Alcaeus brings the garden hoe down hard into the earth before pulling it back and making a fairly large divet in the fertile, soft soil. The muscles in his arms bulge and strain as he works ceaselessly, digging out new rows for the last bit of planting for today. He felt as another of his arms extended from his back and grabbed a handkerchief to wipe his brow of sweat and dirt. Mostly dirt but he enjoyed feeling like he was working harder than he actually had to.

The cry of a bird made him raise his eyes and look to the clouds. A small black shape was headed toward him. A bird hunting in these parts? Unlikely. His suspicions were confirmed when he saw a scroll of paper attached to the bird's leg, choosing to land on the handle of the shovel he was keeping nearby. He acquired and opened the paper with haste, eager to see if the news was good or bad.

A young girl sat playing with an older woman, similar features pointed to her being the girl's mother. Both spared a glance over to Alcaeus as she pocketed the note and turned to them.

"Gretchin. Be a dear and run over to the stables. Tell Jakan to pack my travelling gear, and ready my horse. And Helga, if you would be so kind as to inform the other hands that I am taking a leave for a while, and you are to head the farm in my absence."

The child ran off with all the speed that sandals could carry her, and the older woman nodded and walked off in the direction of a large house. With a sigh, Alcaeus followed suit, moving towards the house.

[s]___________________________________________________________________[/s]

That was quite some time ago. Ages of rough riding and worrying about his farm to attend this function. Alcaeus was not one to refuse hospitality, especially not from one who dubbed himself a Lord. He trotted up to the entrance atop a steed of immense size. A Shire horse with hooves shod in crude iron, coat grey like a dark stormcloud and mane as black as coal. Alcaeus reined in the horse and patted it on the neck as he dismounted, holding its reins as he searched for a place to tie him up. Alcaeus was dressed in simple clothing. A tunic, riding leathers, arm guards, heavy boots and a billowing, tanned cloak complete with a hood.

What can you say? He is an old fashioned guy. Horse and all.

He mused to himself as he brought out the note once more, "Is this even the right place, or did I ride for nothing?"