The serpent and the Hawks

[Addina]

"I didn't realize we were sharing personal stories today, Alana why don't you start the by telling us about how your husband-sorry- ex husband, ran off with your younger brother after he drunkenly told the court he was leaving you since you were 'what was it he said? Oh yes he called you a 'worn out old bitch' why don't you tell that story and then Marian can talk about her murdered relatives." I say in a sweet text cold tone

[Marian Hawke]

Marian, meanwhile, is on her feet, hands fisted, ready to throw down. "You get my sister's name out of your goddamn mouth," she growls. 

[Titania]

"Now Alana is that any way to behave?!" My voice is sickly sweet. "You should know better, and Marian is my guest....." I smile sweetly than clap my hands "Myra's remove the countess from my site and my court."

"But your magesty" she interjects

"No buts! You insult my daughter in law you insult me the only reason I'm not having you wiped is because your husband and brother are both my bed mates and I hate seeing them cry. Now go." My voice is cold and hard. I turn to Miranda then "come with me dear I think we both need a moment to compose ourselves" I say standing

[Marian Hawke]

Marian swallows, taking a deep breath, then another. She executes a very sloppy bow and follows. 

[Titania]

I lead her to a quite sitting room in my chambers. The crude yet frivolous mask I wear melting away as I sit on a sofa and gently pat the seat beside me. "First let me say how sorry I am for your sisters passing. I truly hope her memory will be a blessing." I say honestly in a lower tone, "secondly let me offer you some advice. Don't let them know it bothers you. Have a few close people you can be real and honest with and show a hard shell to the rest."

[Marian Hawke]

"I'm not like that," she says simply. 

[Titania]

"Neither was I until I saw how quickly these jackles turn n you. Still there's marrit in showing everyone who you are, it could be a real asset. Either way I want you in my court

[Marian Hawke]

"I... have to ask my wife about that."

[Titania]

I laugh gently "my dear you're one of my citizens and part of my court allready based on your land and title. Im simply saying you are wanted here and welcome anytime. Dina wont begrudge me your time im sure. We dont get on well but she will want you to have friends."

[Marian Hawke]

"...I haven't had a friend in a long time," she says softly. 

[Titania]

"Neither have I." I smile "it'll be good for us.....to have friends.... Still we should get back..."

[Marian Hawke]

"As you wish, Lady."

[Addina]

I smile at my hawk when she returns and gently squeeze her hand once she settles beside me

[Npc]

Tea continues and there's light chatter around. Finally someone brings up the solutes festival  And the changing of the courts as fall closes and winter begins.

"It's only two weeks away, I have no idea what to wear!" A young lord decrees
"I hear there will be a new spring ruler this year." Another whispers

"Lady hawk will you and her highness be at the changing of the seasons this year? Addina rarely attends, but you must join us it is our season to shine after all"