abraxaslogs | [ CATCH-ALL ]

Edited 2023-11-29 23:42 (UTC)

"There's something I need to talk to you about."

Rhy shuts the door behind him as he walks in, shoulders falling with a sigh. He tosses his coat onto a chair on his way to the sideboard, where he pours two drinks.

Edited 2023-11-29 23:49 (UTC)

"Sure, what is it?"

Kell put down his pen, and stacks his notes ready to put them away. Only then he notices. The tone, the shift in posture, the two glasses. He straightens in his chair, brows furrowed, turning to Rhy, already expecting trouble, as he speaks.

"That requires ... a drink?"

Rhy smiles, that look uncharacteristically a little tentative, and gestures him over. He hands Kell the drink.

"I hope one of celebration."

With his own glass in hand, Rhy takes the seat opposite Kell on the table they share.

"I've just come from a very interesting meeting with Master Lyle Vela of Knott. He had a proposal for me, one actually sanctioned by the crown of Thorne.

"I am to be a Liaison between the castle and Nott. A diplomatic, ambassadorial position, as Vela put it."

There's still some suspicion present when Kell takes the glass.

"Celebration."

He doesn't get to ask what they are celebrating, because Rhy continues, and what he says makes Kell's eyes go wide in almost comical display of surprise. Surprise that it's possible, not that Rhy did it. If anyone had ever any chance to get the crown to agree to such move it could only have been him, or Yennefer.

Surprise, that once more their interests and plans aligned perfectly without either of them knowing. If anything, Kell is mad at himself for not coming to Rhy with his idea sooner. Sure, they were both working in Nott. Rhy for a lot more altruistic reasons than Kell. But working and living are two totally different things. For months, Kell has been trying to come up with idea - and honestly courage - how to bring up the subject to Rhy. To figure out how to get them permission to leave the castle. This seemed impossible. To gather means so they can live there comfortably, as comfortably as the place allows. A lot more doable than the permission, still difficult.
Saints! It really has been months, almost a year now, from his very first conversation with Lucifer about it.

Now he doesn't have to. Because Rhy came to him with a solution to all of this.

Kell raises his glass with a smile.

"Celebration indeed. Congratulations!"

He should probably tell him the rest of his plan. Doesn't need to be now though. Now is for celebrating.

"I hope you are prepared to tell me everything about how, in the name of all the Saints, you were able to pull that off, because I most certainly want to know."

Rhy raises his glass in return, leaning forward to touch the rims together with the soft chime of glass.

"Thank you. I hope to be able to facilitate some good with the new position." For Nott, he means. While still in the castle walls, he knows it's not the wisest choice to speak entirely frankly -- but soon, they'll be free of that. It's an exciting thought, if a slightly daunting one.

"With the responsibility comes some change, though. And that is what we really need to talk about.

"I've been offered a house in Old Nott. Of course, I asked if you could join me -- and the answer was positive. The house will remain property of the crown, technically." As in, it's Nott's but technically Thorne's, and in any case not theirs. "But we won't need to pay rent on it as long as I hold this position. I will also receive a stipend. However... it will be difficult for your to keep your job here in the castle town, and though you can live in the house with me, I got the impression you're expected to provide for yourself."

Not that Kell is unused to that by now. Rhy knows very well he's been providing them both with decent spending money, between his day job and his other venture. He's just not sure how attached Kell is to the tea shop, and doesn't want to take him away from it if it means a lot to him.

"There's another matter, as well. We will be able to return to Castle Thorne via the portal on official business. But it will be harder to simply pop in to visit without reason, and we have been... discouraged from spending too much time here, or too many nights."

Meaning they'll have less immediate access to their friends here.

It has never crossed his mind that Rhy could go without him. That they could let him go, but not Kell. It's a chilling realization that it might have happened. A little less, now that it was averted. Still, pretty chilling. As chilling as it is impressive that they are getting a house and money, funded by the crown. Well, money for Rhy, not for him. That part does not surprise him.

"That's already very generous."

The barely noticeable pause before the last word is the only indication that Kell managed, at the very last moment, to stop himself from saying something less flattering. He shrugs. Doesn't actually matter.

"I'm sure I'll be able to find something for myself there."

A lot harder will be telling Mildred he's leaving. And not only her... It's the last part that gets to him the most. Discouraged from spending too much time here.

"Did they say what counts as a valid reason? Or how often is too often?"

They've already been discouraged before, so the condition is very much in line with the usual direction of the crown. It also makes most of what he's now doing almost impossible, or at least impractical.

"Official business. Though I was under the impression we could visit with the other Summoned, without staying the night. We haven't got a room there anymore, after all."

As for how often is too often... Rhy hums thoughtfully. Shrugs.

"They didn't mention specific limits. I suppose every day might be too much... but I imagine I'll have my work cut out for me, regardless. I'm to be overseeing some improvement projects having to do with Nott's hospital. I plan to ask our fellow Summoned in the Castle to assist where extra hands might be appreciated, so I don't think we'll be too long without a friendly face around."

Kell smiles. He puts his glass down,reaches out to take Rhy's hand in his.

"You will, and I will be there to support you."

He doesn't think about what that he gets to lose by their move. Only what they stand to gain. An opportunity to finally be out of the ever watchful eyes of the crown. He's not deluded to think it is freedom, or that the crown would just let them be without interference. There's definitely a plan to gain something from this for the crown. Maybe information, maybe more tight control over what goes up in the Nott. Still, they're probably be subjected to a lot less oversight they've ever been in the castle.

"I bet you find no shortage of volunteers. Most people we know would love a pretext to get away from the castle even if for a day, cause or no cause. And you have a pretty compelling cause."

"Of course. I have faith that most of the Summoned here would be happy to help those in need. There's rarely a shortage of hands when calls for help come up, like when cleanup was required after the monster attacks."

Rhy squeezes his hand, placing the other atop it, and leans forward to meet Kell's gaze, eyes bright and eager.

"I think we can do a lot of good with the resources given."

Kell smiles, happy for Rhy to have finally found something he could put his talents behind, but mostly happy for what he sees. He missed Rhy looking like that. He almost thought he'd never see it again. Rhy with a purpose is a formidable force. Nott is really lucky they're his focus. But he's also happier with a goal, and Kell will do a lot - if not literally everything - to see him happy. It's been a long, long time since he's seen him this radiant and hopeful, and Saints how he missed the view.

"Of course we will. You will."

He believes every single word of it.

[ There is a knock at Wilhelm's door. Rhy isn't sure if he's in, but if not, he'll leave a note.

In truth, Wilhelm is the person he's most worried about, the one he'll wonder about most when he's out of the castle. It's not even that they've seen each other much since that awkward bump in their... friendship. But in the last few weeks, Rhy has made an effort to try to speak with Wilhelm more often casually when they see each other in the dining area or about town. He was just trying to rebuild their relationship, having given Wilhelm space before, and now he knows he won't be around as much.

They're just going to have to be more intentional with their meetups, then. ]

Wille? Are you in?

[Post-breakfast, Wilhelm is changing out of clothes that stink with that morning's training session, and preparing to bundle up for a round of deliveries. The knock at the door comes as he's pulling on a fresh shirt.]

Yeah, one second!

[Plus another second to gather himself with a breath. It's been a long time since Rhy has come by his room. While their friendship is mending, it's awkwardly set. Wilhelm used to feel a fluttering rush of so many things when he opened the door to reveal Rhy standing there, and now...he isn't sure what he feels. There's a tightness, like something that hasn't been stretched in a while, a soreness that hasn't quite healed.]

Hey, what's up?

Oh. [ Rhy looks a bit surprised at the state of him, flushed with shirt unlaced. ]

Sorry if I've caught you at a bad time. I have news.

Do you have a few minutes to talk?

[There was a time when that brief glance would have become the subject of his daily overthinking spiral, and the fodder for so many hopeful delusions. Now he just fumbles with the fastenings of his shirt as he stumbles for an appropriate response. The thing about being a teenager is that, every few months, you become embarrassed by who you used to be.]

Uh, sure.

[He fiddles with the door handle.]

Do you...want to come in?

[ Rhy smiles, nodding. ] Yes, thank you, if that's all right.

[ He steps in with the invitation, waits until they're more comfortable, and then tells him: ]

I've been given a job. Outside the Castle.

I just wanted to tell you myself, and personally extend an invitation to visit me at my new residence in Old Nott.

[Gathered around the fireplace are a couple comfortable chairs, toward which Wilhelm leads his guest. He doesn't let himself think about how it used to be the bed that they'd usually end up on when Rhy visited. On the mantle over the fireplace, the frog Rhy had whittled for him last year still perches. It has gained some company, in the form of a glass frog that's recognizable as the sort that inhabits the magma pools in the Nether.

Once they're seated, and Rhy has shared his news, it takes Wilhelm a moment to process what he's saying. In his lap, his fingers fidget.]

So you're...moving?

[ Rhy nods again. ]

I'm to be Liaison between the Crown and Nott. I hope I can do some good, tensions being what they are--

And I would welcome assistance from any of the Summoned here who want to lend a hand. I've a mind to fix up the old hospital, try to secure more resources. There will be room to help. If that's something you may be interested in... in the near future?

[ Rhy leans forward, smiling faintly. ]

I will miss being near you and the others, of course. So I wouldn't mind if you made the occasional social call, either.

[It makes sense. Restoring Nott has been Rhy's passion project for over a year now, ever since the area was ravaged by the Free Cities' retaliation, and he could do so much more good for the town and its people if he actually lived there.]

Yeah, I'd like that. [Pause.] Uh, being able to help out.

[He harbors some strong feelings for Nott too, although his are mostly born from guilt. Any opportunity he has to help, he feels obligated to take.]

And visiting you, of course. [He finds a grin, because even though the thought of change, of friends like Rhy and Kell being farther away, touches a bittersweet chord in him—] I'm happy for you, Rhy. This is, like, the perfect job for you.

[ Rhy's smile grows into a relieved grin for a brief few moments. ]

Thank you, Wilhelm. I really hope so. And I am happy you think so.

I know you understand... I've never had a life where I had to think about a job before. My job was always my whole being. What I am for my people, for the empire. Without it, here--

[ He shakes his head, pushing a few stray curls off his forehead when they are dislodged. ]

I've spent more time feeling lost than otherwise. It's important to have a purpose.

[He nods in understanding. For as long as he has known Rhy, the other has felt the weight of duty more heavily than him. While Wilhelm saw this new world as an opportunity to slough off responsibilities he never wanted, Rhy saw it as an obstacle preventing him from fulfilling his purpose. But they were both looking for that — purpose. Something to give shape and meaning to their lives.]

Well, it sounds like you've found one.

[He has half a mind to reach over and squeeze Rhy's hand, but leftover awkwardness from the months they'd spent giving each other space stops him. Even though he doesn't mean it like that anymore, even though his feelings have faded.]

It will be weird not seeing you around here anymore.

By the end of the month, Rhy has left the room he's been in for two whole years now in Castle Thorne (has it really been so long? he doesn't like thinking about it), and is more-or-less fully moved into the modestly-sized but handsome house provided for him in Old Nott. Of course, Kell has gone with him, though he may or may not be around when visitors call.

And visitors Rhy expects. He's extended an invitation (maybe even plea) to his closest friends first, and even to acquaintances he's on good terms with. There are many advantages to leaving the castle proper, but he will miss the ability to simply bump into people in the hall or take advantage of the dining area and grand gardens. The luxury of the gilded cage is one Rhy has grown up with, one he'd grown used to in Thorne. The everyday comforts have been part of his whole life, in one way or another. Even in easy mode, as it were, with his house paid for and coin enough to buy a decent level of comfort, being (mostly) on his own is a new challenge. It's exciting. It's also a little unnerving.

Firstly, he could use some help moving. Somehow, he's collected way too many clothes. Once all settled in, anyone who wants to assist with interior design is welcome to come over and give advice. Rhy has a good eye, and the place is already furnished with the basics, but maybe some items need to be moved around, repainted, or added. Or maybe you can just come over for a friendly drink.

Either way, Rhy will be happy for the company.

Edited 2023-12-12 00:51 (UTC)

It's not the first time Kahlil has been to Rhy and Kell's new house, he was here earlier helping with the actual moving - gently ribbing Rhy for the size of his accumulated wardrobe. It's not actually a surprise though, given how long the two brothers have been in Thorne.

Today, though, he's arrived at their doorsteps with a basket of gifts, and the intention to hang out for an hour or so at the very least, without the distraction of work. It hasn't been long since the move yet, but he already misses their company in the halls of Castle Thorne. Rhy had been one of the first people to welcome him, and Kell had not come long after. It feels strange without them there.

And though he knows Kell has power, he still worries about them being out here on their own.

"Rhy?"

He gives a knock on the door, unsure about just letting himself in - even if he could literally walk through the solid wood if he wanted...

The door opens almost immediately. Rhy is behind it, all smiles.

He steps aside to usher Kyle in, excited to show off what he's done with the place since he helped move them in. It's nothing major, but some of the furniture has been shifted around, and he's purchased some nicer curtains, which are currently open to let the sunlight in. The large heart crackles, warm and welcoming.

"Hello! Come in, come in. Appreciate you stopping by. I was getting terribly bored. How are you?"

"Trying to keep busy," he replies with a grin. Nothing particularly new to report, which is both good and maybe a little disappointing. Stepping inside, he finds the first clear table to set down his gifts: there's candies and dried fruits, a bottle of blackberry mead, and new scarves for both Kell and Rhy - a matching set, both of them knitted in bright red fabric and gold thread accents.

"I guess you've already heard the mingle went well? We had more new arrivals than usual."

Which still isn't too many, all things considered, but still more than the one or two they've sometimes had arrive. Kahlil isn't ever completely sure whether this is a good or bad thing, honestly.

"Yes! Thank you. I was able to stop by later in the evening. Istredd and Miss Jill did a lovely job. Glad it wasn't just one poor soul this time-- or maybe I shouldn't be? Considering."

Rhy shakes his head. It's a complicated feeling; Kyle surely understands.

He approaches the table, picking up the gifts to look them over excitedly. The scarves earn a coo of approval. Rhy tries his on immediately, turns around, and gives Kyle a hug.

"Thank you, darling. I love it. I know Kell will too."

He gives a half nod and shrug-like motion, equally uncertain. He's glad Rhy was able to stop in, though. Istredd and Jill made sure everything went without a hitch, but Rhy always has a way of lighting up the room in his own way.

The hug is returned warmly, and when they part his hands remain on his shoulders for an extra moment or two as he looks him over with a smile.

"And what about Kell? How's he settling in?"

The young man's come a long way from where he'd been in the wake of the abductions. Kell knows Nott just as well as Rhy does, at least.

Mat doesn't often travel to Nott. There's something too uncomfortably familiar about it. Too many people living the way he used to. But Rhy has up and moved there now he's some sort of diplomat, so he has an actual reason to make the trip.

And Rhy does live in the nice part of the city. Which is a part Mat hasn't seen much of. So here he is, with a gift box under one arm, to see his friend's new home. Which is quite a nice one, really. Reminds him a little of the small stone manor house he'd made in the Horizon.

"Very comfortable accommodations!" he comments as he knocks.

The door opens quickly, and Rhy greets him with open arms.

"Mat! Welcome, welcome -- come in, man, what are you waiting for?" He pulls Mat inside exuberantly, gives him a big hug.

Spots the gift and gasps. "What? You shouldn't have!"

What he means is: yes, thank you, give it here immediately, I love presents!

"You'd have made note if I didn't." Mat is still grinning, even as he says it. Without wasting time, he follows Rhy inside, looking around with interest. Most folks who move out of the castle move to the city around it. But most folks have not made the leap to diplomat. Or whatever Rhy counts as now.

"Anyhow, s'nothing fancy. Just a little something in honor of your own house and all." It is, in fact, a very basic cookbook for beginners and two sets of nicely patterned oven mitts.

They're going to have to learn how to feed themselves, after all.

...ah. Good thinking on Mat's part. The thing about cooking and cleaning for themselves is still occurring to Rhy, who thinks he gets it, but doesn't really.

It takes him a second to even understand what the oven mitts are.

"That's very thoughtful. Thank you, Mat. I hope you'll consider coming over and providing a few tips? You're always welcome for anything else too, of course!"

"Yes, yes, I'm not just going to toss you into the kitchen with a book and nothing else." Mat chuckles and slings an arm around Rhy's shoulders.

"I'll even show you a few simple things. No reason not to eat well, just because you're off on your own now." Though much better off than he imagines most of them would be, setting out on their own. The political life certainly does have some advantages.

Not enough to tempt him, but at least they're taking good care of Rhy and Kell.

"How's it feel, then? Your own place, a proper job and all..."

When Rhy broke the news that he would be moving to Nott, Thancred had not been surprised in the slightest. Yes, Rhy may have grown up used to comforts such as those provided by the castle, but he hasn't been comfortable with the Queen and her underlings for quite some time. And he's been spending more and more time in Nott, forging a connection with Lord Vela. This all feels like a natural progression of events to Thancred, and he's relieved that Rhy and Kell have also decided to leave the castle behind.

Now it isn't only himself and Urianger turning their noses up at Thorne's hospitality.

Granted, the home that Rhy has been granted in Nott is quite nice in its own right. The amount of space trumps what Thancred has in the castle town, but he has never required much, and his shared flat has served him well.

Clearly Rhy is used to living a certain way, however. Which is why he has so much godsdamned clothing.

Walking up to the home with a trunk in each hand, Thancred's reminded of when he had to help Gaia move some of her things. She'd been far less kind about it, and yet the memory brings a smile to his face, even as he sets down one of the pieces of luggage to knock on the front door.

It's a nice place, by anyone's standards -- and Rhy has seen enough of other places these days that he can recognize that despite the opulence he's used to, which is hardly present here. The house is well-appointed, sturdy and clearly designed by a craftsman. The furnishings are adequate, though hardly over the top. All in all, he's well aware this will be a big change for him, but Rhy is excited for the opportunity.

He lets Thancred in with heartfelt thanks, making space for him to bring the trunks in and offering to help.

"Thank you! I would've helped you up the steps with them if you'd called out!"

"If I can't carry a few luggage cases up some steps, it would mean I'd been neglecting my daily routines."

Thancred prides himself on remaining in peak condition, as is required for any rogue or gunbreaker. He does let Rhy take one of the cases now, though, not so stubborn as to deny help when it's right there.

"Where did you want them?" he asks, taking a moment to admire the entryway and what else he can see of the house from the foyer. "You'll have to give me the full tour."

Which shouldn't take too long, the home isn't a massive Ishgardian estate, but Thancred is still curious to see it.

[ CATCH-ALL ]

Castle Thorne.

for kell; mid-november.

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i think this is a good place to wrap :)

for wilhelm; late november.

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OPEN; nott.

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