Aurelian makes his way over to the same table as Marquessa Ingiseri, arms locked in courtly fashion until they take a seat, at which point the arms separate but he does sit a respectable distance away from her.


Daemon had been standing there in that shadowy corner, indeed. The man wasn't wearing all of his armor today, the helm and shoulders missing. But he was still dressed for the occasion, a silk cloak hanging over his shoulder and covering the front of himself. Though his expression tells a much different story than that of his body. His face is distant, his eyes staring widely into the distant with a hallow gaze. The lights are on, but there aren't many people upstairs. The touch to his shoulder does jolt him to his senses, his dog companion also turning to face his larger brother. "Jeffeth." He says quietly. "S-Sir Jeffeth, brother. Good to see you... And my condolences."

Should she be in Arx? Or Setarco? Or where? Who knows. It's not clear. But there's a Velenosan princess stealing the booze from the king, absently ignoring as some old baron talks her ear off. Saoirse inhales a little, mumbles 'yes, sure' and drinks more. Old barons are -the worst-.

This is a very subdued affair. It's not the type of rager that Lady Monique is known for. There /is/ music, but it's quiet, stately, and more for relief of total silence than to inspire dancing. That's not to say one couldn't dance to it, but one might fall asleep whilst doing it. There's food, too. And alcohol. That part is a little more lively.

There's a small chest, as well, with about twenty golden tokens, each topped with a giant emerald. Arrivals are encouraged to take one before they're all gone.

Monique stands to one side with the most Majestic of Majesties, greeting people with a somber smile and a murmur of thanks for attendance.

Monique drops a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Daemon gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Ennettia gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Rue gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Jeffeth gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Samael gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Claude picks up a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

The Duchess Belladonna Pravus sweeps into the great hall in grand fashion, flanked as ever by her House guards, who are quickly dispersed to not 'cramp her style'. Arriving in a flamingly red fireweave dress of Lycene design, she moves to greet the hosts, smiling warmly and offering a curtsey to both, "Your Majesty, my lady. Thank you for hosting such a wonderful event."

Claude drops a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Ennettia follows the Igniseri Marquessa in, her footsteps lazy and casual, half-leaning on Aurelian until she's seated. Ill? No, simply rather casual and indolent, arms immediately resting on her table as she chats with her table-mates and looks around at those she may or (more likely) may not recognize.

Claude gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Quenia gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Belladonna gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Mailys gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Halsim gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Elgana arrives, following Romulius.

Samael enters the great hall in less of grand a fashion with a small woman on his arm, Rue Culler. He smiles down at her watching her eyes as she takes in the sight of the Palace. He leans down to whisper something before they come upon Monique. "Good evening, Lady Monique. Condolences on your loss. This is Rue Culler," he says to her before turning to Rue. "This is Lady Monique Greenmarch, my good friend."


A modestly dressed figure makes his way into the Palace, his hands clasped before him at his waist as dark eyes shift around to examine the room through a lens of one that is more interested in the architecture than the grandeur of the space in general. Claude is dressed as well as he can, given his less than noble station in life, and he stands off to one side of the room trying his best to stay out of the way, rather than insert himself into the company above him.

Romulius has joined the Gray Table.

Elgana has joined the Gray Table.

Alaric is at least upper-quartile majestic if not a runaway most majestic majesty. He does cut a fairly striking figure sociably receiving the guests at the entry opposite Monique, though. "Wonderful to see you tonight, Duchess Belladonna," he declares. "I do hope you find the company enjoyable tonight."

Into the Great Hall for the first time if ages is the Black Robed Halsim Darkwater. The brown skinned islander brings his keen gaze over those gathered, before he steps inside, his feet quiet. "Decent turnout." The Darkwater Watch accent is subdued today.

Slipping into the great hall, the sleek little figure of Mailys moves silently in a sweep of silk that makes no sound as it trails behind her. Her fingers remain laced lightly behind her beneath the cascade of raven tresses, the veil of her lashes lowered. Her thoughts seem elsewhere as she shifts through those gathered.

Monique dips a curtsey to Belladonna's arrival. "I'm so pleased you could make it, Duchess Pravus. Your House is welcome to any event I host." Samael's arrival turns her gaze, and she tries to flicker away the shadow that his words cause. "Thank you, my friend. Greetings, Mistress Culler. Be welcome. I hope you both received a pendant?" Her eyes drift over the other arrivals, a smile here and there; curiosity at the new faces.

Saoirse turns from the old baron who, at last, is distracted by someone or something else. She looks visibly relieved to both be rid of him and to spot Belladonna. She moves over toward the lady and the king, dips a quick curtsy to him, and murmurs to her fellow Lycene softly, "Keep that old baron away from me and I'll give you eight more titles or something."

Mailys has joined the Gray Table.

Rue enters the palace with wide eyes and a childish smile, gaze flickering around the room to take every sight in. She's quick to curtsey to any nobles they pass, especially Monique as she's brought up to her. "A pleasure to meet you, my lady." The short seamstress says, smoothing out her silken skirts nervously. "You look lovely. And this event is lovely." A sharp inhale follows as the commoner stumbles over her words. "I have a pendant. They're also lovely."

Jeffeth straightens some in his shadowy corner, eyes flitting to a few who enter. In particular Rue Culler catches the big mans gaze, and he follows her entrance for a good minute. Then his gaze is caught by Mailys Corsetina, for a minute, though the large knight does not move from his corner with his Brother in Arms.

Arriving unaccompanied is Lady Margret Greenmarch. Her distinctive limp is still very recognizable as she enters the Great Hall, but the high neck of black lace on her silk gown partially obscures the rather nasty scar on her neck that makes her noticeable from others. She makes her way towards the King and Monique, gets in line since there are others in front of her waiting to be recieved, and curtseys to the King before coming forward to hug Monique when it's her turn.

Quenia catches one of the servers, and asks for a glass of wine as they pass by. She then takes a moment to wiggle fingers at Monique and bow her head graciously in Alaric's direction, but she doesn't get up from her seat at the green table. Rather, it took a lot to get her to come here - as this particular event has been on her mind most of the day in a worrisome fashion. There are far TOO MANY Igniseri out at war at the moment.

Michael arrive by himself, dressed finely but dourly in a midnight black tunic with gold lining. Subdued smiles as he greets the hosts, a bigger grin for Monique, "Lady Telmar, so pleasant to see you once more." A low dipped bow to Alaric, his King and fellow short hair-having noble. "Your Majesty.

Margret gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Belladonna rises up from her surtsey, offering a brilliant smile towards Alaric, "It already is, Your Majesty." Looking aside as Samael Bisland steps up with Rue Culler on his arm, she offers them both a pleasant smile as well. "Lord Bisland, Mistress Culler. How wonderful to see you both." Looking back to Monique, she offers a more subdued smile, leaning forward to murmur to the hostess while pressing something into her hand. Upon pulling back, she offers a small nod towards everyone before withdrawing to go mingle amongst the other guests.

Michael gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Stepping into the palace, Romulius arrives with Elgana on one arm, but otherwise he wears his best silks though even then he has to have some leather on as well. Just to be comfortable. He takes a look around to see whom might be present and uses his height to his advantage. Spotting Mailys he smiles and then heads over in her direction to catch up to her, murmuring a soft comment to her before he finds a table for the three of them. On the way he offers polite nods of his head to those he knows of course but does not seem all that chatty in general. Pulling out a chair for first Elgana, as rank has it's priveleges and then Mailys before he finds a seat for himself. That done, he turns his attention towards everything else as he relaxes, and sprawls, because he sprawls. Of course.

2 Novice Keaton Huntsmen, The Second arrive, following Margerie.


Aurelian takes a goblet from the same server as Quenia but remains silent aside from the polite nods to those he knows and any that address him. While the distance seated is respectable, seems he is acting the part of a future husband by staying at the side of his future wife when she might have the need of support when names start to come in.


Samael nods his head to Monique in agreement with Rue. "We did. Thank you," he says before moving on to greet Duchess Belladonna. He gives her a warm Samael smile. "Duchess, a pleasure to see you again. You look lovely." He turns to Alaric and then leads the little seamstress up to him. "Your Majesty, a pleasure to see you. This is Rue Culler, an excellent seamstress. I know you're very particular about your clothing. She would be a good one to employ."

Monique smiles to Halsim, nodding her crimson head. "We all need companionship in these dark times. It's hard to be alone." Her gaze returns to Rue. "Thank you. I hope you'll enjoy the event, and find kindred souls here tonight, and some peace." And then there's Margret, and Monique is reaching out to embrace her cousin, whispering something low in greeting. As she leans in, she catches sight of Quenia's wave, and waves back.

When Michael approaches, Monique gives him a smile. "You look particularly fine tonight, Lord Bisland. Thank you for coming." And then Belladonna is leaning, and Monique leans in to listen, murmuring something back, blinking her eyes roughly, though her lips smile.

After a moment of listening, Halsim quietly moves to one of the tables. The Darkwater lord seems content to fade into the background tonight, for now, instead writing into a notebook with a quill produced from his own robe.

Saoirse's greeting brings a small chuckle to Belladonna's lips as she firmly links arms with the Princess. "You'll escort me to the libations, won't you, Princess? I am utterly parched and I fear I need protection from that Lycene count that attends all these events. I swear, my feet have never hurt so much after a single dance with that distinguished gentleman." She smiles brilliantly at Saoirse and leads her distinctly away from the older baron.

Ennettia of course partakes in teh wine as well, giggling at something at her table, before her attention is caught by some more familiar faces arriving. Elgana in particular earns a wave and a raise of her brows, a light smirk on her features. Belladonna, however, has the most of her attention-- and slight envy, because that dress! Is she pouting? Ennettia is utterly the sort to pout and does so, her attention turning later towards Mailys and Saoirse with not quite equally green, but still green eyes. Another few words at the table, as she idly sips wine and eavesdrops.

Daemon is quiet. Perhaps out of choice, or maybe he just lost his voice after returning from the North. Either or, really. But his eyes do trail to those nobles who are talking. Not with a smile, but with a frown.

Halsim has joined the Great Table.

Princess Elgana is all smiles as she arrives on Lord Blackshore's arm, her dark gaze flitting across those gathered as she looks for those she knows, giving polite nods and smiles as she walks with the lord. Just as easy as Romulius' gaze finds Mailys, so does hers and she offers the other woman a very warm smile and a murmured greeting before the three of them make for a table. She spots Ennettia on the way, giving the Lycene woman a bright smile and polite nod of greeting. Then her attention falls upon that table they have made their way to. "Thank you, my lord," she offers to Romulius before she takes her seat, smoothing her skirts down as she glides into that chair and then waits for Mailys to sit before she turns to speak with her quietly at their table.

Ramona - A Farshaw House Guard arrives, following Lisebet.

"Obviously. I have already staked out the best wines," of course she has. Saoirse points to a southern vintage. "This one. Or this one. You are welcome." When Saoirse turns, the back of her dress is on full display -- which is to say, her skin is on full display. "Which count are you talking about? I'll keep an eye."

The amount of curtseying that Rue is doing just increases as a duchess greets then and then Samael tries to introduce her to the king. She looks like she might faint. Or run. It's up for debate. "Wonderful to meet you, my lady." She manages to say to Belladonna. Alaric gets a wide eyed, deer in the head lights sort of look. There is a few drawn out seconds of quiet after Samael introduces her before the Culler straightens her shoulders and speaks. "I'm deeply honored to have met you, your majesty." A very stiff, formal curtsey follows.

Ardoin gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

2 Novice Keaton Huntsmen, The Second leave, following Margerie.

Lisebet gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Felicia comes to change places with one of the guards watching over Alaric at the moment, taking up silent position with her fellow knights.

Elgana gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Lily, a lithe young woman, Elizabetta, a lissome lady-in-waiting, Valor, a small brown and white corgi puppy arrive, following Sabella.

Felicia gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.


In a rare, if not unheard of moment of emotional expression, AUrelian actually reaches over and places a hand on Quenia's after saying something. There is no attempt made to hide the gesture, but it is clearly an affectionate one, likely a good sign for a couple intended to wed in the coming months.


Sabella gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Wynna gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Margret whispers something back to Monique, and her dark eyes shine with emotion before she forces up a smile of her own. She gives Monique another squeeze before she releases her so she can greet more guests. However, she doesn't drift far from her cousin's side.

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

Belladonna takes the first choice offered by Saoirse, smiling as she lifts the glass carefully, holding hte stem between thumb and forefinger near the base. "Ahhhhhhh, thank you, Princess. You have saved my throat from dryness." She looks around, seeing if she can spot the elderly count, then subtlely pointing him out with a murmured, "Right there. You've seen him before. Willden, I think his name is?" Staying near her friend, she looks around at the gathered guests, offering smile to all that catch her eye.

"Lord Michael, good to see your return. Welcome back from the north," Alaric replies pleasantly. The guests continue, and he has a sociable smile for Samael and Rae. "Lord Samael, excellent to see you again today as well," he declares. "And pleased to make your acquaintance, Mistress Rae. I daresay the Cullers are one of the more colorfully accomplished families in the city in their various fields," he observes. "I wish you all the best in capturing the fashionable hearts of Arx."

Jordal, a bodyguard arrives, following Isabeau.

Entering the Great Hall with Lisebet, a somber air about Ardoin, the Valardin prince plucks a pendant out of the chest. A formal bow given to the king is accompanied with a murmured, "Greetings, you Highness." Afterwards, a slight smile is directed to the few people he happens to know - Margerie, Margret, Elgana, Sabella and Jeffeth.

"Oh -no-, he's one of OURS?" Saoirse says, whipping around to look at the old baron who is -- ewwww - waving with all his fingers at her. "He knows I outrank him like, all of the way, right?"

From deep within her quiet reverie Mailys gaze lifts to slip across the room. A quiet smile is given toward Jeffeth as she feels his gaze settled upon her. Her fingers unlace to give a gentle lift of one jeweled hand to him before falling softly as she drifts. Her attention slips to the figure of Romulius as he seems to appear at her side and her gaze lifts to drink him in a moment as those soft words are passed between the pair though naught is heard through the din even as her crimson lips move softly. She turns in a soft swirl of silks to follow at his side as seats are found. Her gaze skims further, noting Ennettia's glance towards her, the petite woman gives a dip of her head before turning towards Elgana. An equally warm, is somber smile graces her lips for the woman even as the princess is seated before a chair is pulled out for her in turn. Her sleek frame furls with a slip of one hand behind her. The low back of her shimmering seasilk dress affording a view of the supple slip and curve of her back as she settles into her seat before shifting her long tresses with one hand.

Wynna looks distinctly out of place in this setting, taking advantage of the rare opportunity to look around the Great Hall's splendid architecture.

5 Thrax Guards, Pellinor arrive, following Alarissa.

Rinel gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

"Thank you, my liege." Michael heads off from the long entrance line and seeks to bury himself in some shadowy corner to not be seen or heard from again during this way too large of a gathering.

Isabeau enters into the great hall escorted only by her single guard and quietly looks to take pause and proper stock of the goings on therein before moving here or there.

Agatha is one of the least sneaky darn people in all of Arvum, but by golly by gee she is trying! The red bear has taken time to stop for a bath somewhere and actually put her armor away for the moment. But that does make it easier for her to TRY to be all sly as she heads towards the gray table and slide in all casual like to surprise Elgana.

Alarissa gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

"Yes, -that- one. I'm sure he was a fine figure of a man in his heyday but... he seems to have lost the knack of the dance, if not the love of it," Belladonna continues to gossip idly with Saoirse while sipping her wine carefully. She glances aside to where the baron waves at the Princess, barely managing to suppress a chuckle as she offers, "I think that is largely -why- he waves at you. It would elevate him considerably."

Agatha has joined the Gray Table.

Michael puts a golden token set with a vibrant emerald in a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Steve, an ungainly pelican arrives, following Niklas.

"Thank you, your majesty. I'll do my best." Another parting curtsey is given to Alaric before Rue tugs on Samael's arm. The short tailor is quick to drag him away and towards the quieter, shadowy alcoves where she last spotted a friend.

Lisebet smiles at Ardoin, and then at his comment, she dips into a graceful deep curtsey to the king. Quietly, the young Farshaw lady waits until she has an opportunity to look around and see everyone there, recognizing some of the folks she has previously met. And some only by reputation.

Samael turns from the King after doing other like respectful stuff. He spots Michael and calls out to him, "Michael! Wait." He is then tugged and carried off by Rue, allowing his short friend to lead him away.

Sabella glances around the great hall with a faint smile for those she knows, heading over to the chest to take one of the pendants. "Prince Ardoin, apologies I am only getting to see you now. It's been a rather intense few days." She looks around once more, giving Michael a bright, relieved smile before he fades into the darkness.

Alarissa's making her way into the palace, the Princess Consort of Thrax looking every bit picture perfect. Save that she looks about a good ten years old. None the less still breathtaking and she makes her way in, dispensing with her retinue as she does

As the revellers slip in, Monique clears her throat, and the palace servants do whatever it is they do so well, calling for attention. "I wanted to thank you all for coming," the Telmar Lady and Greenmarch Voice begins. "And to thank His Majesty for allowing me this moment of coming together. There are no games tonight," she says with a wry smile, "but there is one thing I would ask of each of you."

"There are pieces of paper scattered about, along with quills. If you would each write something that inspires you, along with your name, or anonymously if you wish, and then give the slip to a servant. I would like to make a book out of these inspirations, to light us through the dark times. And I will deliver the finished copy to each person who contributes, along with a copy in the Gilded Page library for any to view. I thank you."

Monique steps back to allow deference to Alaric.

Rinel looks around in mute astonishment, practically gaping at the beauty of the Great Hall. She manages to compose herself somewhat as she's swept along in the throng towards the waiting royalty.

Saoirse makes QUITE the face. "What a horrifying thought," she mumbles. This poor NPC. "I can't imagine why we would marry commoners." A beat. "Or barons." Yowch. The princess takes a long drink of wine and pipes down to listen to Monique.

"We gather here tonight to honor the sacrifices and losses made in defending the freedom of the people of Arvum and remind ourselves that our struggle is not yet over. But we also gather to celebrate our triumphs and draw strength from the reminder of who and what he make that struggle for; our families, our fealties, and each other. Enjoy the refreshments and company, make new acquaintances and plans for the future," Alaric proclaims. "Have a wonderful evening, everyone."

Romulius smiles as Agatha sneaks over and slides into a seat at the table he shares with Elgana and Mailys, a deep rumble of a chuckle follows, "Welcome home Princess Bear." He then falls quieter as the King starts to speak and turns his attention in that direction. He rests a hand on Elgana's shoulder though as she bursts into tears at Agatha's return.

Felicia might stand out at least a little from her fellow knight's in her rubicund, though with her helm on there's only that rose-gold tint of her armor among the steel of her fellow Swords to betray her as any different from the rest of them.

Laughing softly, Belladonna shakes her head, "Now now, lets not be -too- unkind. I am sure they are fine men, if a big aged for either of us. Besides, I have already secured myself a husband, and an heir. I do believe my 'familial duty' has been fulfilled." She quiets down as Monique, then Alaric step up to speak. Smiling faintly, she glances about to locate some of the pieces of parchment and urges Saoirse to follow her. "Come, we must set a good example."

Wynna turns fully to Alaric at his announcement, bowing her head deeply - she catches sight of Rinel and waves the taller woman over so she's not all by herself.

Saoirse looks blankly at Belladonna. Oh God. "Yes." Yes. Example. Saoirse walks with the Pravus woman and takes a pen. And thinks. Inspiring. Inspiring. Iiiiinspiring. Uhhhh. She scribbles something down and hands it to a servant. Anyone nearby would see the words, "Don't fuck it up." Good job, Saoirse.

There is a rather misleading shriek and bursting into tears at the gray table that Agatha just oh so subtly joined. The source of the sounds is one Elgana Redrain. The dignified sister. The socially gifted sister. The one that just threw herself into Princess Red Bear's arms. So it's left to Agatha to lift one arm to wave reassuringly (and a little awkwardly) at those gathered before she goes back to reassuring the 'little' Redrain.


Claude is still sticking to himself, obviously a bit out of his element around all of these nobles and citizens of such high ranking. A hand lifts to run through his somewhat untidy black hair, attempting to smooth it atop his head as he looks around from one person to the next. His hand drops promptly to his side, as Monique begins to speak as if careful to make himself as still as a statue so as not to draw any attention to himself during the talks. He glances around looking for a slip of paper, and upon finding the location he moves over and takes up a quill to start writing.

Rinel manages to escape the crush of people moving toward the king before she has the chance to royally embarrass herself. She looks towards Elgana with obvious sympathy before she joins Wynna, giving the woman a brief hug.

Returning Sabella's greeting with a smile, Ardoin nods his head ever so slightly. "I can imagine, Princess. Have you had the pleasure of meeting Lady Lisebet Farshaw, Duke Farshaw's sister?" Standing next to Lisebet, he introduces her with slight gesture of his arm to the Princess before listening to the King with a sober expression upon his face, then glances about for said paper and pen.

Margret manages a smile for Ardoin when he smiles in her direction, but the smile doesn't quite match the sadness in her eyes. She looks away when Monique and then the King speak before she drifts towards a servant to get a piece of parchment and a quill. "Thank you." She murmurs to the servant before she begins scribbling furiously on it.

Saoirse has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.

Alarissa has joined the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Belladonna has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.

Rinel has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.

Alarissa's moving to a couch to settle, watch the people wandering about. Blue eyes flicker to the shriek and tears. A server passing with a glass of something is stopped gently so she can liberate a glass and watch.

Halfway to dragging Samael over to poor Jeffeth, Rue seems to think better of it. The Bisland lord is tugged towards the Crown couches instead.

Rue has joined the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Wynna has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.

Samael has joined the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Samael is dragged along. "Michael, join us," he calls out.

"We have! We met at the Gilded Page one morning. It's nice to see you again." Sabella says with a warm smile to Lisebet, then looks with an even brighter one over to Elgana's table. Reunions! She looks about the room again, clearly a little disappointed not to see whoever she's looking for. "I think I shall stake out a spot before there are none left."

Ennettia looks up from her chattering to her friend at the sudden shriek...and notes that it's Elgana attacking a rather large woman. Brows rise, before Ennettia bursts into amused laughter, leaning towards Marquessa Quenia and...leaning on her? Yup, seems like. At least her head on Quenia's shoulder.

Sabella has joined the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Niklas has joined the Comfortable Crown Couches.

After a time, Princess Isabeau makes her approach toward a green table and its familiar occupants. She reaches out to lay one of her hands lightly on Aurelian's shoulder before sweeping to the side to take an empty seat. "Cousin," she offers in quiet salutation to him before her attention is given to the others. "Marquessa... and, I'm sorry, I... don't believe we've met?"

Isabeau has joined the Green Table.

Alaric engages in some subtle colluding with Felicia and on the basis of their short discussion starts what seems like a game of royal eeny meeny miney moe. Apparently the fairest way to pick his first stop is to consult his random number guarderator.

Fashionablly late Delia arrives with a subtle bounce to her step. There is a bright and cheerful smile on her lips as her gaze drifts over the crowds gathered here. Brushing back a strand of her carefully styled fire red hair and wanders further in, looking about for a familiar face or at least a place to seat herself.

Lisebet nods to Sabella. "Your highness, nice to see you again. Oh!" Now she looks for a spot to settle in as Sabella finds her own seat, though Lisebet pauses to get a slip of paper and a quill, so she can write something. "Should we maybe go lean against that - is that a longboat?" she says to Ardoin? "It would give something to stand by, at least, so as to be out of the way.

Niklas wanders in, far more subdued than is usual for a Niklas Kennex. Frowns don't really suit him and as a result he looks less contemplative or somber than he does dour and in need of a swig of something that could remove paint from a hull. Not that he'd disagree with the second. He glances around offering slight nods to those he knows, then moves to find a place to sit.

Lisebet has joined the a sea serpent-headed longboat converted into a bath.

Alaric has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.

Monique leans in to murmur something to Alaric after his speech, before nodding and turning to Margret, holding out a hand. "Cousin? Shall we find a space to mingle and share the bounty of this evening?" She tips her chin to the Gray Table. "That way?"

Felicia has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.

"I think that sounds like a fine idea. Let us go stand next to the longboat, it is really quite fascinating.," Ardoin replies to Lisebet with a look of amusement upon his scarred brow.

Ardoin has joined the a sea serpent-headed longboat converted into a bath.

Ven makes his way in from the entrance, looking up at the architecture as he does for a long moment before looking back down and noticing an adorable corgi puppy. The little wriggling ball of fluff gets him to smile despite the circumstances and he kneels to admire her for a moment.

Margret finishes scribbling on the piece of paper, and when Monique holds out her hand she nods her head once and takes it to limp alongside Monique towards the gray table.

Margret has joined the Gray Table.

Monique has joined the Gray Table.

Ven gets a golden token set with a vibrant emerald from a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Monique picks up a large wooden chest decorated with the night skyiiPlease Take a Pendant.

Quenia inclines her head to Isabeau, offering the Valardin princess a warm smile. She answers quietly at the table, though gently nudges Ennettia from draping herself over her shoulder, whispering something to her as she does.

Claude has joined the Comfortable Crown Couches.


Upon filling out his slip of paper and passing it off one of the nearby servants, Claude turns around and looks for an empty seat. He spots one over at a mostly full couch and heads in that direction, easing himself down to sit somewhat awkwardly on the edge of the cushion.

He's late. But there's nothing wrong with being late when you're a single Prince out for the evening. Arriving at the edge of the party, Lorenzo takes in the groupings and chatter, and moves most unobtrusively amongst the crowd, starting the process of mingling, with a warm smile that reflects in his dark eyes and disposition.

Daemon looks to his brother Jeffeth with a hallow smile. Eventually though, he takes the pendent he was given and leaves it in the Knight's hand. "Here. Give this to someone who was there." He tells the larger man before stepping away from the corner. "I'm afraid I can't be here anymore. Enjoy your evening, Brother. I'll see you back at the House of Solace." And with that the Knight departs before a response, heading out of the palace.

Daemon has left the Shadowy Corner.

Elegance leaves, following Daemon.

1 House Lyonesse Adept Guard arrives, following Jacque.

Giving Delia a wave in greeting from a short distance, Ardoin is examining a longboat with curiosity while chatting Lisebet about something, an amused expression upon his face.

Felicia's standing behind Alaric at the Grayson couches, with as much discretion as a knight in full plate mail can manage.

Standing in the shadowy corner now by himself, the large knight in dark red armor folds his arms over his chest and goes to lean against the wall, tilting his head down and looking at the ground.

Delia catches sight of that wave and smiles warmly back to Ardoin. Moving over towards him she tilts her head from one side to the other and studies him curiously. "Hello there. I remember seeing you before. But I don't think I introduced myself. I am Delia Whisper." She offers a polite curtsey.

Upon being requested to do 'inspiration'... Halsim looks to Monique with a glance, then takes one of the slips... writes... and hands it to a servant coming by. Then, he goes back to writing in his own notebook.

Rinel has left the Grayson Royal Couches.

Hearing the name Delia on the wind, Lorenzo is reminded of something he read earlier today as he makes his way over towards where Ardoin and Delia stand, and he offers a polite bow of his head. "I hope you'll forgive the intrusion." he offers as he lifts his head back up. "I am Lorenzo Velenosa and I saw your mention earlier about the rallying of relief efforts for those affected by the war, Messere Delia. I hope that if I may, I will be able to assist you in those endeavors." he offers as he accepts a glass of wine from a passing server and prepares to continue on his way.

Lisebeth stands by the longboat alongside Ardoin, chatting lightly with the prince. She has a quill and paper and after a moment she starts to write, but pauses as Delia comes by. "Good day, m'lady," she says politely. "I'm Lady Lisebet Farshaw, pleased to meet you."

Lorenzo also gives a poilte bow of his head to Lisebet since she's //right// there.

Quenia leans in and whispers something to Aurelian, with a coy smile on her features.

Lisebet also offers a polite curtsey to Lorenzo.

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

Felicia recognizes a certain voice, her attention shifting at least briefly in the direction of Lorenzo before it resettles on Alaric and company again.

Jacque enters the Great Hall quietly, clad in his armor. He's not quite in a celebratory mood, but he watches as various people mingle with a faint smile. Spotting Aurelian and Isabeau in the alcove by the stairs, he heads that way. "Cousins, my Ladies, hello," he greets, offering the Princess of Valardin a hug, if she accepts it. "Good to be able to see you all again."


Aurelian nods to Jacque and says, "Greetings once again cousin. This is Marquessa Quenia Igniseri my future wife and her cousin Lady Ennettia Igniseri." before takign another sip from whatever is in his goblet.


Quenia glances up at Jacque and inclines her head, offering him a smile. "Good evening," she greets. "A pleasure to meet you."

Introducing himself as well to Delia, "Yes, I never got the chance to introduce myself either, and Lady Farshaw has better manners than me, as she beat me to it and I've even run into you before." A bright grin on his face as Ardoin remains standing next to Lisebet at the longboat. "Prince Ardoin Valardin, who currently has writer's block. Not that I am not often inspired, but...when on the spot to think of one thing, it is a little more difficult."

Clutching not one but two the the emerald tokens handed out, the large form of Sir Jeffeth Bayweather after staring hard at the ground for a long moment gives a flustered sigh. Shoving off the wall, he makes his way to the exit, dropping the coins in his wake.

Jeffeth drops a golden token set with a vibrant emerald.

Jeffeth drops a golden token set with a vibrant emerald.

Alarissa picks up a golden token set with a vibrant emerald.

Jeffeth has left the Shadowy Corner.

Ennettia looks up from a whispered conversation with those at her table, offering the same lazy smile towards Jacque, eyes half-lidded, "Another future something-in-law! How absolutely charming."

4 House Deepwood Guards arrives, following Samantha.

Alarissa drops a golden token set with a vibrant emerald.

"We've met, I think, Marquessa, but only in passing. I am Marquis Jacque Lyonesse, Marquis-Consort of Lyon's Redoubt, at your service, and a pleasure to meet you. I heard much praise about you, my Lady, and I am glad that, in a way, you are joining our family." Jacque says to Quenia as he inclines his head to her, before mentioning to Aurelian, "You are marrying well, my cousin!" With a bright smile to Ennettia, the Valardin-turned-Lyonesse tilts his head. "A pleasure to meet you, my Lady Ennettia. Indeed, future something-in-law," he echoes that statement, cheekily.

Samantha makes her way into the palace, taking in the collective and searching out familiar faces. For surely there must be some. She disperses her guard to the walls with a flick of her fingers, brow furrowing.

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

Ven's head swivels when he hears a familiar grating sqeaky squawk, and he abandons the puppy to follow it over to its source, an actual pelican that is bizarrely out of place in the palace. "You again!" He says to the pelican, walking over and confronting it with a downward glare.

It would seem that Jacque's arrival and subsequent greeting is received with great pleasure by Princess Isabeau, as she is quick to find her feet and bestow a hug on the man returned from the front. It's an uncharacteristic breach of otherwise contained composure, but perhaps she might be forgiven in the current circumstances.


Aurelian nods to Jacque and says, "I would say she could do better but for some reason settled for me cousin." with one of his uncommonly seen soft smiles and teasing tone. "You are welcome to join us if you so wish." as he takes another sip of whatever he has in his goblet.


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

Lisebet flashes a grin over to Ardoin at his comment. "An accident, your highness," she says cheekily. She glances to Lorenzo and Delia briefly, now that introductions are done, curious to hear more of the conversation. And then she recalls she has an inspirational saying to write, so returns to that while listening.

Margret has left the Gray Table.

Monique has left the Gray Table.

Monique has joined the Green Table.

Margret has joined the Green Table.

Jacque tightens the hug around Isabeau and kisses her cheek, happy to see his cousin, clearly. Plenty of familial warmth to be had here, and the Lyonesse-nee-Valardin seems so very /happy/ to see his kin. "I hope you've been well in my absence. I'm glad all of us who went were able to return, though we should do something for Jericho. He must be devastated."

"But you apologize so nicely Lord Bisland." Alarissa replies, moving away from the comfortable couches.

Alarissa has left the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Claude has left the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Monique and Margret step away from the Gray table with smiles and a departing courtesy, slipping over to the Green table, pausing to grab another two glasses of whiskey on the way.

Agatha rises as Margret and Monique leave the table, the better to bow her head to the bereaved. But! The loss of the M's does mean there is room at that bleak looking gray table with the no longer bleak looking Elgana, and Romulius and Elgana

Rue crosses one leg over the other, looking vaguely uncomfortable as the topic turns more serious. "Princess Alarissa is right. I don't feel comfortable being here, I'm sorry." An apologetic smile is directed at Sabella, Samael, Claude, and Niklas. "I think it's time I headed home. I'd love to talk plays another time." Getting up, she offers a hasty curtsey to all before leaving the couches.

Jacque stares at Monique and Margret as they take the seat, just shaking his head with a faintly bemused smile.

Quenia gently pokes Aurelian in the shoulder. "Stop that. Stop devaluing yourself. You've plenty of worth. You've already proven it. You're just very quiet about it." She frowns starkly at him a moment, then turns to ask Isabeau. "Did he do this at home too?" She nods to Jacque. "Please join us, if there is room. And, yes, it was in passing."

Margret has left the Green Table.

Samael stands up from his seat and then bows toward those at his couch before following after Rue. "Good evening. Uh, I have to go," he says to them. "Rue, wait," he calls out after her.


As he stands from the couch he had been seated at, Claude takes a moment to look around for anyone he might know. Spying Samantha, he considers her for a moment before heading in her direction. Once he is within easy conversation distance, he dips into a short bow and says, "Good evening Marquessa. I hope that you are finding the evening to your liking?"

"Come. Sit," Isabeau offers in echo of Aurelian toward the recently returned Jacque. "I'm sure you must be exhausted." Of course, as the available chairs are occupied, the princess remains on her feet and offers her own chair. "My ladies, this is Marquis Jacque Lyonesse," she offers by way of introductions. The name may be noteworthy, as Jacque was the man knighted by Prince Edain on the beach.

Belladonna can't help but glance over towards the other set of couches at Rue's parting words, a brow arching delicately before she turns back to the company at her own.

Isabeau has left the Green Table.

Ven has joined the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Rue has left the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Samael has left the Comfortable Crown Couches.

3 Bisland pride guards, Deputy Clerk Anya leave, following Samael.

Samael leaves, following Rue.

Family reunions, familial relationships, fashion and tidbits of drama everywhere! Ennettia, still rather lazily lounging in her seat, seems perfectly all right not moving, and watching to see how everything flows. The arrival of the Unknown M&Ms has her looking towards them curiously, before glancing towards Quenia with curiosity for introductions-- though as she's poking Aurelian, she raises a wrist to hide a giggle.

Alarissa's heading out too, Pellinor and her guards falling in from where they have bee lounging against walls and the like, seemingly unamused.

5 Thrax Guards, Pellinor leave, following Alarissa.

Isabeau has joined the Green Table.

Captain Reedy, a Telmarine military aide arrives, delivering a message to Monique before departing.

Samantha turns her attention to Claude, studying him for a moment, and then offering amenably, "I thank you, I am well. I don't believe I've had the pleasure, Master...?" she inquires easily. She seems to savvy he's a citizen of the March, but perhaps does not readily recall him.

He looks flustered for a moment. Jacque watches as Isabeau stands up and gives up her own seat for him, eyes widening. "I didn't mean to make you stand up, cousin. I can linger on my feet for some time, I promise." He smiles to her, before bowing towards the ladies. "A pleasure to meet you both."

Margret stops in front of Green Table with Monique, and maybe there is a bit of a hubbub about seats. "Oh excuse me!" She says to Jacque, and she gives him an apologetic smile before she pulls out the chair she just stopped in front of for him.

Jacque has joined the Green Table.

Jacque has left the Green Table.

Lisebet finishes writing her note, and then she passes her paper to Ardoin, instead of handing it to one of those passing servants.


Claude offers a faint smile that doesn't manage to reach his eyes. He shrugs his shoulders lightly before saying, "Forgive me, Marquessa. But I am no Master... not even a Sir. My name is Claude and I am a vassal of Deepwood. Just a simple carpenter. When I saw you from across the room, I thought that I might come and introduce myself."

At the confusion over the seats Monique... takes a seat. Sorry, not sorry. And she looks over to Jacque and Margret, both having risen... then turns back to the table. She'll let them get acquainted. This was not planned at all.

"It's a respectful term for those who are vassals and Crownsworn," Samantha explains gently, "But I did not mean to offend you. A carpenter is a very valued and respected trade, especially in Deepwood." Especially considering it's greatest export is wood. "Have you come to Arx hoping to expand your business?"

Michael has joined the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Jacque has joined the Green Table.

Scratching his head in confusion, Jacque smiles profusely to Margret and settles down, but he, uh, gentlemanly offers at least more than edge for uncomfortable seating should Margret prefer to settle down as well.

Isabeau picks up a golden token set with a vibrant emerald.

With Delia's departure, Lorenzo offers a polite bow of his head, "I will let you two get back to your discussion." he offers to Lisebet and Ardonia before he moves to continue to mingle, sipping on his wine as he notices a couch with some of the Velenosian upper crust, and his Majesty. He offers a polite bow as he approaches the couch. "Your Majesty. I thought I saw kin in this direction. I am Prince Lorenzo Velenosa.. ah.. we met briefly when Dame Harrow accidently bumped into me." There's a smile offered with it, clearly not offended by the idea as he glances aside to his guard.

Lorenzo has joined the Grayson Royal Couches.


AUrelian nods and says to those at his table, "Forgive me as well. I'll see the Marquessa home safely." as he moves to stand and offers his arm in courtly style.


Aurelian has left the Green Table.

Quenia has left the Green Table.

Quenia leaves, following Aurelian.

Agatha makes a loud sound at her table. It sounds suspiciously like a very possibly trademarked, "D'OH!" instead of the usually very loud and probably SHOULD be trademarked HAH. Which has been strangely absent tonight for the serious event.

Isabeau may have only just reclaimed her seat, but she stands again as Aurelian and Quenia make their way out together, watching after the betrothed couple with a quiet smile before returning to the conversation at her table.

Monique is overheard praising Alaric for: Thank you for being a great and charming co-host!

Monique is overheard praising Margret for: My anchor.

Belladonna is overheard praising Alaric for: Co-hosting a wonderful event!

Belladonna is overheard praising Monique for: Co-hosting a wonderful event!

Lisebet curtseys to the departing Lorenzo, and then murmurs to Ardoin, before she can be seen to take her slip of paper back from the prince, and pass it over to the servants, following the example set by others. The quill is also returned, and she snags a drink in passing, then settles back, leaning against the longboat and peoplewatching unabashedly.

Margret doesn't sit down, but she does say to Jacque, "You were the one knighted on the beach, My Lord? We heard rumors of it in the city. I am Lady Margret Greenmarch." As Aurelian and Quenia depart she nods her head to them both, and then takes one of their seats.

Giving a wave to Lorenzo as he moves away when Delia departs, "Of course, Prince Lorenzo. We'll have to talk more sometime, yes? Do be well." Finishing writing something on the paper, Ardoin hands over Lisebet's back as she takes it, then hands his own over with a wrinkle of his nose and a sigh, turning back to the young Farshaw and snagging a cup of coffee from a nearby servant.

Margret has joined the Green Table.

Lorenzo checked perception at difficulty 15, rolling 18 higher.

Ardoin is overheard praising Monique for: For holding a lovely gathering in a time it is needed.

Niklas has left the Comfortable Crown Couches.

Steve, an ungainly pelican have been dismissed.

"I was," Jacque smiles to Margret, inclining his head affirmatively to her. "I was indeed knighted, though it was not on the beach, but at the mountain pass before we did rally to the beach. I am Marquis Jacque Lyonesse, Marquis-Consort of Lyon's Redoubt and Knight of the West." That's the title he was bestowed upon, anyways. "It's good to be home, my Lady. And a pleasure to meet you."

Ardoin is overheard praising Alaric for: For also hosting this lovely gathering.

Ennettia:gives a lazy wave for her departing Marquessa and Marquessa's Betrothed, before she turns her attention to those whose mercy she has been abandoned to, smiling lightly.

Saoirse sits back as Alaric makes way to leave. As he does so, her attention drifts to Lorenzo -- oh hey. A cousin or whatever. She gives a regal little nod. "Have our cousins given you much to do yet, Prince Lorenzo?" she asks him.

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


Claude nods his head in understanding to Samantha, dipping his head apologetically as he says, "Forgive me Marquessa, I was not seeking to correct or turn away your kindness. I just..." He pauses and glances around their setting and the others present in the room before gesturing discreetly to his own attire and perhaps himself. "I am a little bit out of my element, it would appear. I just wished to come and pay the due respect to those out fighting in the war." He considers Samantha's question for a moment before saying, "I would not mind the opportunity to expand my business. I am afraid I do not have the means currently to support a facility. Perhaps once I have been able to show my merits to those needing work done. I have heard things regarding the Society of Explorers that sounds intriguing, and met one man earlier that was an... Inquisitor?"

The not-a-party goes on, music still quietly playing, drinks still being served until the last soul leaves and the King has retired. Knowing Alaric, he probably is the last soul to leave.