A quick discussion with Lord Fainwright

Nikolas took his seat in the rich mahogany chair as his Baelin and shortly thereafter Sofia joined him.

“Baelin let’s get on with this I want dinner followed by the dessert currently being prepared by Lyn.” Baelin stifled a knowing smile and Sofia just rolled her eyes dismissing her lord’s appetites.

“Of course sire. Potentials worthy of our attention. The first that warrants our attention, the Duke of Tarin’s daughter Madeline. The political attractiveness of this should be obvious mi’lord but she is also reportedly a beautiful young woman and you will most certainly not be the only lord vying for her hand. There are rumors that her mother was a mistress of the King, making her of royal blood as well. If we could prove that it would be invaluable.” Baelin paused allowing Sofia room to take control of the conversation. And she did rising and pacing the room.

“Solidifying our hold over the isles should be a concern before we look outward. With respect Lord Admiral, we are not secure enough in our own homes. The Galstons poise themselves to move for the throne even now. But…” She let the word hang for a moment as she collected her thoughts. “I trust you remember little Nina Jesier. Your mother was quite fond of her when you would play as children. Now though her family are very close with the Galstons; they are also the third largest fleet on the isles. Marrying and bringing her family into the fold would solidly bring the islands under our control. More interestingly her and her father are on the way to Logos, to arrive in two weeks time.” Sofia paused to let the information settle on Nikolas.

He did remember Nina, one of his playmates when the admirals would all meet. He remembered her fondly. A skinny energetic little girl with the dark well tanned caramel skin that defined her as a child of the islands. They last saw each other nearly 5 years ago. Both in their early teens but Nikolas fondly remembered how she filled out and the tangle of wild black curls that flowed through her hair. Nikolas was firmly excited to see her again.

Snapping back to the moment Nikolas decided the conversation was at it’s conclusion. Dinner was likely waiting along with his guest.

"I'll have a decision in the morning. Thank you for the information but I'm famished." He stood and the others left quickly catching Nikolas off guard. Apparently, when the manor's lord decided the conversation was over, it was over. He shrugged and began making his way to the dining room.