House Mercer holds a small keep in the northern Five King's Mountians. They rose to what little power they hold by trading fairly with the local clans. After losing two older brothers to a trader's rebellion, and third to the wilds, rule fell to Lucas with Tarris as the heir.
House Crest - White anvil on a black banner.
House Motto - Honor in life:Honor in death
Tarris never wanted to rule. Growing up with 4 older brothers, it was never a real fear that the burden would fall upon him. As such he spent his time with his real passion, hunting in the wood. He would spend hour after hour just walking the wood, following deer tracks or hunting for new ravens to bring home. Following the rebellion and the loss of his brothers Tarris was forced to try and live up to his father and elder brothers. After Lucas married a daughter of another house and she bore him a son, Tarris felt his time had come and set out ranging the wood, between his homestead and the Wild. Tarris has nearly made his mind up to take up a contract with a local Mercanary Company, the Black Ravens,when one night a message came in and he was called to his brother's side.
All I wanted to do was leave, and now I am pulled back into the politics of the trade. . .
Brother, you know we must go, I am needed here and my son is not yet old enough to even squire. Aside, you have always been the better knight than I, even without the title. I know you had plans to leave, but do me this last honor, I pray you. Lucas turns to around, letter in hand.
Another trade mission. . . that would make what, 7? 8? I've lost count. With a sigh and a shake of his head, Tarris squares his shoulders, as if adjusting himself to a new weight, he raises his chin and nods to his brother.
Aye. The House still comes first, I have spoken no vows. I must leave soon, I assume you've made arrangements? I'd rather not take a full set of retainers if I may. Walking to the tower's small window, Tarris looks out upon the Wolf's Wood, the truest home he has ever known. How how long will it be afore I step into my home again? Months? Years?
I know, a great host is streaming out of the north as we speak. The Lords have set his own train moving. I've set four men-at-arms to travel with you, and Ethan is to squire for you. I trust you won't object? His father served loyally during the rebellion and the lad is of age. Ethan Rivers. . . aye his father served loyally, up until an axe took him.
Ethan will do. When are we to set out? The morrow?
Yes. One more thing. Tarris. . . you remember Marric? What? Of course I remember my half-elven brother. I remember him falling under the blade of an traitor.
Aye, what of him? Lucas strides briskly over to the mantle and pulls down a very familiar scabbard and blade.
I was never half the swordsman he was, nor you. It was his wish, and mine, that this honor pass to you. As he turns, he holds out the blade in one hand. Honor . . the fickle mistress indeed. To wield this blade, this curse. . .
You know I never wanted this, however I will honor his last wish. I will take the blade south and use it for the House, with pride. Foe Seeker . . . ah Marric you noble fool. Ever did you know my dreams.
I must pack and ready myself. With that Tarris gathers up his new blade and turns to leave.
Tarris, Honor in life. . . Lucas says, holding out his arm.
. . . Honor in death, brother. Tarris replies, sadness clear in his voice, clasping arms with his brother.