(1866-07-07) Pointy hat.. yes?...
Pointy hat.. yes?…
Summary: The nobles and leaders of the army'd group meet for strategy as well as a bit of fun talk.
Date: July 7 1866
Related: Battle of Percy's Dale, Battle of the Ruins
NPCs: {$npc}
Players:
Evae  Jaelynn  Rhett  Thomas  

Camp
Camp
1866-07-07

The camp of the armies that have consolidated in County Windholme is large, but it is not unruly. Located on a commanding but still rather low, broad hillside, the main camp is well organized. Over four thousand soldiers have been brought together by the victories of both the Windholme Eastern army and the Arkanin-Charing-Kaedon force in two separate places in order to make this so. There is a serious outer perimeter at the bottom of the hill made up of a series of ditches and a low palisade wall. Interspersed regularly are wooden towers with men posted in them to watch out. Further from the hills are small outposts equipped with horses, watching and giving an advanced warning for any approaching forces. The camp itself has been laid out on a grid, with several main streets, supply depots, living quarters, training areas and messes for eating. At the center is the main headquarters tent and this is wear Baron Thomas Chandus, adjutant of the Windholme force, is located.

Evening. It was normally a time when Evae had retired to her tent to correspond to various missives and alert her father of the Eastern Front. Or on the occasion that she chose to, look over new battles plans to possible offer advice or insight in addition to what the Arkanin Commanders had devised. However, this evening, the young Arkanin Heir decided that a walk about camp, and especially the new arriving camp of Windholme was in order. Thus, we a two guard escort, assigned to her by her father and dressed in Arkanin colors, Evae has made her way there with her sister Jaelynn on her arm. Her destination is simple; she seeks Thomas Chandus, the Adjutant of the Windholme forces.

However, finding such a man has not proved easy in the large camp and Evae has decided to stop and ask for the location of the man she seeks. A kind word with a group of soldiers cleaning and polishing their weaponry and armor, and Evae has the information she seeks, tugging her sister along, "Come Jae…he apparently is right over…" She sticks out a finger as she spies the tent she as directed to, "There." Careful and purposeful steps take her to the tent where she pauses and looks over to Jae, moving to tuck a strand of hair behind her sister's ear, "Now be proper. These are our allies as you are well aware." She takes a breath and exhales slowly, moving to have her arrival announced and permission to speak with the Adjutant.

It seems various great minds collectively think alike as they all converge on the command tent at the same time. Rhett spots the other two woman whom he gives a bow to. "Cousins, it seems we have had the same idea." he says with a chuckle though he is wondering what the next part of the plan is he'll motion for them to continue on first into the tent and will wait to follow in their footsteps. The heir of Charing has a lot riding on this after-all.

Jaelynn laughs a little as she looks to her sister "I am always proper with the Barron, you know, he danced with me at the ball before the madness happened".. she tells her sister with a soft voice "really why do you think, I cant be a good Lady". She laughs softly - her hair is all braided and pulled up and she carries herself like a Princess along side her sister who carries herself a little more charm then herself - still the pair look fetching. Her eyes turn to Rhett and then back to her sister with a bright smile. "Shall we?" she asks as she moves shoulders back head high and all as if she were at court.

Thomas appears to have been satisfied with whatever it was he was doing in the command tent, as the nobleman, armoured only with mottled brown and green brigandine cuirass, was in the process of exiting the main area of the tent when he bumps into the group of northern Galenthians. His expressive eyebrows push up on his forehead, watery blue eyes betraying a surprise which he does his best to make light of in conversation. "Sir Rhett, Ladies Evae and Jaelynn! What a wonderful turn, running into you." He gives respectful bow of the head. "Lady Jaelynn, I am grateful to see that the wounds suffered at the Blood Ball have healed nicely. I'm told that the healing of yourself and your section were instrumental in how few casualties were taken."

Rhett's arrival is met with a smile as the young Arkanin heir leans in to offer him a slight embrace and a kiss upon the cheek, "Rhett, so wonderful to see you once again. I do trust you have no pressing news that would cause me concern?" She steps back and looks to the tent once more.

Timing. It is quite the funny thing, and as the Baron exits the tent, Evae does her best to sidestep the exiting man. It takes a little effort, but she does manage to do so; all at the same time trying ot maintain the elegance and grace she is so well known for. Well, at least she tries. A slight little stumble, quickly back to proper posture and a smile as she moves blows an escaped strand of her own hair from her face. The whole moment last only a few seconds, and is evena bit cute on how she tries to pass it off as nothing having happened, "Baron Chandus. It is good…" She then pauses as he addresses Jaelynn and mentions the ball; a topic still plaguing her mind and heart.

Jaelynn nods her head to the Baron, "and you as well" she pauses to make sure Evae dose not fall, and she steadies her as she greets the Charring Heir, the younger Arkanian also curtsies a bit to her cousin before she smiles softly to Thomas "I am glad to see Viola and her healers have brought you this far". she says with kindness in her voice. She dose nod her head as Thomas speaks of her healing, "I have kept the troupes here well tended" she finds a smile for the Barron.

Rhett will move towards the tent though it seems that Thomas is coming out instead though he returns the embrace and cheek kiss to Evae "Nothing pressing of yet no luckily just the usual for camp." He looks to Thomas "M'lord greetings its good to have both groups together once more." He says glad to see all the troops gathered and likely some morale returned after the victories they'd obtained. The comments about the ball yes are tough indeed he looks back to Evae "We will gain honor for all those who were lost m'lady." he says before looking back Jaelynn he gets a smile about the healer praise.

"You call me m'lord now, Sir Rhett, but one day I will be addressing you as your Excellency and Lady Evae as her Grace." Notes Thomas bemusedly, nodding at Jaelynn. "Aye, they have kept me going - but more importantly, I feel, they have kept the soldiers hearty and hale. With your healers and the Reliants together, now, we are truly in the best of care. Ladies, Sir, would you join me in the tent, then? We can discuss matters best left to the inside. There's a hearth and some food and drink in there as well."

That's Evae, always proper and sounding all diplomatic and such, but it is what she says next in a soft mumble that is nothing like her at all, "Let their blood spill and stain the Earth red." Another smile quickly comes ot her visage once more and she turns with a nod to Thomas, "Splendid M'lord. I think it best if we do just that." She folds her hands before takes a deep breath, making sure her posture is perfect.
Jaelynn looks over to her sister as Thomas tells her of her title soon to be, and she nods her head a little. She grips her sisters arm then loosens it quiet and shy in her sisters shadow. She nods her head to Thomas at his request.

Rhett chuckles a little "Perhaps, one day my friend. I am sure we will all meet and think fondly then, though that day is not today." The Charing heir says with some humor he looks betwen the others and will indeed following along "I think that is quite a good idea." He will allow the others to enter and will follow behind them.

As Thomas turns about and re-enters the tent, he speaks to the assembled nobles. "It appears that Divine Will is still on our side, Lady Evae. We've defeated two large Thorn armies. A third lays in our way, though how big it is we are unsure as of yet. Our scouts range." He spreads his arms out, one at the map table and the other the much smaller refreshment table. A pair of guards, a Lance Corporal and Private of House Chandus Sun Shields by their lorrica armour, cobalt blue colored uniform and chevrons, rise up from their seats and come to attention. A wave by Thomas, followed by a gesture to the nobles has them moving to make sure that the Arkanins and Charing have what they wish.

Jaelynn looks over to her sister and then to Thomas as she moves into the tent. She sits straight, looking as much her sisters little self only with dark hair rather then light. She watches her older role modle and mimics every movement, almost mirror-like.

A third soldier, a Reine Dragon's Claw, comes into the tent to whisper something to Thomas. The Baron looks apologetically to the others. "Please excuse me for a moment." He follows the Reine soldier out.

The heir or Charing listens to the words about this third army. "Hm, I would suggest we try and hide our numbers then as well move from spot of concealment to next spot until the Kaeden scouts can get us numbers positions and all then we can plan our attack." He nods though when Thomas must be excused and turns back to the others. "Has there been news around the camp from the soldiers you've heard I have been listening myself but haven't heard much."

Evae enters the tent stil beside her sister, listening to what Rhett says and then preparing to reply to Thomas. However, just then the Baron is called out of the tent and she holds her words, moving to stand behind her sister with a soft hand upon her shoulder, "The morale in both camps seems high M'lord Charing. This is a good thing, it will be extremely critical for us to insure that it remains that way." She then looks down to her sister and softly asks, "When you get a chance, can you check on the wounded tents in our encampment. See to it that they are receiving the best possible treatment they are deserved? Eyes then drift back to Rhett and she nods slowly, "Knowledge is power. Without proper awareness of their location we are at a severe disadvantage. However, I cannot help but think we shall not come complacent. A counter-attack is not out of the realm of possibility."

Jaelynn listens and she nods her head to her sisters words. "I will do that yes, of course I have been making sure our people are well." she says softly with respect to her sister. Her eyes turn to Rhett "have you seen Cassius?"

"I quite agree both about the morale and the growing lax on security and readiness. I suppose it comes down to everyone remembering this is a war camp first and foremost without making it so strict that morale suffers from it. Also yes gaining the upper hand with scouting knowledge while trying to hide our own numbers." Rhett looks over to Jaelynn at the question "I visited in the healing tents after the bandit ambush, but have not seen him since."

Evae nods to her sister and squeezes her shoulder lightly before stepping towards the table of maps, "If I could get a list of those lost. Their families back home in Wayston deserve word. I can make that my priority. It might help to have their home village or town as well." She seems to be speaking ot herself more so now, "I can send a rider.." She pauses at the table and then seems to be addressing them both again, "It is a delicate balance Rhett. Keeping morale up and yet still making sure the thoughts of battle and war remain fresh on teir minds." She traces a finger over the map slowly, "They are no doubt reeling from our recent victories; yet no doubt we have lit a fire in their bellies."

Jaelynn nods her head to her sister, "I can get you a list of the fallen." her face is sad for those she has lost. "Cassius makes slow progress, I was hoping he would be willing to join us soon." she pauses "I sure hope we are back in Ironhold before my nameday." she says quietly

"I will see about getting a list compiled as soon as maybe or well thank you Jaelynn that would be good of you to do., I agree all should be accounted for and their families able to have closure at least." Rhett sighs slightly though he looks back to Evae and nods in agreement "It is, hm I would suggest we try to come up with a schedule perhaps that might help balance things out a bit. He looks back towards his younger cousin "We can hope."

A simple nod is given to both of them and she steps away from the table with another smile, "Enough of this talk for now. We should be allowed a moment of conversation that does not revolve around death and sadness. As important as it is, it would do us all well to speak of other things." She walks across the room once more to her sister and actually kneels before her, taking both her hands in her own, "Yes Jae, your nameday. Let us speak of that." She looks over her shoulder and Rheet and smiles, "Do you know cousin that it was Jae's nameday next week?" She smiles back to her sister and squeezes her hand, "Tell me…what do you wish from me?"

Jaelynn looks to her sister as her fingers are taken and she thinks about the question asked, she blushes a moment and she shakes her head "We do not even know if…if we will be home Evae" she says with a tilt of her head and a grin to her lips and then she playfully shakes her head "I wish nothing from you sister."

Rhett sighs and shakes his head "Alas I did not, I only met Jaelynn while we were in Ironhold, us two being closer in age but now that I do know I will need to make sure to get something nice however I may be able to do so." He comments looking between the sisters a moment and waits for their conversation.

Evae shakes her head quickly and seemingly is bot going to take no for an answer, "Nonsense Jae. It matters not /where/ we are. Your nameday will not wait fo such things. Whether we are here or there or anywhere; I shall see to it that you have the day you deserve. As will Rhett." he turns to look over her shoulder at her cousin, "Won't you Rhett?" She stands up slowly and tugs lightly on her sisters hands, motioning for her to stand as well, "Whether you wish anything from me or not…this time dear sister I shall not listen to what you have to say." Her words have a hint of jest in them, a teasing smile on her lips as she looks between her and Rhett.

Jaelynn looks to Rhett and she opens her lips before she closes them and she takes a deep proper breath. Her eyes look to Evae and her sister being there calms her. She squeezes her sisters hands before she laughs "oh Evae, dont!" she says as she stands with grace, the younger sister knows how to dance well and carried the grace with her as she moved. "Really do not fuss.." she blushes

"Yes of course, all deserve to be happy on such a day and especially with family here to make utter nuscences of ourselves?" he winks over to Evae. Rhett looks back to the sisters in pair as the older stands he'll step to close the distance which isnt huge to start in the tent command or no really "Oh there will be fuss, best just to run with it." he says teasing lightly himself with a smile on his face.

"I shall not allow the day to pass without at least somewhat of a big deal Jae. If not for you, then for myself. Yes, I can be selfish like that." The usually proper sophisticated heir to Wayston then sticks her tongue out at her sister in teasing. She then moves to twirl the younger Arkanin in a small circle where she stand, still gripping her hand." Her soft smile goes to Rhett who has stepped closer and and she adds, "What do you think dear cousin..what does my little sister need?"

Jaelynn twirls and she shifts her eyes to Rhett as he comes closer to herself and her sister, and she sets her head on the elder woman's arm with a warm smile, and a flush to her cheeks, she dare not speak.

Rhett looks to Evae as she leads her sister about the tent snickering softly but not meanly of course. He ponders the question "I believe a parade of honor is in order.. with a party-hat of some sort tall and pointy.. through the lined men of the camp, and a feast.. an army camp dance. Oh and the camp singing." he comments ticking some things off on his fingers.

She had not seen her sister a lot, in fact it had been quite a long time indeed; but it is apparent that the feelings Evae has for her only sister are genuine as she cradles her head against her arm and nods with anotyher smile to Rhett, "Perfect. I would expect nothing less. She is an Arkanin after-all, and my sister. That alone warrants such a celebration." There is a slight pause in her words and she looks to Rhett, "I know exactly what she needs. And I would not be doing anything for /her/ technically. What could we get for her horse? New tack…some light armor? Is your horse even here Jae?" She looks down at her sister, but then states to Rhett, "It is good to see her smile again..no?"

Jaelynn smiles and she nods her head "of course he is here!" she grins "Smoke is always with me." she hugs her sister a little "no pointy hats…" she says quietly "the rest sounds good." she then nods somberly "some kind of armor, or something for Smoke would be welcome. I wonder if I could have a nice dress made for the field for that day, to dance in."

The heir of Charing will chuckle "Indeed it is befitting, the best liege house I could have hoped." Rhett says with a bow to each. He cannot help but chuckles and snaps with a sigh "Fine no.. pointy hat." he works to look down but its an act clearly. He looks to Evae and Jaelynn "Well we have armorsmiths and others of talent with us just for need of repairs and the like. I am sure we can get something started a fine design for smoke." he looks to Evae and nods "It is good to see her smile indeed."

Evae lightly hugs her sister back and nods matter of factly, "Done. Dear Rhett, if you could see ot the tack and armorment for Smoke, I shall see what i can do about a dress." She stands back and looks her sister over a moment, a keen narrowed eye, "I brought a few dresses with me Jae, I shall let you have your pick…and for one day only I shall allow you to look more beautiful than I." She winks and shoulder nudges her younger sister." Eyes then drift back to Rhett and she nods but once, "It pleases me greatly dear cousin that one day..together we will be working for the betterment of our Duchy.

Rhett nods "I will see to it Evae, of course." He comments about the armor for the horse pondering a moment on this before he's come up with a plan before listening to the rest of the conversation and chuckles a bit though he will nod to his older cousins words "I pleases me too, we shall work well together to be certain." the heir comments easily enough.

Jaelynn flushes slightly embarrassed, "maybe some armor i can move in… I got knocked out saving the life of our Barron, and would rather not get landed so hard if I can help it." she looks to her sister and she smiles when Rhett points out there were smiths that followed them. "I will talk to a smithy about that."

The moment ends up being several hours. Thomas returns finally and if one was to catch a glimpse of the sky through the tent flap he lifts, any traces of light have now been subsumed by the utter darkness. Even torches and campfires are being left low, under order, so while there is a brief glow, it is clearly deep night. Thomas looks more tired now. Before acknowledging anyone, he takes several long strides in order to pour himself a cup full of wine. "My apologies. Some logistical concerns…"

Evae raises a brow at the news that her sister got knocked out and covers her mouth in a silent gasp, "Jaelynn Arkanin. You did not?" Her expression is one of serious surprise and her eyes flash to Rhett as if to ask for clarification. She shakes her head quickly and points a finger at her sister, waving it, "As your older sister I forbid you to be knocked out again..do you hear me?" The intelligent heir shows a slight moment of lack of reasoning. It is then that Thomas returns and she maintains her psoture once more, a nod given to him, and that sweet voice returning, "You need not apologize for such things M'lord. They are necessary and certainly take precedent over social conversation. Especially in our current setting."

Rhett sighs though he listens to both of them speak he cannot help at the banning of being harmed "Well there you have it." He says simply though he will catch the look. "There is always a danger with being a battlefield medic cousin, though I do try and keep her safe the best I am able." He turns as Thomas enters once more. "Its quite alright indeed."

Jaelynn will offer Rhett a little smile, one soft and gentle at his words, then her attention is back on her sister "it was at the ball Evae." she says quietly then she pauses then whispers to her sister before her eyes move back to Thomas "you just miss a discussion where they planned to embarrass me fully on my naming day"

Thomas doesn't appear to take a very concerned view of whatever argument the two Arkanin sisters seem to be having. It gets a passing gaze from the Baron, a mildly curious quirk of an eyebrow and then a shrug, shedding any more thought of it in his mind, though he does comment briefly to Jaelynn. "I think that would be a splendid idea. Sir Rhett, what the quartermaster told me was that our fresh supplies will eventually run a bit short, with us in this camp."

He takes a deep draw of his wine. "We have several options. Firstly we can remain here, forage further afield and also use our stores of preserves. I am loathe to do this, as they are really properly disposed of only in emergency situations, and foraging for an army of this size will strip the countryside. Secondly, we could disperse our camps. Thirdly, we could disperse our camps and do so by the Leonor river. This I find the best idea; it means we separate into two camps, though we could maintain a narrow link by the river with a small common camp in the middle. We would better our supply lines by receiving barges from the river, anchor our camps' flank on a natural defensive line and be able to forage further afield by being separate. In addition, if we did create the smaller common camp in the middle, we could maintain a unity of command."

Jae's reply about it being at the ball is quickly received with a nod and then dismissed. It was no secret that Evae had left the ball early because of another bout of dizziness. She moves to stand beside her sister and once again grips her arm lightly, "I blame you not dear cousin. For what has happened or what is to come. It is not your duty to see to my sister's safety…may the One watch over her and keep her safe from harm while she heals those in need." The smile she gives Rhett is one of genuine sincerity in her words.

As Thomas speaks Evae listens intently. It was also no secret that her own father had sought her advice when battles came to close to their borders or the bandits in the area got to bold. She had a knack for seeing things in a strategic sense and was not afraid to speak her mind, "Your third suggestion makes the most sense M'lord. Staying here is not an option. Add to this that by now the enemy already knows of our location and is preparing a counter-attack. Preying upon us at this juncture is best, right after a successful battle when our morale is high but our guard is low as we would not expect such a counter so soon." She slides her hand down to lightly grip her sisters and continues, "Unity of command is critical going forward. We may act as separate entities, but we must act in full realization of each forces actions. Together we are one." She ends her words with the religious phrase.

The Heir of Charing considers the mans words he knows this could be the turn of events that make or break the camp. "Have we not then any idea where the enemy is stationed? I am not saying we march without thought or planning, but we need to get our scouts into range to be able to find their numbers and layout." he ponders "I am not sure either of those will work m'lord, we must not only think of our own plans but what the enemy may plan. We cannot have our army starve no we'd have to quit the campaign, but nor can we disberse safely should the enemy ambush the smaller middle camp somehow.. they could come at our flanks unaware." he shakes his head "I do not belive weaking ourselves is the answer."

Jaelynn considers the topics and she looks to Thomas, "I would like it, if we were to split, you let Viola stay with Rhett." she says quietly "I will go with the other group." The words are there and the suggestion put forward "Of course this would mean I leave my sister, but we will come back together for my nameday." she promises her. SHe stands and she looks around "I need to check on our wounded" she says "its late." and with that she leaves the commanders to talk tactics.

"Ah, but there we do not have to weaken ourselves, Sir Rhett. The enemy besieges the capital of Windholme, Riverrend. Those being the forces of House Fitzroy and whoever they've managed to gather with - however, it is not them that I worry about, but the remnants of the forces that we defeated and dispersed. We sent them reeling, but I know that we ourselves faced twenty five hundred enemy, plus yours. We left many dead on the field, but still more withdrew." Thomas looks like he has more to say on the matter but instead moves on. "If we do split camps, by having a well articulated system of watch towers built in a mutually supporting manner, an enemy attack on any of the three camps could be easily answered by a sally from the others. Besides supplies, it makes bringing reinforcements and moving wounded out much easier."

Thomas nods at Jaelynn. "You are the senior ranking healer. Mother Viola is a Reliant, true, but you are a noble born daughter of Arkanin. You decide policy in that respect."

It is a lot to consider and a lot to discuss, and it is not that she was not paying attention, as she was; it was simply the fact that her sister was turning to go. As she started to exit, Evae followed her sister, gripping her by the arm and murmuring softly to her; yet audible, "I will see to it that you have what you desire Jae. I promise." She then leans in to murmur somethinf softer to her; a whisper.

Eyes then turn back to the two men and she folds her hands once more all proper like before her as she nibbles her bottom lip slowly, "You both speak of valid points. M'lord Chandus…your suggestion to me seems to hold great merit. It has it's positives…and we could find negatives if we were to look for them. The truth is, nothing is perfect, but some things are better." Her eyes drift over to Rhett and she adds, "However, I think my cousin speaks of a valid point. Without proper coordinated scouting, we move blindly; and perhaps into a situation we do not wish to be in. My only suggestion is this: If we are to move camp…it is to do so on the knowledge of our scouts; and if they need new assignments…then give them new assignments."

Jaelynn nods and smiles softly to Evae, sharing a sister moment, before she is out and gone.

Rhett looks between the three nodding to Jaelynn as she is to leave. "Should we not be moving then to lift the siege?" He asks curiously on this he considers the threat of counter attack, and the rest though. "If we are not cutoff from the other camps.. by the river, I agree with this plan, though we must consider how long we wait for such a counter attack as if it doesnt come. Those same troops could bolster the siege and perhaps tip the balance." He shifts from foot to foot a bit thinking. "I agree that we need a more accurate picture of what the situation is."

"Aye, we should, Sir Rhett. And here too this would be a means to this end. By establishing camps by the river, we could move by barge further up river. Riverrend is so named because the River Leonor broadens at it. Barging upriver, we could disembark some miles before and march to its relief without exhausting our troops and, again, having an anchor and natural defensive wall on our flank." Thomas has pulled out a dagger to explain this, motioning to the map which is unrolled on the table. "It would also make moving our scouts up to Riverrend much easier. To that end, then, Lady Evae and Sir Rhett, I suggest that we combine the Kaedon Shadow Snakes with my Rangers and scout in a unified manner, sending most of them to assess the quality and quantity of enemy works at Riverrend, and some to screen our forces. The balance of our light cavalry can do most of the close reconnaissance and protect our forces."

Evae steps over to the map as Thomas speaks, her eyes studying the map carefully and making note of spots that are pointed out as he speaks. She quite out of place. A young noble Arkanin in a dress and slippers and her hair done up properly amongst hardened soldiers; however her interest and level of focus leads little discussion as to whether she should be here at all. A finger raises to tap her chin lightly, seemingly processing everything that was just said by the Baron. It is only ater a breif moment that she chooses to speak; her soft lull of a voice expressing her words, "I am certainly not an Adjutant or a soldier for that matter. Nor shall I ever be. Both of your insights are were much more than what I could possibly devise. I have not even seen the land of which you speak nor the enemy." She raises a finger to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear that had escaped her elegant confinement, "I look for flaws. The what-ifs of a situation. The what could happens. Call it premptive reasoning." Her eyes raise from the map and look back and forth between the two men, plainly stating, "I see little to none with this plan. There is always inherent risk with any decision; the key is..to minimize that risk." Her fingers extends and she points to a spot on the map that Thomas had alluded to, "There. That's the spot."

Rhett looks between the two and clearly he's out-voted on this one and so he nods. "I will go along with the plan though I have my worries m'lord." he nods to him and then "Cousin." she gets a warm smile "I'll arrange for things for your sister she should have a day indeed." he moves to the map. "I point out only lastly that a barrier works both ways." he taps the river "They cannot cross perhaps, but we cannot cross should we be encircled. It may not happen no but if we're considering what-ifs and inherent danger I am compelled to point this out." he will nod "I should take my leave, but I will see you each soon." He nods before making his way out.

"Many heads reasoning and analysing a situation are better than one single one. That being said, one single head is necessary for decisions. Sir Rhett, good night, and we may put this decision to Viscount Varian for his final call, as they are his lands. One keep you." Once Rhett is gone, Thomas slowly walks over to a camp chair that is located near the hearth, of stout but light wooden construction and easily folded up. He breathes a sigh of relief, refilling his wine. "Always, so many problems."

A proper nod is given to her departing cousin and a soft word, "We shall speak soon dear cousin. Rest well. Come see me in the morning if you would?" She is left standing by the map table, tho turning herself around to face the Lord. She leans back on the edge of the table, perhaps fatigue settling in enough to make her forget about posture and propriety, "For every problem M'lord there is a solution. And yet for every solution there is hindsight questioning that solution." She exhales slowly and smiles ever so slightly before continuing. Tho her next words appear somewhat vulnerable; showing her fatigue, as it is no secret the young heir of Murias tires easily and has had a lifetime of bouts with illness, "Tell me M'lord…from what you have seen….can we win?" Such a question seems odd coming from the young Arkanin, usually one so optomistic and always exuding a personae of hope to those around her, "Can we?" It may be the first time the Adjutant has seen Evae this way.

"I do believe he's correct, though. I am usually an advocate of aggressive action. In this climate, we ought to move as quickly as possible and minimise our risks. I must send him a note tomorrow once a plan has been preliminarily made, utilising his advice." Thomas says after a few moments, partially for his own benefit and partially for Evae's. He fixes the Arkanin heir with a firm gaze of his watery blue eyes. For a moment, he is silent. Then he speaks. "We have suffered few defeats, though some have been crushing. This army in particular, whether Arkanin or Windholme based, has been victorious since Goldhollow." He is referring to a battle in western Galenthia, in the Cassomir lands which took place in Janvier. "We can win against these forces. The enemy… they have so many soldiers. How do they continue to outfit and hire them? We defeat and crush one force and it is replaced by a new. One wonders."

"I sounds as if their gameplan is to wear us out with unskilled numbers. OUr forces are more elite in skill, but their numbers will drag this out for longer than any of us can potnetially forsee." She pushes off the table and moves to sit with a small cough, raising her hand to her mouth to stifle it before taking a deep breath and speaking once again, that same soft voice; never raised delivering her words, "I spend much of days wandering our encampment, speaking with soldiers. Their morale is good; at least for now. They trust their leadership and I have you and Rhett to thank for that." A hand raises to let her hair down, not giving a reason really why she has done so, "We must take their will to fight. Easier said than done M'lord. However, victory after victory does lead one down that path. For what it is worth I do agree. When the enemy out numbers you, it is not always best to sit and wait for them to take the fight to you. You must dictate when and where to fight in order to best suit your numbers and skill."

"We have won by skill and force of arms, certainly, but their soldiers have by and large been of outstanding quality. That is the crux of my curiosity, Lady Evae. Where did they get the coin to hire or the men to train? We've collected hundreds of long cannons in our battles, maybe even thousands. I suspect nearly a hundred siege cannons, many other siege pieces… these are of exceptional expense." A smile smile crosses Thomas's lips at the mention of morale and he nods enthusiastically when speaking of initiative. "Indeed, we must, and thusfar we have. They've pinned themselves to Riverrend in an effort to take it. They are vulnerable."

"They are no doubt being funded by another entity who is simply using their force to accomplish their own agenda in the end. I fear it is not soley the enemy we see that we are dealing with. Perhaps what we are actually seeing and engaging is just the sword arm of the beast and not what lies beyond. This may be bigger then any of us have even imagined. Or perhaps I am wrong; I certainly hope I am." She slowly stands and moves to the side table, pouring herself some water and sipping it before speaking once more, "Vulnerable you say? Such an oppurtunity may not present itself again. Such a defeat to the Thorns at Riverrend might be that crushing blow to their morale that we seek." She takes another sip and speaks from over the rim, the lighting in the rim catching her golden hair, "The believe in you…any intitiative you set forth will be followed through confidence, skill and withut questioning or hesitation. You do hat you can on your end…." SHe pauses a moment and takes a longer sip, her eyes narrowing, "I am going to see what I can do to find out about their funding…if there is something there at all."

Thomas regards Evae carefully, nodding here and there, evidently considering what she says with the gravity it well deserves. Mostly, Chandus simply listens and lets her say her what is on her mind. Finally, he replies, "I think that would be a wise move. I am not shrewd in such things, but I know a man who is. He's not necessarily a natural ally of ours. A banker in Four Corners, he saved my life at the Blood Ball. He is also a councillor of their city state. Mattias Thynne."

A firm nod of matter of factness is given to the Adjutant, "Then you do what you to best M'lord. And I shall do what I do best; I get people to do what I want. If you can get me in touch with this Mattias Thynne; or perhaps can do so through some of my own connectionsl I assure you…if they are being funded and Mattias can discover such things, I will convince him to tell me." Evae takes another sip of the water, "Perhaps we can even throw a wrench in said funding…the options are limitless." She stifles a small yawn and offers another polite smile, "I'll have your answer either way. Wprry no further yourself of this matter. I may not be able to swing a sword…or even lift a sword for that matter…but I can talk my way into getting the information I seek."

"I think that, in the interest of our Kingdom, that would be most useful. That being said, while I am no expert in purveying such information I would scarcely believe that it comes without a price." Thomas refills his cup with more wine, and makes an offering motion to Evae with the jug, insinuating that he will fill hers as well should she wish. "If I may be forward, Lady Evae. The coffers of House Arkanin are wide, and full. We in the East have borne the fruits of this war more than anyone else. Your soldiers make a significant and serious difference now. Would you be willing to commit gold and silver towards the ends of another type of warfare? That of information?"

There is a casual shrug given as she makes her way over to the Adjutant with her cup, motioning to only fill it halfway. She stands before him as he pours and his words cause her to think a moment before speaking again. Even then when she starts to speak, she pauses…the usually well-spoken tongue of the Arkanin going silent for a spell, "You may be as forward as you wish M'lord. You cannot offend me and have not. It was my father who decided to send the soldiers forth for this campaign. Whether it was for my mother or he finally decided that for Arkanin to proper they needed to stop standing idly by." She raises a hand and runs it through her hair slowly, "I would be more than willing M'lord. And if I speak with my father, I might be able to convince him to do so. He does wish the success of this campaign and the minimilization of loss of life. I know he is not seen highly amngst many in Galenthia; but he does desire our victory." The Adjutant is given another smile from the Arkanin heir, "You will have your information M'lord. I shall convince my father to provide the necessary con from our coffers and negotiate myself a price I can live with."

Thomas gently places the jug down after he's done pouring, leaning back in the seat. "Regardless of what has happened in the past, what is important now is that we stand united as subjects of Her Majesty, the Queen of Galenthia. We are all her loyalists, and we fight her enemies as one. From my perspective, I've seen Arkanin, Sokar and Tarris dead over the fields. Your own mother, our Kingdom's Archduchess, and brother fell, One rest their souls. We all fight against a common foe." Finally, the Baron smiles, though only slightly, which given the topic is as likely appropriate as he'll go. "I am heartened to hear those words from you though, Lady Evae."

"We do fight against a common foe. A common foe which desires all of our deaths. Let there be as little more deaths as possible, but let those who do meet their end, not have done so in vain." She sips the wine slolwy, it is clear she is not one who usually partakes in, "I shall speak to Daddy soon enough and do what I can to arrange a meeting with this banker from Four Corners. I am actually the only child my father truly speaks to regularly. What with Jae running of and hiding and my brother choosing the brotherhood over being the heir." She takes another small sip and sets the cup down on the table, gripping her blond hair over one shoulder in both hands. She looks so innocent, so tired,so defeated and fatigued. Yet, her next words spoken are stated even softer and slowly; each word clearly enunciated. Her eyes meeting his fully:
"I'll cut their purses; you just cut their throats." It might seem a bit creepy coming from the Arkanin heir, but nevertheless it was said.

Thomas's eyes narrow, though judging by his continued smile it is in appreciation of the sentiment. "Your sister has been instrumental in organising our healing, Lady Evae, though I'm sure you knew that. She saved my life at the Ball, as well. I am glad that by the grace of God that we are united of purpose." He drains his cup and rises, exhaling slowly. "I think it is time to turn in, for the night is advanced and morning comes soon. Please let me know if there is anything I can assist with and I shall. Good night and One keep you, m'lady." He dips his head.

"My sister is a wonderful person M'lord. I only wish her happiness. Her and I have much to catch up on." She pauses a moment and nods once before continuing, "You know I only heard stories of wht really occured at the ball. I was sick in bed and when things started happening I was carried to a passage only few know of in Bellmore. I habe no doubt of her bravery and skill that evening." The topic is dropped and she offers a half curtsey to the Adjutant, "Good night M'lord. May the One keep you as well." She starts for the door and looks back at the Adjutant before exiting; a smile given as if to say: /I would not wish to be the enemy/, and then she departs, her two Arkanin guards flanking her side as she makes her way trough the camp to her tent once more. However, it can be heard for the breifest of time before she is out of range the soft spoken girl stating, "Thank you…" And then another, "Thank you.." As she slowly makes her way back.

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