#rivervale_lodge

"That should give you time to look around" AMusement in his eyes "The storm has informed me that I shouldn't give too much away about our trreasures, security patrols and more. "

"They had to tell you that? Makes it sound like you've got loose lips."

"Nah, merely that his job is defense, the Chief Leads, and as Hearth also provides, and I... I teach and preserve. That is my purpose. It is not in my nature to hide from a troll what their heritage and culture offer , but Eiluned teaching means I'm not blind to how that can be abused. I DID want to let you know that you're not unique in that you might have eyes on you while you have eyes on us, as I didn't want you feeling singled out. Squire Valter worked for a Selkie with Ailil ties, and you can bet we were watchful on him as he settled in. It is in the blood, we protect others, so we believe danger can come from anywhere. A troll heavy hold, or lodge, thus becomes a place for an odd mix of safe haven and ultra alert crew. "

"Y'know, this is not the first time today I've gotten a clue of why you're having trouble getting fresh blood in this welcoming little hold. Sounds a bit fascist around the edges."

Sip.

"Provocative proposal," He says but sounds intrigued rather than offended, "How so?"

"Seems like..." Considers wording a moment. "Seems like there's a narrow view of what's okay to do, and those that don't fit are shit out of luck."

"Well, we follow the Escheat, enforce it when we have to, which is not a troll invention. We expect the Code of Dagda from other trolls but there's debate on waht that means, and only among trolls. Not sure that's much narrower than a non lodge, so please go on. I'm not insulted. I'm curious."

"What you were saying about protecting...sure, that's in the troll blood, can't argue with that. But don't you think there's such a thing as being over-protective? Or over-defensive?"

"Of course there is, and that is something we have to watch out for. Now, do I consider that fassist around the edges? Not unless it takes away the rights of others while we wrestle with how far is too far. Which is a challenge any governing body faces. I would argue thta if we are fascist at the edge, so too is any government, but that leads to a whole nother discussion and there I might argue that is indeed the nature of ALL power systems that they have that threat enroaching"

"Well, you're getting a little slippery-slope there. I'm talking about the here and now...and how some things get tense without just cause. But...whatever. Good coffee." Taking a final sip. "Where can I put my stuff?"

"Same kith, different people, but it happens" He chuckles at that "Oh I'll debate for hours if you get me curious but you might see that as some weird punishment. " He rises "Follow me, I'll show you the spare room. " It quite literally opened recently as if the lodge became more hospitable or KNEW it would be needed.

The Lodge has definitely been undergoing some reshaping, much like Casita in Encanto. But it's a slow process and easy to miss if you're not keeping careful track of things. Regardless, Rowan grabs their bag and follows along.

"One thing I will say" He says as he lets them into their room "This mixed bag has some of the best people I've had the pleasure to know. If you make this place your home, when shit hits the fan, they'll be there by your side and not because trolls protect, but because they're good folk. " He gives them time for breakfast and other things, then leaves Rowan be.

And Rowan has some space to settle in and mull over what they've learned

(End Scene)