#anywhere

"There are different types of borders." August observes.

"What do you have in mind, Sir?" The Duchess asks

"I am not sure." Simple "There are limits of knowledge. Frontiers of learning. Other kinds of borders."

"True" Jude says

"Are the other Liam banner houses back? Who are they, what do they do?"

Jude grins "Ooo may I?"

"Go on, Jude. Though I worked hard to get them acceptance," Tierone says

"Yes, your grace, you were wonderful," Petalmourn says as one might to a childling.

Which causes the boy to sigh

Jude goes on "House Tinean ... head of a House is a lord in the barony of Pines. They're nicknamed by some Redeemers. House Gwydion has assisted them where we could not...

they're known for going to great lengths to seek out fae that have temporarily fallen to Banality and restoring them to their Kithain natures. For generations, they’ve acquired a reputation for pulling off daring rescues from places like asylums and nursing homes, as well as finding lost fae when no one else could."

"Of course, some say they have a heavier edge, " Tierone says "Some have hunted down prodigals who have taken kithian lives"

August nods gravely.

Jude frowns at something, but then lets it slide

One or two others are mentioned, but only one or two others. "Understand," Petalmourn says "They do not go around saying "I am of House Tinean'... it's ap Liam of Banner Tinean. That must be stressed. If the Great Houses thought these banner houses saw themselves as equals... it would surely backfire on them."

"ANd they ARE will sworn to Liam" Jude nods

"Well, OUR Banner Houses are" He finishes

"Of course, Your Graces, Excellency."

"Is there anything else?" Petalmourn says

"No, Your Grace, thank you." He bows.

Jude puts a hand on his shoulder, "August. I know this has to be a lot to absorb. And we have not always handled things well. I mean. I REALLY Upset Zara.." A sigh "But we have faith in you... and wouldn't have pushed this on your shoulder if we didn't think you could handle it. If you need anything, ask. Don't be shy. We want you to succeed and you are our house brother"

He swallows at the unexpected offer of support. "Thank you, Excellency. "

Jude seems to mean it.

"You're welcome," He says removing his hand, "Oh, tell your wife I send my regards."

"I will, Excellency."

"I am also available should you need talk to me again" Duchess Petalmourn nods "Thank you, Sir."

He bows.

"Alas, I maybe distracted seizing control over a section of the Feathered Serpent" Duke Tierone says

"I wish you success, Your Grace." Politely.

"Appreciated" He says and bows.

August bows back.

Petalmourn says "Your daughter maybe cross with us. Let her know that if she wishes, My ear is available to her as well"

"Why would she be cross?"

"She, like you, has been somewhat told less than she should have by us," Petalmourn says

"Ah. I see. Yes."

The woamn seems troubled by that. Tierone seems to enjoy intrigues, Petalmourn does them but seems to regret them. Jude...Jude is Jude and hard to be sure even though AUgust is sure thanks to his long life he's got his hands involved in more pies than both dukes together.

"Unless you need anything else, or wish to linger- in which case you're welcome," The Count says "You might want to return home and assure Coradel of this."

August nods. "We spoke before I received you summons and I am sure she would like to know the outcome. With your permission?"

"Of course," Petalmourn says "Tell her I have confessed to you for my part in bringing her here. And I am happy both of you have refound love"

August looks puzzled. "I... I will, Your Grace."

And August withdraws.. his mind racing no doubt.

(Well. Spinning, certainly. He goes home and calls a family meeting.)

(End Scene)