#odyssey

The shower was interesting, a Dougal Device artfully done. It looked like a kind of steam punk swan embossing and dial , when pressed and set, the swan 'flapped' it's wings, and hot water (or cold if you prefer) came out delightfully steaming along his body.

August has been introduced to the wonder and pleasure of long hot showers, but there are usually in the company of Coradel. So this one is warm, and quick. He dresses and does a gear-check... and does take a moment to regret the loss of his sword, but it is a small price to pay for Zara's exoneration.

Clothes were left for him. Fine garb for a 'semi formal' court look.

He puts them on, and his gear is in good keeping.

As for the sword.. he notices as he checks the clothes that it has put near the door to the room in an Umbrellla stand!

A note is attached to the sword A most curious and insistent spider drew our attention to this blade, and the Thane tells us this is yours. We brought here in hopes this is so

A small smile and mental thanks to 1122 before he belts it on.

It feels like an old friend rejoining him for a walk.

There is a knock at the bedroom door.

"Come in."

The lady who enters is no childling, but a wilder squire, her Gwydion colors on proud display. He may recall her being at the rocket deferring to him briefly. She is a sidhe, so lovely , of course, but her look is one of attractive tomboy rather than elegant lady. "Baron, I've been given the honor of escorting you to Dinner. If you're ready?"

"I am. I would not offer offense; should I leave my blade here?"

"Take it with you, it has been used for glorious and honorable acts that served the Duchy," She says with a smile , then adds "Also only a lunatic would try something against our Duke with so many knights and thanes right there. "

"True enough." He nods and follows the squire.

"And forgive my lack of manners. Have I introduced myself yet?" She asks as they walked "I mean, given my name if you care for it? "

A gentle smile "You have not, and I would be honored. No offense taken on my part."

"Squire Hafawyr ap Gwydion" the Wilder says "It means Summer Sky in Welsh. I'm quite pleased with it. Hope to one day earn a deed name."

"It is a beautiful name." August observes "I am sure it will be supplemented and supported with well-earned others."

"Thank you, Baron." A smile "I thought we might get along. House gwydion has long protected our Liam cousins from ill behavior by other houses. Yet now it seems you have protected us. Well done."

They make their way to the banquet hall.

August doesn't look for spiders or sluagh; they'll let him know when they're ready.

"Your grace, our guest of honor, Baron August Truthbranch of House Liam, and Leader of the Truthbranch Bannerhouse. Hero of the Carriage theft" The squire says

Polite applause all around as August is introduced, and the Duke gestures to an empty seat not far from him, "Please, Baron. Join us."

August pinks; he's unaccustomed to such recognition. "Thank you, Your Grace. You are too kind."

The squire guides him to his seat, and the little duchess grins "We're having SUCH good food tonight. You'll like it." A pause "Maybe EVEN the greens" A dire admission

"Oh, but I like my veggies. They make you strong and healthy."

She gives him a SUSPICIOUS look "A lot of adults say that"

"Perhaps it is true. You can watch me tonight; see what I eat."

SHe looks at the Duke. The Duke looks at her "You have laid down a gauntlet before our guest. You must at least let him show his meal time mettle" He says this with utter sincerity.

Cauly nods "That IS proper. Yes. I'll watch."

Food is served, some Canadian favorites mixed with fine meats, and yes, lovely vegtable options.

August was raised at a court and knows well how to comport himself in polite society. He takes a little of everything, including veggies, and eats well.

Cauly looks worried and mutters "Blast. He actually LIKES the veggies." Resigned, she takes a few of her own with less enthusiam. A challenge was accepted and met. She is nothing if not honorable

The Duke looks impressed, nods, and eats his own veggies . Which really ARE cooked nicely thanks.

Then a late guest arrives... Tiziporah, wearing a lovely gown "Pardon" She says almost meekly.

August doesn't give an overt sign of recognition; he has a blank 'Court face.'

"Please, Tziporah the Humble, join us" The Duke says and gestures to another chair "Have you news of your allies? I have apologies to make to a certain LIbrarian."

"Begging your pardon, your Grace," Tziporah says, "Miss Zara is not one for large social gatherings."

"I see, I hope you are?" He offers a seat.

"We would make this up to all involved" He adds.

Tziporah brightens, "May I tell a story to the crowd, your Grace? "

A look of surprise "I see no harm in that," He nods then looks to August "Baron, do you?"

"I do not, Your Grace."

"Then please, take a plate, and take the spotlight," the Duke smiles.

Tziporah smiles "My story will not be interrupted?"

"Certainly not," The Duke assures.

Tziporah grabs a plate, and then begins to speak "Harken then to the tale of two answers to a single question, why a Duke would not even be told of a capture of a 'felon witch' by the noble who did the capturing? "

(Perception plus Empathy for August)

/roll 5