Rellech Arnevahr's House

[Khel]

Khel glanced up at Injera beaming down above her, and yet she still wrapped her cloak tighter around her. Stopping in her tracks, she took a deep breath and gathered her surroundings. The large West Gate before her, her eyes bore into it. Perhaps if she stared at it enough she could be whisked away; out of the blasted cold. An icy wind blew from the Sea, hitting her full in the face and whipping her raven hair about her face. Khel’s nose and cheeks ached from the burn of the constant breeze.

Why had she decided to take a scenic detour? Walking along the western wall, Khel wished she’d simply gone straight up through the center of the city. But, in her mind at the time she had insisted upon passing through the plaza. Scowling and pulling her hood up again, she turned away from the gate and made her way towards Town Hall. As she crossed the large plaza, she looked irritably at the bustle of people pressing in around her. It was beyond the woman to think today might be a warm day in this place. Why had she come to Remusiat? Shaking her head a little, Khel pressed on.

The mix of earthy tones; browns blues and grays, with the occasional bright Karikrimson or Injohue warmed Khel, however, as this was her lot in life. She had quite clearly chosen this icy city, however difficult the travel to get her, and whatever the amount of turmoil she found the place in, for a reason. The comfort of a marketplace was relaxing, not anxiety provoking as it was for most people. Eyes bright, she surveyed the large, stone Town Hall building before her. It looked… immovable.

Khel longed for the shelter against the winds. In the comfort of the Inn, its roaring fire and delicious ale Khel had been quite content. But when the knock at her door disturbed her reverie, Khel fondly remembered throwing her dagger skillfully to land deeply within the frame of the door, and the messenger’s hysterical wide-eyed look as she laughed, pulling the dagger out and leaning close to his face to inquire as to what he wanted. She assumed it would be a good story for his retelling later on at the very least. Chuckling a little, Khel hoped the poor lad was alright.

Reaching Town Hall, Khel strode past it on the left. Walking along the wall, the boy’s voice rang in her ears, The doorman will let you in. Down the hall you’ll reach the sitting room and see a huffy-looki… Er… Sir Rellech. You’ll see him. Khel’s eyes crinkled at the corners, the purple in her eyes dancing in the day’s light. Her boots seemed to hit the ground much too loudly and she picked up the pace. Passing the building, she started down a narrower street, overshadowed by the fortifications surrounding the looming Tower which housed the King. In the shadows the chilly air again made her shiver, and Khel saw what must be the nobles’ home. The huge estate was impressive, made of stone. Stepping up to the large door, the young woman knocked three loud, confident knocks. The boy from earlier opened the door right away. Skeptically Khel eyed him, but said nothing. Pursing her lips, she gazed around the room.

High ceilings and beautifully made sculptures, paintings, and various other expensive looking objects decorated the room. And where had he gotten those lovely fresh flowers? A sparkle entered Khel’s eye as she gazed at the sparkling… everything… in the house. A jewel encrusted vase begged her to appraise it. Calculating costs and profits in her mind, Khel felt a tug at her cloak. Snapping her head down and furrowing her brow, the boy whispered, “The sitting room, m’lady.” Staring at him hard, Khel wondered if he was joking. She had not forgotten. Realizing the boy was trying to help, Khel gave him a small wink and started purposefully down the carpeted hall, fur and tapestries covered the walls. It was all disgustingly elaborate.

[Altario Shialt-eck-Gorrin]

Rellech stepped over to the cupboard in his sitting room, where there was placed a decanter of fine R'unorian Brandy and some crystal tumblers.  He poured himself two fingers worth, which he then dropped into it an ice chunk from a small silver bowl next to it.  He set the decanter down, and lifted the tumbler up to his nose and sniffed luxuriously.  He sighed and closed his eyes.  Really fine brandy was something to be relished, not hurried through.  It wasn't a drink, it was an experience.  He touched the liquid to his lips, then lowered the crystal, and his tongue tasted the fiery liquid on his lip.  Oh, the beauty of it all. 

He was brought out of his reverie by a sharp knock on the sitting room door.  Rellech smiled.  It had to be Khel.  "Enter."

A young boy peered in.  "Your guest has arrived, sir."

Rellech waved the two of them in.  "Thank you, Juhliahn.  Can you please get Khel some rosemint tea."  He paused, then held aloft his brandy glass.  "Unless you would like to try this exquisite brandy.  It just came off-ship today.  Cost me a small fortune for a cask full.  Something, I'm hoping you will remedy for me."  His eyes sparkled. 

[Khel]

The boy ran ahead of her as Khel walked without a sound down the elaborate hallway. Knocking and leaning into the room, he announced her arrival. Stepping into the room without waiting to hear if she was invited just yet, Khel surveyed the area.

Yes, it was much like the entrance to the home. The whole of decorating was complicated in Khel’s mind. She preferring things more simple, as her brain was much too jumbled half the time to take in any more, the least of which this intricate dwelling. High backed chairs, expensive upholstery, crystal glasses, and finally… Rellech. Khel had to resist the urge to scrunch her face as she looked at the man. There was not a gruff thing about him. She was a small woman, and he looked even daintier than her.

Khel hated how handsome he was. How his sharp features seemed to align perfectly with his movements and demeanor. The man was repulsive in all his nobility. Khel was lucky to grab matching garments out of her pack in the morning, much less adorn all those layers and colors, or sparkle with any jewelry or expensive embroidery. Today, she was at least grateful she wore matching eophran tunic and breeches, as well as pulling on her jerkin and belting it at the last moment. Her boots were coated in dirt, and damp from the Northern climate.

Her purpose in Remusiat was simple business, at least in her own eyes. Although Khel was not focused on fame or fortune, she would push for the Remusians to open trade into the South. It would benefit both parties immensely, as she already found in her wanderings about the city. The Remusians would soon need what their climate and culture could not provide, and in the same way the South could use Remusian resources and talents in a new way. After all that, of course, was the fact that they were on the same continent; shouldn’t that be reason enough to share? Was that not a simple lesson of early childhood?

When he spoke, his smooth voiced sugar coated the entire picture before her. "Thank you, Juhliahn.  Can you please get Khel some rosemint tea."  He paused "Unless you would like to try this exquisite brandy.  It just came off-ship today.  Cost me a small fortune for a cask full.  Something, I'm hoping you will remedy for me.” His eyes seemed to glow, but Khel held his gaze steadily. Briefly she broke their gaze to look at the boy, Juhliahn.

”The tea will be fine, thank you.” her voice was rough, but as kind as she could muster in the situation. Turning back to stare at the noble before her, Khel moved towards him and held out a hand in greeting, ”Honestly though, I prefer a good, cheap ale.” Khel did not wink or chuckle in jest as she would have normally. Instead, her face was straight and her voice steady. Ah, her time here would be quite an adventure.

[Altario Shialt-eck-Gorrin]

Rellech Arnevahr

Ale?  Rellech was mildly disappointed, but not overly surprised.  He had dared to hope that this little eyelian woman would be somewhat more sophisticated, but alas, that was not the case.  It did not matter, really.  His relationship with her would be professional, not personal, anyway.  His own loving wife provided him with enough class that he was in no way lacking.

He sipped his brandy, taking a pause to savour the taste.  As he hid, he looked her up and down.  She appeared to be very astute, which was good, because Rellech hated to be near stupid people, and surrounded himself only with the smartest and most gifted of people.  She seemed to know of what she spoke in their previous meetings, at the Wison's Breath Inn.  It was because of this that he had offered his invitation for this meeting to be held here.

He stretched out an arm, indicating two plush chairs, inviting her to sit.  He then stepped nearer the chair, holding back sitting until she did.  "Let us get right to business then, Khel.  First, I have noticed that you have failed to give me your last name.  Should this concern me?  And second, as I will be investing a considerable amount of gold in this venture, what guarantees can you give me that my money will not be lost, and further, yield a substantial profit?"

[Khel]

Rellech seemed a little less than eager to provide her with ale, so when Juhliahn brought her tea, Khel was at least satisfied. Rather than shaking her hand, however, Rellech indicated the plush chairs and seemed to be waiting for her to take a seat as he said, "Let us get right to business then, Khel.  First, I have noticed that you have failed to give me your last name.  Should this concern me?  And second, as I will be investing a considerable amount of gold in this venture, what guarantees can you give me that my money will not be lost, and further, yield a substantial profit?" Oh, this man wasn’t off to a good start. Carefully with the hot tea Khel sat, holding it securely in her lap after taking a sip. She hated to admit it might be some of the best tea she’d tasted.

The seat was comfortable, the room was not. Khel felt so uppity here, but she supposed if she was to get the people of the north to begin trade with the south, she would have to persuade those with the most influence. Those were usually the rich. Khel was not used to servants or being waited on. Perhaps a pretty girl to bring her ale in a greasy tavern, but not like this boy, acting on Rellech’s every whim. Shrugging slightly, as the customs here were unknown to her, Khel thought on her reply.

Her voice steady and clear, Khel began, ”Thank you for allowing me into your home. The hospitality is… unexpected. You have a beautiful home.” Forcing a smile, Khel pushed her raven locks from her face and pressed on, ”I give no guarantees, Rellech, any intelligent person would not go so far as to do so. Guarantees assure deliverance and complete control—something I never truly have to offer. However,” Khel quickly went on. She thought perhaps this money-hungry man may not want to hear honesty, but honesty was what she could guarantee, ”Simply look around. Your wastelands have little to provide you with unless you look elsewhere. South of your borders lies a large land mass you could easily depend on.”

Flashing a grin and daring a wink, Khel may have looked the part, but was not relaxed at all. She had no strategy; she did not know Rellech well enough. This fact perturbed her, but she would act on a whim until she did. The man seemed uppity enough; Khel had dealt with plenty of nobles like himself before. However, if he was smarter, or even more foolishly greedy than the rest, he may be more difficult. She ignored his comment about her last name altogether. Firstly, this did not concern him. Secondly, it was not a path down which she would allow her mind to travel in this man's presence.

[Altario Shialt-eck-Gorrin]

Rellech Arnevahr

Rellech lifted his tumbler of brandy and swirled it absently, his attention seemingly transfixed on the amber liquid.  For a long moment, he ignored his guest, wrapped up as he was in his own thoughts.  Finally, he snapped out of his reverie with a suddenness that would have made most people jump in surprise.  "I dislike mysteries, Khel with no last name.  But, I hate dishonesty even more so.  If you would have made me promises of no risk and guaranteed my profit, I would have kindly asked you to leave.  However, you are a woman of integrity.  One sees so little of that these days, even amongst men."  He sipped his drink.  "You are of course, mistaken about the wastelands.  No matter, I would not expect a southerner to know anything of the riches here.  It is your lot in life to not be blessed with Kor'och's favour."

He took the last of the brandy in his mouth and savoured it for a second before swallowing.  "My problem is, there are just as many Remusian's who are just as ignorant of your part of the world as well.  Short sighted individuals who would still have us chasing wison herds across the wastes, barely surviving, and surely not enjoying the pleasures life has to offer.  It has made my dealings with you somewhat more complicated than I had anticipated.  Araman, our great and wise king, is becoming hesitant at opening up more trade."  He chuckled, with very little in the way of humour.  "Though he insists on bringing a delegation of mages here to try to break down our laws against magic.  Fool."

Rellech's manicured brow knitted in frustration.  "I plan on meeting with Araman in the next few days.  If you can promise not to be a problem, I might get you in with me.  I, or should I say we, need to make sure he does not change his mind on trade."   He caught the look on her face, and raised a hand to stop her. "I meant no disrespect, but you must know you do not exactly fit in with higher society.  It matters little.  Our king will probably not even notice.  He's more a man of the people, such as you yourself are from the people."  If he was being condescending, it did not show in his voice.  He really believed he was talking to her in words that she would understand.

[Khel]

Khel listened shock and disbelief as the noble before her spoke. Disgusting. Somehow the word just kept popping up. Her last name, if she even had one, would be of no concern to him even if she could enlighten him. She struggled to bring the tea to her thin lips once more and take a sip. Oh, good, cheap ale would serve her well as soon as this little meeting was finished.

Khel, however, did take into consideration what Rellech said. Sure, she did not understand much about the North, nor the wastelands, and perhaps he would be able to show her—giving her the ability in turn to provide him with the complementary opportunities trade with the south would present. However, the breaking point which caused Khel’s violet-hued eyes to retract into eminent darkness was the phrase promise not to be a problem followed resolutely by fit in with higher society. The black abyss now accompanied by a flush of rosy anger upon her cheeks Khel downed the rest of her tea as if it were the ale she longed for.

Setting the mug with a clatter on the polished surface of an end-table, Khel looked directly into Rellech’s adlemirene eyes. If he brought her here to disregard any progress they had made as civilized people, she could be counted out. Although Khel was a small woman and hardly intimidating, she stood, stepping close and putting her face so near to Rellech’s own she could feel his high society breath blowing against her pale skin.

”Do not treat me with disrespect,” she snapped, fighting the urge to spit on the man’s perfect face, ”Just as you yourself will not tolerate lower class society, foolish at it is, I will not stand for prettily arrayed insults you expect I do not understand.” Standing straight again, Khel pushed her raven bangs from her face. She moved her ankle in her boot. Her dagger pressed tantalizingly against her foot as she curled her toes in frustration. Why were most people she dealt with so difficult?

Looking at him again, she added, ”I understand you perfectly well.” Her eyes still narrowed dangerously, Khel turned to the servant boy Juhlihan and spat, ”Boy! Get me some ale.” Not knowing if he could find such a novelty within the generously stocked cellars of such a noble, she hoped he could find something to suit her. Sitting again and smiling a smug, toothy smile, Khel continued, ”If anything, as soon as I learn all I can about your country’s resources, you will be regarded as my hindrance in the matter, not the other way around.”

[Altario Shialt-eck-Gorrin]

Rellech Arnevahr

Rellech was a little taken aback by the venom in the woman's voice.  What had he said to offend her?  Nothing that was not obvious to both of them, and her reaction was further proof that his assumptions were indeed correct.  He glanced at the young Juhlihan and gave a short nod.  "I'm sure we can find something to whet your thirst."

He faced the woman once more.  "Then if you understand everything I am saying, understand this."  His voice had a quality to it where his tone was friendly, but the intent could not be denied.  This was a warning, pure and simple.  "In this city, I am in charge.  You work for me.  If that is not agreeable, get yourself on the next available ship and go back south.  There are others that can do what you offer, and without attitude.  You stand to make a great profit on this venture.  See to it you earn it."  He stood and walked over to the cupboard and absently refilled his tumbler.

"If you are to stay, I have secured a room for you at the Wison Breath Inn.  It is not to my taste, but I'm sure you will find it most satisfactory.  We will discuss more in detail at a later date.  Now, if you do not mind, you may enjoy your ale in the foyer.  Take as much time as you wish.  Juhlihan will keep you company until you depart.  I will send someone for you when I wish to meet with you again." 

Rellech inhaled the fragrance of the brandy.  Kor'och's grace, he enjoyed this!

[Khel]

Khel gazed at him with venom in her eyes as he spoke again. Oooh, if this was to be a partnership it would not be enjoyable. Not one bit. Rellech was, to say the least, difficult. Yes, she was to work for him and yes, she was indeed happy about the amount of coin she would be making. However, Khel also knew her knowledge served her very well in the south and it was not here she needed to be to survive. Actually, she’d much prefer the south, but here she was, and here she would stay. Eyeing him as he stood to refill his glass, Khel started to think of this as somewhat of a challenge. Purple returned to her eyes as she thought on that.

When he indicated her rooming in the Wison’s Breath Inn, and altogether dismissed her, Khel stood quickly again, her temperature rising with her anger. Oh, by the gods, she’d kill him by the time he got what he wanted and she walked away with a fat, happy purse. If she was any sort of a flirt, now would be the time to charm this figure of ice before her. Unhappily, Khel’s stony expression never left Rellech for several long moments, wishing more than anything she had a plan. Alas, she did not, and her mind reeled, but the only answer was that ultimately, no matter how vilely he worded it, he was right. She worked for him.

As for finding another with the same skills… that he would be hard pressed to do. The twinkle slowly found its way into her eyes as Khel’s face and body relaxed as one, and she grabbed at the ale Juhlihan offered her. Anger subsiding, Khel’s internal battle was won; to her great displeasure her submissive side took charge. Smiling slightly, pink lips wet from her sip of ale, Khel said, ”I see no point in sending me away when I have yet to learn anything within the confines of this meeting.” She paused and looked about the room, ”Unless you asked me here to enjoy the magnificence of your home?”

Khel raised her eyebrows, as if truly wondering why he brought her here. Actually, she really was wondering. Her mind turned over and over, and the only answer she could determine was indeed to prove to her he was wealthy and in control. Of the city? She thought not. ”If I am to serve you to the best of my ability—and I would never do anything less—I need to start learning now. Show me to the Inn. Teach me the basics of what I need to know on the way, and then I’ll allow you to ask for and send me away as you wish.” Khel scrunched her nose a little at hearing herself speak. She just managed to give this repulsion complete power over her within Remusiat.

However, she was quite pleased she had not been so polite in asking. Her voice was smooth, girlish and pleasant, but she still made a demand of him. Hopefully he would adhere to it, seeing its advantages and seeing that their business would be more of a partnership than anything else. She would not have him bossing her about like a serving child for her entire stay in Remusiat. Coupled with the cold, Khel’s interaction with Rellech would prove to make this trip one she could easily live without remembering.

[Altario Shialt-eck-Gorrin]

Rellech Arnevahr

Rellech raised an eyebrow.  Take her to the Wison Breath Inn?  How utterly preposterous. Still, there was a small attraction in that scenario.  Perhaps, in her own environment, she would not seem so bedraggled and uncultured.  And, as she said, he could teach her more of the basics of Remusian culture and lifestyle.  If she was going to be his southern eyes and ears on their ventures, then she would need to see things from a Remusian perspective in order to make the best and most informed decisions.

He eyed her closely.  Did she have ulterior motives to want to get him alone?  Could she be trusted?  He nearly smiled outwardly.  No, of course she couldn't.  Still, she had no reason to wish him physically harmed, not for the minor insults she endured.  "Very well, Khel, I shall accompany you to said inn.  I have heard that they do serve a fine wison steak there, perhaps I shall indulge my hunger in that.  Then, you and I can come to a perfect understanding of what it is I expect of you.  I want no mistakes with my money."

He sipped the brandy.  He hoped they had some of this at the inn.  It would taste great with fresh wison steak.  "Juhlihan, fetch me my coat, and get on some warm clothes, we are going out for our meal, tonight."

[Khel]

Perfect understanding. Khel thought this was something that would not happen between the two of them.. especially not with Rellech being the man he was. As he agreed, however, Khel thought there might be something deep within him she could learn to like at least the tiniest bit. Then again, perhaps not. Khel even liked the way he surveyed her, as if she might be some sort of a threat. She enjoyed his edginess, and she smiled mischievously as he sent for his coat. Perhaps her little game could even continue with a man such as he. She might even enjoy it more than with any other buyer or merchant she came into contact with.

Khel could not judge what was on the expensive man’s mind. She could not tell his intelligence. Was money his only strong suit? Did he have his wits fully about him or was he simply a power-hungry dolt as she suspected? Giving a polite nod, Khel said carefully, ”Thank you, I’m sure the Inn’s food is satisfactory.” Wrapping her cloak tightly about her, Khel made her way towards the door without Rellech’s command, hearing his footsteps follow her. She even liked the idea that he might not want to follow so much as lead her anywhere, and Khel walked a little taller at this thought.

Opening his door of her own accord, choosing not to wait, Khel said with a lighter note in her voice, ”I will absorb all I can from you, and don’t you worry for one second.. “ Khel reached up and tapped a slender digit to her temple, ”I promise you I’m a smart girl. I want no mistakes with your money either. So! Lead the way.” Giving him a wink and stepping into the street, Khel hoped Rellech would take kindly to her being herself. To be able to at least make jokes at his expense—even at her own—would add nicely to their partnership. Partnership. That’s what Rellech would see this as in due time.

[Altario Shialt-eck-Gorrin]

Rellech Arnevahr

The boy, Juhlihan, returned with Rellech's wison hair coat, and he pulled it on.  A small smile crossed his face as he bemused the fact that he was actually going to the Wison Breath Inn.  In his entire life, he had not stepped within the doors of that establishment.  Up until now, he had no reason to.

Rellech stepped out into the crisp wind.  He took a quick look to see that the boy was following, and grunted his approval when he saw that it was indeed the case.  He then turned his attention to the woman.  She was strange to him.  Was she not quite right in her head?  One minute she could be almost murderous in her anger, then she could be almost seductive in her mannerisms, playful even, and in all this, she showed an intelligence behind it.  Was she the best choice for this venture?  He had to wonder.  He didn't like unknowns, or loose ends.  He was a practical man who liked things neat and tidy.  This Khel did not fit that mold.  But, did it mean she as wrong for this?  He couldn't be sure.  Still, she was interested in learning.  That, in itself, was a good start.

He cleared his throat.  "Then I will teach you about my Remusian people.  The first thing you must know, is that we are a people who do not like change.  We are a stubborn people who have survived for countless generations out here where very little lives at all.  We are Ice Tribe.  That may not mean much to you, but it is everything to us.  Until you learn that, you will not be much good to me."  He looked to see if his words had any impact on her at all.

[Khel]

Khel listened carefully as Rellech spoke. Outside, the air was crisp and her senses seemed heightened. The sky was beautiful, despite it's depressing state, as it always seemed to be gray around here. Khel wondered as she studied the man's features what exactly he thought of her. Was she pulling off a good impression or simply fooling herself. It was really hard to decipher with Rellech. When he finished speaking he turned to look at her. A hardened, stubborn people. She understood him plainly, but she turned her eyes away from the gusting wind to ponder his questioning gaze. Was there something more? Something underneath it all she was supposed to understand? She already knew the people of the North were as hard as the ice beneath their feet, that much was obvious. But then...

"Alright, Rellech. Why is it then that you are so willing to accept and even propel change?" Khel raised her eyebrows questioningly, but her purple-hued eyes leveled a friendly gaze at him, and her soft lips upturned in a slight smile. It was a genuine question. Was this nobleman so different from his own people? While waiting for his answer, Khel took a couple light steps forward, setting them on their path to the Inn. She almost giggled as she thought of how reluctant the man was to pursue a meal in the Inn. Had he even been there before? Why was he that way? Why, with his expensive fur coat and servant boys surrounding him could he not enjoy the everyday life of his people? Surely he understood and loved the traditions of the Remusian people as much as any other. Khel herself was coming to appreciate their way of life. Their architecture, colors, styles and even their physical features attracted her... now, if it wasn't for the blasted cold she could learn to like it in this part of the world!

Pausing to glance thoughtfully at Rellech again she shook her head slightly. Okay, maybe not like it, but tolerate it well enough. If trade truly opened up and allowed a steady flow of goods and opportunity to the north it might really be fun to travel here from time to time.

[Altario Shialt-eck-Gorrin]

Rellech stood still in his boudoir, while a female servant used a brush of ice bear hair to remove any dust and threads that may be sticking to the fine cloth suit that he wore.  He wanted, needed, to look immaculate today.  A messenger had arrived less than an hour ago, informing him that his audience with King Araman had been scheduled for this morning.  And though he was no great fan of Araman, the man was king, and that in itself meant much to Rellech.  However, his patience with the girl was growing a bit short.  How difficult was it to simply brush away the imperfections?  Finally, she was done, and bowed low to him.

It was that moment that his wife entered the room.  Her plump face and jovial smile greeted him.  "Darling, there are gentlemen here to see you."

Rellech glanced at his wife.  She was a good woman.  The two had been together for nearly twenty years.  Though she had never been what some would call beautiful, she was handsome.  She took care to look good.  Shianyla.  He had met her only three days before they were to be married.  It had been an arranged marriage, between her father and his, each cementing their ties to noble lineage.  Both of their families were wealthy, with rich heritages.  In the years since, they had become quite close.  She had complimented his ambition perfectly.  Though not ambitious herself, she was always the perfect partner for Rellech.  She hosted grand balls, she looked after the household.  She dutifully made sure that she did not contradict him, embarrass him, or otherwise detract from him.  "Gentlemen?"

Shianyla approached him and deftly removed a small thread from his shoulder that the serving girl had missed.  "The other nobles, husband.  They are here to join you in your audience with the King."

Rellech dismissed the serving girl with a wave of his hand.  She was useless anyway.  "Good.  And the boy?  Has he returned with Khel yet?"

Shianyla continued to primp her husbands look, straightening the collar on his shirt, though it may have been perfect even before her minute adjustment.  "Not yet.  Are you sure you wish to bring her?"

Rellech chuckled softly. "No, I'm not sure.  But, I need to introduce Araman to someone from the southern lands; someone who can explain to him the advantages of more open trade."  And that was Khel?  On the other hand, her lack of sophistication would most certainly come across as more on Araman's level.  Rellech took her hand in his and lifted it up to where it pressed against his lips.  "Shall we?"

The two then headed downstairs, to where the small group of five nobles waited for him.  If they had an original thought amongst them, it would surprise Rellech to no end.  He was definitely the leader of this group.  Though, would he ever have allowed it to be any other way?  "Gentlemen.  A good morning to you all.  I hope you are all as excited as I at the prospects that befall us this morning."

One noble cleared his throat. "Rellech, are you sure this is the right time for this?  Orcs are at the walls, man."

Rellech shot him a heated gaze, which physically shrank the man.  "This war is just another one for this city that has seen many.  What we have here is an opportunity to make real change for Remusiat.  I do not want you distracted by the minor skirmishes that are going on outside the city.  If you cannot do that, then go home and cower under your blankets.  But in a few days, when the orcs have been chased away, do not expect to reap any rewards from the seeds that the rest of us will be sowing today."

[Altario Shialt-eck-Gorrin]

It had been nearly an hour, but Rellech was satisfied with the meeting with the nobles.  It seemed they were all on the same page now, with respect to what they wanted to push on Araman.  Now, all they needed to do was go to the Tower and speak to the king.  But where was Khel?  She should have been here by now.  He was beginning to get a bit annoyed when his wife entered the room.  He raised an eyebrow at her, knowing that she would not have interupted him unless it was important.

"I have been given a message from Juhlihan that Khel has gone in search of contacts and that she will not be joining you."

Rellech scowled.  Khel had left.  It was good, he supposed, but he had wanted to take her to Araman.  Still, and now a smile crossed his thin lips, that might open up an even better opportunity.  Nelique Adrossa.  Bringing her with him would be much better than having that uncouth Khel.  He was sure that Nelique would be able to ply her charm and sophistication in a way that Khel could never had done.

Turning to the nobles, Rellech lifted his tumbler of brandy. "Gentlemen, it is time for us to go.  You will go ahead, and announce our arrival, while I make a quick stop first.  I will be there shortly, with a pleasant surprise, should everything go as planned."

He glanced at his wife.  "Have the boy get my sleigh ready, I will be needing it."

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