Qilynn led Tumorgi and Kharys through the streets, following the captain’s directions. Guards at the gate of the Baron’s manor house welcomed them to the compound. They invited the group to help themselves to the refreshment table while they waited for the baron.

Tumorgi took a plate, trying to follow Qilynn’s lead on sampling the variety of finger foods. The small serving spoons, however, were beyond the skill of his huge hands. Kharys and Qilynn helped fill his plate.

“Excuse me, My Lady,” a man said from behind her. He spoke Elvish, poorly, and in the familial form of younger to elder. He bowed in the proper manner of one approaching a person of the higher station. “If I may be so bold, welcome to my home. May I formally introduce myself? I am Baron Joaquim Wildhurst, lord, and manager of these territories, including Southport and environs. My family has lived in this area for many years, supporting and nurturing the farmers, workers, and sailors that call this home. I have been Baron of these lands for ten years, a task thrust on me after my brother’s passing.” He rushed through the introduction as if embarrassed to have gone on so long, but not knowing where to stop until he ran out of words.

Qilynn acknowledged his recognition of her station. Amused at his attempts at the Elvish language, she answered him in kind as she presented her hand, signet ring prominently displayed on her middle finger.

“Greetings, Baron Wildhurst. I am Qilynn Starpath, a minor member of the Seelie Court. As you see, our ship was driven to your fair city by a most vicious storm. Is there an inn you would recommend for myself and my fellow passengers while we await repairs to the ship?” She said in formal Elvish, gently chiding him for speaking in the familiar. She used some of his mispronounced words back at him with the proper pronunciations and inflections, using a teaching tone, not an angry one.

“In all my travels I have never met a member of the Seelie Court. But, I have studied and researched all I could about your people and your lands. It is an amazement to have you in my home. Lady Qilynn, I would be honored if you and your entourage would be my guests. I have rooms enough for you all.”

Qilynn looked to her companions, both of whom gave a shrug in return.

“You have our deepest gratitude for your hospitality, Baron Wildhurst. Your man mentioned you need aid for an urgent task.”

“Yes,” he replied, brightening. “Would you be interested in investigating an abandoned ‘depot’ with a library of dangerous books?” He looked around the courtyard. When everyone except their group was within hearing, he continued. “I can’t give you the details out here, but I’ll call for you after you have settled into your rooms.”

“You have our thanks, Baron.” Qilynn bowed her head in acknowledgment.

“Excuse me, my Lady, I must attend to my other guests. I hope to speak with you again later, if you will give me the courtesy.” He bowed again, turned on his heel, and strode to another group meandering around the yard.

“Of course, Baron.”

Soon after, a woman in servants’ livery approached with a curtsey.

“Your pardon, M’Lady. My lord has instructed me to guide you and your companions to your accommodations. I am also to take a set of each of your clothing for mending and patterning. Your baths will be ready within the bell.” All this, she rattled off as she marched into the manor house and up a sweeping stairway into what she called was the East Wing.

Qilynn stepped into a room decorated with rich greens and golds. A woven rug covered the stone floor, and not a hint of cold seeped through the thick wool.

“I’m afraid the best I have left from which to draw a pattern is my gown.” Qilynn pointed down to the water-stained ball gown she was wearing when Dark Samiris dumped her into the ocean on this plane. “I’ll be glad to let you use it…”

The woman pointed to a door on the far side of the room. “There’s the bath closet. Everything you need’s there.” Then she turned, motioning Kharys and Tumorgi to follow.

Next: Qilynn: Dinner and Requests