What Have You Done?

[Lord Rupert de Vere]

"At least four more, hm? I'd better get busy," assuming, that is, he found a woman that would actually be willing to marry him. Then, he almost grimaced at himself. Being cynical and pragmatic was one thing, but overt negativity was not going to get him anywhere. If he kept it up, he was going to turn into his son and he saw how well that worked out for everyone involved. Bah. "Indeed. I agree."

"Yes, so you mentioned," he nodded, recalling her saying a few moments earlier that she planned to meet with the other dukes and duchesses. "What business do you intend to address?"

[Lady Carissa de Vere]

Back to business. Carissa wasn't surprised, especially knowing how Rupert thought. "Some basic agreements on borders and trade to begin with. When it comes to Oakdale, however, I want to come to more pointed agreements about the borders and passes we both defend. It's time, I think, for us to invest in Oakdale's future, and perhaps allow him the return courtesy." The threat of the Arton Empire was an ever present one, she knew, and the burden shared could lessen her load some.

Which reminded her of another topic she wanted to discuss with her uncle. Clearing her throat lightly, she asked almost delicately, "How much do you know about Richard Peveril?"