By trod, by foot, by cantrip, by nocker contraption; they come to the Hill. Commoners seeking justice, Knights seeking a good master, higher nobles hoping to play the game of courts; most Kithain who stay any length of time come to visit the Ducal holding of First Hill, at least once. In times of peace, it has been a shining example of the power of the Dreaming, and in times of War, a haven for the besieged and lost. Though currently it is cast in sorrow and loss, there is no denying it's beauty.
The exterior of the holding, rising above a lesser baronial manor below, is a labyrnth of forests that eventually lead to the hold proper. The way for those who wish to do so is clearly by glowing bobbing lights. Other avenues however, are soon lost in a maze of oaks and pines, and buried in fogs that threaten to swallow the foolish whole. Nevers dance and play here, as if in defiance of any clouds of gloom. The call of a hunt can be heard, and while activities most frolicsome, more fell rumors say the Duke occiasionally has some Fir Bholg released so he might soothe the pain of his lost love by slaying one of those who had a hand in her death; a second of respite from his pain.
To enter into the holding itself, one walks beneath the outcroppings that are, in truth, balconies, and past the banners, most of which still flutter at half mast. The guards, some knights in thier own right, greet those who enter with politeness, but do not shirk their duty even for the ego of dignitaries. Once inside, one may see to the side halls where temporary residences might be found, or one maybe announced to the Throne Room.
The Throne room is immense, and as it is the heart of the hill, has a vaguely circular shape. The center of the room holds not the thrones, but a great pillar of Balefire. On the west side of the room, so they might always be facing a new dawn, are two thrones. Duke Ewan's throne is crafted of golden yew wood. Various etchings in the wood work show scenes from House Gwydion's greatest moments. Coverings of green cloths have been placed upon the wood, making it more comfortable, though the Duke has commented more than once that one should never be too comfortable in a throne.
Of even more discomfort to his Grace, is the empty throne next to his own. Rarely used, the late Duchess Aurora disliked it, as she did most symbols of monarchy. Crafted of oak, with silver veins shot through the work, crimson pillows were sometimes placed upon (Or thrown from) it. While the Duke now rules alone, the last fool so impolitic as to suggest removing it to him was invited to 'spar' and limped for several days after.
Beyond this room of banners and light, where justice, ceremony, and celebration maybe held, there are other rooms of course. The halls here have an almost living feel to them. One may find various studies from Duke Bastian's time, a few libraries, and one room, transformed from a former study, is now the Wolfsblood's 'War Room'. His love of the Sparring chamber is also known.
