliance with Roesone through Demonder, because I cannot be certain which other houses might have leanings towards, or away from the children, and whom might betray what I propose. And also because your own associations to the queen have been close in the past. Including Versyr if Hune was present would seem more natural, otherwise... it becomes obvious what I am trying to do in bringing Versyr into it." He looks suddenly more weathered. Is that a single silver hair gleaming at his temple? "Lady Cathryn..." He turns his mind on that and looks vaguely troubled. "She has been very ill for several days, to the point that I am unable to speak with her on this, or other matters."

Slowly, Rennar nods her head as she listens to Turails words, "Though, you bringing matters to me might not be of much help. I have not spoken to the Queen or those within the palace for some several months, except in matters of extreme business."

Rennar continues, "I am sorry to hear this about Lady Cathryn. She did not expect to live out the entire year." A saddened expression does touch Rennar's features, "Though, I do hope she manages to pull through this trial."

Turail nods, "I realise there has been a matter of strain in your relationship, but not all know this, and it would have appeard natural. I did not expect to ask you to bring Versyr to this, only to help me hide with your presence what I was up to. Regardless... " he shifts on the bench. "If the idea is rejected... I suppose it will be up to Roesone to somehow extract themselves.. we will make due." There's no indication in his tone as to his level of optimism that this can be done effectively. He looks up and peers at Rennar. "Did she say this, specifically?" One might almost think he does not entirely look forward to shouldering the entire weight of the house alone any sooner than he has to, in spite of asking for the burden. Its duty, not glory.

"Her nursemaid is the only thing sustaining her, extending her life. Likely, had it not been for the woman's skill in herbs she would be dead now. And, she did say something to this effect specifically, that her maid may be able to extend her at least another year, but no more." Rennar speaks in a quiet voice, that expression remaining saddened.

Turail leans forward on the bench, resting his elbows on his knees, hands interlocked, and rests his chin on the two-handed fist this creates. His forehead ripples with worry. "Light Rennar, She has not yet chosen an heir replacement... and if not me, who? This burden is heavier than I would like.. I could wish she would endure forever, but who can bear the house up when the inevitable comes? Daric? That would be disasterous. Pitor?" he seems about to make a comment on Pitor and then reconsiders. "Deleamar? He has appropriate views, but is unable to be subtle or hold his tongue. I fear if she does not choose soon, there will be a struggle that will damage the House and threaten the peace."

"She will choose, Turail." Rennar speaks quietly, "I'm almost certain of that." She offers the other word some confort and support through her voice, eyes carefully taking in the Lord before her. "Though, I must warn again... Lord Daric returned the other evening, seeking to 'explain' his side of things. For some reason, he believes my House is taking particular notice in his actions. When he was here, I watched him when I could, however he believed all my servants were watching out after him, and chasing him about the city, and that I assigned them to the task. Some offered, I did not refuse their aid, however I never assigned it."

Turail mulls things over in silence some time longer before remarking. "Daric is, and will continue to be a thorn in the side of Roesone. The serpent in our bosom that we cannot dispose of easily. Unreasonable, arrogant, blind as well as deaf to truth that is not convenient." He changes the subject to something seemingly unrelated to what they have been discussing. "How is your Bard Aeliss, Lady Rennar? Was it from you I heard she had gone to Illian... something to do with the Hunt of the horn?"

It takes Rennar a few moments to gather her wits about her, what with the next change of topic, "Lady Aeliss has recently returned. In fact, I saw her this very evening. She gave me a rather odd object which she found the night of the meteor events."

Turail lifts his chin off his hands and looks a little interested. "Oh? What sort of an object?"

"This..." Rennar offers, holding it out to Turail.

Turail picks the item up from Rennar's palm carefully and examines it curiously.

Rennar watches quietly as Turail picks up the crystal, "It's rather... interesting." She comments, "And certainly bright. I am wondering how it was molded into that shape though. I dropped it, and it didn't even chip."

"It's odd." Turail remarks, holding it with both hands and peering through one of the wings. "It seems somehow too heavy for its shape and size."

Turail finally holds it back towards Rennar, apparently mystified.

"Aeliss would knore about the arts, and Shalayne would know more, I think. She at least has a studio." Rennar gently takes the crystal back, "I have not yet had a chance to talk to Aeliss further about her travels. She gave me the crystal then left for the art festival."

"Hmm.. I did not see her there." Turail remarks. "I was there for a space of time. Perhaps we just missed one another."

"Perhaps..." Rennar watches Turail inquisitvely, a brow raising just slightly. There is a faint glimmer in her eyes as she regards him. "Do you care for Aeliss." She finally speaks out, not her place to ask such a question, but curiosity eats at her.

Turail sits up straight, looking back at Rennar with surprise, apparently blind-sided by that question. He manages not to gape at her. "Lady Rennar? I... Have I missed something in this conversation?" His own eyebrows have nearly climbed to his hairline, a neat trick. "Aeliss is a wonderful woman to be sure... " He begins and then stops, peering at Rennar as if he does not know what to add to that, but then finds something else to add. "I enjoy her company.. " He finishes.

A touch of amusement does show in Rennar's eyes; amusement that is rarely ever there these days. "It is just that you and Demonder both speak so highly of her and so often, looking out for her welfare." She gives a shrug of her shoulders, "Besides, it was not as if I had asked if you loved her or anything..." Though Turail's reaction might have suggested something of the kind, from his shear surprise.

Turail continues to look a smidge bewildered. "I assume a Lady of your caliber would not hire persons not a similar caliber." He folds his fingers together to keep them from fidgetting, though his left boot takes up the refrain with a slight side to side rocking motion. "Should we not have reason to speak highly of your choices in staff?" He completely avoids the question of love, by sticking his head in the sand, and pretending it was never mentioned.

No, it was never mentioned, though it might as well have been. Rennar smiles gently as she regards Turail, "No, you should not need a reason. She speaks highly of yourself and Demonder as well." Rennar speaks quietly, watching Turail's reaction in a calm manner, though that amusement still tingles in her eyes.

It's possible that Turail is not as oblivious to Aeliss's machinations towards arranging accidental meetings, and non-accidental ones, as he might have initially appeared. Perhaps some of his reaction to the question might be explained by this, if it were to prove true. "That is kind of her." He speaks softly, somewhat aware, by the flicker of his blue eyes to Rennar's amused expression, that she finds this humorous in some fashion.

A hand lifts and comes to Rennar's mouth. Gently, she clears her throat and lowers her back to her lap, allowing her few moments of amusement to subside, "Do forgive me... I just had to know. It is something that kept plaguing upon my mind. I am sorry."

Turail's expression becomes slightly more serious, and he drops his voice. "Lady Rennar.. there is something else.. a matter that is partially personal, and partially of impact to Roesone. Possibly you have heard rumors.."

A brow lifts gently at Turail's words. "Yes, Lord Roesone?" Rennar chooses this moment to become more official and serious.

The half Shienaran falls silent a moment and then goes on. "Roesone has another possible alliance planned to strengthen us in a merchantile sense besides the one you have so graciously offered with Hune, which we intend fully to make use of. The alliance may possibly be one of marriage... " His lips quirk in an unexplained temporary expression and his eyes raise. "Currently, I am the Roesone being considered to cement the marriage."

"Does this sit well with you, Lord Roesone?" Rennar asks, once again prying, though this time concern touches her eyes. Very little does she get to hear of outside rumors now. She sits back a bit, resting herself on both her hands as she does, watching him in a quiet manner.

"I believe the circumstances may be acceptable, at least, initial impressions strike me that way." Turail responds frankly. "I have few delusions that such marriages eventually lead to a love.. but I am willing to accept a friendship.. provided it is coupled with trust and respect. The woman in question is not unattractive to my eyes either." He strokes his jaw, his thumb running over a small cut there that seems surrounded with small pinprick scrapes a couple of days old. "Perhaps you have met her. She was at the Roesone Ball, though I think she had departed before your impromptu wedding." He grins slightly, recalling that portion of the evening.

"I have my own beliefs on marriage, though know that it can be a useful tool at times." Rennar comments quietly, sitting up a bit more than before. She watches Turail's actions and movements in a careful manner. "I do not believe I' know of the woman you speak about." She answers further. Lifting a hand, she gently pushes a few tendrils of hair from her eyes, placing them behind her ear. "And I only attended the impromptu wedding portion fo the Ball, though I am still trying to talk Demonder into something more formal."

Turail looks down momentarily, his blue eyes half closed in thought. Then he lets them re-engage Rennar's. "I agree a marriage based on love is always preferrable." He smiles, though it is a small one, and slightly odd. "But one cannot always have what one wishes. Sometimes... it is time to move on." The expression haunting his features has a story behind it. That is sure. "The Lady I speak of is Janeva de Veilchiest." he states bluntly.

By the blank expression on Rennar's features, it is clear she has never heard of the woman. She presses her lips together, an shakes her head from side to side, "I'm afriad I don't know her." She comments lightly.

"She is Heiress to a merchant house out of Arad Doman." Turail adds, again rubbing his thumb over that small cut on his jaw idly.

It is then that Rennar takes notice of the small cut. Spying it causes her to lift her brow once more, "What is she like?" She asks quietly, watching Turail play with the cut with his thumb. At the end of her question she turns her gaze more completly upon him, eyes meeting his should he be looking in her direction.

Turail does happen to be looking that direction, a shadowing of brooding resting on his harsh features. His eyes seem bluer under the influence of the deep saphire colored coat he wears, and remain meeting her gaze. "She is intelligent, persuasive... skilled in certain aspects of trade. Beautiful of course." He says that last as if its a given for the Domani. "We seem to be able to enjoy one another's company." He adds.

"Well, I suppose that's something for you... that you enjoy each other's company." Rennar adds at the end, almost as a second thought. "It is important." She comments, turning her own gaze away from Turail. "Particularly for someone who might be as important as a House Head."

Turail doesn't go into the fact that there is a sort of magnetic draw between them.. or Janeva's means of negotiating. He considers that rather personal perhaps. "We are still discussing it, however. You are correct. I suppose its somewhat unusual for a House Head to be the offereing in such an alliance.. assuming Cathryn actually does choose me."

Today is Twosday, 24 Choren, 998 NE. It is a Autumn evening.

"Why would it be any more unusual than my marrying for love rather than political connections?" Rennar counters, eyes turning skyward briefly, looking over the evening stars for a small bit.

"You gained both." Turail responds. "It would have been more unusual, or perhaps considered so had you married a commoner for love. I would not be the one to castigate you, even in that circumstance, had it been different." He stands up, a curiously enigmatic expression on his face, "Lady Rennar, it grows late, and I should take my leave to attend a few other matters. I do thank you for obliging my request to speak with you."

Rennar gives a small shake of her head, "Not within Andor. Marrying commoners is a more common occurance here. Though, it is still an event to be talked about." She pauses a moment, nodding her head just a bit, "Very well. Good evening to you Lord Roesone."

Turail smiles and bows with the grace of a long time dancer of swords, "Peace Favor You, and your House, Lady Rennar." and he strolls out, his back presenting a curiously wistful feeling picture as he recedes into the darkness.

"Peace favor you, Lord Turail." Rennar responds quietly as the Roesone Lord leaves her home.

Turail makes his way out of Tiras Lorn.

Demonder pulls open the gate and comes in from the path.

The sound of the gates is heard opening and closing, the dark figure of Demonder is seen as he makes his way through into the courtyard. A clear summer night brings about a few stares upwards as he walks through.

Sitting upon one of the benches, unsurprisingly enough, is Rennar. She appears to be gazing at the stars, though not half hidden as she was the evening earlier within the week.

Although Demonder looks to the sky, he also takes the time to look across the courtyard where he would almost expect to see Rennar. Spotting her easily enough, he heads in the direction of where she sits. "Renni? Pleasant evening? I've managed to spend some time in the Roesone manor. There's this distant cousin, she seems to believe flowers can talk," Demonder is very amused by this, not yet close enough to pick-up on Rennar's move until he finishes the last of his words.

Upon hearing Demonder's voice, Rennar turns her gaze from the skies to her husband. "Good evening, Demonder." For whatever reason, she seems to be in better spirits this evening. "Flowers you say?" She wrinkles her nose slightly, "How is the rest of your family?"

"I'm afraid I've only had words with her and Lord Deleamar." That amusement does run thicker through Demonder's tone. "That Lord Deleamar, he is the rudest and most blunt..." Demonder stops there, short of cursing. "Only behind Daric, though of opposit views, I'll leave it that way. Yet he seems to have a fondess for Lady Kyleigh. She speaks with flowers, Renni. I mean, that can't be normal?" Demonder shrugs. "I heard from a servant that her family died at a young age, and she was never the same. A good artist apparently." Well, Demonder's about done with his day. "You seem in better spirits?"

"A bit..." Rennar answers the last first, "Lord Turail and I talked for quite sometime this evening." Amusement tinges her eyes, but she speaks nothing more about that particular incident, "Tell me more of what happened."

"You did?" Demonder's voice takes on an entirely different sort of tone. He's yet to 'claim' his wife, after-all, and certainly he might think she finds him less appealing. That, combined with already one woman dropping her attentions on him for Turail, does mix in emotionally. "What did you speak?" Demonder ignores her question, his mind seemingly unfocused.

The amusement within her eyes becomes more clear after a small moment of silence, "I asked him of his feelings upon Mistress Aeliss." Rennar comments lightly, her eyes dancing about almost impishly. However, whether or not Demonder knows it, Rennar appreciates he is giving her time to 'come around'.

Demonder doesn't look too amused, but he tries to hide the slight level of uncomfortableness within his features. "You did?" Demonder's tone is a touch different then, as he relaxes a little. At least tries to. "Did the answer provide to be of satisfaction?"

"To an extent, yes." There is a touch of puzzlement within Demonder's reaction. Rennar strives to keep it hidden however, allowing her amusement to fade, "He also told me of his possible impending arranged marriage to a Mistress Jaenevea, or something or another." She manages to mangle the name, "Someone with good standing with merchants."

"The one I mentioned a few nights before," Demonder reminds with a more relaxed smile forming across his features. "That is a surprise, about his feelings to Aeliss. Not that Aeliss isn't wildly attractive and interesting, though Turail seems rather cold and harsh at times. At least he did when he first arrived." Demonder shrugs, not having talked to Turail recently.

"He came more about matters concerning House Roesone and the Children... but I'd rather not speak of those right now." And with that, Rennar seems to become more subdued, like herself of late, rather than before.

"I see. And I see I've once again ruined your mood?" Demonder's tone holds some jealousy. All of a sudden his wife seems a touch more at ease. He learns of Rennar's conversation with Turail, very realistically linking the two, and now that he's arrived she returns to her subdued form.

"No, remembrance of Turail's request of House Hune is what ruined my mood. It is not something I cherish considering, nor somehting I wish to dwell on now, bu I will tell you of it later."

Demonder sighs heavily, moving behind Rennar as she sits on the bench. His hands take their place at Rennar's shoulder, the familiar massaging of his strong fingers begins. "I'm sorry for suggesting otherwise. Though you did have a pleasant conversation with Turail, excluding that issue." His tone void of jealousy now.

"Otherwise pleasant. Yes." Rennar responds, leaning back into Demonder's embrace faintly. "Aeliss even attemptedto get me to go out." There's a wry tone to her voice as she mentions this.

"Did she?" Demonder's voice peaks with interest. Fingers continuing to massage her back, he leans forward with a slight smile. "Well, I'd think she would have better success then I. Were you at least a touch tempted?"

She seems appreciative and accepting of the massage. Rennar's lips touch into a small frown, "Not in the slightest." She comments lightly, looking over her shoulder to observe Demonder's reaction.

"Eventful day." Demonder leans forward to kiss Rennar softly on the lips. The kiss does not last for more then a few moments, as he seems to prefer to break free of them first before Rennar does so. "And to think my day was spent speaking with a woman that found the conversation of a tulip more interesting."

"Quite eventful." Rennar speaks quietly, shrugging her shoulders a bit, "I'm sure she had an interesting conversation with the flower?" She asks lightly. "Of course, flowers don't talk much, that i've ever observed."

"Apparently they enjoy having portraits painted of them." Demonder frowns at the concept. "No, I can't believe even a Whitecloak could beat a flower into talking. She seemed to believe her conversation interesting, and the flower did talk to he enough, as most of the time she was snickering and giggling." Demonder's fingers press harder into those tighter muscles. "Aeliss is back from Illian? Did she enjoy the trip?

And herein lies another person after asking Aeliss. This time it is Rennar's turn to pause, and perhaps hint at a touch of jealousy, though she lets hers pass more quickly than Demonder's. "I had not had time to speak to her of it. She gave me a gift and then left."

"A gift?" Demonder's voice peaks in interest as he leans forward to see Rennar. "From Illian I'd imagine?"

"I believe she said it was something that fell from the meteor." Reaching down, Rennar picks up what appears to be a bird like, greenish crystal shard. She holds it out for Demonder to see.

Demonder looks at the strange object, his hands moving over a part as he helps guide Rennar's hands in twists and turns so he can observe it from many angles. "It fell from the meteor? Surely that can't be true? Though it does look, different." Demonder's eyes widen, taking a great interest in it by each thought that immediately enters his mind. "A gift from the Creator?"

"I'm not certain the Creator would send meteor's down to destroy whole villages, do you?" Rennar asks quietly, "It could simply be debris that formed this way on impact." She shrugs her shoulders a bit, putting the object down beside her on the ground once more. "In any case, Aeliss wanted me to have it, for whatever reason."

"And what will you do with it?" Demonder asks quietly, eyes still focused on the object. "I mean, how would it even get on the meteor?"

"That I have no idea." Rennar answers the second first, speculating, "I think maybe it was a piece that dropped off... But I could be wrong. I mean, there was a rain of green sparkles for a while there.... and then the fires." She sighs lightly, "I think it will just find its way in one of our cases or shelves."

"It is unique." Demonder isn't much of a philosopher, but having things fall out of meteor's does seem to tug at his mind to no end. Or maybe his imagination. "Don't you think we should have someone examine it that might recognize it? It might be something from centuries ago. But how?" he still toys with that concept.

Rennar shrugs lightly, thinking nothing more of it, "Why? To have the Tower or another organization want to claim it for their own? It was a gift to me from Aeliss, one I mean to keep. While I like to gain knowledge, I also don't like other organizations interfereing with items in my house hold."

"The Tower would take it from you?" Demonder looks almost surprised at the concept. "I'm sure they could not do that, could they?"

"If the Tower felt it a something worthy of their possession, or study, they could try." Rennar returns quietly, eyes going briefly to the object that was her gift.

Demonder frowns. "Well, I'm still curious." Not that the curious would ever be satisfied at this rate. Stroking at Rennar's arm briefly, Demonder takes a longer breath of fresh air. "Do you miss the horses sold?"

"Pardon?" The question takes Rennar by surprise. She turns to look at Demonder, her face an unreadable mask.

Demonder has nothing but caring in his eyes, moving around the bench to sit at Rennar's side. His hand interweaves itself with hers, the other moving behind and around her shoulders. "Just that you were sleeping in their stalls," he says quietly. "I worry about you."

There is a slight hesitation that comes from Rennar. She shrugs her shoulders, "I will miss them. However, this needs to be done." She still is rather firm on the point, "Two more are scheduled to leave on the morrow."

What could Demonder do? Beg for the horses to stay. Even that wouldn't work. "I wish it wasn't this way," is the only words he can manage, pulling Rennar closer as he bends forward to kiss her on the forehead warmly and then tug her against his chest. This would all look rather strange if she didn't need the comfort, of course.

Gently, Rennar wraps her arms about Demonder's waist, taking in his warmth and comfort. She holds herself close to him, perhaps closer than she has in a long time, and simply seems to cling to Demonder, resting her head against his chest.

Demonder takes the role of protecting her, the warm embrace not letting go, holding her as tight to his body as needed. "Give it time, Renni," he whispers.

"Give what time, Demonder?" A touch of confusion enters Rennar's voice, "All I have been doing is giving things time. The only thing that is different is we're now married, and I can't seem to even get that right." She knows she has her failings, and that plagues her as well. That only seems to make her cling more to Demonder.

"There is nothing wrong with our marriage," Demonder states, his words honest. "Everything that is necessary is provided. Love, companionship, openness, trust. Our marriage as all these elements." The protective embrace gets tighter as Rennar clings on tighter. "Sometimes things need time. Othertimes, it is best to seize the moments had."

Demonder's words do help reassure Rennar somewhat, hwoever that does not lessen her need for comfort. "Time..." Rennar repeats quietly, keeping her head pressed tightly against Demonder's chest. "And what if time runs out, what do you do then?" It is more speculation than anything else.

"You don't let it run out." Demonder's words are frank. "If you run out of time, then you've lost." Within the embrace, Demonder's breath is warm against Rennar's cheek. "You will do what you feel is right, you always do."

Even that option is not entirely left to her anymore. That cage which she lives in seems to grow smaller and smaller. Slowly, Rennar shakes her head, "I don't know what is right anymore, Demonder." Her words come quietly, the barest of whispers.

"You don't always need to know," Demonder encourages with his own whisper. "So long as one of us knows. Or tries their best at knowing. So long as we trust eachother when we are at our weakest. Then, Renni, you do not need to know." One hand lifts from the side of her and gently brushes through her growing hair.

Slowly, Rennar's resolve starts to melt away, her arms still clinging to Demonder in almost desparate mesasures. "I need your guidance. It is because of our arguing that I've confined myself to the House. I can't stay here forever, but I also do not want to be followed every where that I go, needing moments of privacy even if just to go into the city and do some window shopping. I can't stay caged here any longer."

"Good." The relief explodes from Demonder's lips, his eyes going shut for a moment as he takes another heavy breath. "You will not be watched wherever you go. Only when you ask for a guard." Demonder's large hands stroke through her hair and then reach a touch behind her neck so he can lift her eyes more to him.

Demonder can feel the tension leaving her in a considerable manner, and a sigh escaping her as relief fills her. "Thank you..." She comments quietly, at least partial freedom restored to her in some manner.

"Anything else you wish to let down your stubborness on?" Demonder asks in a half smile that doesn't maintain its long upon his features.

Her actions this night are a brief start. "There is nothing else but this." Clearly she sees the Queen as another matter completely. She does not have to live with her, afterall. Rennar continues to hold Demonder tightly, not wanting to let go.

"Then that is all that shall be tonight," Demonder nods in agreement. Taking Rennar more firmly into his arms, he reaches around her legs and lifts them up and over so that Rennar may lay more within his lap.

That simple action does seem to cause Rennar some surprise, having not really been readied for it. A small gasp escapes her, but she does not get bothered by it for long, snuggling herself against Demonder's form once more. "Did anything else interesting go on today?" Rennar inquires quietly, yet to look up at hte man who holds her.

"Nothing more," Demonder responds faintly. "Though it was an eventful day. I'm glad you made the decision to leave the manor," he manages it out in a whisper. Fingers slip from stroking through your hair to move beneath your chin, but he doesn't force her gaze upwards. "Time for bed soon?" he asks quietly.

Rennar nods her head lightly, "Soon. I want to stay out here a few more minutes with you. If that's alright?" She asks in a quiet manner, seemingly uncertain.

"Of course, there's not rush." Demonder squeezes Renni to him in a hug within his already warm embrace. "We can stay out here all night if you wish it," he hints at a touch of amusement from his own words, but otherwise continues to hold Rennar with as much security as he can within his embrace.

"Thank you... but the nights are growing chill, and I don't want either of us to catch cold." Likely, Rennar might have taken him up on that offer if Autumn were not already upon them.

Demonder simply stays with Rennar, holding her warmly upon his lap. The tight embrace is not near releasing, not until she says otherwise, and even the strokings of his hands are warm and loving. "We grow together, and live life together."

After a few moments longer of enjoying Demonder's warmth, she starts to rise to her feet, to walk her way to her bed, "Unless you wish to stay further, we can go inside now."

"You do not wish to carry me?" Demonder asks with a confused tone, though does watch Rennar stand from his lap. Standing as well, he offers her his arm and begins to escort Rennar to their room.

"I hardly think I could carry you." Rennar responds to Demonder, taking his arm gently and starting for the house.

"I meant..." Demonders voice trails, as he shakes his head. "Nevermind, it's late," he notes. With those words, he gladly leads Rennar within the manor afther their walk to the doors.