Ian comes out to the garden with his attention mostly on his feet, moving at an easy, strolling pace.


Already present is Aurelian who sits out of the way of those preparing the stage for the event as he seems to simply wait for others to show. As individuals start to show up he stands and offers a polite nod to each silently.


Valencia moves into the courtyard with a smile, pausing to offer final instructions to her staff as guests begin to arrive. Glancing towards the small but esteemed group of guests she cannot help but smile, "Good evening," the little vixen chimes, offering a warm smile and a delicate hand to each in greeting. "I am so very glad to see you here tonight. It is a lovely night to let go of awful things, yes?" she grins brightly.

Wandering into the garden with an empty, rather large backpack dangling from one hand, Zerric strides with a casual, easy pace as he joins the merriment. When he arrives with those gathered, he settles the backpack onto the ground before folding both hands in front of himself. To any who greets him, Zerric beams a friendly smile and mirrors their greetings.

Vercyn takes up a spot away from the entrance to the garden. He accepts a glass of northern whiskey from one of the passing servers. He takes a long sip from it as he turns his gray eyes to watch Valencia across the fire.


Leaving his place on the sidelnes, the chair left behind to be dealt with by staff or be claimed by another Aurelian makes his way over as the hostess makes her appearance and nods politely, "Greetings Your Highness." If he is offered her hand as the others are, it is gently taken with a courtly kissed placed to the back of it before being released for the next guest.


What Ian's doing here is anyone's guess, because he's certainly not here to celebrate anything. Maybe he came for a drink and this thing just happened to be going on? He walks with care over the relatively uneven ground of the outdoors to where he can take a seat.

Lucita steps into the garden area quietly and glances around. A bow is given the others since she is in armor rather than her usual silks this time and a bow more befitting than a curtsy. She gives a little smile and gives a beguiling smile to the others.

A little smile is offered to Zerricas he arrives, and another is sent Aurelian's way, though it is followed but a little look of confusion as the Prince arrives from the garden and not the Hart itself. She smiles to his welcome and gentle kiss of her hand. "I am glad you are here, my prince," she smiles. "Thank you for coming..." However, whatever wonder she has about Aurelian's is left unasked as Ian and the lovely Lucita arrived son after as well. "Lord Ian, my most lovely Lady Lucita, you look beautiful tonight. Thank you for being here," she offers with a sweet smile and a light kiss upon the cheek before offering Ian a delicate hand in greeting.

Valencia claims this

Ian takes Valencia's hand a little bit awkwardly, like he's not sure if he's supposed to shake it or not, and he's half-afraid he's going to break it somehow.

Enyo makes her way out into the garden, one hand tucked behind her, the other up at her mouth where she's chewing on one of her nails. She pauses when she gets outside in the garden, glancing around slowly.


Aurelian nods to Valencia as she speaks and says, "One never wastes a chance to spend time in good conversation with a friend Your Highness." as he steps to the side to allow the guest-train to continue as he walks over to one of the staff members and whispers something to them, as they nod and goes to attend to it.


Lucita returns the kiss cheek when given though she does say to Valencia in a low tone. "I still feel awkward. My usual silk dress is so very much more comfortable but Luis insists I get used to this and wearing it somewhere other than the confines of our house." She pauses and says as an afterthought. "At least it does not squeak every time I sit down or bend over the way it did at first." She then moves so others can greet Valencia.

Smiling back at the Princess as she greets him, Zerric nods his head at her before peering out towards the other guests. Lady Lucita receives a lingering glance when his eyes fall on her. With that, he scoops up his backpack and makes his way towards the armored woman. "My Lady. A pleasure to see you again." Both Lucita and Ian receive a bow to greet them, then one is cast towards the unfamiliar female, Enyo. Settling himself next to Lucita, Zerric places his empty backback down next to the woman.

Wrapped up in shimmery near-black fabric, hood up, cloaked entirely, is the slight figure that some would recognize as Mae Grayhope. The little thing breezes in like a living shadow, then gives a quick look around, and her eyes land upon the fire. She stares.

Vercyn nods his head to the new arrivals, lifting a glass in greeting to both Ian and Lucita. He remains where he is though, his gray eyes watching the fire.

The arrival of Eyno is met with another warm and welcoming smile, the the little vixen's dark eyes glimmering happily as meets the whiskey toned eyes of the Malvici as she seems to shyly enter the courtyard. "Good evening, my lady. Welcome to my Hart again. I hope you enjoy yourself. If you have need of anything, please ask, yes?" Valencia invites.

Ian finds a place to sit down, and a drink is pretty soon delivered to him. No, he didn't have to ask for it. It's a safe bet, as the staff here have learned, that the answer to 'Does Ian want to be consuming alcohol right now?' is 'Yes'. And indeed, the answer tonight seems to be 'Yes', because he thanks the waitress and takes a sip.

Ian has joined the table by the fountain.

Lucita nods cordially to Zerric as she says. "Good to see you again." To Ian she murmurs. "Finally got the whole set of armor completed. When you and the others insisted I get it, you did not tell me it was so hot to wear."


As the staff member returns with a goblet Aurelian gives them a polite nod and takes a sip, though the staff member then walks over to Valencia, waiting for an opportune time to interrupt with a brief whisper to their boss.


Zerric has joined the table by the fountain.

Leta wanders into the courtyard, but she does not go very far from the entrance, in her summer greens and yellows and shinies. She looks thoughtfully around to study the decorations, then glances towards the fire, lifting an eyebrow and gnawing at the inside of her cheek. Her fingers absently drum a beat against her thigh as she takes a couple of steps forward, and starts looking around for the drinks.

The fire is fed and crackles with promise of good things to come, while the Hart's staff see to the comfort of one and all. Seeing that her staff have all well in hand, Valencia begins to pick her way through the crowd pausing to welcome Mae, "My dear Mistress Mae, what a lovely surprise. I am glad to see you. Please be welcome," she offers sweetly. "If you should need anything, please asks and we shall do what we can to please,"s he smiles again. "I hope you will pardon me. I should welcome everyone and see that we get started on burning the burdens, yes?"

A few minutes of staring, then Mae turns. She looks about for familiar faces, and catches Leta right away. "Leta," she says, with a sweet smile on her lips. Mae then pivots, to Valencia. She starts that way. "Your highness," she says, in a quiet voice. "Did you get the things I sent?" she asks. "And... am I too late to burn things?"

"It's leather," Ian, in his guise as Captain Obvious, points out to Lucita. "And it's the middle of the summer." He's even left his battered leather coat behind, in deference to the weather, leaving him in the loose fitting linen shirt that he usually wears under it. "Are you getting plenty to drink?"

Valencia smiles and blushes. "Oh, gods, yes! I did. I am so sorry for my rudeness. I have note of thanks on my desk. I have been stupidly distracted. Thank you so much for thinking of me and for the lovely gesture. I hope you can forgive me," she offers earnestly to Mae. "And no, you are perfectly on time."

"Thanks." Enyo replies to Valencia, offering her a quick smile as she drops her hand from her mouth, glancing around once more before she wonders, "Is it alright if I don't have anything to burn...I was just sort of curious about this. But I can leave if that is a problem."

Standing near Lucita and Ian, Zerric bears a polite and friendly expression. A passing server is pressed for a honey wine and when the drink is delievered, Zerric is delighted and thanks them generously. Sipping on that, the man focus his attention on the fire. Leaning in towards Lady Lucita, he seems to whisper something to her.

Mae flashes another smile, so obvious on that big mouth of hers, as Valencia apologizes. "No need, your highness. Just wanted to make sure you received them. I... would suggest... not drinking the rum. It's-... um." She pauses. "Bold," she decides. She then glances over to Enyo. "Oh, hello, um-... What was your name again?" she asks Enyo.

Lucita catches the glass lift by Vercyn and gives him a warm smile as she replies to Ian. "I hope so. Will be glad when Luis declares it is finally broken in though, Lord Ian. Do you know Duke Vercyn Halfshav? Duke Halfshav, this is Lord Ian Kennex and Zerric Memphit here to my side is a scholar and working with the library here at the Hart, er...Oh, and I see Lady Enyo Malvici over there, she is planning to join the Society of explorers.

Leta turns her head towards Mae and inclines her head at the sound of her name, putting on a broad smile for a moment. "Good eve," she offers, reaching up to nudge her feathered hat with a finger, though the smile fades slightly as she glances back to the fire, before snatching up a goblet of wine from passing staff. She takes a long sip from it, then bows her head to Valencia, taking advantage of a pause in the conversation. "Your Highness. It's a - it's a nice - bonfire," she says.

"Of course, my lady. As it pleases. If you with there is parchment and quill over there, or you may whisper your wish," Valencia smiles to Enyo. Another warm nod and bright smile is offered Leta's way as she slips off to formally start the event.

The Northern Duke approaches and holds a hand out to Lucita. "Lord Ian and I have shared a drink more then a few times. Mister Zerric and I just met a short while ago in fact."

"Wonderful, wonderful." Enyo replies, that smile brightening a bit at Valencia before she glances towards Mae, her expression brightening a bit more, "Ah! Enyo." She offers, giving the woman a nod, "Fancy meeting you here." She pauses, notes the scarf, "I still say that was made with you in mind."


Aurelian makes his way closer to the brazier, but still leaves enough distance to not be in anyone's way as he likely prepares for the burning, taking another sip of his wine. He also nods a few more times, as though to catch the few he's not already nodded to in silent greeting, though Ian is unlikely to notice much with the booze occupation..


Gracefully clad in southern silks that caress sultry curves and slender waist, Valencia moves to stand before the large crackling bonfire at the far end of the courtyard. There is a gracious incline of her head as she offers bright and welcoming smile as she scans the crowd.

"My lords and ladies, misseres and madams, dearest friends, again, please welcome to my Hart. As ever, tonight is a night to relax and enjoy excellent company," the little vixen invites the growing crowd with a warm welcoming sparkle in her eye. ”Tonight we are taking a moment to cast off negative things from the past so we might make room for better things in the future. Before we start let us all find our cups full and please pardon me as I share a few orders of business,” she smiles as the Hart’s staff flood the room with trays of a wild assortment of drinks for one and all to enjoy.

Ian nods to Vercyn when he comes over. "And a ship, once," Ian agrees with the duke. He settles into silence to listen to Valencia when she starts talking.

Lucita extends her hand to Vercyn as he offers his and gives a soft laugh. "Ahh, then introductions are not needed. She nods to Aurelian and Enyo then goes quiet to listen to Valencia speak.



Looking back out to the gathered group with drinks now in hand she smiles again. “Tonight is a night for releasing and letting dark things in our lives go and opening the door to better things. Everyone is very welcome to participate. All you need to do is come to the fire and speak your wish openly or in whisper. Then place an object or note that represent these feelings or circumstances that you wish to cast off. If you do not have object or not, feel free to write what you wish,” she indicates a table set out with parchment and quill. “… or speak to the fire instead, if that feels better. Then release and let go of all the negativity and enjoy the rest of the night in good company with a lighter heart,” she explains how the burning of the bad works. “If you wish you may also add an offering or object to invite good things that you wish to welcome your way.”

“We hope with this little action you will all leave here later tonight with happier hearts and lighter heads. And if it pleases, you are very welcome to help us continue spreading good will by supporting our work in aiding newly freed peoples and families most seriously suffering most grievously in Thrax. Any and all help is graciously appreciated,” she invites with earnest appeal but slightly shy in the asking. Another sweet and radiant smile kisses her lips as she looks from face to face, “As always, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your consideration and generosity. We could not continue to help people without you.”

Opening remarks concluded, her smile truly blossoms as she looks out to again welcome her guests, ”And now, let us all come together and enjoy the evening. Thank you for blessing us with your fine company,” the little vixen smiles lifting her glass in toast to the crowd. “We hope you enjoy the festivities ! To life, luck and love… To casting off dark things of days gone by and to the start of many wonderful new things to come. To you! Thank you and please enjoy!”

Mae considers Enyo for a moment, then steps right up to the other woman. It looks like she has something to say, but then Valencia is speaking. So Mae pivots, standing next to Enyo, and fixes eyes on Valencia. She reaches out a hand from her cloak, to wrap that hand around Enyo's arm, at the elbow, as if the noblewoman was to be her escort. Not to be rude, she drops her voice to a whisper, as Valencia speaks.

When the Duke approaches, Zerric grants the man a bow. "A pleasure to see you again of course, My Lord." He greets, taking a slow sip of his beverage. Turning towards Lady Lucita when she introduces him to the Duke, Zerric simply smiles. Though the moment Valcenia starts her speech, Zerric falls silent, listening with a deep smile as she does so.

Enyo looks startled when Mae reaches out a hand to grasp her arm, but she doesn't put up any kind of protest for the familiarity. She glances at Mae, then towards Valencia where she's speaking, then back to Mae for a long moment before she leans in, murmuring something quietly in response to whatever was whispered.


Aurelian turns his strikingly pale blue eyes to Valencia as she addresses those gathered, though he doesn't accept any new drink, as he's barely touched what he has.


Warm earnest welcome offered, and instructions offer, the little southern princess steps away from the fire to allow people to privately take a moment or two to rid themselves of dark things of the past. "Please, at your leisure. There is no rush. These actions are informal and wishes done when you are ready. Whatever pleases, yes?"

Leta listens, and looks towards the fire again, a hand coming up to brush her chest, tugging at the tunic. But she lets it drop, and instead takes another long drink of wine as she wanders about the garden, pausing in a corner to adjust a paper lantern. It was ever so slightl skewed, and Leta sets it straight.

Vercyn bows over Lucita's hand, placing a kiss to the back of it. He straightens and turns as Valencia speaks, watching the southern princess intently.

"Hm," Mae murmurs out, in response to whatever it is that Enyo is whispering to her. With Valencia concluding her remarks - and Mae will offer an encouraging smile to the woman should she catch her eye - Mae turns her attention more fully to Enyo, though she doesn't raise her voice, or release the other woman. She continues to whisper.

Ian continues to listen. He makes no move, once people are invited to approach the fire, to stand up and do any such thing. He seems to be here to watch more than to participate.

Leaning back in when the speech is complete, Zerric whispers more hushed words to Lucita. It takes a moment and he listens diligently for whatever she has to respond to him. Something she says causes him to smile, and then he pauses the conversation to scoop up his empty backpack and step towards the fire. "All of my life I have spent on the road. It has been a good life to be true, but those years are behind me." He announces as he lifts the backpack up. "There will be many more travels in my future to be sure. Yet now is a time that I have come to finally have a home. A place to belong, here in this very city. From now evermore, I shall proudly and happily declair my search for a home is concluded. I may not always live in the same building, but always within this lovely city with so many amazing people. This day, I accept my new adventure." All of this said, he tosses the backpack into the fire and steps back. Ruefully, he watches it burn before turning to take up his spot next to Lady Lucita.

Enyo's quiet whispered conversation continues to Mae, a quick smile appearing, then dimming a bit. Whatever the conversation is, she appears to be at ease with the situation, enough that she's begun to focus on it instead of looking around at others gathered.

Valencia offers a little smile to Aurelian, a shy nod to Vercyn and a less shy smile to Mae. Waiting a time and then steps up to the fire herself, she takes a breath and stares into the flames as Zerric arrives. She smiles at his words and looks as though she might hug him for them. "Thank you," she whispers. "I am so glad you are here with us. You are such a lovely blessing. I hope this will always be home to you."

Another breath is taken and Valencia offers her own offerings. "I come here with open and earnest heart to cast off some of what does not serve me and to invite better things," she says softly to the fire with not pomp or ceremony. Another breath is take and she presses her lips together and then reaches for an envelope. "Herein are at least some of the things I am ready to let go of and set free. Some sorrow and regret from someone I loved now dead and gone. The chances at mending things now gone, too. The pain of a deep betrayal that cut so deep I could not breath and burns me still. A broken heart from careless hands. Anger at at a three broken promises. Sadness that I was not enough to save day. These things I am ready to cast off and with this act I shall let them go.

Valencia puts a Golden Hart Lucky Envelope in a large crackling bonfire burning in an ornate iron brazier.

Mae seems about as distracted with Enyo as the noblewoman is with her. While her gaze shifts now and then, her focus remains keenly on the Malvici as she continues to whisper.

Torian has slipped into the area with some of the event goers comings and goings. He doesn't appear to have anything to offer the fire, but then again who knows with that coat, and so instead he starts to stroll around the gathering. The garden is a good place for strolling after all, and he seems more interested in the people than the fire.


Aurelian lifts his goblet to Zerric's words and says in a calm, polite voice, "May you find the home you have foudn is ever there upon your return." taking a sip. He then offers a nod to Valencia, likely friendly reassurance as he steps up and says, "I lack any regrets to let go of, yet there is something I wish for. As somethign was asked, I felt this was most fitting." as he pulls out a piece of paper cut into a general shape of the sun, which he then tosses into the fire and says, "If wishes may be granted then the flames know mine now." as he steps away for others.


Lucita waits a moment then steps forward. She offers no detailed explanation, says nothing aloud past saying "A few regrets and disappointments, anger at a situation I could not change." The paper is fed to the fire and she returns to those who gather to watch.

Accepting the Princesses words with a deep smile, and perhaps a slight blush, Zerric nods to her as she speaks to him. Though he does not stop her to say anything in response. When she steps forward to toss the things into the fire, Zerric watches and nods after her speech and tossing something into the flame. Then Aurelian speaks and Zerric beams a smile back at the man. When Lucita has done her part, Zerric pauses a moment to allow her time to collect herself before leaning back in to whisper more hushed words to her.


Aurelian makes his way over to Lucita and says, "The armor suits you well My Lady, I trust you are adjusting to it well." as he stands almost shoulder-to-shoulder with her, a nod given to Zerric smile before his gaze moves to the brazier.


Valencia looks into the fire as the envelope and the unwanted burdens are burned away and then steps back. She smiles up at Aurelian as he steps to the fire and then to Lucita as she follows shortly after. "I feel so much better," she declares brightly, taking up a new glass of rich Lycene red. "I may have to find way to cast off my other troubles next time," she grins playfully as she moves back allow others to enjoy the fire or cast off their own dark feelings or circumstance.

Leta turns back to watch the people approaching the bonfire, and listens quiet to each small speech, eyes drawn back to the frames. She furrows her brow in thought and raises her goblet to her lips. After a long pause, she turns away, lips smacking as she lowers her drink and allows herself a small smile as she wanders. She eyes Torian curiously in passing, and glances from him to the fire with an arched eyebrow.

Lucita says, "Thank you, Prince Aurelian. Trying to get used to it. Will be glad to get back to my usual garments though." She lowers her voice to speak something else."

The Hungry Wolf does not approach the fire to throw anything in. He simply remains where he is standing, silently drinking his whiskey

Mae seems to be snuggled up to Enyo's side, whispering at length to the taller woman, her eyes bright, and mischief playing across her features. Her gaze cuts away, now and then, to take in the setting. It's one of those glances she catches Torian. She flashes him a big, sunny smile, but then looks right back to Enyo.

Enyo's looking far more thoughtful the longer the conversation with Mae goes on, her eyes remaining focused on the woman until Torian is greeted, and her attention shifts that direction for a quick moment before returning to Mae.

Valencia turns as Leta passes by and offers her a warm and welcoming, if not enthusiastic little hug. "I am so glad to see you here, my loveliest of Letas. My heart is so happy to see you here. It has been too long, you are well?" she asks, pausing to flash a surprised and happy smile and a warm incline of head Torian's way as he is scene prowling the party.

Torian is strolling his little stroll and it doesn't take much deviation for him to stroll his way near Mar after he realizes she's there. He doesn't interupt her snuggling, but he does slow to a figurative crawl as he walks near them.


Aurelian nods to Lucita and says, "I'm sure all will return to what you are more comfortable with soon My Lady. Perhaps our next lesson will provide more insight."


When Aurelian approaches Lucita and himself, Zerric smiles and dips himself into a low bow. Then Lucita and the man are talking and Zerric greets him. "A pleasure to meet you, Your Highness." Saying that, he straightens himself before looking out and around at the other patrons.

Mae detects the approach of a certain /other/ Culler. She clears her throat, and flashes a quick smile to Enyo, then half turns, still holding onto the noblewoman's hand, though her other hand slides across Enyo's back. "Lady Enyo... this is my uncle Torian," she says, handling that introduction. "Uncle. I like my vest, thankyouverymuch. But if you want to make me a new one... well. I wouldn't object," she says, with a sly smile. Then she leans in /that/ direction, to murmur to Torian.


Aurelian nods to Zerric and says, "I believe I mention of a scholar among us, I assume that is you? Forgive me, Prince Aurelian Valardin, a prince of Valardin." by way of introduction as he steps away from Lucita to address the man more directly.


Leta stops as Valencia turns her way, and freezes up at the hug, returning it awkwardly, goblet well away to avoid spilling any. "Thank you, your Highness. Oh, I'm - I'm well. I'm just fine. Mustn't complain," she wears a smile as she says it, punctuating the reply with a shrug. "How are you, your Highness? This - that helped, did it?" She motions with her head towards the fire, then gives Valencia a curious look.

"Ah, hello, Uncle Torian. Pleasure to meet you." Enyo greets as she's introduced, flashing him a smile before she gestures towards the bonfire, "Are you here to make offerings of past regrets and hopes for positive futures?"

Bowing low a second time to the Prince in front of him, Zerric nods his agreement to what Aurelian has said. "You are most correct, Your Highness. Zerric Memphit, Master Librarian of the Golden Hart at your service." He replies, beaming a smile. Though if the man is paying enough attention, he might gleam that Zerric is still getting used to introducing himself in that way.

Valencia smiles up at Leta and nods, "It did. This is a think we used to do at home when I was little. I think letting go of a few things I was ready to release is long overdue," she shrugs, taking a sip of her wine. "For me, I must pick specific things I must be in full heart wanting. To be true, it is not all of what is in heart, but to keep all past things like this serves me not, so..." There is another smile and little one shouldered shrug as she glance to the fire and back. "Would you like to try it? See how it feels?"

Torian gives something of a passable bow but then starts laughing. "Torian's fine. I'm not everyone's uncle." He considers it a moment and adds, "Though I've gotten a pile of nicknames, I think the kids enjoy thinking them up, Uncle Torian's not so bad. Beats Culler the Cobbler by a bit at least." He's all charming smile and shining eyes that twinkle like little dirty jades. "But no... no Lady Enyo I'm not here for that. I'm quite possibly the most content man in the city. I don't have regrets." So humble too.


Aurelian nods to Zerric and says, "Perhaps it is more fitting to introduce myself as Aurelian Valardin, Senior Scholr of Vellichor then." In truth he does wear two gold sigil pendants around his neck, one the sigil of House Valardin, the other a pair of crossed scrolls, the sigil of the Schoalrs of Vellichor.


"Don't believe him. He's literally /everyone/'s uncle," Mae says, to Enyo, with a little giggle. "Admittedly, now he's grandpa, and I'm mama or aunty... which is..." She scrunches up her nose. "But he is a good cobbler. Even if he prefers, what... Armorer of the Rich and Famous?" she asks her uncle, with a sweet smile. "Protector of Arx?"

"If you prefer Uncle to Culler the Cobbler, I'm certain that we can fulfill that request." Enyo replies, that smile flashing wide at him before she glances at Mae, "Mama? You'll have to forgive me if I say that you don't at all look like a Mama. I'm not sure that I could find myself calling you that, I'm afraid."

With Aurelian right in front of him and Lucita, Zerric can't quite lean back in to whisper anything to her. It would be rude, after all. Smiling as he hears the new title, Zerric nods his head at the man. "Then you make the honor of meeting you all the more sweet, Your Highness. We are of the same profession it seems." He says, bearing his own pendant.

Leta pets her sword's hilt with her thumb, and looks back towards the fire once more, as if to reconsider. But she crooks her nose and looks back to Valencia with a crooked half-smile, "Ah, don't think I'm ready for it, your Highness. I didn't even bring anything - well, I did, but then I decided I didn't want to burn it. I'd be afraid of burning the good with the bad, see? So I'd rather not, now that I think about it. I mean, bad things lead to good things and all that, sometimes..."


Aurelian nods to Zerric and says, "Indeed, though I've only been a full scholar for five years now I believe. Even if my trainign began when my adolescence was still new I was surprised by my promotion to Senior Scholar, but honored by it. How long have you served as a Disciple of Vellichor?"


Valencia smiles gently at Leta. "I understand. Hence why I am so specific," she grin again. "But if you wanted to part with the negative things, write them on parchment over there and cast that in. That way your wish is focused to that which does not serve. You need not even speak your words. Just go with an open heart and good intent, yes?"

Torian laughs out loud, a deep ssound full of joy. "Torian the Untouchable the bards that sang about my stand during the siege are to be believed, may be my favorite. Grandfather Torian would be more of..." he bobbles his head a little, "Think of it like this Lady Enyo, Mae here does quite a lot for so many in the Lowers. People look at her like a mother for it. I'm not THAT much older but I am her uncle so... the next generation up is Grandfather yeah?" He shrugs some, and smiles more. "Anyway, don't let me disturb you all, I'm just sort of making the rounds you know. Come for the dice, stay for the bonfire sort of thing."

"All the little kids," Mae says, adding on to Torian's explanation to Enyo. "And now with the soup kitchen..." She puffs up her cheeks, and makes her eyes go wide. She blows out that breath, then continues. "I think one of the kids started it as a joke and now it's spreading. I-... take care of a lot of children. Or, well. I used to do more, now... so busy all the time," she says, with another scrunch of her nose.

Lucita stays quiet, listening to the various conversations with interest.

Ian finishes his drink and braces himself on the table, then pushes himself to his feet.

"Aaah." Enyo replies, nodding when it's made clear that it's more honorary than actual. "Well, I suppose that someone should, yes. Not sure I could..." She then grins, shaking her head, "At least I don't have to, right? But, doing things for the Lowers is good, right? Seems like a good thing, at least. If you're in a position to do something."

"In truth, Your Highness, only just a few years. While like yourself, I spent a larger part of my life studying." Zerric replies towards the Prince with a beaming smile. "Most of my years of study were on the road. I'd say that I have not stayed in one city for more than a few seasons at at time."

Leta pushes back her shoulders and draws in a deep breath, which she lets go as a sigh, eyes darting between the fire and Valencia. "That's what I thought, but then - then I thought I couldn't really pull them apart, see? The good and the bad, I mean, it's all - it's all like it's woven together or something like it, your Highness," she holds her hands up, lacing her bejeweled fingers together to demonstrate. "Can't say there's anything that's all bad. Well, I mean, there's lots, but that's not quite mine to throw away."

Torian casts a sideways but approving and perhaps even proud eye at Mae. "Oh yes, lady Enyo. Very good indeed. You should consider a donation if you're so inclined." He lets his little sales pitch stand as his good-bye and then bows a little and backs away with that momentum, that he might move along and do a little more prowling.

Ian makes his slow way to the exit and slips out.

Ian has left the table by the fountain.


Aurelian nods and says, "I can understand, I am a field scholar by specialty, so I tend not to spend as much time in the archives as most scholars." He then looks to Lucita and says, "Forgive us My Lady, I believe we've fallen to a bit of a tangent and left you ut of the conversation."


Vercyn manuvers his way around the fire until he is standing near Valencia and Leta. "Your Highness. This appears to be going rather well for you." He bows at the waist with a small smile.

Carissa, a Malvici bodyguard arrives, following Eirene.

"You can always come serve soup," Mae offers, with a smile. She then gives Enyo's hand a squeeze, and slowly pulls away. "Time for me to go burn things," she says, as she slips her hands back into her cloak. She looks back to Torian. "I'm going sailing with Magpie soon, by the by! So... don't miss me too terribly," she says, flashing the man a smile. Then she starts away from Enyo, toward the fire. "Do come visit me!" she calls, with a quick glance backward.

"Oh, I'll think about that...although I'm much more hands on with things." Enyo admits, glancing towards Mae when she starts to make her way away, then she snaps, pointing towards her, "Serve soup. See? I'd totally come and serve some soup...make me feel far more useful than just throwing around silver."

"Then maybe you are not ready to part with it yet, yes? Or maybe things will change?" Valencia offers with a little can't of her head. "You have to be ready to release it for this to work, yes?" she offers to the pretty blonde knight. "All things in the right time. There are things I am not ready to let go of. Not by a long spar," the vixen says with a flash of a grin and spark in her eye, and then the hungry wolf is there and offering a gallant bow. The little dark haired fox offers him a gentle incline of head, "My dearest Duke, thank you again for coming. You will not offer anything to the fire tonight? Not even for good fortune to come your way?"

Lucita gives a soft laugh as she replies. "I don't feel left out, Highness, just enjoying listening. This burning of things in the fire has left me in a quiet mood, though a comfortable one as I am enjoying the company."

Leta concedes the point with a slow nod. "I reckon I ain't ready to part with it, your Highness. That's - that's about it," she says with a quiet smile, then takes a small step back and turns, bowing her head politely in Vercyn's direction. "M'Lord," she says, and backs away another step, so she's not in the way.

Eirene looks hungover. Or normal. Hard to say which is which. The Malvici woman makes her way in with a squint and adjusts her eyes to the firelight. She looks around for more liquor, but does carry a bag with her in offering. Perhaps.

Lucita gives Eirene a smile as she joins the gathering and lifts her glass in greeting her.

"Then we are of a similar mind, Your Highness." Zerric replies before falling silent as he listens to the Prince address Lucita. With that, he takes a slow sip of his mead while listening to Lucita's response. "It is quite there serene experience, My Lady. Is it not?"

Vercyn smiles and offers a bow to Leta as well. "Good evening. I am Vercyn Halfshav, Duke of Whitehold. A pleasure to meet you." He rises and smiles at Valencia. "My understanding is that you must have some piece of your past that you regret to release it? I find it easier to not regret my actions for they have brought me to where I am."

"Tossing around silver only does so much!" Mae calls, though she's distracted now, as she approaches the fire. She stops in front of it, very close. Closer than someone likely should be standing, and oh, how the light of the fire dances off that odd cloak she wears. She fidgets with something inside her cloak, and then stares for a long moment. Anyone that looks, they'll see that pale face alit by fire, looking quite orange and glowing. Her lips move as she says a silent prayer. And after a long moment, her hand slips out, and then she tosses what looks like scraps of fabric into the flames.

Mae puts white satin ribbons with violet felt roses in a large crackling bonfire burning in an ornate iron brazier.

Torian is just 'randomly' moseying about, but still he's brought nearer the fire. He lets Mae do her thing, as he's just spoken with her there's no need to disturb. Stil, the host is near as well and it's polite to say hello isn't it? He draws nearer to Valencia then, with his relaxed gait, grinning a little, "You make a good fire, I see."

"Leta Broadbent, uh - Dame Leta Broadbent, knight of Lenosia," the woman thus named says to Vercyn, incling her head again. Not that she sounds like she's from Lenosia. She sounds like she's from the poorer quarters of Arx, if anything. After a pause she adds, "Honor to meet you, m'Lord." Then she looks around again.

There's a quick smile for Mae's comment, but then Enyo spots Eirene and she lifts a hand to wave towards her before she practically shoots across the garden towards her. It's the excited motion of someone that is...potentially too excitable by half.

Valencia smiles as Zerric, Aurelian and Lucita chata and Torian, Mae and Enyo enjoy their own conversation as well. As she turns back to her own little chat Eirene's arrival catches Valencia's eye. The little southern princess smiles Eirene's way and offers a welcoming incline of head as one of her staff moves to see if the Malvici could use a bit of the hair of the dog to ease her hangover. "My lady, it is good to see you. Welcome to my Hart. I was thinking of you the other day," she admits with quirk of a smile. Returning her gaze to Vercyn she nods again, "It is a good way to look at it, sadly, what I let go was not serving me so now. Thought I think I am glad to be here and now. I just wish the road was not so bumpy," she grins.

Dark eyes turn and watch Mae make her offers, but not for long leaving the woman her privacy as she makes her wish. Valencia looks up with a little surprise as Torian comes to greet her. "Master Torian, it has been far too long. I am so happy to see you," she smiles up at the man, politely offering him a delicate hand. "Missere, you know Duke Vercyn and Dame Lete," she says, introducing those she is currently conversing with.

Eirene certainly needs more liquor to deal with the zooming niece of hers. She quickly grabs a glass and takes a needed drink before greeting Enyo with a faint grin. "Kiddo, how are-" Oh a hostess. "Highness," she says to Valencia, lifting the glass in toast. "Thinking of me? Uh, nothing good I hope," adds with a wink.

Lucita says to Zerric. "Prince Aurelian has been my teacher for months. His lessons are intriguing and challenging and often laden with the unexpected. Am not sure he realizes just how much they have helped. Have come to rely on his advice."

He bows to Leta again. "A pleasure to meet you Dame Leta." The Duke of WHitehold turns to address Torrian and inclines his head. "A pleasure to meet you."

Mae watches as that fabric starts to catch fire. Her eyes flash wide. And then, rather abruptly, she turns in a whirl and heads for the exit. There's no look backwards, there's no lingering glances, there's no farewells. The woman's leaving in a hurry.

Torian's hand is busy taking Valencia's as the other's are introduced, and so they get head-bows for hellows instead. "I meet a lot of people in my work, you'll forgive if I admit to being familiar without going so far as to say I know. Likely I tried to sell them all something." He laughs a little, not in a hurry to take his hand back though it does eventually end up in his pocket. "And yes Princess, much too long."

Valencia grins back at Eirene, "Tschkt, hardly. I am growing rather fond of you I am afraid. I was actually thinking of helping you at battle and have taken a lesson so that if I am ever in such a place again I can be of more help to you," she confesses. "I will never been as trained or talented as you or your people, but I will perhaps be a little more helpful to you if needed." There is a little look of concern as Mae flees the scene but the woman is too fleet of foot to check in with. "These fires can sometimes be very emotional," she offers with a little nod. Another smile is sent Torian's way, "Then please let me introduce you to Duke Vercyn and my dearest Dame Leta."

"Auntie." Enyo greets Eirene, grinning at her as she comes to a stop next to her aunt, falling silent when Valencia speaks up. She lets her attention shift away from the pair, watching the others out in the garden.

Smiling at Lucita as she talks about the Prince, Zerric nods his head along with that. "The best lessons are the ones you learn through trial and tribulation, My Lady." He replies by way of accepting and agreeing what was said. Then he grants the Prince a bow as he departs. After a moment of silence, Zerric peers into the fire with a friendly smile, his drink in hand. Then, he peeks up towards Valencia from across the way, watching her and those gathered around the Princess as they converse. Finally he looks back at the fire and leans back in to whisper something to Lucita.

"Well... good." Eirene gives Valencia a faint smile, not looking entirely convinced. "One can never be too prepared," says the battle-medic. She looks back to Enyo and smokes a bit more naturally. "So how you enjoying the party, kid? First one in Arx?"

Leta tips her feathered hat, and offers a polite bow of her head as Eirene comes by. "M'Lady," she says, then glances back to Torian and offers him a nod as well, "Master Culler." To Valencia, with a brief nod, she comments. "We'd be acquainted. Me being from the Lowers and all," she explains, then glances down at her goblet and finds it empty. This is reason enough to turn and look for more wine.

Vercyn bows to Eirene. "A pleasure to meet you. Sadly, business calls and I must make my departure for this evening." He bows to those gathered. "I hope you will forgive me."

Valencia gives a little smile at Eirene's almost approval, dark eyes glinting with good natured amusement. "But tonight is a night for other things. I'm glad you are here. If you need anything, please ask, yes?" she offers with a smile. "And you I have seen a few times in my Hart but we have not properly met," the little vixen smile to Enyo. "I am the Princess Valencia. I am so happy to meet a niece to Lady Eirene. May I ask your name?"

Lucita replies to the whisper and then says. "If you will pardon me. I still have some paperwork I have to get done and tuned in before much time passes and need to get to my office to work on it.

While leaning into the conversation between himself and Lucita, Zerric suddenly withdraws at something that is said, his expression quickly becoming solemn and perhaps a bit hurt. Though he nods his head in some level of understanding.

The little princess offers Lucita a warm hug and kiss upon the cheek, "Thank you for being here. I am so very glad. I will see you tomorrow, yes?" she asks fondly. Vercyn is offered a delicate hand in parting, "My dearest and most kindly Duke, thank you for taking time to be in my Hart. I hope our visits are more frequent now."

"Not my first, no...but the most interesting this week." Enyo replies, flashing a smile at Eirene before she turns her attention towards Valencia, "Oh, sorry...Enyo Malvici, a pleasure to meet you, Your Highness."

Eirene shrugs at Vercyn. "Eh. Whatever," she retorts as he leaves when she approaches. Leta is given a half-salute with fingertips to the brow. "Dame Broadbent. Having a good evening?" Alcohol seems to be helping soften her mood. "And you, Enyo, sounds like you've been a busy bee.

Lucita gives Valencia a hug and kiss on the cheek as she leaves. "I was glad to attend, and yes, hope to talk tomorrow. You have another success here, tonight!" She smiles and then steps out, this time trying a curtsy even if it might look a bit awkward in the armor.

Torian isn't super social it seems, knowing few people and not being great at meeting more. With those few busy, he's sort of aimless. Which he doesn't seem to mind really. He wanders to get himself a drink again, and then sort of weaves about and stops to drink.

With Lucita gone, Zerric is left there alone in silence for a long moment, deep in thought at something. Taking a healthy swig from his mead, he forces himself to bear a faint smile before making his way towards the crowd around Valencia.

"I am so very happy to meet you, Lady Enyo," Valencia returns, pausing to take up a bottle from a passing serving girl and turning to refill the glasses of those around her. "You are new in our city or just returning from time away? It is so lovely that you are seeking to do good deeds. So many people are in need, yes?" The little princess smiles as Zerric returns to her side, "My dearest missere, may I introduce to you Lady Enyo and Lady Eirene of Malvici. And this is the lovely Dame Leta and the talented Master Torian. Ladies, gentleman, may I present Master Zerric."

"I suppose that I've been pretty busy." Enyo replies with a laugh, finding herself something to drink before Valencia offers to introduce Zerric, her attention shifting towards him to give him a nod and a quick smile, "Nice to meet you."

Leta, her goblet topped off with more wine, returns her attention to Valencia and the others around her, offering a quiet smile in return at the introduction. She inclines her head to Zerric, "Pleasure to meet you, Master Zerric," she says, before taking a long drink.

Eirene grunts. It's her way of saying hello. She takes another drink to finish off her glass before it's refilled. "Zerric. Torian." She knows neither so she just gives a little nod.

Blushing at the introduction that the Princess gives him, suddenly feeling to be the center of attention, Zerric smiles and nods his head at Valencia as she speaks about him. "Of course, Your Highness." He says before looking first towards Enyo and bowing towards her. "My Lady, a pleasure." Then he shifts towards Leta and does the same. "Dame Leta, an honor to meet you." And Eirene gets a small nod, paired with a deep grin before he provides the proper bow. "A pleasure to meet you, My Lady." Finally he greets Torian properly in the same manner as the ladies. "Master Torian."

Torian is still sort of wandering around with his drink, but he's got sharp enough ears to turn and raise said glass as a greeting when he's introduced and greeted.

"Master Zerric is helping me to build a public library in the Hart so that we have a full collection of wonderful books for one and all to come and enjoy," Valencia explains with a grateful nod the scholar's way. "Thanks to him I can focus on the other task the Hart is working on, like our next big event and raising funds to helpe the recently released thralls and the families who are in great need in Thrax among other things. I am so very excited to see what wonderful things he will do. Do you like to read, Lady Enyo? You must enjoy good books, Lady Eirene?"

10 King's Own Guardsmen, Zelda, the royal messenger arrive, following Alaric.

Zerric has left the table by the fountain.

Eirene snorts a little. "All the books I ready, highness, are ancient journals or medical accounts. Reading isn't really my thing." She crosses one arm over her chest and shrugs with her single shoulder. "But a Library is... nice. I suppose. Provided people can read them."

"What sort of books is that, Master Zerric?" Leta wonders with a curious look, raising a brow for a moment in Zerric's direction between sips of wine. She leans her weight on her back foot, seeming pensive, and with her free hand toys absently with the neckline of her tunic.

"I am glad you approve. And if they do not, then we shall set forth to teach them. A literate society is a stronger society, yes?" Valencia replies, a new cause blossoming in her mind. "Gods above and below, Lady Eirene, you are so brilliant. You are right. Of course that is something we must to help Arx and Avrum. For those who wish it. I am.. well, I am even more excited about having a public library in the Hart that everyone will be welcome to enjoy. Thank you for pointing out that very crucial point, my lady."

Alaric and company drop by the garden bonfire with a roughly equivalent lack of punctuality to the size of his guard retinue (that is to say, lots of both). With a regal smile, he zeroes in on Valencia as if he comes with hostess radar standard equipped. "Princess Valencia, good evening! Apologies if I've come rather late to this bonfire event, but I've just finished some business at the bank and I thought I'd drop in before returning to the Palace," he declares personably.

"Read?" Enyo blinks at the question, laughing after a moment, "I suppose that I like to read, sure...What sort of books, though?" She wonders, glancing at her aunt for a moment before she grins again, "Fun ones with dashing heroes or ones where the bad guys win, or dry accounts of trade?"

Valencia's continued praise of Zerric sees that the man's cheeks flush a deep red, a small smile on his face at the topic at hand. Even, he withdraws a steps and suddenly appears to be a bit more shy than before. "You do me too much credit, Your Highness, truly." Then the King has arrived and Zerric bows quite deeply. "Your Majesty!" He declairs quite happily.

Leta's just standing there being colorful and drinking wine. Then she starts hearing majesties getting thrown about, and turns her head towards the entrance. Spotting Alaric and retinue, she lifts her goblet and drains it empty in a single long swig, then starts to extricate herself from Valencia's vicinity. Side step. Side step. Bow. Step backward, still bowing.

"I love tales of adventure, too. And ones of magic and mystery. Tales of times past, gods, so many things. You will have to come and explore her when she is open, yes? And if you have ideas for books, please tell our Master Librarian and I am sure he will try is best to find titles to fulfill desire," Valencia says nearly bouncing with excitement. There is a curious look as Leta starts to back away and then the King is there before her. The little vixen looks up and offers a beautiful and bright smile, dark eyes glittering warmly at the regent with a mix of surprise and find regard, "Your Majesty, you are here. I am so very happy to see you in my Hart again," she offers with a sweet and polite incline of head as she offers him a delicate hand in welcome. The Hart's staff alerted to the King's presence in the hidden courtyard see to his comfort with offer of his favored drink and anything else he may require. "It is so good of you to come. Will you be burning a burden from mind this evening?"

"Aaand I'm out," Eirene says in a husky drawl. "Your majesty. Masters. Dame Aleta and all..." the talk of excited bookishness has her making her own withdrawal.

Torian is pulled back towards the hostess and her little group as the hub-bub grows hard to resist. Everybody loves the king after all. Throw in everyone's favorite host and it's hard to stay away. As he closes back in he nods to Zerric, the last person that Valencia announced that he didn't know. "People talking about books or something?" He asks Zerric, trying to get back up to speed now that he's enjoyed his drink.

Alaric smiles charmingly to Zerric. "Ah, Master Zerric, we meet again. Congratulations on escaping the clutches of the theatre." He takes the wine glass offered by the staff and turns to regard Valencia. "Thank you for having me, as always. It's difficult to think of something like that, if I'm being honest. Part of being the King is that you don't have anybody above to kick your burdens up to, so either you have the ministers deal with it or it's up to you yourself," he notes with a grin. "But the end of the planning phase of operations with regards to the Stormward crisis seems largely sewn up, so now it's largely to sit back and wait for the reports as to how it's going. Perhaps that would do." He glances to Eirene's departure with a sudden grin. "I haven't forgotten!" he warns her jovially.

Eirene says, "Pub crawl. Pub crawl. Gotcha..."

Carissa, a Malvici bodyguard leaves, following Eirene.

"Bye, Auntie." Enyo calls towards Eirene when she starts to make her exit, letting her eyes shift around at those discussing books before she lets her attention linger on Alaric for a little while. Then she glances at Zerric, then Valencia, "Why a library here?"

"Books," Leta confirms in Torian's direction, but the brawny behatted blonde continues her retreat a few steps past the Culler, only to stop a respectful distance away. It's close enough to watch, and watch she does, curiously, with a brief, regretful glance into her now empty goblet.

"The employment at the theater would have been a quaint profession, Your Majesty. But alas, being Master Librarian appealed to me quite a bit more." Zerric replies to the King with his own deep smile. "Besides, Princess Valencia here has been most gracious and generous to me and I can't think of any other person I'd enjoy working with than her." Then towards Eirene as she leaves, Zerric grins lightly but doesn't particularly say much. Looking back towards Torian, Zerric nods lightly. "Yes, Master Torian. Princess Valencia was just talking a moment ago about the library room we are building into the Hart." He says politely before looking towards Enyo with a grin. "Where else, My Lady? The Hart is such a pleasant place, and truly one should seek out literature when in a happy environment. Truly I can think of no other place that is quite as fitting to have a library built." Leta catches his attention, and the man watches her with an amused grin.

The little southern princess nods and smiles graciously as the King speaks to the order of the day, offering a little smile and incline of head as Eirene suddenly departs the courtyard. "I am glad things are resolving, your majesty. Though, if you will pardon me, most people have a little something that the might wish to let go. But if you do not, that is a wonderful thing. Though if you are moved, we have parchment and quills on the table," Valencia invites with a little glance to the right.

Enyo's questions make the little dark haired fox smile, "A few reason really. One, you can never have too many libraries in a city. Knowledge, ideas and stories are a wonderful thing. Two, the Hart is a place were all people are welcome. It does not matter how much money you have in your pocket or what title you have.. it is neutral ground and we wish to welcome and care for one and all," Valenica's smile simmers to one of earnest regard. "It truly and honestly strives to be a meeting place for all of Arx. Having good books available to everyone in a place that is welcoming is a good thing I think. If my Hart can offer a free meal for the belly, why can't we offer food for thought and inspiration, yes?"

Alaric regards Enyo right back while sipping his wine, eyes lighting in recognition. "Well, if it isn't the mysterious beachcomber. You must be from House Malvici if you're calling the Guildmaster 'Auntie'," he notes. "I have to say, 'Auntie' Eirene promised me a bar crawl but seems to have had second thoughts about it, because it's been nothing but deflection whenever I ask her about it since. Perhaps you'd be willing to lobby her on my behalf? Although I really ought to learn your name before I try to recruit you into that," he concludes congenially. He nods lightly to Zerric. "Congratulations on the new position." He follows Valencia's glance and nods once he sees the area for writing your own notes to burn. "Ah, thank you," he murmurs.

Torian hrms at that. "Depends on the purpose. Library for pleasure? Sure, here's the place. We're building a school now, the Cullers are, to teach the young folk working skills. Everything from like what I do with leatherworking to how to be good stewards and even dock hands and boat-hooks and the like. Reckon we'll get a library going, but it'll be more about how to do those kinds of things proper."

"Just seems an odd choice, is all. I wouldn't have figured a drinking establishment, gaming hall or anything would be the sort of place to have a library." Enyo admits with a quick shake of her head, smiling almost apologetically at them, "But, I'm sure it'll get used." When Alaric addresses her she glances back towards him, that smile flashing wide and bright, "I am a Malvici, yes." She then offers a small bow, one that is far too lazy to be perfect, "Lady Enyo Malvici, beachcomber, observer of fine horseflesh and general layabout I suppose. Especially compared to the rest of my family."

"Ah, but the Hart is more than all that, my Lady Enyo. So much more that that. We raise spirits, and hopes, and funds to help the good people's of Avrum," Valencia smiles to the Malvici, dark eyes gleaming with fond regard. "At the heart of the Hart is a desire to be a place for one and all to be welcome, included and appreciated. Safe harbour. And so we have a little of something for everyone. A reflection of the city itself, I suppose."

The petite southern princess then glances to Torian as he speaks, his announcement seeming to catch her attention. "I think I should like to offer help with helping people learn to read, Master Torian. Perhaps rather than working at cross purposes we might join forces and make something even more impacting happen. I should like to see our peoples safe, healthy and happy," she smile again. "Though, I must finish my work raising funds to help those in need in Thrax. There are so many newly released peoples and families suffering there. In fact if your Majesty would be so inclined to put his kind support to that cause I imagine we could inspire so many more people to help, if it pleases," she asks boldly turning to the King, the dire state of the families in Thrax driving her be more audacious than she normally would. "You as well, Master Torian and Lady Malvici. Everyone's help is integral to our realms success. If we all work together, there is nothing we cannot do. And then perhaps we might see about your wonderful projects, too, yes? Gods, can you imagine what we might achieve if we work together?"

Alaric grins in amusement. "Charmed to make your acquaintance, Lady Enyo. But it's all right, not -all- of you can be Ministers and Guildmasters and the like. It's only fair for House Malvici to share a few positions of authority with the rest of the Compact," he notes breezily, finishing off his wine glass and handing it off to one of the Hart staff. "But if you'll pardon me a moment, I have a little burden message to write and subsequently turn into a little burnin' message, as befitting tonight's theme." And who goes to an event not to participate in the theme? Not this King. "I certainly have had many a meeting about settling issues in Stormward this past week," he notes to Valencia as he begins to write. "I for one am very encouraged by both the breadth and the depth of the assistance efforts being undertaken."

"Thank you, Your Majesty. Truly Princess Valencia has honored me a great deal with the position." Zerric replies towards the King with a bow of his head before looking towards Valencia fondly as she speak to Enyo, listening carefully to her explanation. Then Enyo is speaking and Zerric shifts to listen to her. It's clear he isn't of the same mindset, but he isn't vocalizing his disagreement just yet. Towards Torian, Zerric smiles deeply, nodding his head at the idea. "That truly sounds like a wonderous place. Honestly, education is just ever so important. I presume the school will teach more basic skills such as literacy and arithmetic?" When Valencia speaks, he turns his attention to listen to her, his smile deepening.

"If you you think that a library fits, then a library fits, Your Highness." Enyo shakes her head a bit, not at all seeming to find the suggestion of a library fitting, it seems. But she's also willing to take the subject in stride. When Alaric makes his excuses and exits, she nods, then she nods to the others, "I think that I may have to make my exit as well. All this talk of schooling and books is making my feet itch for open spaces."

Valencia gives a little laugh, "Try not to think of it as books and lessons, and think of it as inspiration and opportunities for our peoples," she grins playfully, not fussed that Enyo does not yet understand why it is a wonderful match for a place like the Hart. An sweet smile is offered to the King, "I am glad you will do so, and that your heart and head are made lighter for the gesture, your majesty," she says softly, allowing the King space to make his offering to the fires.

Torian snorts a little, "Look..." he waves his head a little, trying to stay composed and polite. "We're not rich people man. Not down there in the mud. After the siege, after all that death and destruction... I mean we've got an orphan problem as it is. Mae's got a soup thing going now to feed them, and I'm expanding what I started in my shop. A place to stay, a real place that doesn't try to recruit them into soildering, and skills so they can make their own way in life. We don't have resources for much more than that but we count the blessings we have." He sighs a little and starts looking around, suddenly sort of out of place.

Leta has slipped off for a little more wine, and enjoys her drink while watching the others, but eventually puts the goblet down on the table and wanders over towards Valencia as well. "I ought to be on my way, your Highness, to - well, things to do, right?" She gestures back out towards the exit and bows her head briefly, then offers polite nods to everyone else as well. Not Alaric. Alaric gets some more bowing, even if Alaric's back is turned. And off she goes.

Suddenly it seems that there are quite a lot of people who disagree with the work him and Valencia are set on, and Zerric frowns at both Enyo and Torian address the Princess. Though his station is not one that he feels should come to the Princesses defense. Instead he simply sips on his mead, listening to the pair of them and to the Princess as well. When Leta is taking her leave, Zerric grants her a bow of respect, waving at her. "A pleasure to meet you, My Lady!"

Alaric scribbles his note and gives it a largely pointless once-over for proper spelling and grammar before turning and casting it into the fire, watching it ignite and turn to ask rather quickly. "Good night," he declares politely if a bit vaguely to the departing people as he returns, taking up another Hart staff-supplied glass of wine.


Late, but never wholely absent, is Luis Igniseri, wandering into the Hart dressed in a lively gold and black silk shirt and pants, a red jacket is worn over the set, coming down to just below his knees while at his hip rests the hilt of the rubicund sabre that his family is known for. He carries about him a more regal bearing that he has in the past, his curls oiled and set atop his head so that they no longer flounce, but cling in ways that seem placed rather than random. He steps into the Garden of the Hart and wanders the path, leaving his guards at the door, watching the comings and goings of its current occupants.


"It was so good of you to come, my loveliest of Letas. I have missed your sweet face and good company," Valencia offers fondly. "Please be safe and come see us again soon. It is always such a delight," she nods, offering the knight a warm little hug goodbye. Again, Valencia turns to Torian, "It is true what you say, but I think it is clear that many would help. The soup kitchen being a fine example. That is no funded for at least a few years now, yes? How wonderful is that?" she smiles brightly, reaching out to gently tough Torian's arm. "And just so, perhaps we might do same for your school. With your vision and leadership, who knows what we can achieve. I love that you are doing this, Master Torian. It is a beautiful thing. A gift."

"I understand inspiration and things, chances." Enyo might have been about to leave, but she lingers for a moment to shake her head at Valencia, "But why here?" She glances around, then lifts a hand to wave towards the garden, the people gathered, the bonfire, "This is an establishment meant for...activity. Noise, drinking, gaming....even if they may be charity events or organized ones. To me, in my mind, a library is...somewhere quiet. Where you're not having to deal with the loud masses that have imbided too much."

Valencia smiles up at Enyo, "Why not?"

Torian nods along, his face less stern and more smirk now, "Thank you princess..." His eyes look to where she touches his arm and then to Valencia's dark eyes. His grin widdens and he looks around, "Look, for clarity I'll say I'd love to teach those kids everything in the world. Step one is food and shelter and we've got that going now. Next step is getting them to where they can provide for themselves as adults and that means a skill they can trade on. If we get teh kind of backing for the school that we got for the soup kitchen and can afford to hire some real teachers and the kids want to learn that extra stuff, then that's great too, but there's plenty of starving poets in line for soup and not enough boathooks to unload the cargo ships so... you know, one step at a time is all."

"Maybe there ought to be more noisy libraries. Challenge the concentrations of the readers, make them develop the mental discipline to focus on the words at hand," Alaric opines expansively to Enyo. "Besides, if they've had enough to drink before taking up the book, they probably won't mind all that much about the clamor anyway." Apparently he's championing hypothetical casues for fun tonight.

Zerric shakes his head towards Enyo, his frown clearly on display. "My Lady, if I may be so bold as to press upon you with a counter... Truly you have never gone to a social establishment for the background noise while you read. Certainly this is a shame as I myself find it quite a pleasure to relax in a bar while I read." With that, Zerric turns and listens to how Valencia addresses Torian and the simply dressed man nods his head in agreement. With the arrival of Luis, Zerric turns towards the man and bows to him. "My Lord, a pleasure." Wincing, Zerric turns towards Torian and shakes his head at that. "Master Torian, might I suggest that you did not hear the Princess? All of the things you have mentioned thusly are of grave import, but that does not take away the value of what the Princess is doing here. She offers these people a safe haven from their troubles, an escape. By your logic, we should stop investing in inns and tavern all together and instead invest in schools and orphanages. There must be some balance to it all, truly."

"Because it's loud and distracting." Enyo replies, her brows lifting a bit at Valencia, "That's why." She then shrugs a bit before she glances at Alaric, "Yeah, maybe. But I come to a tavern or inn not for books, but to drink and talk. So the idea of coming to one for a book feels very off to me." She pauses, glancing at Zerric when he speaks up, "No, I never have, nor would I. I prefer to read in peace and quiet where I don't have to worry about rereading the same passage five times because some drunk individual has decided to come bother me."

The little princess gives a grin and a little laugh, "You make is sound like this will be in the center of the main hall or beside the sands of the arena. No, no," she waves her hand and shakes her head pleasantly. "Though I agree that many can and do enjoy reading in our Main Hall and gardens, we have a separate space under construction for the library. Like our VIP rooms and suites, and our rooftop garden terrace. And though it will likely be a different atmosphere, it will hopefully have its own vibrancy and rhythm," she explains patiently and kindly. "Pardon me a moment," she smiles, briefly moving to greet Luis as he arrives. "My Lord Luis, welcome to my Hart. I am so very glad to see you. Please, come join us. You know everyone, yes?"

Valencia claims this

Torian puts his hands up, and for a champion of the poor he seems to have fairly fancy bracers on. "Look, I'm not attacking anybody here. Valencia's great and I love this place and if you want a library here then do it, that's great. All I'm saying is somebody asked about the priorities for the Culler's school and I spelled them out. Shelter, Food, and a path to self-reliance. It'll be a struggle for us to accomplish that much as it stands, and we welcome any help. If there's enough help that we can start teaching the orphan crows the kinds of things nobles learn about, then that's all great and fine. In the mean time, no harm in you having your world and us having ours. You dont expect the fish to fly or the birds to swim do you?"


Luis arches a brow slowly as he comes upon the heated discussion as all words band about in a cacophany that he had mistaken for a debate when he walked into the garden proper. There's a sigh as he is seen, nodding his head to Zerric as the man greets him, making his immediate exit no longer possible. He waits a moment, deigning not to say anything, but to slip into the garden further, watching the others. With Valencia's greeting, he bows his head to her, "My dear Princess, I fear that I have come late to the party and I find everyone rather sociably engaged." He indicates the conversations going on, and decides not to press the point, instead he turns, steps to the edge of the pool nearest the group, and casually slips out of his coat and shirt and pants till he stands nude to the skin he was born in, back and cheek to the crowd, and dives in.


Regarding Torian carefully for a moment, Zerric examines the man with intelligent eyes as he weights the defense Torian puts up. "Master Torian, then allow me to press, if it is no insult, that maybe you misunderstood my question? Truly I did not think literacy and arithmetic were sets of knowledges only a noble born should know. Given truth by my own grasp of such concepts." Zerric says before taking a light sip of his mead. "And thusly, you reside here with so much noble blood that even the King of the Compact himself stands before us. Surely that is a testament that our worlds do not have to be seperated from that of those born higher than ourselves?" Towards Enyo, Zerric considers her for a moment, but seems satisfied with how the Princess handles that conversation and opts to leave it alone. Then Luis is getting naked and Zerric peers towards the man curiously, even grinning lightly as the man jumps into the water. With that, he returns to the conversation at hand.

Enyo shrugs her shoulders just a bit at Valencia, offering her another smile before she lets her attention drift over towards Torian and Zerric, listening to them for a moment before she then glances towards Luis. When she notes that he's getting her brows arch, "And that....well, that totally just happened, didn't it? I had no idea it was that kind of party. Damn. Someone should give warning that we can just get naked around here...now, naked libraries...can that be a thing? I bet more people would read then."

Valencia listens to Torian speak, her dark eyes thoughtful, dark eyes glancing to Luis as he.... There is a blink and a delicate can't of head as the man's clothes begin to come off. She pauses a moment longer as her cheeks begin to flush. "Such cheek," she offers not really knowing what else to say.

Torian shakes his head a little, "You're talking past me mate, but that's fine. I'm not shittin' on the idea that kids should learn those things. I'm telling you there's a limit to the resources I have and how I'm prioritizing my resources. That's it. No moral judgements made." He looks over at the new swimmer and thinks about it, then shakes his head. "Anyway, Culler's the name if you all want to help those kids now you can find me to do so. He starts to step away then, being out of things to say and out of drink as well.


It is a long breath between the time that Luis breaks water and when he resurfaces. On the far side of the pool now his head crests and he turns slowly, with a lazy swim back to the close side of the pool. He gives the Princess a smile, having gone for rather blatant displays to hopefully diffuse the situation, only to find that there is another among the conversationalists, one whose very presence should have been noted far at the start. A pause, a paling of skin, despite the warm waters, and Luis reaches for his coat, yanking himself out of the water and into the coat in what could be described as a flurry of action that leaves a roostertail of water still in the air as he does up the last button, covering his indecency. He moves slowly now, lest the guards react and he stops in front of the king, dropping to a knee and hanging his head, "Your Majesty, forgive me... I made haste within this room and..." he struggles for words.


All attention has gone to Luis, including Zerric's. Towards Enyo, the young scholar grins and nods his head in agreement with her. "You would certainly catch me at a naked library to say the least." He suggests with a light chuckle before darting his eyes towards Valencia. To her, he watches probably a bit more carefully than he should. As her cheeks flush, Zerric catches that. Though he doesn't say anything about it and instead turns his attention to the departing Torian who he had previously held a debat with. Bowing at him, Zerric gives his farewells. "It was a pleasure to meet with you, Master Torian. Perhaps, should you feel so inclined to seek out a teacher, there may yet be subjects I can offer your students. Though I admit that I am no tradesmen."

Alaric has according to royal custom been put under siege by a flurry of messengers, to which Zelda has appropriately sorted, categorized, and prioritized before passing them over, leading to a King who is only sort of paying attention to the conversation and/or people getting into/out of the pool while sipping wine, reading reports, and occasionally quietly dictating replies to his assistant. "Hm?" he murmurs when Luis approaches. "Oh, it's all right, you can swim if you like. I go for a swim every day, myself," he replies nonchalantly. "Although you really ought to clear it with Valencia here, it's her pool," the King concludes a bit distractedly.

"I'd show up to a naked library, too." Enyo agrees with Zerric with a nod, then she lets her attention shift back to Luis, then to Alaric, then to Luis, then back before she laughs. One hand lifts up to cover her mouth, trying her very best to smother the laughter even though it doesn't appear as though she'll do a very good job, and might in turn cause herself to choke to death instead.

With head still bowed, Luis replies, "Thank you, of course, your majesty," he adds, rising slowly and moving over to the princess because well the King said to, "Dear Princess, and proprietor of the Hart, I do hope that in my haste to swim, I did not cause you grief or undo duress?" he asks, a casual glance around to the others, though his focus is on Valencia because well the King said so.

Valencia turns to the King and looks as though she might hug him for his kindness. "It is a very hot night, my Lord. I know our stone pools are very enticing and favoured among many for swimming and passing the time. I can only imagine your need to find the waters was so great that you quiet forgot to invite his Majesty and our other guests to join you," Valencia offers graciously to Luis with a little smile. "And you are very welcome to swim here, my lord. And, as long as the other guests are not offended, I am happy for you to swim as it pleases you. You are Lycene are you not?" she teases gently but fondly. "I am glad you are so very comfortable here. I hope that everyone would feel so."

Since the King is distracted, Zerric watches the whole spectacle with immense amusement, finally breaking loose a hearty laugh at the scene. After a good long moment, Zerric allows the laugh to die down, turning back towards Enyo. Towards her, he grins deeply and nods at that. "What better place to read than a naked library could possibly exist? Or for that matter, what better place in all of Arvum could exist? Small goblets of wine, clothing optional, literature for days..." Saying all of that, he peers towards Valencia as if getting ready to make the library in the Hart a naked one, but rather he listens to Luis and the Princess. With that, he grins deeply and nods his head in agreement with her, possibly considering diving into the pool along with Luis.

Enyo finally gets her laughter under control, hands lifting up to brush tears out of her eyes, sniffing slightly. She then drops her hands to adjust her armor before she then folds her hands in front of her. She then nods very seriously, "Yes, indeed. What better place? I for one will put in a vote for that over all other types." Which, well, she can't manage to remain serious for too long before that smile spreads across her lips once more.


"Indeed, your Highness, quite Lycene..." odd how Lycene rhymes with obscene. Still Luis bows his head to the Princess and to his Majesty and slowly backs ups, "As much as I would deign to return to the pools, I fear that my initial frollic has caused me to rethink my acquaintance with the pool at this time. I shall go beclothe myself and return in a more proper manner, Your majesty, your highness, Lords, Ladies, Missers and Madames," he explains then turns slowly, and all but runs to gather his clothing and weapon so as to head for the changing area in the Garden and reclothe himself. He'll spend a little extra time rearranging his curls and setting them with oil that he may have on his person. That done, he returns, colour once again returned to his face and looking almost completely himself once more. He finds wine, servants carry it, it's good, it's helpful, and he takes two glasses from a profferred tray to down them both, one quick shot after another, that done, emboldened, he takes a final glass to actually nurse. "Right... well... that was awkward," he mumrmurs quietly, though there's a glance towards Enyo and Zerric, their laughter clearly not having gone unnoticed.


Alaric swaps wineglass for quill and parchment with Zelda, who then unstops a bottle of ink and holds it out as the King writes a message that is apparently unsuitable for even quiet dictation in public. It's the inner machinations of the highest level of government at work! It doesn't make it look particularly any more dramatic than a well-dressed monarch standing and writing a note otherwise does, though. "Definitely Lycene," Alaric comments in the same lightly distracted tone as he works.

Valencia seems to take all this in stride, her composure and bright sweet smile reset after initial shock. She smiles to Luis as he returns more appropriately dressed for this kind of party, offering a light and comforting touch to his arm. "I am so very glad you here. It is always a delight to see you," she says softly before turning back to the conversation at large. "My sweetest Majesty, you worry me. Do you ever stop working, sir? I do not know how you manage it," she says with a little shake of her head.

"Thank the gods for the Lyceum." Enyo sighs at that, the sound purposefully dreamy for a moment before she then glances over at Alaric, standing up a little straighter before she remembers something important. One does not try to sneak peaks at the King's messages. That reminder remembered she turns her attention firmly somewhere else, "So, how about the weather? I'm thinking that the weather is getting just about perfect, don't you agree?"

Really, Zerric is quite enjoying Luis' embarrassment, though when the man looks at him, Zerric gives an apologetic smile back at the man. Towards Enyo, he looks back and seems like he would say more, but further embarrassing Luis might actually get him in trouble. So, the conversation about the naked library is sadly dropped. Instead he listens to Valencia discuss the King's work load.

Luis bows his head in polite acceptance to Valencia's welcoming, thankfulness running its course upon his face as he finds a smile at last, "Ah, yes, thank you your highness, always a delight indeed." There's a pause and he turns his hand over, the one by which her hand hand touched the arm, and he takes her hand fondly, giving it a squeeze before releasing it with another smile for her. Noting the unsaid conversation that goes about, he adds in with Enyo's comment, "If someone starts commenting upon a full moon, I'm going to throw them into the pool," he says with a laugh, he could be joking.

Alaric folds up the note, writes one more very short one and passes the both of them to Zelda to begin the well-practiced switcheroo that returns all messaging paraphenalia to his assistant and all alcohol-containing objects to the King. "Alas, you can't stop being the King when you're the King, Valencia," he notes lightly. "Besides, I have plenty of previous not-working to make up for." For whatever reason, Zelda proceeds straight to Enyo to hand her something. "Do you have to throw yourself into the pool now?" he asks Luis a trace impishly.

Valencia looks up to the sky and then to Luis, "But it is a very beautiful one is it not?" she replies with a completely straight face and the sweetest of smiles.

"Quite a fetching full moon it was." Enyo agrees, her smile widening with unapologetic glee as she leaps onto this new train of thought, "I always have found that many, many great things happened under the light of a full moon...when visibility is at it's best, you know." When Zelda proceeds over to her, and hands her something that amusement just hikes up a little more, "Thanks."

Zelda, the royal messenger arrives, delivering a message to Enyo before departing.

Slipping through the double doors leading to the Garden, Delilah arrives with silent footsteps at a leisurely pace. A belated entrance, yet much to her surprise, the Golden Hart is as lively as ever. "Evening." the young woman states to the air around her as she approaches those sociable. Sharing a faint smile to those who meet eyes with her, she lifts her chin up at Luis' comment but thinks nothing of it.

"I don't think there has ever been a more full moon to grace the Hart, really." Zerric remarks as he follows his attention up towards the sky with Valencia. Of course, with all of this, Zerric can't help but to laugh deeply.

"Lady Delilah, good evening. You're just in time to see Lord Luis try and throw every single person in the Golden Hart into the pool," Alaric declares regally.

"In truth, the heart of the Hart is one of the best places to enjoy watching a full moon. Though I think the beaches are another of my most favoured places," Valencia muses, her expression sweet and bright. An empathetic smile is offered to the King, "Just so, I know you are right. I am so very glad you are still able to grace us with your fine company and to partake in enjoying such a beautiful moon on such a lovely summer night."


Luis gives the King a wonderful smile and bow of his head, "Thank you your Majesty, I did say someone, sadly at this moment, with the state of my embarassment I would like to believe that I rate somewhere below the title of someone," he admits, grinning politely, if a bit sheepishly. As Valencia looks up at the sky and comments, his lips draw into tight line, but then he laughs, a good natured sort, "Ah, yes Dear Princess... though you're not the only one to comment upon how beautiful it is..." a wink given, a brow arched and he sips his wine, settling down into a free spot and looking around, finally coming to a state that's less embarassed and more natural. He pauses, then looks to Enyo, "Indeed, though I do want you all to know that you are truly forcing me to proclaim that my word is not binding in such matters, though I dare say I could throw the both of you into the pool... pretty sure I could do it... were it not for that whole retinue of armed guards looking at me like I owe them something," he states, looking towards the King's royal guards. He turns back to Zerric, "Actually you'd be surprised. I believe that there are often skin only bathing parties within this Garden... maybe you'll get an invite one day."

"I shall treasure this always." Enyo assures Alaric, waving the note in the air for a moment before she tucks it inside her breastplate, then she grins, "I heard that beaches were great for some things, but you know...sand, everywhere." She shakes her head in amusement, still seeming to be far, far more amused by this entire thing than one really should be. "If skin only bathing parties are a thing here, how does one go about hosting? Because...this sounds like something I have to do."

Luis sighs and stands up, offering his hands to both Enyo and Valencia, "I am sorry Princess, and Lady, by order of the King I'm now supposed to throw you into the pool, would you please do me the favour of complying so that I do not have to struggle too hard?" He asks extremely politely.

Luis does look towards the arriving Grayson and smiles at the Lady, giving her a polite bow, even though his arms are still extended.

"Am I now?" Delilah states in response to Alaric with amusement. Her gaze flicks between the King and Luis and, meeting eyes with Luis, she dips her head. "My, what on earth have I walked into?" the young woman asks herself, though her curious gaze turns to Valencia as if she's to answer.

At Valencia's comments, Zerric chuckles and nods his head in agreement. "This night is likely one of the best nights to enjoy a full moon. Why, I believe The Lord forgot to partake in the festives. Pray, I believe he intended to throw his clothing into the fire before jumping into the pool." He offers with an impish grin toward Luis, then shifts to listen to the mans speak. With that, he laughs heavily until he turns to Enyo with a grin, nodding his head at that. "Oh please, My Lady. You would have to send an invitation my way for surely a party such as that could not be missed. We might even be able to compete with the moon Lord Luis has revealed to us this night."

"They do drill quite a lot to make certain the King of the Compact doesn't get thrown into pools, among other things," Alaric observes casually with an approving look at his guards. "I'd save me for last if I were you." He turns to Enyo, wrinkling his nose a bit at 'sand everywhere'. "Don't lose it, now," he deadpans before smirking and turning back to Valencia. "I may not get a break from being the King, but one benefit of being the King is that I get to decide -where- I do the work. It makes all the difference, sometimes." He glances at Luis momentarily before looking back down to her. "Enjoy the swim," he stage-whispers.

"My sweetest Lord Luis, I must decline your offer, for if I were to find myself in pool in this dress it might be ruined, and then you would be tasked with replacing it, and I must admit I have very expensive taste. /Very/ expense," she says with a glance Enyo's way and then turning to smile sweetly up at the Lycene Lord. "I say this to protect your pocket book from desolation. However, I may consider joining you in the pool if all our guests are amenable," she suggests, moving just out of Luis' range to warmly greet Delilah, "Welcome to my Hart. I am so glad you are here. Have you met everyone, my lady?" the little vixen asks, waving to a pretty buxom brunette serving girl to bring the lady a drink.

"Oh, no no..." Enyo's hands lift up, pulling away from the offered hand, "I am not going into that pool, for one...it'd ruin my armor, and my sword, and then this wonderful note I have. So...nope. You will just have to throw me in a pool at a later date." And just to make certain that no one happens to be going to try, she makes a move to put anyone else between her and Luis. Two very important points need answering, however, "I'll never lose it, Your Majesty. I'll read it, every night before bed and take the words to heart." And the second. "I'll send everyone invitations."

Glancing between the patrons, Delilah turns back to Valencia and shakes her head, "Thank you for the warm welcome as ever. Unfortunately, I've not yet come to meet everyone here, though they seem a /little/ preoccupied so I shall make myself known at a later date." A faint smile emerges from her lips as she happily accepts the drink.

Luis sighs and places his hands down, resting them upon his hips. "Indeed, well trained guards, save the King for last, Princess needs to be removed of her clothes before throwing her into the pool, and apparently the Lady enyo would like to have her note embroidered upon her pillow case. Also she would like to have her armor removed before she is thrown into the pool. Misser Zerric, was there any other request you had before you were thrown in, or should I assume that were either of these beautiful noblewomen to enter the pool, you would have a ready excuse to find yourself swiftly within the pool as well?" That all asked and said, Luis turns to Delilah, "Good evening Lady Delilah, it has been a Moon, since I last saw you, though it was still within the Hart."


1 Navegant Marines, 1 Navagant Marines arrive, following Regla.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Enyo before departing.

Everything is going on. Everything is funny at the moment. Zerric laughs as he watches Enyo and Luis discuss the bit about being thrown into the pool, and then he turns to watch as Valencia declines being thrown in as well, unless everyone else has joined the fray. To that, there is perhaps a slight blush that finds his cheeks which only gets worse when Luis is talking to the young scholar. "My Lord." He starts, trying to prepare some sort of defense. "Were the ladies to have engaged the pool, surely that would mean the party is moving thusly. Who am I to refuse such a party?" That comment about there being a moon between Luis and Delilah gets a light chuckle, but Zerric is probably too worried about dealing with the nude pool party bit to find it as amusing. Finally, he comes to look towards the woman and bows lightly. "A pleasure, My Lady. I beg that you forgive us, this party has become quite a bare one tonight."

Torian slipts out some time ago, but one can't get back to the city without going through the gaming area and bar, and so when he returns some minutes later it's little suprise that his gait is a little more lopsided than before. He tips heavily to a person who follows him in with an ale, and maybe had some luck at the dice again? Regardless he stops and looks around at the people he left, one eye popped wider than the other as he tries to catch up to what he's missed. He tests his hypothosis by sauntering up behind Valencia and leaning in for a quick whisper.

Alaric has killed off the contents of one more wineglass but the staff is as always on point and ready with a fresh one. "I'm pleased to see you taking both words with the seriousness in which they were offered," he tells Enyo wryly. "My invitation doesn't need to be embroidered by the by, although I would be duly impressed by the artistic touch." He turns back to regard Luis and Valencia with regal amusement. He does seem quite happy to stay on the periphery of this one.

Valencia nods and smiles to Delilah as she is served and made comfortable. "I should be very happy to introduce you, my lady. Please be very welcome," she says with another little look Luis and then Zerric's way. "I do not think Lady Enyo would be easily removed from her armor. I would suggest that you maybe rethink this," she smiles playfully. "Though perhaps if it pleases we may all take a little swim. Midnight swims here are one of my favourite things to do in fine company. And for record, I do have bathing shifts and trunks for those who feel more modest tonight."

"That seems a bit too far." Enyo replies with a grin, shaking her head over the idea of an embroidered pillow. Really! But then she gets caught by messengers, sending some quick response before she glances at Alaric, "Ah, well, I could attempt it, but I dare say I'd probably end up with a needle through my fingers. I could be easily removed from it, but I don't think anyone is willing to pay the price I'd demand."

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Enyo before departing.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Enyo before departing.

"Good evening, Your Grace." Delilah speaks to Luis with another dip to her head, her smile becoming more of a grin. "Yes, I seem to always make it here when the moon is out." Breaking into somewhat of a giggle that she attempts to keep hidden away by covering her mouth with a hand, she eventually regains herself and turns to Zerric with a nod of approval. "It's quite the lively party, if a little bare."


Regla had promised that she would be back in the Hart after dealing with the current issues facing House Navegant. A woman of her word, or rather, she tries to be, she enters in to the Hidden Garden with guards in tow. She waves them off upon entering, and takes a moment to give the place a look over, seeing who is present and, OH MY GOD IS THAT THE KING? Regla takes in a long breath and exhales deeply, /focus, poise, grace, all taht lady like stuff you're not good at regi, do that..don't get drunk and act a fool in front of the king./ She exhales again, straightens up her clothing a bit and wades in to the crowd, moving forward to Valencia first, whom she shows a bow. "Your Highness" she says, lookg around again, "I see I've come at a rather busy time..."


"Modesty... that's so... everything other than a Lycene way to be," Luis remarks to Valencia, grinning slightly as the rest of the conversations start to fall back into lighter notes. He picks up his glass and finds his seat again, sipping from it before looking at Enyo over the rim, "Well, I'll bite, what's the price?" he asks, looking at her seriously, then turning back to Zerric, "No no, put your coinpurse away, it's not going to be a monetary value she's going to say," he pats the man's hand and then turns back to Valencia, "I shall, your highness, though now that you've said midnight, I fear everyone may remain here..." he states, looking around meaningfully at everyone present, even Torian as he arrives back. "Well your Majesty, I am afraid that it will be a spell before they are all in the pool, though I shall keep your presence updated with messages upon each one's pool dipping exercise, I would not wish you to think me not a man of my word, your Majesty."

Luis has a moment of pause and looks to Delilah, "Not as bare as it was a moment ago... though it sure is more lively..." a brow arch.

Torian looks around at the shenanegans that the event has deteriorated too and just shakes his head and drinks his ale. "What? You're supposed to do it all alone?" He asks, trying to figure out why Luis is trying to get people in the pool. He returns a little whisper to Valencia then, not having a messenger to pass his notes for him.

Alaric sips his wine with a light nod. "Someone suggested I take up sewing as a hobby not that long ago, to which I believe I replied I think painting does just as well to express my artistic impulses with much less potential for bloody fingers. Who do you think is winning the game?" he replies to Enyo. He turns to regard Luis with a light half-shrug and an understanding expression. "It's difficult to extemporaneously organize a pool party on the fly like this, I suppose. Worry not, I have no doubts that you did your best, Lord Luis."

Conker, the Ornery Red Squirrel, Dame Barkley, a chocolate tri beagle arrive, following Joslyn.

Zerric has his attention on Luis for the moment, a deep grin on his face. "My Lord, might I recommend. You started this party but ended it just as quickly. You were the first and unless you decloth, potentially the last." He offers before looking towards Valencia. Of course, the offer to move the entire party to the pool warrants a grin. Soon he has his attention turned towards Delilah and he nods his head at her. "Quite lively to be sure."

"A diamondplate sword." Right? Because NO ONE would be crazy enough to agree to this just to get her out of her armor into the pool. Right? Enyo just smiles, her arms crossing over her chest as she lets her attention drift around for a moment before she turns towards Alaric, "Painting? I'd say that you are probably winning....do you share your artistic endeavors with anyone? I'd love to see if you do."

Joslyn never arrives anywhere on time! She strolls along into the Hart, a smile on her face, hair perhaps a little disheveled and a few questionable bruises, but she looks like she's in high spirits! Wine already in hand from her way in, and being idly sipped, she looks around to see those gathered.

The little princess smiles and laughs softly, happy to see her guests enjoying themselves. A bright and beautiful smile finds her lips as Regla arrives and Valencia moves to greet her with a warm hug and a little kiss upon the cheek, "My dearest Lady, it is good to see you. I will have Lizette bring some more rum," she smiles brightly. "I was hoping to see you tonight. Come, join us."

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Enyo before departing.

"That's kind of you to say so, but I'm hardly playing at all. I think it's Master Zerric over there. He's been rather adept at camoflauging with context some of his word choices," Alaric tells Enyo before taking a drink to obscure his grin. "But I do share my paintings. It's probably more accurate to saythat I give them away, at that, so I'm afraid I wouldn't have much to show you. Recently I've been doing portraits of other people to try and push my boundaries as a painter. It's time I stepped up beyond plants and vases and the like, I felt, and I've since found it's a fine way to have interesting conversations I wouldn't normally have otherwise."


With a smile for the King, Luis bows his had to the man, "Of course your Majesty, most kind of you to say," he adds, and yet, there's a touch of a stung pride in the way he wears the King's words. He waits a moment, sipping from his wine and then shakes his head, watching the new arrivals, "No, dear Misser, I do believe that I will not be the last..." he adds, something knowing in his tone. More wine is sipped until he looks at the bottom of his glass like it were a betraying lover, a hand wave and gestures and he's quickly replaced it with a full glass, which he immediately sips. Finally he can turn his attention to Enyo's comment, "Well I theoreticallly could give you any sheathed sword at the moment and call it diamondplate to fulfill your request... for His Majesty is right there and I'm sure that drawing any portion of a blade would be highly frowned upon..." he suggests, looking around for a moment, "But that would be dishonest," he states clearly and slowly as though he were scolding a child, and then laughs. He looks up to the arriving Regla and he gives her a wave, "Ah the Lady Regla Navegant, a pleasure, it has been far too long."



Regla smiles warmly at Valencia, returning the hug with a sligh squeeze of her own. "I am most glad to be here your Highness, I was up for a party." She smiles again, and nods at the mention of extra rum being brought, there's a slight smirk that remains on her lips as she bows her head, "Thank you your Highness.." she adds before turning slightly to the mention of her name, "Oh, My Lord, it has been far too long. A pleasure to see you again as well."

"Yeah? Well, that sounds like a really good thought to follow-up on, Your Majesty." Enyo decides, grinning a moment before she glances at Zerric, winking at him before she then snorts at Luis, "You could, sure...but then you'd have to run really fast and far away from me when the deception is learned, and while that would be fun...It'd also be tedious." She stretches a bit before her hands tug at the breastplate in question, "I also think that I'll run away now before anyone could possibly decide to do anything rash."

With a faint smile extended towards Valencia, Delilah says, "I'm feeling a /little/ tired so I'll have to avoid the pool shenangians for tonight." A quick glance shoots towards the door as she contemplates leaving now, and she spots Joslyn. "Dearest Lady Joslyn, how fortunate of me to run into you. Come to share a drink or two with us?"

When the King himself calls Zerric out, the scholar turns the King and grins, simply nodding his head at that before turning to Enyo, catching that wink. Wrinkling his nose at her, he shakes his head at that. Towards Luis, Zerric chuckles and rolls his shoulders. "Well, who then will you con out of their clothing and into that pool first?" He offers before turning to meet Regla as she arrives, granting her a polite bow. "My Lady, a pleasure to see you again." The same bow is turned to Joslyn as she too arrives. "My Lady, a pleasure."

Joslyn's eyes find their way immediately towards the bright cobalt of Delilah's, smiling warmly as she lifts her glass for a few moments. "I was on my way home," she says. "When I remembered hearing that Princess Valencia had been hosting a gathering, and I thought I'd come in, share a few drinks and see who might have been gathered around!" Joslyn smiles broadly, moving to join with Delilah and Valencia. "So good to see you again, Dearest Lady Delilah," Joslyn beams towards her and sips at her wine, and a beaming smile is offered to Valencia.


Regla turns to Zerric as well, giving the man a slight nod and a warm smile. "Master Zerric, I am sure the pleasure is all mine." She gives him a a sly grin to think about and turns back around to start looking for that lovely rum she so desperatly is thristy for at the moment.

"Lady Joslyn, I am so glad you are hear," Valencia beams brightly, offering the Lady warm little hug and kiss upon the cheek. Dark eyes blink at her state, "Are you quite alright?" she asks noting the bruises. "Sparring?" she asks knowingly.

"I believe you've met the royal messenger, she's quite adept at handling all follow-ups," Alaric observes personably to Enyo. "Granted, I might have to request that my next portrait sitting wait for our recent troubles to settle more on a solid path to resolution, but beyond that I don't actually have anyone I've promised a painting to at the moment." He glances behind him momentarily. "And I can't deny something rash may happen. If you want to run away behind the King's Own, they are a very good barrier." He raises his wine glass. "Until next time. Don't forget to remind your Aunt about our bar crawl!"

"Much to my surprise, there's so many people who have stuck around for hours after the event had started. I had recently swung by with the expectations that everyone would've returned home." Delilah states, before giving Joslyn a small hug after Valencia. She nods alongside the princess and gives Joslyn a small nudge after pulling away from the hug. "You're always getting bruised up and it worries me."

"I'll send along a message, and see about arranging for that follow up....and I'll also remind Auntie about the bar crawl." Enyo replies with a grin, nodding to the group before she starts to move away from everyone, "So long...farewell....a pleasure...I'm sure that I'll see everyone again...good night!"

The ladies draw his attention, and Zerric is grinning at the two who seem to be unaware of the potential nudity soon to come. That grin towards him causes the scholar to grin back, granting her a wink. "My Lady Delilah, perhaps you missed the context of the party." He suggests before waving towards Enyo as she starts to leave.


"Ah, Lady Delilah, please do enjoy your evening and I would also enjoy the pleasure of spending time with you at a later date, I have met some of your most wonderous supporters," Luis tells her and gives her a head nod of parting. As Josylyn arrives, Luis rises again to greet her, "Lady Joslyn, I am happy to see you, my sister sends her warm regards and I'm also supposed to tell you that she is practicing rigorously all the things you have taught her so far. Also from my own point I wish to congratulate you on your win the other night, your display did set my heart at ease to know that my sister is learning from someone as accomplished as yourself."

To Enyo, Luis bows his head, "Another time and perhaps we shall see if there's another way to get you out of your armor," he tells her, "Good evening, Lady Enyo."


Joslyn returns the hugs and cheek kisses both Delilah and Valencia with a fond smile for them both, pulling back to settle herself close beside Delilah she nods, smiling over towards Serric and giving him a dip of her head, she than looks to Valencia at her question. "Oh, I'm fine. I had a lot of fun," she explains. "The bruises hurt a touch, but sometimes a little pain feels good, no?" Joslyn sips her wine. "Or is that just me?" A giggle a shse notes Luis and smiles warmly towards him. "Thank you, Lord Luis, your sister is a fine student of mine. I mean to prepare her for a spar for our next lesson, I just need to find her a student at a similar level," she considers. "But thank you. I'm not the best fighter, not even close, but I'm doing my best at improving at every turn that I can." She looks to Delilah and Valencia and murmurs something quietly towards the pair.

Curiously glancing towards Luis, Delilah tilts her head ever so slightly and mimics, "Most wonderous supporters?" Turning to the voice addressing her, she nods, "Admittedly, I'll be missing both the best and worst parts of the party, it seems." Leaning into Joslyn's whisper, Delilah's cheeks go a faint shade of red and she takes a sip of her drink. "You've got to be more careful, dearest Joslyn. And, maybe I'd be a suitable student?"


Luis gives Valencia a nod of his head, "Thankk you, dear Princess, your choice of wines this evening is superb, as always," he admits and raises his glass with a sip from it. There's a pause as he looks around at all gathered, bowing his head to Joslyn, "She is indeed, and you should try the Princess here, as a sparring partner for her... then again, she could be telling me untrue things about the level of her expertise..." he admits, looking at Valencia sideways and with a grin. That matter settled, he leans back, sipping wine once more... could be his fourth, or fifth glass at this point, he's not really been keeping track.

"And yes, a Greenblood. Just met her the other day... very apt and marvelously supportive of your endeavours," he adds, not ashamed to give praise where it is due.


Alaric drains the last of his wineglass and politely presents it to the staff for removal. "Regrettably, I've an early morning anticipating my arrival at some functions that I rather shouldn't be merely half-awake for," the King declares. "A pleasant night to everyone, and don't do anything I wouldn't do!" he warns cheerfully. The accumulated wine is maybe starting to show as he gestures to his guards to form up for departure. "Also, I definitely expect not to hear of any Valencias being thrown in the pool tomorrow," he concludes breezily. "Don't disappoint your King!" It's a little hard to tell if he's being serious or opposite-serious. With that little bit of ambiguity dropped into the proceedings, the King of the Compact issues a regal wave and heads off to the Palace with only a minor hint of the wobbles.

"As we decided, quite bare, My Lady." Zerric teases towards Delilah before giving a light chuckle. Quite, it seems the conversation is shifting from nudity to sparring. Then the King is off and Zerric bows towards the man as he leaves.

"Perhaps you would," Joslyn agrees, looking to Delilah with a nod. "I'd love to see how you handle a blade, and perhaps I can teach you a few things if you're willing. And I can see how Lady Lucita and yourself fare against one another," Josyln nods a moment and considers. "Princess Valencia, do you spar?" she wonders at Luis's comment. "I hadn't known! But either way, we can find somebody," Delilah's comment gets a smile and a nod, her answer is spoken quietly.

The night is warm and beautiful, the bonfire still burns and the drink still flows. Valencia could not be more pleased. A quiet word is shared in reply to the roguish Torian and then a smile offered to Zerric, happy to see him having such a lovely time. A little sip of drink is taken and she smiles to the newly arrived ladies and is about to speak when Luis mentions sparring and she laughs, "Tschkt! Such words. I am terrible at such things. I would be no match for Lady Joslyn or Lady Regla. Not in a million years. You however, I am not so sure," she looks back at him with a teasing grin.


Regla looks up from her glass of rum, lost off in her own little world, hearing her name brings her back to the land of the concious and social. "Hmmm? What about me?" she asks, looking curiously at Vallencia for answers because, well, she didn't hear a word, outside her name.

Luis quietly shows signs of mirth, "Ah, no dear princess, I was suggesting you spar my sister, the Lady Lucita," he admits, giving over to her grin as he sips his wine. He watches as people start to leave and nods his head in their directions, watching, waiting, pondering. "He said he does not wish to hear of any Valencias being thrown into the pool tomorrow. So... as long as none of you tell, we can throw her highness in." Luis finds the loophole and quickly explains it to everyone present.


"My, what on earth have I done to earn such support?" Delilah asks with faint grin. "I'm afraid that the wonderous Greenblood has much to say about my House and very little to say about me. Truly an honor, nonetheless." Her cobalt blue eyes study Luis carefully for a moment, before watching the King off. A nod towards Zerric, before she speaks, partly to Joslyn, and partly to those around her, "Well, I suppose that's something for another day. I really should be off, I'm getting far too sleepy and these drinks certainly aren't helping. I'm afraid I won't be able to see what ends up happening with the princess."

Joslyn moves protectively in between Luis and Valencia, giving Luis SUCH A LOOK, though upon the departure of Delilah Joslyn looks momentarily despondent. "Oh, that's too bad Dearest Delilah, I hope we see each other soon... will you be needing anybody to walk you home?" she offers.

When regarded with that smile from Valencia, Zerric returns it back with one of his own. "You are such a gracious host, Your Highness." He compliments fondly, his smile lingering for a long moment before he peels his attention away from her and looks towards Luis as he suggests throwing Valencia into the pool. "My Lord, throwing the lovely Princess into the pool first would not be fair. Truly you ought to start with another lady?" He offers before looking towards Delilah as she makes her farewells. With that, he bows towards her. "A pleasant night, My Lady."

Luis bows his head to Delilah, then laughs as Joslyn moves between him and Valencia, and shakes his head at all of them, But if the Lady Delilah is leaving and the Lady Joslyn is to escort her, the only Lady left would be our Lady Regla, and she already is much more fond of the water with her heritage, one would think. Hardly sporting."

Valencia offers a warm nod as the king departs and turns back to the gathered guests. Luis words gets a little snort and soft laugh, dark eyes glimmering brightly. "At your peril, my lord. Though I would like to know what is the fascination with throwing me into water? This seems to be a trend," she shakes her head slightly bewildered. Another smile is offered to Regla, "Sparring, my darling. Lord Luis was suggesting sparing partners for me and I have declared myself no match, well, for anyone really," she shrugs. There is a sad but resigned look as Delilah says she must leave and she nods, "Thank you for coming to the event, my lady. I hope we will see you again soon. Oh, and before I forget, we are raising funds to help those in need in Thrax. If you can help, I would be so grateful," she asks a little shyly. "I would not ask, but the need seems so urgent right now."

Leaning in to buss Joslyn's cheek, Delilah responds with, "I do not wish to pull you away from the party, though if you'd like to accompany me I'd also never say no. Completely up to you, but I really should be sleeping and not so much chatting." Doing the same to Valencia, she states, "No no, thank you so much for providing a wonderful evening. Drinks, company, all the like. And of course, dearest Valencia. I'll speak more on the matters with you tomorrow, if that would be alright? A messenger will also do just fine if you're not available." She smiles warmly to those saying their goodbyes and dips her head. "See you all around."


"I'm going to need a great deal more of this in me" she raises her glass of rum in the air slightly, "before I'm a complete loss of any sense of modesty to the point of stripping off all my clothes and jumping in the water." She smiles to Luis and goes back to sipping on that Rum before turning to smiles at Valenica, "Oh, I'm sure I could teach you Your Highness." The question of the funds for Thrax question though gets her attention, "Your Highness" she adds with a slight pause and look of concern on her face. "I would, if only I had the resources to do so. The damage to Thrax as a whole is being felt by our house." She seems lost in thought a moment and exhales deeply.

"For true, My Lord. But if you can con our Lady Regla out of her clothing, at least the party can begin in earnest, for true." Zerric replies, casting an impish grin towards Regla, even giving her a wink. With that, he turns to look towards Valencia, granting her a somewhat sympathetic smile. With that, and the comment from Regla, Zerric turns towards her and grins at the raised rum. "Then perhaps Lord Luis ought to press upon you to drink faster?"

Joslyn gives Delilah a little smile and a nod, squeezing her tight and kissing her cheek gently. "If you ever have need of anything, just send for me, and I'll come as soon as I am able," Joslyn promises. "I may need to stay and make sure Princess Valencia manages to stay dry," she says, eying Luis some more. "And I'm not sure he'd dare try to dunk me," she adds.

Luis looks to Zerric, "Hey now, I can do all my own pressing without your inference," he says with a laugh. "Such matters of forcing ladies to drink, I lay solely at your feet." A glance to Joslyn and Luis sighs, "I am not sure that I could, you move too swiftly for me to properly lay a hand upon you without your permission, I would think."

Valencia shakes her head and smiles. "I do not think Lord Luis would ever be so unkind as to throw me to the waters," she decides after a quick study of the Lycene lord. "In truth, he has never been anything but charming to me. But swimming seems to be on mind, and it is a very warm night. Shall we adjourn this party to poolside?" the little vixen asks, looking from lovely face to face, a small, sweet smile kissing her lips.

Luis chuckles at Valencia's words, but nods. "That is the second such offer you have made this evening, though the crowd has thinned, so perhaps such an offering may not go unaddressed as the last one had." He gives a small smile as he finishes whatever number glass it is that he has and he moves to find another, freeing up the Joslyn to no longer protect the never innocent Princess.

Chuckling, Zerric shakes his head in response towards Luis. "My Lord, respectfully I offer that you have not proven as such." Before going any further with that, he pauses and casts a quick glance towards Valencia before looking back at Luis. "And you have me mistaken, My Lord. It seems that forcing the ladies to drink will be a matter left untouched." Then Valencia is the one to suggest that everyone goes to the pool and Zerric's cheeks discolor to a faint shade of pink yet again.

"Well I've already heard some stories of bare bottoms being exposed to kings. Would anybody object to a skyclad dip in the pool?" Joslyn asks of the room at large, smiling a little bit over her wine. "I think that that sounds like an incredible way to close out the night."


Regla just sits her glass down and stands up properly. "Hmm, well, why not..." is all she says before she turns on heel and heads for a pool, because, again, why not.


Luis laughs as he looks around at the answers, "It would seem that the vote is taken to agreement, and who would I be but to deny lovely ladies the opportunity to enjoy your pools, dearest Princess?" Luis asks, quiet sincerely. A bow of his head to them all and he turns to head that way, offering elbows to any who would accept, even Zerric.


"Then that is what we shall do then. It is a fitting end to a rather interesting night," Valencia smiles and laughs, taking a moment to glance up at the night sky. "I cannot wait for the next party. It really is a most remarkable moon tonight."