"It's not really an interruption if it's a conversation we've had before," Silke replied with a gregarious smile. There was no use denying that she and her brother had been in the midst of a debate when Galt was announced. She was familiar enough with Franz and how far voices carried in the house that she was reasonably certain that they had been overheard. Regardless, it hadn't been a sensitive topic or secret either. With a few more weeks of court under his belt, the new count would hear all sorts of stories about Vincent Kasper, including how he had the uncanny ability to stick his foot in his mouth any time there was an attractive lady nearby. The office was just as cozy as the rest of the house, though twice as cluttered. Silke sat in a tall chair behind a large desk, both of which were in front of a window that took up the majority of one wall. Heavy velvet curtains were drawn to the left and right, bound back by thick cord, creating an image of antiquated elegance. Warmth was lent to the room through plush upholstered chairs for visitors, a few oversized rugs in saturated jewel tones, and wooden furniture that had a dark stain. The entire wall to the right was a bookcase filled with texts, papers, scrolls, and decorations befitting a nobleman. To the left were side tables, a small liquor cupboard, and portraits of not Kasper ancestors, but legendary heroes with artistic license. "Since you're Silke's friend," Vincent said, sticking out his hand, "just call me Vincent. If it's all right by you, I'd rather avoid the titles." He was, as his sister so often described him, a little more gruff than most people willingly tolerated. Despite being a bit abrasive, as well as a touch awkward, he was sincere in his invitation to be addressed by his first name. Unlike his fellow aristocrats, he also didn't look at Galt with any condescension or judgment; rather, his rough disposition was the same as it would be for anyone else. "I've heard you have a little combat experience?" he asked with interest. Before Galt could hope to reply for himself, Silke interjected. "You've promised to focus on the bow, Vincent." She had pushed some of her paperwork to the side. There were stacks of parchment piled up on her desk, all neatly and organized and arranged, though the sheer volume of work was overwhelming. At a glance it was evident that she did, in fact, handle all the administrative work that was typically the responsibility of the count. Accounting ledgers, staff records, tax receipts, other assorted documents were completed or reviewed by her rather than the elder Johann Kasper. Vincent cast a glance towards Silke as his lips tugged downwards in a frown. "I keep my promises, Silke, but it does make a difference. It'll be easier to teach anyone who has some level of coordination, agility, and sense about them. My sister didn't volunteer what experience you have," he said with a shrug as he carefully appraised the younger count, "and I won't pry. We'll practice half a day. Any more would be too much even for a knight," he decided. "You should be fine to go on a hunt without making a fool of yourself." Franz cleared his throat. "My lady, since Count Harrowmark's arms will be tired after spending so much time with the bow, perhaps you could take him riding. It is my understanding that some skill with horses may help on the lord's first hunt," the chamberlain offered hopefully. "And, if I may, it would do my lady some good to spend time in the sun," he more gently suggested. There was obvious reason for the servant's concern. Well-dressed and composed as she was, Silke's complexion was poorer than the last time Galt had seen her, and she seemed worn. It wasn't difficult to imagine she had slept little as she toiled over all the little tasks she handled on a daily basis. For her part, Silke hesitated, looking between the three men, and then at all the things still waiting for attention on the desk. Her long, delicate fingers were stained with black ink from spending the early hours of the morning toiling away responding to countless correspondence addressed to her father, her brother, and herself, as well, including some of the aforementioned invitations. "I'm sure Count Harrowmark would prefer to take a rest after spending so much time practicing archery..," she said uncertainly. This put Vincent in an awkward position. On one hand, he didn't want to encourage his sister to spend time alone with a man, one who might actually have the charm and means to win her over romantically. On the other hand, he was concerned about his only sibling, and the former thief was an excellent excuse to get her out of the house for a breath of fresh air. He carefully weighed his options for a mere second or two before deciding Silke's well-being trumped all his fears about her being stolen away. Though he wasn't the best older brother she could ask for, and he caused her grief constantly, he fiercely loved her more than he'd admit. "You should take him on a ride to see the grounds, as hostess," he announced. "He is your guest."