“I’m fine, Marigold, honestly now...” He insists, politely refusing yet another mug of soup, tea, hot cocoa, or nourishing broths.
Set before the fire in a comfortable chair. “I’m not an invalid... just, worn out. Come now, don’t let me interrupt.” As everyone takes turns opening presents. Briar plays Santa, of course, because he wears a red hat.
Linnea grins happily at her book about penguins and Danica turns a bit purple as she tucks away the romance novel with a murmured thanks, both gifting Gwen back- a gift certificate for custom made armor from Dark Gate! “For after you’re sained, in case you need a House or personal sigil engraved”.
Both of them are impressed at the weapon supplies Briar brought - or more that she brought any at all. Even if she does deny it and claim that she thought the whetstone were “for puttin’ in a sock and hitting someone to leave no bruises.”
Marigold is pleased as punch at her new spice rack and spices, and promises to make whatever Briar wants for her next meal, causing the redcap to flush and complain that “any old slop is fine”.
The Baron has custom leatherwork! For Dame Lavender, a bridle for Snowthorn with his name etched in it, both in English and Elvish script. For Gwen unique collar/vest piece for Ivan, a protective piece of armor “Don’t let him chew it.” He advises Gwen.
Calanthe, sitting over in the window where she can claim nonchalance, thanks him graciously for them new falconry gauntlets.
For Nadeen, a custom made saddle! Fine leather worked to buttery softness, dyed black and with golden sun bursts. “You may take it with you... though I’d be happy to keep it here for when you visit to ride.
Briar is THRILLED with the bladed gauntlets that Gwen produces! And are immediately confiscated by Danica and put on a high shelf. “OUTSIDE only.” She says, though with a smile.
From Briar, once unwrapped, Gwen received a carved Thunderbird! With lightning accents, and a Rivervale mark, from one of their renowned woodworkers. “If you don’t like it, it will keep the fire going a bit longer I guess.” Briar says in resistance of any thanks.
Many other small gifts exchanged - dried herb sachets that give off pleasant herbal scents, a leather bound journal set for Julius, new ballet slippers for Bluebell, a bottle of fine scotch for the Holster. Useful items that one may need throughout the year, new clothes for Gwen, a new lance for D’Lorean. It’s not a HUGE todo, but hopefully, a happy one.