MatronNemalzhi commands her children not to engage in any offensive action against other houses for at least 24 months, since she intends to have children and she feels that their situation is not yet stable enough. Some of the new soldiery are to be hired out as nercenaries.
Speaking of mercenaries, half a dozen mercenary companies have arrived in town and signed on for the Merchant Houses. The compound of the former 7th House is being rebuilt by what seems to be a coalition of said merchants.
Zhaunil almost fumbles her process of helping MatronNemalzhi giving birth to daughters and barely escapes with her life although Matron does beat her badly.
Nirl is gone for a few days but returns with a small scar on his left cheek. He claims he got into a scuffle. He gives no satisfactory explanation to his abscence and Zarathustriel is upset with him.
Velve is more sympathetic towards Nirl and advices him to get out mor and play and have fun.
Xora starts to put a lot more effort into her life at HouseNemalzhi. She isn't really home more than she used to, but instead of spending this time relaxing or sleeping, she starts to socialize heavily and train with the house troops, obvioulsy in an attempt to get to know her own house.