The winter was mild over all, not as much snow, but lots of cold rain. The wizards are not all in warm hospitable places, but their magic helps to make their shelters warm and comfortable. At the clan's camp by the port the surly Scottish highlanders impatiently wait, their two leaders missing for a greater part of the time as Dermot met with the reave of the land while Tessa investigated the new home. Christmas came and went at the camp with little celebration, though some fine pheasants were caught for dinner.
Siobhan's Christmas was cold by reception only, Voluntas still is a very comfortable home. But after the discussion with Julianna the atmosphere became positively frosty. They no longer encouraged you to join their Christmas party, which until then they had seemed excited that you'd be joining them. Once the weather cleared enough they sent you on their way by carriage to the port, seemngly grateful to be rid of you.
Bjorn, your lab work bears fruit, your new item seems to work perfectly. The Winter was actually rather comfortable for you, but the maddening nature of the Covenant of Blackthorn was more than enough for you. Rushing your work a bit, you leave early to join the others at the port, you are met by Fornax as you leave, who gives you a brief and terse reminder of the price you owe Blackthorn for the use of their lab.
Rhodri returns with his Master Maximianus, but not Jaen. Jaen had enough of Maximianus's taunts as well as the bullying of the younger magi. After losing two Certamen matches that he was cornered into he stayed well away and determined that he'd be heading to Verdi in the Spring. The old wizard and his latest apprentice arrive by carriage as well, and Rhodri helps out the bitter and snapping sorceror. Servants carry a chest behind them while Rhodri has a leather scroll case with him as well.
Old Aggie greets his friend Maximianus. "Maxi! You cantankerous old jackal! I'm surprised you still have enough ink on your pen to even assist in lab work! By Jesu, you look awful!"
Maximianus's eyes narrow and he whispers to Rhodri, then returns the glare back to Aggie. Rhodri gulps and then turns to Agitatus. "My honored Parens asks if you have his Cask of Bountiful Spring. If not, he has nothing to say to you."
Aggie shakes his head. "No, ain't got the bloody Cask. But, it's a high priority, believe me! You still owe me more though, in case you forgot!"
Maximianus smiles at that, and he whispers again to Rhodri. Rhodri seems about to balk but is nudged in the ribs by his master. "M-master Maximianus wishes to advise that the bundle of sticks that is addressing him will now be in Maximinianus's debt, and not the other way around. This favor of the Covenant shall put him in the lead." Maximianus nods eagerly at that.
Agitatus shrugs. "Ah so ye were keeping count! Ah well no matter. Come let's get ready, I received word that they have found the place."
Later in the day the Redcap Edgar arrives with two magi. He doffs his new cap as he approaches. "Well met! As Aggie asked, I have spread the word that a new Covenant was forming, and two young magi have expressed interest."
He gestures behind him to reveal two magi, perhaps a bit tired from the road.
Aggie seems a bit confused. "When the Hell did I ask to do that?"