<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/4/4f/A099c61e24428cfee4fee43167068f37.jpg)</div><br/>"I think once the situation were explained to him, he would be unlikely to object to our presence." replied Imriel, considering Thomas's words. He lowered his voice slightly before adding. "In addition, some can be very touchy about any perceived infringement upon their rights and dignity, as they see them. All in all, starting there is probably the best route to us." His glance around at the village seemed to indicate he would rather be looking into the matter there instead.<br/><br/>A few minutes walk brought them to the entrance way, a gateway that looked large enough to admit a cart, or more likely a carriage of some kind, that opened into a smallish courtyard. A pair of guards stood sentinel at the gate, and a handful of servants could be seen moving around beyond.<br/><br/>"My name is Imriel nó Montrève." he announced, giving them a small, polite bow. "Musketeer to his Imperial Majesty. Please convey my compliments to your Lord, and a request for a few moments of his time, at his convenience."<br/><br/>The two guards exchanged glances, one nodded, and the other hurried inside. "Please wait," said the remaining one, "And we will have his response for you shortly."<br/><br/>No more than a couple of minutes later, the guard returned, gesturing towards the manor house. "Please come this way." He led the way to the house, where a couple of servants were waiting with damp cloths to allow people to freshen up. This done, the group was led to a small sitting room on the first floor, where a servant offered goblets of wine for those so inclined. "The master will be along in a few minutes." he explained. "Please make yourself comfortable until then." he added before withdrawing.<br/><br/>The room was nicely furnished, one wall filled with bookshelves, scores of heavy looking tomes filling them. Light filtered in through the windows on the opposite wall, and a small balcony allowed one to step outside. A couple of bowls of grapes were sat on one of the low tables, and an ornate fireplace (currently unlit) dominated the wall opposite the door.