The couple who owned the local tavern greeted Tolbar warmly well before he flashed the golden coins in his possession.  Though they welcomed all business, this particular client was more than a simple faceless customer.  It was evident that this man had arrived with the children to the man whom they held in the highest regard.  They had given him a very generous discount on the room and whatever else he asked for as they prattled on about how Gaius had led the village they had originated from through the harshest winter it had ever seen.<em>”While most of Viemera knew him as the war hero, many of the villagers in this town see him as the man who saved them by his generosity rather than his prowess in combat.  Once my husband and I heard the rumor that House Talonius had finally begun establishing an area to govern, we packed our things and set off to return the favor.”</em>The matronly woman’s eyes all but sparkled at the telling of one of her favorite stories.<em>“If you don’t mind us asking, how do you know the sons and daughters of House Talonius?”</em><br/><br/><hr/><br/>Crassus wasn’t concerned when he noticed the disappointment in Naruni’s demeanor, understanding her change in mood and knowing that the situation was already being addressed.  His own expression hinted to annoyance at the mention of the bandits.  It is an issue that has gone on for too long, but he lacked the resources to deal with it sooner.  “It’s true that the ones responsible for the raids have gotten quite smug about their successes, but I suspect that is going to change soon.  As an advisor to the village’s council, my power is greatly limited, but now that you all have arrived there is once again somebody at the helm who can take action.”<br/><br/>Shortly after he had replied to Marrissa’s remark, the savory aroma of cooked meat filled the air as Ehren returned to the library after having snuck out while everybody was getting seated.  In his hands was a large platter that carried an ample supply of skewered meats freshly grilled and seasoned to perfection.  Once he sat it on the table between everybody he was about to leave when his uncle called out to him.  “Have a seat nephew.  While I may be their advisor when it comes to running Garados, I imagine your knowledge of the area and community would prove to be very helpful while they get settled in.”  Ehren hesitated for a moment before accepting the offer and taking the empty seat next to Naruni.<br/><br/><em>"What was our father's plan? Not that I imagine he had much use for us.  Otherwise he'd have called for us a long time ago."</em><br/><br/>Crassus winced at Rose’s abrasive outlook towards her father.  “Gaius was always fearful that his children would believe that of him, but at the same time felt that such feelings were justified.  Not a day went by where he didn’t think of the life he had thrown away and it was with you all in mind that he carved a community out of forsaken wilderness.  He had it in his mind that the only way he could make all that lost time up to you was to have something tangible to make it worthwhile; a home worthy for the children he had neglected.  It was his intention to get Garados established so that the hard work would be done upon your arrival so that he could completely immerse himself in the role of father for those who would accept him.  Fate had an entirely different idea in mind and he was never able to bring that particular dream to fruition.  It was by far his greatest regret and he wanted me to let you know that he is deeply sorry that he could not keep the promise he made all of you before parting ways and be the father you all deserved.”<br/><br/>The man drew in a breath before easing it back out as he pushed back the memory of his lifelong friend who lay heartbroken in his deathbed.  “Whatever value you regard that knowledge, your inheritance will still be offered freely.  Namely, this village which is rightfully yours as heirs to the Talonius bloodline.  Your father’s plan was to be there at your sides as you all led Garados into prosperity, but now that opportunity falls upon you should you wish to claim it; united as the family he had hoped to be a part of.  Naturally Ehren, myself, and every one of your adoring subjects will be eager to help you in making Garados your new home.  If this is something that interests you, then I can begin discussing the finer aspects of your inheritance.  If not, well you’ll always be welcome here should you change your mind in the future.”<br/>