The Reception Hall of the Chapter House functions as the primary area for all dealing the Knights have. It is a great hall which lacks the ostentatiousness some might expect of a Knightly Order. It is warmed in colder spells by a number of huge fireplaces which are tended to ensure a roaring fire. Scattered informally around the fire places are a number of comfortable, but worn, leather armchairs so guests and Knights may talk at length in comfort. The walls bears a number of paintings and tapestries which appear relatively contemporary. The hall is lit by a number of large chandeliers.
Near the entrance from the Gatehouse is the Master of the Gate who attends to any visitors.

Sir Niall approaches the Master of the Gate and speaks to him,

"It is good to be back, it was an eventful and successful quest to the Troll City. Although there were more than a few complications. I am going to bathe in my private quarters. Could you send word to to the Squire as I will need his expertise to restore my armour to its former self."

He walks through the hall and onto the private quarters of the order.

Sir Niall returns to the Reception Hall looking refreshed and clad in clean clothing. He calls to the Master of the Gate,

"I will be returning later after I have spoken to our companions who are currently in the city."

He walks across the hall to the gatehouse.

Sir Niall enters the reception hall brushing the rain from his cloak. He approaches the Master of the Gate who waves forward one of the other men-at-arms to take the garment. Sir Niall greets him,

"I almost made it back before the storm hit, is there any correspondence for me?"

The Master of the Gate mutters about 'wet floors' as he hands over a bundle of sealed letters and leather bound document pouches. Sir Niall does not look suprised by the amount. He confides to the Master of the Gate,

"I would wager that some of these will be more welcome than others. I can only hope the preposterous accusations arising from Escavon are quickly quashed. I'm sure even Sir Sorric would be embarassed by the cowardice and duplicity of his progeny, were he to have any emotions in undeath."

Sir Niall quickly shuffles through the documents until he finds the one bearing his old mentor's handwriting. He breaks the wax seal, unfolds the parchment and reads the letter. Having read the contents he tucks it into a pouch at his waist. He smiles before speaking,

"At least the Commander still holds me in his regard, it appears that we will be permitted to re-establish the chapter house in Golaskenev. If you will excuse me I think I will read the rest where I can dry off."

Sir Niall walks across to one of the lit fireplacs and settles down in a leather armchair to read the remaining documents. A man-at-arms brings him a tankard and sets it down next to him.

Sir Niall is still sat poring over the latest correspondence when one of the other Knights present in the chapter house spots him as she enters the reception hall. As she walks over Sir Niall looks up, hearing the footsteps, and smiles in recognition. He stands and indicates to the armchair next to his before speaking,

"You really need to read this letter from one of our fellows in Elmet, I'm not quite sure what to make of the contents."

As she sits down he passes the opened letter across, settles back into his chair, and looks thoughtful as he gazes into the flames of the fireplace.

Sir Niall rises from his chair and excuses himself from his present company,

"Lady, if you will forgive me. I should go and check that Sir Caelwin hasn't been drunk under a table in the tavern."

He smiles and walks out of the hall collecting his cloak on the way.

The Master of the Gate rises and greets Sir Niall as he walks in. He holds out a leather document pouch that is tied with wax sealed ribbon.

"Seems you're popular Sir, I have your orders for you."

Sir Niall smiles and accepts the bundle, breaks the seal and quickly reads the carefully scribed document.

"That confirms it, I will be leaving for Golaskanev at much the same time as Sir Caelwin leaves for Elmet. Despite the fact that circumstances have become worse in the Elmet region it is still considered important that our old chapter house is restored. "

Avian walks upto the Gatehouse, looking around for anybody there

"Hello, is there any Knights in. I have important news and request action from those that are noble"

Sir Niall is seated near one of the fireplaces in the great hall and sees Avian arrive. He walks across to greet him,

"Hello Avian, it is good to see you in the chapter house. Is there anything I or the other knights can assist with?"

Avian bows his head formally

"Hopefully yes, one of Trlaine's students in the lizard kin lands reported that creature matching the descriptions of T'cra Juggers and Blacks are in the area. We also beleive that Undead are in the area and something... Else!

Something has killed some undead and a Jugger. The Prodigeen are going to investigate along with some others. I have come to ask for the assistence of the Knights in this matter!"

Avian breaths again!

Sir Niall looks perturbed at the news,

"Troubling news indeed, matters continue to escalate. Rest assured the knights will assist in any way they can, although unfortunately I will not be able to on this occasion. I would explain that I am charged to act as the order's ambassador to Golaskanev, which includes the restoration of our chapter house there. Were that not the case then I would personally assist, indeed it grieves me that the timing is so unfortunate."

He smiles reassuringly before continuing.

"However, I can assure you that Sir Caelwin will be able to render assistance as he is already in the process of preparing to travel to Elmet. I understand this is in the area of troubles and we have a presence there, with a chapter house. Would you care for any refreshments while Sir Caelwin puts his affairs into order?"

"Refreshment? Yes please.."

Sits down in a chair facing Sir Niall

"Its a shame you won't be able to join us, we could of used your help.. and I would gladly travel to Elmet with Sir Caelwin"

Sir Niall motions to one of the men-at-arms to bring a jug and tankards to his table. In due course two full tankards and a jug of mead are placed on the table. Sir Niall looks pensive,

"Yes, it is a pity I cannot go, but needs must. Being charged with the restoration at Golaskanev is an honour, of that there can be no doubt. It's just a pity that the timing is so unfortunate. I would not otherwise turn down an opportunity to end the walking curse that these undead present."

He absently rolls his beaded necklaces between his fingers and thumb. Then he smiles and exclaims,

"It just means that I will have more time to hone my sword blades before the next time I put an end to those foul creatures."

"I'm sure that with the honour you will bring back to the Knightly order from overseeing the rebuilding of that chapter house, that you will most likely end up spending more time overseeing training of new recruits as they come to join!

A shame you can not come but, I trust in Sir Caelwin's abilities and I'm sure that we will need them in the battle to come"

"Did I hear my name being mentioned," Caelwin walks into the main hall a glass of wine in his hand. He is attired in training armour and a blunted sword is at his hip. He is sweating and his normally pristine clothing is soaked in sweat.
"I needed some practice," he says indicating his garb. "I hope you understand. Unforutnately only Sir Keldin was available and he decided I needed a lesson in humility as well. I've just spent the last hour being chased around the training yard exchanging steel. I never even got a clean hit in, you know how good he is Niall, we could do with his sword arm in Elmet."
"I would be honoured to travel with you and the Prodigeens. As Sir Niall has mentioned we have a chapter house with four very capable knights of our order. Sir Veleren is a good fighter but not as level headed as Lady Kyrie Carman. The practicioner of the white arts there is Lady Elezebeth, harsh tongue but knows her stuff. The youngest is Sir Arveroon who has much to learn."
Caelwin empties his glass and begins to open his tunic to allow the cool air of the hall to reach his sodden chest.

Smiles

"I have meet nearly all of the order before, although at the time I beleive that I was somewhat... Different!

I'm afraid that most of the Prodigeen's are already leaving. If you can be ready soon then we might be able to catch them up.. Failing that then I told them we would meet up with them at the lands of the Lizardkin near Elmet..

I wish I could drink wine after training but with the things I seem to get up to and the places I end up I'm afraid drinking wine is far from on order most of the time"

Reaches over and picks up one of the tankards of mead.. drinks slowly but deeply, then places the tankard back on the table

"corw! that hit the spot... Thank you!"

Sir Niall laughs,

"I'm sorry I just saw a vision of you being pursued around the training hall fending attacks away over your shoulder as you run. Sir Keldin is quite the swordmaster, he does put us to shame. It is a shame that he has concluded his questing years, I am certain that we could learn a thing or two were he still to trek the lands as you and I. I really must take the opportunity to learn the arts of wielding two blades from him, I just have to accept that my body will be sorely punished as I learn.
Sir Caelwin, I must ask you to extend my greeting to our fellow Knights in Elmet should the appropriate time arise."

Good luck sirs, business as usual I see for one and all.

Sir Niall smiles,

"Hello Squire, which direction will you be taking then? Are you heading to the Elmet region or Golaskanev?"

*Avian bows slightly to Squire*

"Good to see you sir!"

"Any ideas what we may be facing in Elmet, you are a well travelled man, have you been to Elmet before Avian ?" Caelwin asks.

"Good afternoon squire, as you may have heard I am leaving for Elmet, alone for a change. I will need warm clothing, since the weather seems to have changed suddenly. I'll require a few days rations, weapons and armour and of course the banner. Is that right Sir Niall that I will take the singing sword and you keep safe the other notable sword. Also squire if you pen a letter to your friend Jand the head squire at Elmet that I may be requiring his assistance when I get to Elmet."

"Sir, you should know by know that they are under my command to help all knights that arrive in their orders chapter house or do you forget that the squires still are all taught and trained by me. We've had a little influx lately of new ones. Besides that the letter was sent last night.

To answer your question sir I head towards the troll lands to see if I can find my past and an answer to a question I have to answer.

Avian you have no need to call me sir. I am equal to all as it should be."

He smiles an ogreish smile

Smiles at Squire

"Maybe, but I know who you are and I'm getting the respect in now just for the books so to speak"

Looks over to Sir Caelwin

"Yes Sir Caelwin I have been to Elmet before. Not for a long time I might add so I guess that alot could of changed since then. I went there while I was some what different and I'm not sure that my memories can be trusted

But I am sure that if T'cra are there then we will all be needed"

Sir Niall replies,

"Yes, Sir Caelwin it is probably best if you take the singing sword. I agree that you should take the banner of our Order, given the dangers prevalent throughout the land. I am sure I will be safe by comparison in Golaskanev."

He smiles before continuing,

"Besides, I will have Squire at my back. I do not know of any safer hands. I hope that my stay will be productive. I am looking forward to spending more time with the trolls, they are quite under-rated. No to mention that we can also spend time conversing with the newly awakened angels."

He looks thoughtful,

"I presume message has reached the noble lady Miko and that she will be returning to fight alongside our order in Elmet. Please remember to pass on my respects to her, and apologise for my abscence."

a man-at-arms approaches the conversing group and waits patiently before handing a sealed leather document pouch to Sir Niall. Sir Niall smiles and takes it.

"Thank you."

He breaks the seal and reads the note within then regards the other sealed message before tucking it safely away.

"It is encouraging to see that our Order is sending formal letters from the Preceptor to Golaskanev. Hopefully this will permanently re-forge our alliance with the mighty trolls."

"It will take a lot more to sort that one out, but it will be a start"

Squire turns to Avian
"You already have earned my respect sir, so please donot lower yourself to try what is not necessary."

Smiles at Squire a little mischeifiously

"I know that, but i remeber the world alittle different from you squire.. it wasn't quite so long ago I was part of a group that worked for the wrong side of this war! and even shorter since I was hunted dayly for what I was, know and could do.. Thinks have been different since I changed and I'm relucktent to let that go...

Avian relax's a little

I find it easyer to keep my friends my friends and show them the respect they are due.

Motions with his hand to those present.. then Avian becomes slightly more serious

And my enermies my enermies!!"

Sir Niall laughs,

"Don't worry Avian, there are plenty of enemies to go around."

Nodding!

"And that there are! Plenty for all of us.. And some closer to home than I'd like,"

"It's fair to say you can find enemies everywhere. Recent events have proven that beyond any doubt. It is reassuring to find that there are still people who can be wholly trusted."

"The problems with our enemies these days is they tend to be rather more powerful than the ones we faced during our squire days and those of junior knights. I'd be more than happy to face the odd disgruntled orc or an ogre weilding a club than one of Tellos's relatives with all the powers of a necromantic shield of lars."

Sir Niall laughs,

"Where would the fun be in that? Honestly it wouldn't be the same if we were not fighting foes of immeasurable power and unyielding hordes. Just remember what the old weapons master said, think not in terms of overwhelming odds, but instead as a battlefield that is target rich."

"Good luck in Elmet and may the Lady protect you. All being well we will meet again to fight side by side."

Sir Niall leaves the Chapter House with Squire and a small retinue of men-at-arms. He leaves Prodigio to take the transport circle to Golaskanev.

Sir Caelwin enters the reception hall, he looks remarkebly well considering the wreck that entered the chapter house a few hours earlier.
A fire roars in the mantle and two smartly dressed knights reside in comfortable chairs, goblets of wine in each of their hands. They greet Sir Caelwin as he enters and he takes a chair beside them.
"well me my lords, it's good to you brother Sethanin and Terran. I trust there have been no incidents since I left"
"No - we recieved a letter from Sir Niall, he says things are going well in the troll city," the one named Terran replies.
"Good, I may have to go there myself soon, things did not go as planned in the lizard kin lands." Caelwin replied.
"I see you brought a couple of trays with you. The warrior Miko, she is being looked after by Lady Raquel, I'm sure they'll get along." Sethanin tells his friend.
"Thankyou, Sir Val will be staying with us for a while as well. We may get another visitor - A man named Largos, if he come to the gates have him admitted and brought to me, and by the way, watch your purse, things tend to go missing in his pressence." Caelwin offered.
"I take it it's the same one as the decree, I'm sure Kell would have read it. We may have 9 knights here but the number of men at arms are diminished having gone to the troll city. If someone wants him bad they'll have to fight for him and you know Malnear hates you enough to maybe try." Terran points out. Caelwin takes an offered drink and ponders the words of his fellow knights.

After a much needed bath, rest and change of clothes, Sir Val heads towards the Reception Hall in the hope of meeting both Sir Caelwin to learn a little more of the Chapter House and most recent goings on.

Val arrives at the Reception Hall and stands waiting at its entrance to be invited in and introduced.

"Hello my Lord Val, you are looking better I see. Miko is resting and may join us later once she has recovered from the ordeal. May I introduce Sir Terren and Sir Sethanin, knights of our order. As you have become aware a squire will attend to your needs and escort you around the city should you need a guide. The hospitality of the chapter house is yours for as long as you like. Sir Bowen is coming on a visit in a few days and I will ask him if he can begin your instruction in the use of the longsword, I understand you require tutalage. He is the finest swordsman of the order and second in command to the Preceptor Avallach. Is there anything else I can help you with." Caelwin asks

"Good day to you Sir *pauses for consideration* Lord Caelwin, I have no doubt Miko surely needs the rest and time to contemplate the recent events".

Looking across to the other knights nodding and smiling in turn to each.

"Well met Sir Terren, and Sir Sethanin"

"Thank you for your hospitality, it is most generous. Please allow me to offer my services as a Hospitaller and smithy so that my stay is not without compensation".

"I look forward to meeting Sir Bowen and will do my best not to disappoint. I hope there won't be too much trouble to train with the mace under his tutelage."

Val smiles and bows with gratitude.

Calewin smiles at Sir Val.
"Thankyou for the offer of your services, our resident smith has gone with Sir Niall to the troll city so any help would be greatfully accepted. If you would excuse me though I have a duty in town. Sir Terren if you would care to join me, we have a cutpurse to find. Sir Val we shall return shortly."
Caelwin and Terren leave the reception hall Terren bellowing for squires to ready arms and armour.

"I shall head there right away and warm my smithing muscles up with the daily repairs."

"Oh, please, do give my regards to Largos should you happen to see him in town. I very much doubt he will be going far. But if he isn't about, please do send me a squire and I shall suit up right away to help fetch him back here so that he stays within eyes reach."

Val takes a bow and bids the knights a good day, then sets off to find the smithy to limber up before Sir Bowen arrives.