#brightwindsbarony

"So, you see, Baroness" Ross explains, "We have Landsharks"

"well, that sounds... are they close to the hold?"

"No, they seem to be circling the fort that the childlings set up" Ross says

"Oh, that's a shame... I wonder if they could be drawn off?"

"Well, Rose thinks we could hunt them, but I would prefer the drawing off part"

"We could... but that wouldn't be my first choice, if they haven't been aggressive."

"Ah, I tested that.If you approach they come after you. I barely got away in time" he says "Thank goodness for four legs."

He ponders "Still, while I realize animals of the Dreaming are differen, it IS odd. What are they circling THERE for? Is there food we don't see? Is it a breeding ground?"

"Good question. I could cast a warding around it - maybe not a bad idea to start with, to protect the childlings..."

"Warding?" He says, someimes it's easy to forget he's still a fledge

"A... magic barrier, so only certain people can get in, or to bar specific others from passing a barrier."

The man's beard twists as he smiles "That's just.. neat. Damn handy"

She nods. "Those magics are part of Sovereign. Useful for rulers, though unfortunately, they can be abused."

"Then again, any Art can be used for ill purpose."

"I'm learning that. Soothsay seems to be fitting me best so far." he nods "Feel like a wizard. The kids tell me that means I have to keep the beard" Ross has a gentle sense of humor "Baroness, how can I help around here? How can WE? You saved us in more ways than one"

"Well, your daughter is learning the ways of herbs and healing. It seems your path is more arcane?"

"I suppose. I donn't want to hurl fireballs per se, good way to start a wildfire" He looks proud "Yeah, Nessa's going places. My litle girl is sharp as a tack"

"So then - sages are always welcome. I shall have you study with Otha and Bix."

"I suspect those two will give a... balanced... approach to the monarchy, in the end."

"Kind of strange being mentored by college age kids, but I guess if they know what I don't, I'm the student and they're the teachers"

"Exactly."

He ponders "Baroness, I'm a an old park tour guide and such. If you need those skills let me know. As it stands. I think the childlings do need to get to know the great outdoors. I'd be happy to teach them"

"And, unfortunately, they also need protection outdoors, and we have few thanes to spare."

"True. My own plan was to grab Irene and book like hell. Begging your pardon"

"Good instincts." She smiles. "I hope she hasn't been too much trouble? She seems a bit fascinated by you three."

"I think it's the abundance of hair options. " he admits

"She's very kindly offering to braid our hair or tails..."

A laugh. "Well, that could be it. She does have a collection of little pink ponies..."

"Does she now?" he looks amused "Well, she and Ashlee are fine young ladies." A pause "Ah, Baroness, about Ashlee. I don't know if there are therapists in this life, but she's very stressed about not being troll enough, and being 'ugly' on top of it" A frown "her worries, not my saying mind. Do you think Young Catir could bolster her morale? Sometimes kids listen to their peers more than 'old' folks"

"Hm. I have worked with Redfang to get her more time with her kithmates... I had hoped that would help..."

"Maybe it is. " He ponders "Sorry, I helped raise one daughter, naturally I now think this makes me an expert." Wryly

"I haven't raised any, but it seems I now have.... at least three."

"Well there you go. Babysitting. I can kidsit now and then. That'll be worth a lot of help" A grin

"Appreciate it." Wings rumple. "I think having friends will also help Ashlee - and they do seem to be getting along. Maybe I will check with Grete."

A nod "Fair. Ah, Baroness. I don't know if Nessa or Rose have already asked, but if you hear of more Centaurs, even rumors, please let us know"

She nods. "Some rumors, but nothing confirmed. I have heard of other new kiths - hobgoblins, kilimous, rusalka."

"Mmm doubt they've been as lucky as we. " He nods then bows "Pardon, Baroness. I Appreciate you hearing me out about those landsharks, but I should go check with the wife"

"Of course, Ross."

and he withdraws