closed starter for @ncrthumberlands.
The procession throughout the northern counties had enthralled Jocasta with a sentiment of nostalgic reverence, something that their return to Hampton Court had dampened with surge of sadness that coveted her usual pleasant demeanour. Little took her to the lands of her forefathers since marrying into the Howard family, Arundel castle and the children diverted much of her attention and time away from her beloved lands, with her presence as a courtier demanding much of what time and energy she had left. Yet none could accuse Jocasta of being a mournful character, she had known sorrow in her life and knew that wallowing accomplished nothing. There were always ways of improving ones spirits, no matter how dire the circumstances may have been.
With the ambition of rectifying her sullen mood, the duchess strode with purpose along the corridors to where the Percy apartments were located. Though they were kin, she had sent word ahead instructing Richard to expect her – she loathed nothing more than inconveniencing people, or being inconvenienced, with an unexpected visit. "Brother." She announced affectionately, stepping through the door with extended hands for him to take as she neared. A kiss place upon his cheek, Jocasta smiled at his ever comforting visage before her, "appease my morose enterprise and tell me you also long for home." Alnwick had not been home for decades and yet within her heart it remained eternally steadfast within her warmest affections. " – no..." she spoke again before he could answer, "...do not entertain my sullen approach, there is little I loathe more than self-pity. Let us talk of more pleasant topics, how are your children and our dearest Jane?"