#baronyofthesilverwolf

*******

Early, early in the morning, before the sun has stirred, before even Marigold has been up to set her bread to rise, the Baron consults with his Chancellor.

"The fault is not in my workings." Calanthe insists. "They have been recently reinforced and all hold strong."

"Then another is needed. This morning." Aiden frowns. "I cannot provide for my people if I am overcome by weakness. Last night, Gwen made that clear. She is bold... but she was right to confront me."

Calanthe frowns - it is clear that she wants to ask - but just as clear the the Baron does not wish to discuss his conversation with the fledge.

"It will not be my best work. It would be better to have a painting commissioned in particular. If we were to wait a week, even. There is that artist recommended by Sir Sergei..." Calanthe reasons.

Aiden shakes his head. "I must present a strong front before those we seek as allies and emissaries. Do what you must to make it work with something we have on hand."

An inward frown, but she inclines her head to her liege. "As you wish." They retreat to the inner rooms of the Barony, where Manor house melds into Freehold. A flare of glamour may be felt just as the sun rises.

When the residents arise, a new painting - well, not fresh, but newly retrieved from storage, is on display in one of the front halls. Extraordinary artwork that displaying lovely autumn colors and a herd of deer in the form of an original oil painting.

In it’s new niche, the artwork gleams of the glamour instilled by it's artist. And perhaps, like so many of the pieces on display, a little something more.

**********

It’s the day of the fete, and SilverWolf is abuzz with activity. Decor long tucked away is brought out and dusted, rooms that lay unused have been aired out. Guests rooms available for those traveling who may wish to stay overnight have fresh linens laid out and fireplaces stocked against the Autumn chill.

Rather than a big sit-down feast, Marigold has arranged for a buffet-style layout, no less sumptuous but far more casual, and one can easily load up or snack lightly to their hearts content.

Wild game seems to be a theme, with roasted turkey with wild rice dressing, grouse and partridge, venison roast, stew, and hand pies, along with simpler fare such as sandwiches, pasties, crudités, cheese boards - the Steward has gone all out.

There’s a dessert board groaning with delectable treats, coffee and tea, and a wine selection brought up from the cellars.

Early on, anyone who stopped by the kitchen was snagged for some or another chore, but then sent away to tidy up and get ready for guests to arrive.

An envoy was sent already to Dark Gate with sampling’s of the fare for those who could not attend, and just as likely came back with as much or more from the proud Dark Gate chef.

And Sir Sergei and Adam arrive a half mile away, ironically, Sergei has a dog. the flicker flash here was abrupt.

Adam staggers on arrival.

"Are you all right, Adam?" Sergei says calmly

"Yes, Sir, I'm fine."

Chimerical signs of welcome have been set up on the nearby paths and trails, and along the main highway past Carthage proper, guiding those visiting to the Manor with festive ribbons of autumn color along with proper silver.

"A pity Alanza couldn't join us" He says and begins to walk with him

"Yes, sir." He agrees.

At the hold, Lady Calanthe is abuzz with final instructions “So that’s how to properly compliment someone wearing something hideous, Gwen. And Briar, do NOT bite any of the guests. I MEAN it. Julius, you keep your brother in reign.”

“I’m RIGHT HERE, Candy.” The younger satyr grins at her.

Calanthe GLARES. “Do you WANT your invitation rescinded?”

“technically it came from Julius, not y-“ He cuts off as he gets an elbow to the gut.

“Yes ma’am Dame Calanthe. “ Julius grins. “We’re ready as we’ll ever be.”

Aiden stands out front, gazing off into the distance. Uncharacteristically quiet, even for him, he waits calmly for the storm to pass.

Proverbially. The air is clear and crisp, a lovely autumn day.

Gwen smooths her dress "I cant wear the armor? high shine?"

D'Lorean beams "Me ?I'm talking horses with Dagmar as soon as I can"

And speaking of animals, some dogs bark and make nose as they smell a neew dog.. and Adam, and Sir Sergei

“You may wear whatever you wish. Remember that we promised a trail walk to view the autumn leaves, so some may prefer to ride. Sidesaddles are available, though some ladies shun those.” Marigold reassures Gwen. “and you can always change later.”

Adam follows Sir Sergei, a step behind and to the side.

"Oh now you tell me" She says and eyes blue bell who may or may not have made her feel like a dress was required

Fort, the Baron’s wolfhound, strides by his side and does not set up the same unseemly racket as the pups that feel they have to be the welcoming party.

“Sir Sergei, Welcome.” Calanthe gives him a bow, “And... “ She ponders Adam, he seems familiar.

Bluebell is wearing a lovely gown with layers of silk that make her look like a flower in bloom. She winks to Gwen.

"This is Adam, my apprentice He's a .. unique lad, but will behave or I shall know of it and take steps. Adam, this is Dame Calanthe , Chatallaine and chancelor of this hold" Sir Sergei says "I also have a ... pup to show to the Baron if he has intest"

Adam bows deeply.

Marigold winks. “Your armor is laid out if you wish to change, now or later.” She murmurs, before whisking off to check the pies.

She offers her hand to Adam. “A pleasure to meet you. If your lord allows, you may see the mews later. I am very proud of our selection of hunting hawks.”

"An honor to meet you, Dame." He takes her hand and bows over it. "I'd be very interested in seeing the mews."

A small smile, she had been waiting to see if he would shake it, or properly respect her rank, he seems to have passed some small test. “You may.”

“The Baron is just over there, with his Russian beasts and that hound of his.” She says, a light jest in her tone. Aiden is leaning over and tugging a few stray leaves out of one of the pup’s ears, who had gone for a roll. And RIGHT after Gwen finished brushing them.

The puppy with the Varich takes a BIG whiff of the area, even as Sir Sergei kisses Dame Calanthe's hand

So many smells! Wilderness and squirrels and fox and rabbits. Lots of rabbit.

Also food, and people!

"Forgive me, Dame.. Glass grows excited . I should either drop her off or show her to the baron"

She smiles and nods, moving on to watch for other arrivals.

And off he goes, bowing "Baron! A pleasure... " And he says "I thought you might be interested in Glass..."

Once she smells it, it's hers! She can find it... got to smell em all, Pokey dog!

And then.. Near Calanthe!

Briar is NOT in a dress. But she is in clean and neat clothing (there was quite a battle, but Marigold triumphed) and with a leather and chain armored shirt - though a few rings are missing where she nibbled them off absently.

She lurks somewhere behind Gwen, watching.

Gerd, Dagmar, Sylvi, Nadeen, her dog.., Connor! they appear

The Baron turns, letting the pup go, who promptly starts rolling in the leaves again. “Sir Sergei? And who is this fine lady-“

Interrupted by the flash of glamour, he turns to see the new arrivals.

"This is..ah, but more guests" Ser Sergei says

Nadeen smiles when she sees the Baron "Baron Aiden"

Calanthe smoothly takes lead, welcoming them by name and title. “Welcome, guests from River Vale. Come and be welcome. Silverwolf is honored to be your host this day.”

Dagmar has enough courtly training to know when to bow and when to smile.

“Dame Dagmar, Dame Delorean has not stopped speaking of you since Pennons. And Connor, it is a pleasure as always. You look a fine and proper squire today.” She praises his appearance.

Sylvi makes introductions expertly, and showing that she is a diplomatic force as it's smoothly done with praise an graciousness

Connor’s tail flashes. “Thank you, Dame Cal-Auntie. EmmiSylvi brought treats from our Hearth.”

Aiden bows to Nadeen, taking her hand for a moment politely. “Baroness Dancingsnow. Thank you for coming, and for relaying invitation to Sir Sergei. I was just about to introduce him to...” Oh, now both pups are covered in leaves, though they trot over at his whistle. “Some of Pyshka’s siblings.”

"Oh my" She says as Pyshka wants to join in "Delighted. I could join you gents if you wish, or leave it to mantalk" Amused sparkle of eyes