Keso, a street urchin, Peanut, an oversized mastiff arrive, following Aleksei.

Jiacomo, 2 Velenosa House Guards arrive, following Eleyna.

Eleyna, 2 Velenosa House Guards arrive, following Talen.

Mydas stands silently, the man fully clad in umbra with the occasional flash of aeterna. His golden eyes are somber, currently upon the pyre where his wife and what remains of his brother-in-law lie. It is only when others have gathered, when the time has come to speak, that he looks up. His gaze sweeps over those assembled, witnessing their presence, but also seeing what state of mind they bring to the event. "We are assembled today to pay our last respects to Prince Fergus Redrain and Marquessa Freja Acheron." His voice is calm, yet not without emotion. Indeed, though they never overtake him, never overwhelm his words, it is grief, it is sorrow, anger and acceptance. "We thank you for coming, and invite you to pay your respects on your own time. For now, however..." He motions to Khanne.

2 Novice Keaton Huntsmen, Norwood II arrive, following Margerie.

Marian wears a polite mask, as if the events around her do not effect her. Her careful gaze surveys the crowd as if to count who is among those that mourn the Redrain dead. Her vicious green eyes blaze green when she looks upon the pyre where her husband and sister-in-law lay. Her eyes move away quickly as if she can not look upon them for long. She stalks over to where Alis is standing, to give her daughter a hug, and perhaps gain some composure in the process. Once their greetings are done, she moves back over to where Mydas is standing as things start to get underway.

Micana, the efficient amanuensis, Golden, a juvenile Oakhaven bloodhound arrive, following Lucita.

1 Saik Guard, Gunther, a Rottweiler, Lucita arrive, following Estaban.

Quiet, somber, followed by guards, Cirroch arrives and moves to sit himself down near Gwenna, giving the woman a small dip of his head in greeting. "Your highness," he says quietly, unusually quiet, not offering the woman a smile, but sympathy.

Standing near Mydas is Sigurd. The brother had heard the news of the death of the two and he made it a priority to return. Now standing silently behind Mydas, the young man waits. As Mydas speaks, he bows his head, but steps forward to place a supportive hand on Mydas' shoulder.

Tila comes with Cirroch, large dark eyes somber as she takes in the pyres. A deep bow of her head is offered to Mydas and Marian as she passes them. She then settles into a seat, folding her hands in her lap.

Gwenna exits the villa, her expression somber as she crosses the courtyard toward the benches that are dotted around it. Taking a seat on one of the larger ones, she offers a polite nod of greeting to those she passes. Once seated, the gravity seems to settle more heavily upon her, the vision of the legendary Redrain siblings perhaps making things feel all too real. Cirroch's greetings lead the princess to straighten her posture. She offers both the Marquis and Lady Tila a nod in return greeting, sliding over a bit to make room.

Alarissa has come, no child, Victus likely somewhere else in the area and the Thrax Princess opts to hang back some right now and observe.

Not early, though certainly not late, Artur arrives for the funerals of two of his cousins along with his friend Aiden. Dressed in a the traditional Northlands style, all fur and leather, he's adopted a suitably sober expression by the time he arrives, though he does seem to have his mouth full of...something. also, crumbs of....something on his cloak. What's that in his hand? Oh, it's a cookie! A delicious chocolate chip cookie. Still, perhaps detecting this is less than the ideal time, Artur chomps down the rest of it and brushes those few crumbs from his cloak before approaching any further. Looking around the place, the young prince's eyes widen a little to see it so busy, though it doesn;t take him long to spot a couple of empty seats, beginning to work his way in that direction.

Talen leads his wife into the grounds with a small retinue of guards and their usual seneschal, Jiacomo, at their side. Their son and heir, Donato, is being carried by the Archduchess while the Archduke Consort himself moves with his usual brooding intensity and without a charge; the sullen expression perfect for such an occasion, for once. "Over there," he voices in a soft rumble of bass to his wife, before they move, in the direction of the Redrain family. For now, however, they listen to the speeches as they walk.

Alis lends Marian what strength and composure she's able to, with a quiet word and a steady gaze. Otherwise, for now, she will stand with somber expression beside her husband. The both of them looking toward the shamaness when she is named, to see and pay strict attention to the ceremony she will preside over.

Aiden has joined the shaded garden grotto.

Shard arrived alone, and she remains alone, having picked a spot near the back of the gathering where she could set herself out of the way. She looks mainly watchful, studying the gathered as much as those speaking and the pyres that have been built.

Aleksei slips in with the assembled group, in his white Archlector leathers as he usually wears. He looks onto the funeral pyre, his expression creasing with a quiet sadness. He doesn't interrupt anyone, just finds a reasonable place to stand for the time being.

Ian turns up, walking carefully, most of his attention on his feet. He pauses once he gets the grounds and takes everything in with a sweep of his gaze. His demeanor is solemn, intense blue eyes as calm and focused as ever.

Artur has joined the shaded garden grotto.

Tila has joined the courtyard benches.

Cirroch tt |"I'm glad we both made it here, sister, I was afraid I would not be able to," Cirroch says back to Tila with a small dip of his head her way, then looks over to Gwenna. "How are you holding up, your highness?"

Donella stands with her family, the Redrain family, wrapped up against a cold that is deeper than the brisk breeze blowing in from the Bay. And there are two ways to take deaths like these; she is clearly aligning herself with the party of rage that she is tamping down on. For now.

Aiden doesn't have the crumbs on his tunic, but he was also nibbling away on something as Artur and him walk into the Redrain grounds, shoving the remains of a cookie into his mouth as they come upon the solemn event. The box of cookies is handed back to his guardsman as he nods to Artur, pointing to a place they could stand out of the way. He was looking opposite of the northerner, in a black and purple tunic with leather pants and black boots with a lofted block heel. A white jacket was the only distraction from the mourning blacks, needed to keep back the bite of the winter chill.

Estaban comes walking in with his wife looking to Mydas and Marian he nods his head respectfuly to them moving to lead his wife to a place to sit, he has a somber look to him as hemoves past the pyre.

Eleyna enters quietly at Talen's side and nods as he directs them toward seats. Little Donato gazes over the crowd with wide blue eyes, but seems far more interested in chewing on his wooden duck than creating anything like a commotion. Nods are offered to the Redrains as the Archduchess' pale eyes cast about for a seat in which to observe the proceedings.

Estaban has joined the benches under the oak trees.

Lucita has joined the benches under the oak trees.

Mydas nods to Sigurd, thanks and reassurance that he's all right. Wordless, but when have words been required to speak from brother to brother? He watches those that enter, answering the various bow of heads and other salutations with a polite nod. Thankful for their presence, but otherwise returning his attention to the pyre, to the quiet contemplation of Freja, now lifeless upon the pyre.

Khanne looks to Mydas when he calls her name. She nods, a solemn expression upon her features. "I wished to honor the memory of both Freja and Fergus today, in a way that seemed most fitting." She looks around at those gathered. "We come from all walks of life, truly a mark of what their lives meant to the Compact as a whole, not just to their families and fealty." Drysi, Khanne's apprentice begins to walk around to those gathered, offering them a small glass. She carries a bottle with her, and for those who wish to partake, she pours about a shot worth of whiskey into their glass. "Both Freja, and Fergus enjoyed their whiskey, as many of the north do. Please join me in drinking a toast to them." Drysi brings Khanne a glass as well. Holding it aloft, Khanne says, "To the lives of Marquessa Freja Acheron and Prince Fergus Redrain. You both lived every day with determination and pride. We honor you today and will forevermore tell the tale so that you shall never be forgotten. Until next time.... to the last." She drinks down her glass of whiskey then.

"I have one more thing," she says, as people drink their whiskey. "It was Freja who long ago introduced me to the Warrior Woading that was a family tradition of hers. In honor of her and her life as a shaman, I would like to offer the Redrain Markings to the faces of any who wish to come to me while the rest of the funeral proceeds. Give a memory, or a thought of Fergus and Freja, and I will mark you with a stain to show your honor of their lives." She gathers her items and loos towards Marian. "Princess Marian..."

Khanne has joined the nook between the garden trellises.

Lucita gives a curtsy as she passes by with Estaban, her manner quietly respectful. She settles into place on the bench to which she is guided and glances around at the others before going quiet to listen to those speaking.

Aiden has left the shaded garden grotto.

Aiden has joined the benches under the oak trees.

Khanne drops Redrain Remembrance Whiskey.

Artur has left the shaded garden grotto.

Artur has joined the benches under the oak trees.

Aiden gestures to Artur as they make their way to the grotto to go instead to join some other people that he knows at the oak tree benches. He nods to Estaban, Lucita, and Alarissa. Though he doesn't draw his voice very high, not wishing to interrupt the words spoken from Lady Khanne. He does take the whiskey though as it comes around, side glancing to Artur to murmur something to the Redrain.

Once Sigurd has the signal that Mydas is holding strong, Sigurd releases the shoulder, watching him for a moment before accepting the shot of whiskey. Downing it back, it's gone in one fell swift swallow. His retreat leads him to the treehouse, out of the way, where the scout can watch over the proceedings.

As the small glasses are brought around, Alarissa takes one and when it's time, lifts it up in salute and tips it back .

Talen and Eleyna end up beside Donella, his chin lifted as he surveys Khanne during her words, keeping mostly silent out of respect. There's a murmured word or two perhaps but he turns to glance down the line of people in a casual game of recognising faces. When the glass is offered, he takes two, then extends to his wife with a raised brow. It's the 'do you want it or do I drink it for you' kind of look. Either way, his is lifted high in salutation, necked back, then he passes off the glass.

Margerie enters quietly, all solemnity and respect with a bow of the head to the grieving spouses before she steps towards one of the seating areas. Now with a glass of whiskey that hopefully won't make the rest of the service a blur. Her free hand touches her chest over her heart during Khanne's words before downing the whiskey. Admittedly a bit carefully.

While never much a fan of whiskey, Eleyna accepts the glass from Talen with a nod. Despite Donato suddenly deciding he has to have some Right Now and reaching his little grabby hands for it, she manages to down the shot respectfully. She lifts an eyebrow at Talen and then passes the glass back to him.

Alis takes a glass when it's offered, holding it aloft with her free hand while she whispers to Marian and Fergus' daughter. Then, the shot is tipped back to drink in one go.

Aleksei has joined the shaded garden grotto.

Talen says, "Freja'd be proud you didn't spit it out like a milk drinker."

Margerie has joined the shaded garden grotto.

Ian takes a seat and, a moment later, a glass of whiskey.

Ian has joined the benches under the oak trees.

Shard accepts a glass of whiskey, lifts it briefly, and then downs it. No hesitation here.

Tila gets a glass of whiskey, standing to raise it high and drink to her fellow Northerners. One deep drink. Then another that empites the glass.

Donella manages a sip of the strong fluid, turning the color of a fish belly, but grinding her jaw and keeping it down.

Aiden looks at the shot of whiskey and then with a raise of his glass to show respect to the Redrains, tilts it back and handles it without, coughing. Though he does squint a little. It's undeniable, northland whiskey was strong.

Aleksei takes a glass of whiskey, tossing it back easily enough. There's a crease to his brow as he watches the proceedings, and he doesn't step forward at the talk of the Warrior Woading. (It's possible he prefers keeping his job.)

Estaban lifts his glass up and drinks the whiskey.

Cirroch takes the glass of whiskey and rises up in the toast called for by Khanne, tipping his glass back and gulps it down before sitting back down with the two other ladies.

Lucita accepts the whiskey and drinks it when the toast signals it is time for that to be done.

Gwenna, like so many others, does not hesitate when the glasses are passed. She drinks the shot as one might expect a northerner to do, though can't hide the crinkling of her nose and slight squinching of her eyes. Beyond those, however, she seems to handle the liquid well enough.

Marian lifts a glass up and toasts, the liquid inside more like the substance of tea than whiskey. She drinks it quickly and then moves to where Khanne is standing and giving her speech, leaning over to gives some quiet words before taking her place before the crowd. She looks on with harden composure that shows a woman that grieves but is not broken, "To Prince Fergus and Princess Freja who have stood true for the good of House Redrain. To a brother and sister who held strong against overwhelming opposition. These two were loved by many because they remained vigilant outside the fire's warmth to protect our people. I give great thanks and pray the spirits and gods watch over them as they return to the Wheel." She looks over at the pyre as if those last words were spoken just to those two.

She returns her eyes to those Redrain still among them, "For those that are left behind to fill their shoes, grant us the clarity so we may find more peace than war. Help us through these dangerous times, let us not hide from those in need. When the woodsmoke fills the air, give us sharp senses and strong hands so we may grip our swords as we move to prevent the fire from spreading. Lead our hands to shape a stronger, better world. Show us our arrogance and teach us to be more humble. Take us where we might do the greater good.

Thank you all for attending. For all the support you have given myself and the Marquis Mydas Nightgold. Our loss is great but our challenges are greater. Now, more than ever, we need a strong house, standing side by side. Completing a circle that will not break. Here. Now. Standing. To the last!" She pulls Demonslayer, the House Redrain Sword out and raises it to the sky. The glint of her blade shines the torch light off the blade. A moment passes. She then puts her sword away and steps forward with Mydas by her side to take the torches nearby and light the pyre on fire.

Alarissa has left the benches under the oak trees.

Khanne Standing at the trelisses, her own face marked with the three red lines shadowed in black, Khanne waits for the others that with to honor the memory of the Redrain siblings in this way. "Three drops of Redrain," she whispers to those who approach. "Worn plainly on the faces, before battle it was meant as a warning. Today, they are outlined with black ash, a sign of our mourning." She nods to Donella when she comes near. Dipping three fingers in red powder, then the sides in black ash, she reaches towards the woman, smearing those lines from cheekbone to jaw.

Alarissa's leaving the area she was lingering in, moving with a respectful look to those around her and eventually coming up to just to the left abd behind Donella to murmurs something while listening to the words.

Ian drinks the whiskey, and otherwise stays silent. He's watching, listening. Paying attention. But there's a sense of him doing it as an outsider, someone come to bear witness, rather than participate.

When Marian pulls out the sword of Redrain and calls out her house words, Cirroch lifts his empty whiskey glass in return, calling out in reply to the woman, "To The Last!"

Mydas raises his glass wordlessly, and drinks it whole. He listens to Marian as she speaks, and nods in support, a rousing fire filling his golden eyes. "To the last." he echoes, his bass voice no less intense for its quiet. A servant takes the empty glass away as the Marquis steps forward at Marian's signal and takes one of the torches. The time has come. He looks down at Freja, and it is with a voice softened by love that he speaks next. "Farewell, my love. May your rest be true, and the next life without sorrow." He lowers the torch, and watches as the flames rise up. Only one step back is taken, and he remains immovable, his stare fixed upon the burning pyre. To fix the image in his mind? To ensure it is all of Freja that leaves for the next life? Perhaps both.

Margerie's eyes may water a bit after the shot, but sheer force of toe wiggling, nail clenching will keeps her from coughing. When Marian unsheathes her sword and speaks those rallying words, she stands again, lifting the mostly empty glass in tribute and her own.

Eleyna stands after Marian's speech, as she and Mydas take the torches to light the pyre. Her face is a smooth mask, but there is something lingering in those pale blue eyes, sadness mingled with anger. Little Donato shifts in her arms, trying to see the fire. He reaches insistently toward Talen, seeking a higher vantage point to see. Mydas' words for Freja just before he lights the pyre leave Eleyna with a clenched jaw, trembling slightly.

Tears start to show on Aiden's face as he watches Mydas put the torch to the pyre, but the Grayson is not ashamed to show his own mourning in the moment.

There was a reason he chose the treehouse. He had a whiskey bottle up there already. Sigurd pours himself a second fingerful - this one for the absent Morrighan as he lifts the glass. "To the last." comes the joining of the chorus before he downs it back.

Khanne looks up to Marian, pausing her face markings to shout out with the others, "to the last!"

Alis may not be Redrain, but she joins in the call of "To the last!" along with the others, perhaps because Nia can't quite yet make the battle cry herself. For the rest, her eyes go downcast when they start to shimmer a little. One breath, deep, and she looks back up to watch the Pyre's flames with respect.

Donella takes a deep steeling breath, and as she has moved quietly to take the markings to her face from Khanne's fingers, lifts her face to accept the stripes. The wind will make them dry swiftly. "Bonfires will burn defiant on snow."

Talen exchanges custody of Donato with Eleyna almost wordlessly, hoisting him up, turning him towards the spectacle. Nonetheless, tha father's own eyes linger on Mydas as he speaks (and probably isn't heard) from afar. With a glance toward Eleyna, he leans in to murmur, before he steps forward away from Donella and his wife. To the Archeron Marquis, he goes, not far from the flames - where Talen talks with him. You wanted close, kiddo? Just be careful you're not tossed in.

Marian does not part her eyes from the fires as the brother and sister burn. She stands by Mydas, no more grand speeches or quiet words of love are spoken. Those green eyes, oh how they burn in the fire light. Their intensity piercing for any that try to catch her eye. In this moment it is for the fallen, those they have lost. No more words can express the grief that shines in this woman's eyes.

"To the last," Tila intones softly after both Marian and Mydas have spoken. She then sits down again, eyes clear but with a contemplative sadness behind them.

Alarissa looks to Eleyna, where she's moved to with the small grouping, dipping her head and then to Khanne, a small smile offered up as Donella is marked.

Besides a few quiet words to those at the bench with her, Gwenna remains mostly without remark. What can be said in such times? The princess watches the fires with the sad expression of someone who watches their heroes depart this world.

Talen bows his head to Mydas, even stooping low enough to jostle his son to keep him up, then steps back with a last murmur as he heads in the direction of his wife once more.

Alis approaches Khanne next, leaning over slightly to whisper in the woman's ear and nod down at the baby held in her arms. "For us both, please." she asks, after sharing a fond memory that she has of the deceased warchief.

The Archduchess' eyes follow Talen as he wanders away with their son toward the fire. She turns her head to share a look with Alarissa as she reaches out to gently touch her arm, perhaps remembering funerals when she herself had been in the place of Marian.

Ian exchanges a few brief words with Lucita, although his attention stays mostly on the flames.

There's a glance back to Talen as the man takes his leave. A glance, and a meaningful nod in response to whatever was said. Then he returns to the contemplation of the flames. Silent.

Cirroch is overheard praising Khanne.

Cirroch is overheard praising Mydas.

Marian is overheard praising Khanne for: For her wise guidance in these difficult times.

Cirroch is overheard praising Marian.

Mydas is overheard praising Marian for: To the last.

Gwenna is overheard praising Marian.

Gwenna is overheard praising Mydas.

Gwenna is overheard praising Khanne.

Aiden is overheard praising Khanne for: To the Last

Mydas is overheard praising Khanne for: Wise and true.

Donella is overheard praising Mydas.

Donella is overheard praising Marian.

Donella is overheard praising Khanne.

Eleyna is overheard praising Mydas.

Eleyna is overheard praising Marian.

Eleyna is overheard praising Khanne.

Eleyna is overheard praising Donella.

Alis is overheard praising Marian.

Alis is overheard praising Khanne.

Alis is overheard praising Mydas.

Margerie is overheard praising Marian.

Margerie is overheard praising Mydas.

Khanne nods and dips her fingers in the red and then the black, lifting them to Alis' cheek first. She speaks softly as she paints the lines, giving honor to both Redrains we remember today, and sharing her own memories with her before turning to also paint the lines upon the cheek of the babe in her arms. "You will know their story as well, little one."

Khanne is overheard praising Marian.

Khanne is overheard praising Mydas.

Estaban gets up from where he is sitting and makes his way for Khanne he is silent as he waits.

Cirroch offers a smile as he speaks praise of Khanne, Marian, and Mydas, and plenty of others join in with him, though the smile is short lived as he looks to those approaching Khanne to share their stories and have their faced marked.

Alis gives a nod, and smile of gratitude to Khanne. "Thank you." she murmurs, stepping aside then for the next in line to get their markings. She will then just go be a little Marian shadow, standing nearby the woman and making quiet conversation with others.

The sweet smell of the flowers, mixed with herbs of cinnamon and thyme cover up any noxious scents. The fire builds, burning brighter as the smoke and flames now obscure the brother and sister ontop of the pyre. Marian's eyes never leave the flames. A silent sentinel beside Mydas.

Aiden watches Estaban approaching Khanne and with a nod to Artur, Aiden follows behind, to go speak with Khanne after Estaban's had words with her.

Brahm, a large iridescent plumed raven, 2 Iron Guardsmen, 3 Veteran Confessors arrive, following Morrighan.

Khanne nods to Estaban as he approaches. She would normally smile and greet the man, but today, her expression is solemn. She dips her fingers and waits until Estaban is ready.

Alarissa nods to Eleyna and then with a squeeze of Donella's shoulder, Alarissa's quietly off in search of her husband.

Olenna leaves, following Alarissa.

Estaban breaths deeply, "I will always remember when the Lord Commander Silas had his melee compition and I face Fergus, I had always been told he hit hard and I had watched him learn from my cousin Kima. Then I had the pleasure going head to head with him, I did not win but then again he praised me for not going down so eaisly ever. I even remember him yelling at me to just fall over already." he smiles but then it fades, "But he made me strive to do better and I will always reember him for that." he dips his head to Khanne.

"That sounds like an excellent idea" Artur nods to the suggestion of going to get drinks once proceedings here are somewhat taken care of. For now though, he averts his gaze from the fire and peels away from where he's standing, making his way over toward where people are filing past Khanne, waiting patiently for his turn to come up.

Khanne reaches up then to draw the three lines down Estaban's left cheek. She does manage a soft laugh when he speaks of Fergus yelling at him for not falling over. "Yes, that sounds like Fergus. A strong warrior, and a good friend. Always willing to help others grow as well. Wear the Red Rain markings with pride and even after they fade, speak their stories so they will live on." She nods then to Aiden to come forward, Artur being after him.

If one is to arrive late, it is better than never arriving at all, and it's from the Villa that Morrighan quietly makes her way out of, her gaze somber as it flicks to all the faces in attendance. She's followed by a small parade of guards, though they soon mix with the crowd, same as she, weaving through until she finds Marian and Mydas. The dame stands with them for a moment, her eyes finding the pyre, staring at it for a long while. To each she gives a gentle squeeze upon the shoulder, her head reverently bowed before continuing on, eventually settling to linger near Sigurd.

Morrighan has joined the a comfortable wooden treehouse.

Marian has quiet exchange with Mydas at the pyre, and now the flames reach high, she steps back and moves to Alis so she can take her daughter from her. The little one, unknowing of the event, girgles at her mom and shows a smile that displays her first tooth, "Look at that..." She smiles at Alis. The first geniune smile of the day.

Aiden nods to Estaban when he speaks of Fergus, his gaze turning to Khanne when it was his time to speak. "I met Freja early on in my time in Arx, when she was Princess Freja Redrain. She asked if I could help with her vulture, Dangerfloof. He was a great big vulture. She had him in the Golden Hart which is where we shared our thoughts on Dangerfloof. I was humbled that the Princess would have approached me, about him. We were in a way kindred spirits and I had hoped to get to know her more, but over the months after the siege..." his hands spread a little, regretfully, "What I saw and knew of Freja was enough, that if she or any of the other Redrain's came for aid, I would go without question. She was the first Redrain that I met in this city, but not the last." He bows his head for a quiet reflective moment.

Gwenna can not help but allow the hints of a fond smile as she overhears Estaban's words to Khanne. As it fades, she offers quiet words to Marquis Cirroch and Lady Tila before standing from the bench they all shared. Some errand or something else seems to be drawing the princess back to the villa.

Glancing over when Morrighan moves to join him, there's a slight smile offered from Sigurd. "I already drank a shot for the departed for you." The silent //where were you// is left out as he meets her eyes for a moment of sad silence before he pours a second shot and offers it to the redhead knight.

Gwenna has left the courtyard benches.

2 Redrain novice guards leaves, following Gwenna.

Once he departs from the fire, Mydas glances to the treehouse, but doesn't seem about to climb up just yet. Instead, he decides to head for the shaded garden grotto, where Aleksei and Margerie now stand. "Blessed. Milady." he greets.

Mydas has joined the shaded garden grotto.

Joining the back of the ranks, and not too noticable among other Redrain commoners is Behtuk. Someone probably told him he should be here, and here he is. As usual, he has little to say.

As Talen rejoins her, Eleyna leans against Talen, her cheek pillowed against his upper arm as she gazes at the flames, mostly quiet save for a few quiet murmurs to Donella and Talen now and then. Little Donato pokes his thumb in his mouth, blinking slowly and sleepily as he watches the fire as well, though the sound of Nia's giggle has him lifting his head in curiosity.

Ian continues to bear silent witness. The flames are reflected in his impossibly blue eyes.

Alis gives Nia a single kiss on the forehead as Marian takes her, a pleased smile appearing when that first little tooth is shown. "Look at that. Just beautiful." she murmurs. "And a fearsome tooth at that. Wait until it chomps on someone unknowing."

Donella catches a strong whiff of burning from the pyre, and lets her eyes flutter shut. She motions apologetically, and steps away to get some air, before she disgraces herself.

2 Redrain novice guards leaves, following Donella.

Estaban moves then to Mydas and Marian, "Marquis Mydas, Princess Marian I am sorry for your loss. I did not know Princess Freja as well as I did Princes Fergus but they were both Honored last night as well as their names joined those both myself and my wife have lost on a chandle of unity that was lit at our wedding reception last night."

Dipping her fingers again in the red, tilting the edges into the black, Khanne listens to Aiden's tale. Holding those stained fingers aloft, she waits for him to finish, nodding. "She loved that Dangerfloof, and it was a rather fitting companion for her in many ways, I think. Unique... but fitting. Then again, she was unique as well." She reaches then to draw those lines down Aiden's left cheek. "May her spirit thrive upon the wheel until next time." She nods then to Artur, letting him know to step forward.

Marian looks down at her little one and shakes her head, "Yes...I wouldn't get too close to that mouth now that she is armed." She nods to Alis to follow her and starts to make her way over to Eleyna and Talen so she can introduce Nia to the little guy that is staring at her. She murmurs softly to the pair, "Thank you for coming..."

Margerie turns her head towards Mydas as he approaches, bowing slightly. She takes a step back from her conversation, the better to leave room for him to join in the discussion with Aleksei at the grotto. "Milord. House Keaton sends its deepest condolences."

Tila has left the courtyard benches.

Aiden lowers to accept the lines drawn down his cheek, closing his eyes as he exhales a breath, "Until the next time we meet... Rest easy Princess Freja." He draws back and smiles quietly at Khanne, "Thank you." And then he shuffles back toward the benches, giving some encouragement to Artur as he walks back, with a hand squeezing the other's arm.

Talen looks down at Donato as he begins to grow sleepy, jostling him casually, almost hypnotically. With Eleyna leaning her head on him, he stares at the fire for a long time before he hears Marian's words. "Princess Marian," he greets plainly, with not how-do-you-do's, considering the moment. "Apologies for my son, he's refusing lessons of etiquette, much like his father." Letting the sleepy heir down, he grips him by the scruff of his tiny doublet, so he doesn't go stagger off too far. Perfect parenting, but hey, he gets to see the giggler. "Nell has heard our words, but as usual, you know where House Velenosa lives should you need anything."

Aleksei offers a small smile to Mydas as he approaches, his words of welcome not drifting beyond the area they stand.

Alis clasps her hands behind her back and follows Marian towards the ruling Velenosan pair. To each a quick nod of acknowledgement is given. But today she remains somber rather then talkative.

"Thank you, milord." Mydas nods to Estaban, as he is encountered on his way to the Grotto. "I thank you for your words and actions. Please, feel free to stay as long as you wish." But then he is gone to speak at the Grotto.

Shard watches silently as people go up, both to the pyres and to Khanne, but for her part she remains where she is.

Tila stands from the bench she'd settled on during the ceremony. Eyes going between Marian and Mydas. It's the former she approaches first. "Princess Marian. I wished to offer my sympathies properly. It grieves me that I did not know Prince Fergus well. If there is anything House Sanna can do for you during this time, please don't hesitate to ask."

Khanne is seen speaking softly to Artur as he approaches. She nods after he speaks, reaching to draw the remembrance markings down his cheek as she speaks to him in turn. She touches his arm with her unstained hand, a comforting gesture, then looks to see if any others wish to bear the marks.

"Of course. The service is lovely," Eleyna says softly. She nods once to Talen, as if to affirm his words, and then offers a bow of her head in greeting to Alis, saying few words herself. Donato glances at Nia and reaches a hand out to pat her, perhaps a touch roughly as toddlers do, while he says, "Hi." One of the handful of words he's actually capable of, along with 'up', 'mine, 'no', and 'cur'.

Late to the funeral, and trying not to attract too much attention to that fact, Theron gathers in with whatever crowd was formed. He doesn't greet anyone, and gone is the usually cheerful demeanor he displays. It's all solemn expressions and a dulled gaze. Brooding and contemplative.

And they say Talen is the worst parent, when Eleyna teaches her own son to call his father 'cur'.

Marian gives a soft smile to Tila, "Thank you for coming to witness their release from the mortal coil." She gives Nia back to Alis so she can give Tila a hug and get her out of the toddler's way. Nia makes grappy hands back at Donato but for all the sanity of the adults these two are kept from touching lest skin gets pinced or cries are given.

Behtuk doesn't join the line. He doesn't have much to say, he's not going to waste it on platitudes. His presence says everything he can honestly mean. He does however, shift his position, walking over and sitting down not far from Shard. His gaze cuts to her occasionally.

Artur takes a few steps toward Khanne when his turn is up, seeming to prefer to speak with her quietly about his memories. Still as he does, the keen onlooker might spot the odd smile, even the suggestion of a laugh, though it's not fully realized. He holds still as Khanne paints the markings upon his face, offering her a grateful smile and a respectful dip of his head, before turning to move on.

"Steady there, don't talk her ear off," Talen tells Donato in jest, before he looks up to Marian and proposes to her and Alis, with a glance across the grounds, "If you and Mydas would like a quieter drink somewhere, with something strong, a short time to get your mind off things... we could do that. We can have the children looked after and just have a short while to unwind and talk. Alis, you should likely come too, so you can see what it's like to do more than just drink tea." Half joke, half serious.

Ian braces himself on his cane, and rises. He nods to Lucita, and then nods to Marian, before heading out, watching his feet as he goes.

Shard doesn't fail to notice Behtuk; he's far too large for that. She eyes him back, narrowly, during one of those times he looks toward her, and briefly squints before looking back toward the rest of the gathering.

Mydas checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 7 higher.

"Can you say 'hi' back?" Alis encourages, keeping Nia just out of range once she's been patted. No need to start house warfare early for the two toddlers! She also plays tug of war against Nia with the finger of hers the child just grasped. "Mmm. A charming offer of course, Archduke." Though she waits for Marian to weigh in on the offer before saying anything else.

Talen says, "I'm naturally charming. It's a gift."

Ian has left the benches under the oak trees.

Tila hugs Marian tightly. Her arms aren't particularly muscular things, but there's a sturdy warmth about her. She holds the woman for a moment before parting. "Your daughter is absolutely beautiful," she says. "I should take my leave, but we'll speak again I'm sure. Spirits preserve you and yours, Princess." She starts to make her way out, with that.

Sigurd has left the a comfortable wooden treehouse.

Blitz have been dismissed.

Brigid the Barred Owl have been dismissed.

Cirroch rises up soon after Tila, following his sister and gives a dip of his head towards Maian as he approaches. "I offer my sympathies as well, and as my sister said, feel free to call upon us if there is anything you need." He stands beside Tila, looking towards the baby, giving it a little smile. Love at first sight.

Estaban moves back to Lucita sitting down taking her hand in his as he breaths deeply.

"Yes I could do with a drink...of tea," Marian offers with a half smile and then leans in to say something to Eleyna as she accept Talen's invitation. She looks over at Mydas to see if he wants to join or not. She then gives her goodbyes to Tila as she heads out. Cirroch gets a quiet nod, accepting his sympathies.

Khanne finishes with Artur, turning to mark the faces of others who have come to share in the memory of Fergus and Freja. Many from the ward come, one by one offering tales of a time they shared with one or the other, or both. Khanne's eyes occasionally drift to the pyre, watching the smoke rise and swirl into the air. There is a significant look on her face as she watches, her lips moving in a silent prayer to the Spirits before she turns to the next person waiting for the mark.

For answer to Marian's look, Mydas politely exits his conversation and heads for the group, because drinking sounds great right about now.

Eleyna watches the interaction between Nia and Donato with a little smile. She seems uncommonly somber as well and offers few words. Donato doesn't seem particularly bothered by the fact that he's being prevented from hugging Nia. He's been repeatedly admonished to be gentle and not touch with his new sisters for awhile now. Likely, he's used to it. Instead, he holds out his duck, a chewed upon thing yet clearly beloved as he says emphatically, "Duck!".

Aiden stands for a moment on the edges of the pyre, lowering his head and murmuring soft prayers. He'll remain there for a time.

1 Grayson Guardsmen have been dismissed.

Aiden has left the benches under the oak trees.

Cirroch has left the courtyard benches.

Lucita links her hand with Estaban's and then looks toward the gate and back at him in question.

"I might have something else for you if you're particularly stubborn about the tea," Talen says, pressing a point, missing any and all signals. When Mydas arrives, he turns his head, nodding to the Marquis. "My lord, I figure we can all get out of here. Does anyone have anywhere in particular they'd like to be?" he asks, in case a venue is preferred, or even the cosy home of a study or library; that's left to the widowers. "Yes, duck," Talen says and looks around, as if to reinforcement. "Jiacomo, can you take a few of the guards and put him down for his nap, we'd like a few hours to attend to very important business." Getting drunk.

Behtuk sits patiently, observing the room around him while intruding on it as little as possible.

Alis always finds amusement in the antics of children. Because like any good young warrior in training, even the ones less then a year old, when Nia hears 'duck', she looks around for the projectile first before her little eyes rest on the worn toy. "Alkhdkjsjksf." is the intelligible response. Of course. The Valardin princess casts her glance between the others, letting the two kids have their conversation uninterrupted.

Marian does step away for a moment so she can give Artur a quick hug and then move on to Estaban and his lovely wife to offer her quiet thanks for their attendence, "Thank you for lighting a candle for them. I am sure they appreciated the gesture." She then circles over to Shard and Behtuk so she can also say, "Thank you for coming."

With proceedings seeming to be drawing to a close, Artur gives a final look toward the flaming pyre before bowing him head a few moment in quiet thought. This accomplished though, he takes his leave quietly and slips away inside the villa.

Artur has left the benches under the oak trees.

Margerie steps away from the Grotto and walks over to Khanne, sitting down near her. There are quiet words before she shares her memories. "I wanted to speak on behalf of Count and Countess Keaton as they could not be here. Reigna spoke to me of a time early in their marriage. It was an arranged wedding, as with so many, and there is always an ... adjustment. It was meeting Prince Fergus and Princess Marian that gave her hope. Seeing how well they had managed a marriage that served both duty and affection become something to strive for. The love they had for one another and for their people has been an inspiration, it has become a gift to my family and our people. And we are grateful."

Shard's attention shifts toward Marian as she approaches, and she offers a little bit of a shrug in return. "You're welcome," she says simply. Quietly.

"That'd be good. Frankly, no particular place comes to mind that I would insist going." Mydas answers. "Somewhere quiet, is all I can think of. Acheron's Great Hall can suffice." he proposes. Unless someone else has a place they're dying to go. He looks at Marian to see what she might prefer.

The pyre is given a long stare. Fire always holds a fascination to the mind and Theron's is no exception to it. He watches as the flames dance, inclining his head to the fallen that he knew, even if very briefly. He doesn't approach anyone, though he glances over at Khanne while she paints others in rememberance with woadings.

Clearly, whatever Nia said was hysterical because Donato starts to laugh at whatever she babbles. At Talen's command, Jiacomo moves forward and murmurs to the little Prince, "Come, your Highness." The toddler allows himself to be lifted in the retainer's arms. After tolerating a kiss from his mother, the boy offers a wave as he departs, duck in hand. Eleyna's eyes follow Jiacomo's retreat before she turns to look between those preparing to gather elsewhere, her gaze quiet and somewhat distant.

Estaban looks to Lucita and whispers to something to her before standing up keeping his hand in hers.

Estaban has left the benches under the oak trees.

Behtuk nods at Marian's attention, answering her favor with even fewer words than Shard. His gaze goes past Marian to the proceedings, skimming over the markings and the respects for the dead. He shifts his attention to the statue that guards the entrance to Redrain ward and shakes his head soberly. His shoulders slump slightly and he turns his palms up on his knees. "Gone." He confirms. At least he understands the reason for the gathering.

Marian gives a look to Margerie, her appreciation for the thought shows on her face. She murmurs a quick exchange with Shard. When Mydas suggest they retreat back to his great hall, he gets a thumbs up to let him know that's a great idea.

Lucita nods to Estaban and stands, walking with him.

Lucita has left the benches under the oak trees.

"If it's warm, that will more than suffice," Talen agrees to help decide the matter summarily, with his ornamentally armoured arm offered to his wife, assuming the proper role of a prince. "Shall we, then? Whenever you're ready."

Shard's lips thin at whatever passes between her and Marian in that exchange. She gives the woman a nod, then pushes out of her seat. It looks as though she's planning to leave.

Khanne dips her fingers in the stains, but stills them there as Margerie speaks. She gives a small smile, nodding at the memory Margerie shares. "I never knew that their love was the inspiration. Kael and Reigna's own love is something that I look to myself as giving hope to many." She glances towards Marian then, her smile growing a bit more sad. "I am glad that he found happiness before the Queen called him to return. Theirs was a bright love, and I am sure it will remain so. Thank you for sharing, my dear friend."

Alis gives Nia to Ursa at that moment, so that she can take care of the little one during whatever serious(ly drunken) conversation is to follow. Though the Guard and apparent nanny doesn't make a move to leave until dismissed by Marian. "Have you never tried tea spiked with whiskey?" she wonders at Talen. "Even Prince Darren has said it's not absolutely terrible."

Micana, the efficient amanuensis, Golden, a juvenile Oakhaven bloodhound leave, following Lucita.

1 Saik Guard, Gunther, a Rottweiler, Lucita leave, following Estaban.

Marian manages to make her way over to Theron, giving a quiet nod of greeting, "Thank you for attending." She then pauses and looks to see if there are any she has not greeted. She gives a nod to the nanny and Ursa to let them know that it's okay to leave the grounds. She gives her daughter a soft look as the tiny group walks away.

"That's the only way I can drink any tea," Talen insists to Alis, "and even then I think you're ruining perfectly good alcohol," claims Talen, as his eyes cut towards Eleyna, before guiding her along with the others. "What's the bet on what Marquis Mydas has above his fireplace? I'm going for a gold bar, rather than a stuffed stag's head."

Mydas smirks at Talen's bet, but doesn't comment, instead leading the group off. After all, wouldn't want to spoil the surprise. "It's warm, at least that I can assure you."

"Any time, Your Highness," Theron smiles over to Marian, inclining his head to her. "I would have brought whiskey to pour in his memory but I don't remember the particular brewer of the blend we had at Dame Morrighan's party," he admits, reaching out to place his hand upon her shoulder, squeezing it softly.

Margerie touches Khanne's arm as she rises. "You can see why I wanted to show my respects," she says with a sad little smile before she steps back for the next person in line. And to make her way over towards Marian to say a few words when she is free.

Eleyna starts as words directed her way summon her back to the conversation. She blinks and offers a distracted murmur, "He's still a Northman. I'll put a thousand silver on the idea that he has -two- stuffed stag's heads."

Aleksei offers Margerie a last smile and then slips away for the time being.

Aleksei has left the shaded garden grotto.

Keso, a street urchin, Peanut, an oversized mastiff leave, following Aleksei.

Behtuk stands to leave, having done what is expected of him.

Margerie has left the shaded garden grotto.

Sir Rhys, a Valardin Knight leaves, following Alis.

When the crowd begins to gradually thin out, Morrighan makes a brief retreat from the treehouse, climbing back down to the grounds proper. The dame stares off at the pyre, watching the tendrils of smoke rise up, and she can't help but to make a bit of a melancholy face, but makes her approach. Brahm, ever perched on her shoulder, remains silent sentinel, similarly focusing on the flames in much the same fashion. For a while she stands, silently mourning, but eventually she makes her way off towards Khanne, having a few words to share of her own. She awaits for those before her to speak their peace, then speaks up. "Ferg..Freja..they've been family since I met them, regarded me as one o' their own even though I was lowly born. I remember times when Freja an' I would loiter in th'Red Study, loungin' by th'fire, havin' a drink, speakin' o' life things. It was always easy, talkin' tae her. There are many tha' likely saw a lot o' ice an' frost from her, but if'n you got close enough, she'd thaw. She was a real treasure, always gave sound advice even if'n it was somethin' you did'nae want tae hear, but needed tae hear. Was wise beyond her years. An' Fergus..surly grump tha' he was. I remember th'times when he first started teachin' me th'way o' th'sword, th'times we trained an' he beat my ass right intae th'dirt. Would'nae be a knight now if'n it was'nae for him." The dame gives a little smile after, somber as it is. "Last time I saw him was at the bash, an' he had a grand ol' time. In th'end he won tha' damn last drunk standin' trophy an' was ridiculously pleased with himself. Ferg..Freja..they'll never be forgotten, some o' th'fiercest Redrain had, they touched many, left impressions far an' wide. Forever family, till th'end, in this life an' th'next."

"I remember some of her first advice to me," Khanne says with an actual smile to Morrighan. Her fingers still in the stains, she lifts them up to mark Morrighan's left cheek; three red lines from cheekbone to jaw, lined in black ash. "And Ferg was a very good friend, had some good talks..." She nods and says, "they will never be forgotten." Turning towards those who remain, she says, "Three drops of red rain to streak our faces, letting anyone who sees know that we mourn the loss of Fergus and Freja, that we will not forget, and that we honor all they did in their lives for us, and for the Compact. Three lines of Redrain upon the cheek, proving their memory will live on, to the last." She lowers her head then and closes her eyes, her lips moving in that unheard prayer again.