Festival of Roses

After a long ride around the edges of the meadows, Terrance brought Llyan to the pool and let her drink. Dismounting, he took a drink himself and splashed some water over his face. Dyrnwyn and Doli came up to the opposite side, lapping at the small stream. Sitting back, Terrance just watched and relaxed for a time.

For his part, while Marten cared for his dogs, they were not so special to him as Ardent was. And so, he was perfectly happy to leave their care in the hands of others, while Ardent got his own exercise.

Spotting the other horse first, and the somewhat familiar figure after, Marten slowed Ardent, dropping from a trot to a walk as they approached. "Hello there!" He called, halting about twenty feet away. Politely, he swung down from the saddle, clearly well-practiced, if a bit stiff. "Marten Tremaine." He introduced himself in his deep voice, his brow lightly furrowed. "I don't believe we've met."

He stood and dusted himself off, offering a respectful dip of his head. "Pleased to meet you, milord. I am Terrance Stone."

Brighter recognition lit in Marten's eyes. "Ah, yes. You're related to House Marten, if I'm not mistaken? I believe I met your cousin Leovall the other day."

Marten gave the other man a nod.

"That's right." he nodded. "I am accompanying him and my sister Liliane."

"Ah, very good." Marten nodded. "I don't believe I've had the pleasure of meeting the lady." He chuckled. "Although I do believe I saw her on the dance floor last night." Indeed, she had made even more of an impression than he had.

Slowly, Marten led his horse to the water, although Ardent chose not to drink. "And you've been catching a few eyes yourself, I believe."

"I am more accustomed to not being seen." he sighed. "That seems so much simpler."

"How have you enjoyed the festival so far, Lord Tremaine?"

"Huh." Marten grunted at this first. "Well, we don't always have a choice about that, I suppose." He said neutrally.

"Me? Ah, well." He said, smiling. "Well enough, anyway. It's been a while. I used to attend frequently in my youth, as a competitor. I haven't done that in more than fifteen years..." He sighed. "Just so long as I don't get too embarrassed in front of my daughters, I'll be content."

"Much like my father." he nodded. "I'm sure he wishes he was here. From what I've seen, you've represented House Tremaine well. I'm sure Mari is proud of you."

Again, Marten grunted acknowledgement. "Ah, well. I can only do my best. Both in the tournament, and with my daughters."

"So... you've met Mari..." Marten said. It was somewhat inviting. Marten grimaced. He hadn't really done this sort of thing before.