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It seemed fateful or unfortunate the first man who recognized him outside the Cathedral was the wizened and frail Karl Müller-Hohenstein. The man reminded Torm of a serpent, conniving and deceptively slim. He might not be a physical danger, but Torm had heard stories of the man's deviousness, and had known a few of his own knights who were killed in battle with Karl's cavaliers. Karl wasn't a strategist as far as Torm knew, but he could pick men who were, and that showcased just as much cleverness as any. 

Stepping down the stairs with an inexorable confidence, Torm gave a nod of acknowledgement to his fellow Archduke's retinue before he stood before Karl himself. The Archduke of Arbormark always gave fighting men their due respect, even for just a moment. Torm now inclined his head to Karl, placing a fist on the Wolf's broad chest. The two Archdukes looked complete opposites in every conceivable way, even in the smallest details such as raiment and posture. Despite their difference in physique, there was no hint of fear in the other Archduke's eyes. He respected that. 

"Does me good to see you well," He told Karl, and surprisingly it was the truth. They might be border rivals, but Karl gave him a good challenge in matters of state and battle. It paid to keep him and his men sharp. It was also a good excuse not to pursue his father's regretful ambitions... 

"The ride was pleasant enough. The journey always seems too long when you're going to the front, but to the capital? I felt like it was a quaint summer canter. I hope you're not feeling too stiff." He finished with a knowing smile, though every now and then his eyes scanned the crowd behind Karl to make certain he did not miss any of the notables leaving and gossiping. The air was thick with whispers and chatter.

"How long do you plan to stay?" He asked out of genuine curiosity. He half expected a cryptic answer, but he wasn't shy on asking questions regardless. 

[hider]Torm just chatting with his old 'friend' Karl[/hider]