abraxaslogs | [ CLOSED ]

There's hardly been a quiet moment in the last few months, but when things settle down somewhat after the Summoned's return from the Nether, Rhy at some point sends a letter to Lyle again, checking in on whether he's had a chance to discuss matters with Lord Weson and expressing his hope that Nott has managed to recover since the monster attacks some weeks ago.

In response to Rhy's letter an invitation for another meeting is extended. The implication being that Lyle has spoken with Weson and has news worth meeting about.

Once again the air is casual in Lyle's office, and Rhy is not made to wait when he arrives. Two glasses and a tray of dried meats and cheeses are set out on the desk and the man himself is seated in his chair. All in all it seems more welcoming than last time. Even Lyle offers a tight but honest smile when Rhy enters.

"Good, you're here. Have a seat. We have a great deal to discuss today."

Still no time for small talk it seems.

"It's good to see you again, Master Vela," Rhy greets him as he takes his seat, meeting the smile easily. The presentation seems at odds with Lyle Vela's straightforward conversational style, as though he expects they'll be sitting here a while talking this time. It's a good sign, Rhy thinks.

"Positive news then, I hope?"

"I think you'll agree that it's positive. Has anyone at the castle spoken to you yet? I don't expect anyone to have, but occasionally they can surprise me." Hard to tell if Lyle is simply inquiring or making a point of venting frustration at the castle and their way of doing things.

"It's perfectly fine if no one has. I anticipated we may be speaking longer this time."

Hence the snacks.

Rhy shakes his head slowly, watching Lyle's expression. He settles in to be more comfortable for a longer chat, taking up his glass.

"Pleased to hear you consider it positive. No one in the castle has yet approached me with any information regarding anything to do with you or Nott," he admits, brows lifting slightly in curiosity. It's not something he would expect anyone in Castle Thorne to talk to him about, so the fact Lyle brings it up at all throws him off a bit.

"I hope you shan't keep me in suspense long!" he laughs, taking a drink.

"Of course they didn't bother." There is little in Lyle's tone beyond resignation.

"I hope you weren't boasting about your various skills as they've earned you a job. Official liaison between Nott and the castle. Compensated, of course. Officially it's something of an ambassadorial position."

He'll allow the news to sink in before he starts in on the specifics.

Rhy blinks. Sits up a bit more, setting down his cup. He looks... surprised, mostly. Not excited quite yet so much as a little confused.

"I'm honored--" he says first, graciously. (And compensated too -- that is something he hadn't even considered.) When the surprise passes, his smile grows again; he leans in, interested.

"--to be chosen for such an important position, which I understand needs a delicate hand. Can you describe what the ambassadorial duties would be?"

Lyle nods. Rhy's interest is a positive sign. Of course, he has details to go over first before Rhy can make his final decision to accept or not.

"Now, formally, the Crown will appoint you as the Summoned liaison between Nott and Castle Thorne. They'll expect you to report to them for our needs, supplies and such...and naturally, if our citizens are dissatisfied in any way."

He raises an eyebrow. The understanding between them is for Rhy to work on behalf of Nott, not spy on the town for the Castle, and he expects Rhy's reports to the kingdom will reflect that as diplomatically as required, while still advocating for Nott's needs.

Lyle continues. "In Nott, I have more specific projects in mind. Naturally, you'll be a presence among the townsfolk both during important celebrations and overall, but I'd also like you to continue your work improving our medical facilities. There's an old infirmary - I'm sure you've been there - that could use repairs and upgrades. Our plan is to use volunteer citizen work, utilizing those of our people who are down on their luck. We'll give them hot meals and a roof. In return, they'll contribute to the town.

These duties aren't light work, so I should make one thing clear before you think about it - you won't live at the Castle under your new position. We'll provide you a place in Nott. Somewhere quite cozy, I assure you."

Lyle doesn't need to elaborate; Rhy can read between the lines. He nods again, leaning forward.

"May I ask who has been in charge of these reports before? Am I taking over a liaison position that already existed, or has this information not previously been consolidated in such a way? I was under the impression the Crown sends supplies as it deems fit. If this is a new position intended to have more direct understanding of the city's actual needs, that certainly seems like good news -- and I'm honored to be offered the job."

The idea that he would provide information more freely that a Nott native probably has something to do with it, especially since Rhy has long been a fixture at Castle Thorne and observed all proper decorum to make a good impression, without quite expressing his actual opinions where anyone who shouldn't could hear. What he's curious about is whether this is the Castle's way of trying to improve their standing in the eyes of Nott politicians and officers.

Rhy follows along with the appropriate acknowledgements of nods and quiet noises of affirmation while Lyle continues his explanation.

"Of course. That's a fantastic idea, trading volunteer work for shelter to those who need it. I can oversee spreading the word and recruiting volunteers. I'll extend the call to the Summoned, as well -- I know many of them are eager to do some good with their presence here."

He seems to already be agreeing, even before the final part-- another surprise. A pleasant one, though it comes with some uncertainty as well.

"That is quite generous. Thank you. It would certainly make the work more manageable if I were closer.

"I do have... one question. May I bring one other with me? Or is that a question I should be posing at the Castle, instead?"

"I send requests. The crown does what it wants with them and I could not tell you how they've been determining our needs." Lyle's tone makes it clear he is not impressed with the system.

He moves along from that topic quickly.

"We shall see how this goes. Your work would be impossible if you weren't stationed here. And yes, I assumed you would hardly wish to uproot yourself alone. You may bring an assistant of your choosing. I understand you have family in the castle. Your accommodations and stipend should be enough for two."

Lyle takes a drink before continuing.

"I predict this arrangement will be beneficial for both of us. I know you're used to living in the heart of the crown, but as I'm sure you've realized, we are not as formal here nor do we have the time or inclination to....so closely guide and watch over you as I understand the crown does."

It is clear words are being chosen carefully.

"But I am available should you have questions."

"I am honored to be so trusted by the crown," he says, matching Lyle's care, "and swear to take my duties seriously in representing Nott's needs accurately and with honor. Your city's -- and your -- hospitality will not be taken for granted, Master Vela. I extend my deepest gratitude and look forward to working together in the coming months.

"Of course, I understand I and my brother -- I will be bringing along my brother, you see -- will be more on our own here without the provisions of the Castle as we've grown used to. But I'm certain we will manage. You know that you will always be welcome to pay a visit should you wish to share a drink away from the formality of the office. If I may be so bold as to extend the invitation when the residence isn't even mine, and you so kind as to forgive it."

[ CLOSED ]

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Thank you for your patience!

ahh... same!

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