Sunlight on the Water; Starlight on the Stones

"Sunlight on the Water," Shay smiled and held out her hand, stained purplish from whatever apothecary work had been interrupted.
 
"Starlight on the Stones!" Kaelin grasped her sister's arm in the grip known as warrior's. "I've news, sister."
 
In this way do members of House Thatcher and those under their protection greet and identify one another, though many have forgotten why. It is a phrase that can be used to appeal to any Thatcher to gain aid. Every exchange of it reminds the people of Castle Drakehold and its lands of the bond between them, eternally renewing that bond each time it is shared.
 
The House colours of blue and gold to a Herald speak the language of loyalty, constancy, generosity, wisdom and strength.
 
To the Family, they are also the colours of sunlight on moving water - the truth that one may be constant, may endure, without becoming still and stagnant. That it is wisdom to remain able to adapt and learn, the better to protect one’s own. Thatcher people are enduring, indeed, but nothing about them is static. Sunlight on the Water, the quicksilver versatility of the Family, ever ready to adapt.
 
These shades also for the faint hint of colour on the ancient ritual stone circle at twilight. Older than the Family, it has accepted them since the times of cleansing as the territory’s new caretakers and has always answered the call of those of the blood. Starlight on the Stones, the steadfast devotion of the Family to land and people, ever ready to protect.