#earthrunes

OOC: there is one commoner mews. Small

((Thank you!))

"Well, depending on kith. Beer or wine or whatever. Social."

"There is one...I have not spent time there. But it is time to do so."

"I don't know what they'd like. Maybe...a movie night, like we do...like we've done for family?"

"Yes. And in their hold, showing respect to their authority there... it's a tricky dance, to be liege and guest at once."

"Or maybe a poker night? I don't know."

"Like Firnost, but more complicated?"

"Well - depends on the temperature of the hold."

"A redcap corby would be more tricky than a tragos"

She considers this. "Deryn, would you reach out to them? I should do it, but it should be done soon, and there's is much to do in the hold itself still."

"I could go tomorrow. Where is it?"

She gives directions and landmarks. "You probably should not go alone. Best if you bring a commoner member of the hold with you."

"Who holds it, do you know?"

"The holder's name is Dalton, but that's all I know, no idea what kith or anything."

"Ok. Maybe Delores would be willing..."

"Boggan insight, especially"

"Yes, she's the best choice, but if she cannot go, ask her who she'd recommend in her stead."

She nods. "You'll want a Reeve, too. A go-between for the commoners... maybe that lovely pair at the diner?'"

"Hm...that's not a bad idea at all, if they'll do it. They certainly seemed kind enough, and willing enough to help."

"Exactly. And I think they'd be a good gauge for how the common folk are doing, they'd be honest, I think."

"I agree, I get the same impression of them." Pause. "Would that put them at risk, though? Greater risk, I mean?"

"Depends. How many enemies do you have?"

"Because a good Reeve can clear up communication, alert you to discontent.... prevent enemies."

She nods. "I think it's fair to say that I have, simultaneously, fewer of the enemies I had two days ago, but likely new enemies I've yet to meet. The Shadow Court won't take this gently or kindly."

"They won't just wipe their hands, say oh-well, and decide we're not worth punishing."

((BRB))

"All the more reason to have the people on your side. Easy to twist those who feel put upon to their purposes..."

((Back))

She nods. "I agree. I just...I don't mind putting myself in harm's way, Deryn, but so many others were hurt last night. That..." She shakes her head and sighs. "You're right, of course. We should speak to them."

"Give them the choice, at least."

"And.... last night was bad, but we won, Cora."

"Injuries, but not nearly as many deaths as there could have been."

"We won." She nods, and musters a bit of a smile. "The hold stands. It's different now, but EarthRunes stands."

"And the trod is safe. Firnost remains free."

"We won."

"We won. You won."

She shakes her head. "All of us. Nothing I did would have worked without others."

"Maybe you could do something to acknowledge the bravery of your people. Perhaps.... a memorial, yes, and then a wake. Mourning and celebration both."

"I think...during the day on New Year's Eve...before the drinking begins in earnest. Somber memorial, then grateful recognition, then celebration. That seems right."

"Yes. And preparation will keep everyone busy and distracted through the worst of the grief..."

A knock at the door or wall near them

"Good. And since preparations were already anticipated for New Years, it won't be a completely unexpected burden." Then she turns at the knock. "Yes?"

It's Delores, "Baroness?" She bows low, "I have news. Bachdion pulled through."

She looks to the door and then smiles.

Coradel closes her eyes tightly, and murmurs, "Thank you, Dreaming." She bows her head and some of the tension in her shoulders drops away. "Is he conscious?"

"That's wonderful news, Delores."

"The iron took it's toll. They think it will be at least another day before he opens his eyes but his mein is steady" Delores says "And while dim, regaining." She smiles at Sparrow, "And it is , indeed. His retrieval of Sir August helped twice over."

"His...what?" She blinks at Delores.

"He brought August?"