The courtyard of Thrax has been transformed as it tends to be when there are events to be held there. Lights strung criss crossing the open area to bring light once the night falls and sway side to side in the light breeze. Long banquet tables are laid out in neat rows with platters of familiar comfort food familiar to islanders and those who live in coastal villages. Seafood steamed, boiled, grilled. Large fishes fresh caught and roasted over flames. Vegetables and fruits, breads. There is no head table, the royal family of Thrax expected to sit with others. Where there would be a head table is a singular table, with a setting for one, a chair and deliberately left empty. Musicians play soft music for the moment as people have filtered in and Alarissa mingles with Victus - who may or may not be with her currently - in the crowd and starting to make their way to the front.

Iseulet arrives without much fanfare, a shadow of a smile tugging on her lips as she enters the courtyard, fingertips laced in front of her as she slinks in, giving a bow to those here, her attention drawn to the music at first. Knowing one face - Sparte's - she gives him a wave when she sees him.

Victus had already been out about the grounds by the time the feast was beginning and others were arriving. He was frequenting specifically the refreshment table, dotting on servants and directing traffic as food and drink was brought out. "Rum or wine? Are yo umad? Both, of course." The High Lord has a steely grin on his face, blemished by scars and the newly formed burn that ran down his face. "No worries to be had, yeah?" With that the man steps back, moving to stand beside his wife. Their guards had been filtered off to enjoy themselves as they saw fit. Victus with his wounded wing was armored and at his feet, a mangy looking feline circled.

Sparte is standing off to the fringe of the gathering, clearly having a bit of social anxiety about it. He returns Iseulet's wave with a nervous smile and wave of his own.

Dagon had only recently returned to Arx in the wake of everything having gone on. Having taken a night to rest and recover, and don fresh garb, he arrives without any fanfare either. No guards to follow, and a single blade belted at his waist that would at least represent his position as Sword. Pausing to look around at those who have already gathered, as well as those who are already there, before he moves to approach Victus. Offering a short bow, "Your Highness, I return and report Tydehall is secure against our enemies. I am also told you were injured, so I am glad to see you are well on your way to recovery."

2 Grimhall House Guards, Gustav, a gruff Islander advisor, Vanora arrive, following Valdemar.

2 Iron Guardsmen arrives, following Titania.

Titania arrives, following Graham.

Archeron arrives at the Thrax do, his light silk clothing suited to the late spring day. The Tyde lord carries the large grey mass that is Root, rather than wait for him to toddle along today. The badger seems relatively bored by this, clearly used to things. Spying his cousin's husband as he speaks to Victus, Archeron can't help but break into an uncommon smile "His Highness has had worse, I am sure, Dagon. And Tydehall is, I am sure, most safe so long as we fight behind the only man to ever breach its walls."

"Sparte Fatchforth." Alarissa calls over to the man, beckoning him away from the edges. "Join us" Dagons arrival brings out a smile from the Thrax Princes. "He came back with all his limbs, his eyes and half a cat. I would call that a personal success. You be sure to bring some food back for Margot. You are tending to her well, both of you?" Archeron and Dagon given a pointed look. "Like a Queen, are we understood?" Alarissa sways with Astrid on her hip.

"I'll be fucked." Victus would muse as his dark gaze turns to Dagon, that grin of his spreading but a fraction wider. "Duke Dagon. Feels like it's been years after everything that's happened. I'd thought for a moment that Margot may have you locked in a cellar, never to see the light of day again." The large Thraxian steps up to his cousin and gives him a clap on the shoulder. "Welcome back to the city of endless problems and worry, eh?" With a hallow chuckle, his eyes turn next onto Archeron. "And you. The woodsman, still alive despite all our enemies comin' from anywhere but the fuckin' woods. Couldn't of hoped for a better outcome."

Lethe arrives to the event with an eager smile. She takes a look around as she looks to see who else is here. She approaches Archeron. "Hello it's good to see you out." She smiles as she speaks to Alarrisa. "Hello."

When Valdemar Grimhall arrives, dressed in fine clothing of the sort he is only rarely seen in, he does so with Vanora Pravus on his arm, talking with her quietly. Seeing so few here that he recognizes, so far, he makes his way toward the host and hostess first thing. Inclining his head in greeting to the other around the couple, Victus and Alarissa receive a more formal bow before he speaks up, "Your Grace, your Highness, good evening, and thank you for hosting this."

Fatima arrives at the feast with all of her guards in tow. There is fanfare, there always is when the spoilt princess entered a party. Even if she's dressed in all black and a modest, high collared Thraxian gown. Victus is greeted first, offered a proper curtsy and a sly smile. Then Alarrissa. Then it's off to greet the rest of her family. Dagon first, since he's closest to the High Lord and his consort. "If she's not treated like a queen. We'll be the ones locking you in that cellar." She teases.

Iseulet makes her way to the refreshments table for liquid courage - of course only brave enough to take rum rather than both rum /and/ wine. "Your Grace. You're looking well. I'm glad." She says with a curtsey to Victus, "Your Highness," and here a curtsey to Alarissa, "The garden looks lovely - and the music. It's wonderful." She looks around and spots Dagon, lifting her brows, "Goodness, I almost had to look twice - you look very much like Declan." As Archeron, Lethe, Valdemar, Vanora, and Fatima all approach, more bows and greetings, keeping herself quite humble.


"She might have given mention of a cellar, Your Highness, though usually only when I am deserving of it." offering a short laugh of his own, Dagon gives a nod. "With thanks." focusing then on Archeron, and giving a shrug. "It is still proper to give such a report, now that I am back. Better to get it out of the way and move forward." on to Alarissa, offering another bow. "Your Highness. Of course, she would carve me up herself if I did not, though I did chide her somewhat for taking injury in battle. Only because if she keeps it up she might outnumber my scars." and another, "Of course, I could expect nothing else." for Fatima.

Sparte straightens where he stands when called out by name. Clearing his throat he glances around, dutifully making his way over to stand near the gathering proper. Alarissa and Victus are given a salute before proceeding to stand in the middle of the gathering and look both nervous and awkward.

Anya, the cool as an ice cube Champion apprentice, Renn, the mousy, scholarly brunette, Morgan, a roguish looking gentleman arrive, following Caspian.

Lady Vanora Pravus murmurs something in response to a question from Valdemar as the pair arrive. "...here, and do most of the drinking there. It's all about pacing oneself. You'll see." That conversation falls to quiet as he leads her before the High Lord and Princess Consort, to whom she dips a curtsy just as respectful as they were when she called herself an Islander of sorts. "Your Highnesses, thank you for hosting, it is a pleasure to see you both. And oh! Is that the heir to the Isles in your arms?" Astrid is noticed and greeted with a wrinkle of the lady's nose, a playful smile following. "She is as fierce as she is beautiful." Astrid is given a curtsy of her own, even if babies don't often appreciate such etiquette.

"I am quite certain that Margot is well fed by the servants, your highness." Archeron offers to Alarissa "But I will make sure that we get her some things. She has my dear twin to tend to her...." And speak of the devil. Or the Harlequin. Archeron smiles warmly to Lethe, and he does his best to wave with the hefty badger in his arms "You have bumped into Prince Victus before, sister mine?" Archeron enquires of Lethe before he answers Victus "Other than some acid, I came away unscathed. Sadly some of the men did not. But. Fate is like that. We got to watch your battle at sea as well, Prince Victus. Well. Squint at the faint shapes in the distance."

Iseulet quietly slips over to Sparte and gives him a smile, "How are you tonight, Sparte? You look nervous."

"Fatima." Reverence offered to the Eurusi Thrax Princess. Alarissa moves forward to press a kiss to the woman's cheek and murmurs something before she pulls back and gives a look to Victus. Her eyes dart to that singular table with it's empty setting and a faint nod from the woman that war seems to have aged a little. But Sparte's adventurous, comes when called. Better than Archeron's badger. Or that... sorry looking cat. That gains him a smile from Alarissa. "This is Master Sparte Fatchforth. If you have not met him, you should. His conversations are delightful" Lethe Gets a kiss to her cheeks as well before Vanora's words cause the Princess Consort to turn and smile. "Lady Pravus. It is. Princess Astrid. Would you care to hold her? How are you? Lord Valdemar, a delight as always. Give your father my regards?"

Arriving a little late to the party, Caspian strolls in, followed by his hired gaggle of misfits. He seems to know quite a few people, since he waves to the general crowd, giving as a greeting, "Hello, hello." Towards Sparte he gives a little grin, asking, "You ready for our Rite to Gloria in a few hours?"

Sparte aims a winces smile at Iseulet, attempting to straighten his armor as though that would help. He asks her quietly as he does so, "Is it that obvious?" Then his name is being mentioned again and he straightens back up. "T-thank you, Princess Alarissa." A glance is given to Caspian, something murmured quietly to the man before Sparte attempts to straighten his armor again.

Titania comes walking into the courtyard on the arm of Lord Graham Stonewood, the two seem to be speaking softly and he is being kind to her by walking slowly so she can keep up, woddleing along as his side she smiles softly nodding and her ocean blue eyes look up and around to see all who is here.

Victus turns his head on a swivel to greet all of their new arrivals as well. Valdemar, Fatima, Iseulet, Vanora and Lethe each given a nod and a short wave. Not the most formal of things, but bless his little heart, he tried. "Fatima, out and about. Here I was worried you might have also gotten lost in a dark cellar." He reaches across to drape his good arm across the Princess' shoulders and squeeze. It's not really a hug, more just a more dedicated shoulder-clap. Onto next Valdemar, who is faced with the High Lord's grin. "Lord Valdemar. I hope you and yours are doin' alright, ain't sat down for drinks with the old man since this whole war began. Will have to fix that now that we've our breathing room at last." Iseulet is given a more cursory nod. "Been worse. Can't write worth shit but that just gives me an excuse not to do paperwork for the next month or so. Heh." Then to Archeron. "I'm sure ya' saw the explosion at least? Was a pretty thing from up close. Once ya' get over that crushing fucking sadness of losing the big boat..." A shrug. "And Lady Vanora. I see the administrative life ain't swallowed ya' whole yet. Good..."

Eventually Victus draws in a deep breath after that barely kept up round of socializing. He gives a nod to his wife and steps back from the group.. "'Scuse me. Gotta do a thing."

"I am very well, thank you." Vanora responds to Alarissa, hearing Fatima's name invoked and offering yet another curtsy aimed for the Princess and Voice. "Your Highness. We've not met before, but I've seen you from afar and heard you spoken of with such warmth. It is an honor to introduce myself. Lady Vanora Pravus." She turns her attention back to Alarissa and Astrid. "I would love to. I've yet to drop a baby so fear not. Well. Once, but I was only nine. Its really the fault of those handing me a baby. Not since though." Playful and teasing, and she opens her arms to receive the babe if she and mother are so inclined. "The administrative life? Oh I do hope that is not what fate has in store for me now, though I'm not bad at record keeping. It's not quite where my passions lie either however. How are you, Prince Victus? I hope able to relax and recuperate, if not presently than very soon. When the party is over perhaps?"

"There are more trees in our lands to provide new ships, Prince Victus" Archeron observes to his liege lord "And, thanks to the actions of the fleet and others, there will be tomorrows for our people, and new lives to take those sacrificed in the cause." Archeron hefts Root and pets the large badger before he turns his head to look at the others "It is good to see so many recognisable faces returned from war."

Caspian leans in to whisper something to Sparte, grinning to the man as he pulls away, clasping him upon the back. He moves from Sparte over towards Fatima, giving the woman a wide smile, "Princess Fatima, always a pleasure when our paths cross. I found out a little about Eurus, if you ever want to sit down and hear what I know."

Lethe looks from Victus to Archeron. "We have met." She turns back to Alarissa. "It's great to see you your highness and Princess Astrid too." She nods to Archeron. "It is good to see them. I'm glad I could attend."

Ariel arrives, following Malesh.

"Alarissa." Fatima replies with no small amount of warmth in her voice. "You never fail to throw a good party." As she's murmured to, the princess faintly smiles. Then glances down at her dress with a thoughtful expression. Victus' shoulder clap warrants a raised eyebrow and a musical laugh. "Only if that cellar happens to be for storing wine." Her gaze briefly cuts to Sparte, looking the man over as Alarissa seems to introduce him. Her attention to stolen away yet again by another introduction, this time by Vanora. "A Pravus, hm?" A smile worms it's way onto her face. "I'd love to get to know you better, Lady Vanora. Feel free to call on me or write." The voice seems a little distracted, looking to Caspian then. "Sitting down. Yes, sounds like a lovely idea."

Iseulet smiles and rubs the back of her head awkwardly, slipping out as silently as she came, leaving her half finished snifter of rum on a table.

"I certainly will, your Highness. I did not get to speak with him before we left to come here, but I am sure Father would have wanted me to give you and our High lord his best," he replies to Alarissa as he looks between her, the heir to house Thrax, and Vanora for a moment. When Victus addresses him, he smiles somewhat himself and says, "We are. Father's leg is finally feeling better, so hopefully he will be up to coming around again soon. And I have little reason for complaint, myself." He then steps away for a moment to see about drinks, picking up glasses of rum when no mead seems to be present, holding on to the two of them while the Lady with whom he arrived seems ready to accept Astrid in her arms. As he stands nearby, he notices Lethe and smiles, dipping his head and greeting her, "Good evening, Lady Lethe. It is good to see you again."

Graham moves along with his sister-in-law. He looks to his side and isnt moving quickly as they enter taking a moment to glance around to find who all is here as well. "It seems a nice turn, out and good music too." He says with a grin perhaps to something spoken along the way as they enter further into the square.

Titania smiles, "Oh look that is Lord Valdemar Grimhall and my cousin Marquissa Vanora Kennex." she gives them both a small wave and she looks around and heer eyes widen slightly spotting Dagon.

"Someone is popular. Send a messenger to me, and make sure to have a bottle ready, your choice of drink," Caspian says back to Fatima, giving her a two fingered salute. And with that he allows Fatima to be bugged by others as he moves back over to Sparte. "So, how have you been now that we have some measure of peace?"

Malesh arrives, late, with his petite wife helping him along. He's got a cane too, a long one that's nearly as tall as Ariel. He's still sporting a bandage around the crown of his head, with an angled it covering his left eye and ear, but he's back to wearing actual clothes rather than pajamas or hospitaly things. Even slumped and meek looking as he is during his recover, he's still clearly a tall fellow, and not so great at sneaking in late like this.

"Keep hold of that for me until my hands are free, if you would?" Vanora asks Valdemar regarding the rum with warmth in her voice. "Though I would like the honor of being the one to get Princess Astrid drunk for the first time I was thinking she'd be closer to three. Don't want the High Lord vexed about it" She does indeed manage to hold a baby with the relaxed experience of one who has done so before, balancing the little beauty on her hip similarly to how her mother did, and stopping to murmur things in the little one's ear. Mostly the names of things that seem to catch the baby's attention, she's too young to appreciate party gossip. "Titania. It is good to see you. I'm...I was hoping we'd get the chance to sit and talk soon that is...but not at a party. Tea or wine for two some afterno...oh." Awkward. "Pravus, Ti. Lady Vanora Pravus. It...didn't work out."

Steve, an ungainly pelican arrives, following Niklas.

Astrid is indeed passed over to Vanora, all white silk with little embroidered seashells and waves on the hem of her dress. "He just passes the paperwork to me, it makes for interesting evenings spent quiet. I make sure he relaxes." Alarissa assures Vanora, dipping her head to valdemar before moving around the group to turn her attention to Victus but hovering near Vanora just in case. Titania's arrival, Maelsh and Ariel's, liftig her fingers to wriggle a wave at them.

The tall young Stonewood looks to his side and then where she points. Graham smiles offering a nod in greeting as well he will speak something softly, but then spots his brother and his wife and smiles "Ah, welcome to waking world brother." He says with a grin. "Ah, sister, it's been far far too long." He greets Ariel as well.

The High Lord of Thrax circles around the one empty table for the evening. With a few quick successive pounds of his fist, he signals for those in attendance to pay their mind his way. With that same hand he snatches a bottle of rum, propping a boot up against the empty seat as he speaks. "It's good to remember the reason we're all here. Tonight ain't a party for the hell of it, it's a celebration of our survival. A celebration of gratitude to the ones who bought our survival with their lives." Victus lifts his bottle up. "We ain't a people who mourn conventionally despite the place from whence we came. We don't shed tears. We remember our ancestors and the ones who are immortalized in their sacrifice. Tonight is about those who have gone onto legend. Thousands died at Setarco and hundreds of ships entered the arms of Mangata to be passed to the arms of the Queen of Endings. I say to them - Thank you. Thrax stands mighty, united, unbroken and unbowed against the Pretender Pirate King. It shall do so for another thousand years that we stand."

Here, he lifts his drink up high. "To the dead! To Thrax! To the Mourning Isles! TEARS IN OUR WAKE, NEVER AT OUR WAKE!" Down the hatch that rum goes.

Circling and moving through the group are servants with trays littered with shot glasses of rum for everyone to take and drink.

Caspian has joined the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Ariel keeps a hand on the back of Malesh as they make their way towards the gathered people. Remaining close to the injured man's side she offers Graham a smile as her eyes follow The High Lord. Lacking a drink she waits a moment before speaking, "A pleasure to see you brother."

Fatima has joined the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Archeron can't resist giving his twin sister a smile, bowing his head "Well, I am sure Margot will be happy you were out and about, sister mine. I know how she wants you evaluating those single nobles to find one who might be worthy of Tyde, difficult as that is." Arch bends down, settling Root onto the floor to rustle around at his ankles "So, how did you find the city without me, Lethe? It must be the first time we have spent much time apart in about a dozen years." And ah. Then Victus is talking. He turns his head to listen. He finds himself nodding along to the speech before wincing only a little at the shouting, yet he echos the sentiment as he softly speaks the Tyde words "We Fall, We Rise."

Caspian pounds his fist against his chest after Victus speaks and thrusts it into the sky, calling out, "Tears in our wake, never at our wake!"

Dagon has shifted over to one side, taking up a position where he can meet and greet, but is also out of the way. Attentive to the speach, he does offer his own shout to follow, having accepted one of the glasses to take in quick order, before setting it aside. A little smile on his lips, as he keeps an eye on the ongoing activities.

Sparte offers Fatima another nervous smile, not seeming troubled by the interest moving on to others. He shakes his head to Caspian's words. "Uh, is it peaceful? I... I guess it doesn't feel it. Sorry." Sparte looks back to try to find the person who'd spoken to him before in the crowd and seems lost. "Wasn't there someone else just... Huh."

"I meant now, Master Wild." Fatima says with a soft chuckle, walking to the champion's side. "Can't be rid of me so easily." When Victus gives his speech, the princess lifts her own glass of wine in a toast. Then she's off to sit somewhere quiet.

Malesh smiles at Graham's greating. "Happy to see you as well, Graham, and happy to be up and on my feet again." Even if it is with some assistance. "Most of the peeling is over with, I suspect." He's in a good enough mood at least, but then again there's free rum and he does in deed snag a shot to down for the High Lord's toast. "Do you have a place you're sitting broter? I'd like to avoid any more standing than necessary."

With babe still in arms making grabbing rum somewhat difficult, Vanora uses Astrid to toast instead, bobbing the little girl up on her hip to see her father's toast and continuing to murmur at her. "Th...rax. You try. Like this." With the lady's assistance the little princess hoists a fist in the air, but she does not in fact say Thrax. Or anything. "A woman of silence, that's good darling. Keep everyone guessing, they won't know what's on your mind." They might if Astrid takes an interest in any of the food being moved around. Vanora seems charmed by the little girl and content to miss a round of drinks if she is rewarded with new baby smell.

Lethe nods to the man. "It's great to see you too. I hope you've been well." She turns her attention to Victus and gets her own glass of rum to drink. She nods to Archeron. "I'm sure she'll find someone for you eventually even if it is difficult." She grins and shrugs. "I'm just glad you're back now."

"Of course. If I manage to drink them both before you have a free hand, I'm sure I can find you another," the Grimhall heir responds tto Vanora, a grin at his lips. Titania then receives a friendly wave, though as the two women begin to talk, he remains nearby and quiet. When the High Lord addresses the party, his attention shifts toward their host, listening keenly to what he has to say. Raising one of the glasses of rum tha the holds, he echoes Victus, "To the Mourning Isles! To the heroic dead!" He then drinks down about half of that glass at once.

Margot arives a bit fashionably late, the duchess simply attired in soft, smokey sea silk, a light scarf drawn up over her pale hair. She looks around and smiles softly.

Victus discards the empty bottle upon a tray and plucks up a new one just as fast, almost like a sleight of hand trick. Only with alcohol. As he descends back into the crowd, he gives his wife a gentle pat on the back, as well as a look to Vanora. "Careful. She puts everything in her mouth. Usually jewelry." He does give a pass to pat his baby girl on the head as he moves on by. His next target being Sparte. "Sparte." The gruff Thraxian lays a hand upon the man's shoulder. "I think I'm gonna need to send your weasel back. See it was funny before when I cracked wise about the cat eatin' it, yeah? But uhhh..." He turns his attention downward, the maimed feline staring back with her one eye. "... Yeah I'm thinkin' it probably ain't gonna be a joke for much longer. You got room for what-his-face... Tom?"

Astrid is inspired by all of the toasting and cheering even if she doesn't understand the point. She does feel moved to celebrate however, and as such reaches towards one of the very sparkly and very -sharp- hairpins holding Vanora's coif in place, removing it in one swoop like Excalibur before the Lady notices. Proving her daddy's point, and now armed!

Archeron wrinkles his nose at Lethe's suggestion "Oh, I am sure Margot will do whatever it is Margot wishes when it comes to matching me to someone. I am content to live in ignorance. I am her voice, but she keeps her own mind. You know how we are." Archeron goes to obtain his own drink before he ohs "Did Margot tell you that we found one of our cousins left alive as well, Lethe? Turns out she was commanding the forces of the Gyre for him. I suppose she must now command what remains. We are, it seems, very difficult beasts to kill." Arch's voice is quite nonchalent and conversational about the whole thing

Alarissa lifts a shot glass of rum at the end of Victus's words, the musicians stopping for this moment of silence that is called for. No tears, not anywhere here. She tosses it back, lifting the now empty glass and putting it back on the tray and turns to make her way to Malesh and Ariel. "The stonewoods. A surprise. Please, do take a seat, I can have an ottoman brought out for your leg."

Niklas wanders in and looks around for familiar faces. On mostly failing in that regard, he waits for a servant to get in close enough and snaps up two glasses of rum. "Ah, twins!" He nods to each glass, "Ladies." and then downs the both before heading over to the pile of free food. When another servant passes he gets rid of the two empty glasses, then turns to fill a plate with a whole lot of something that had its breakfast in the ocean. That done, he wanders back out and sends a wave first Vanora's way, then Margot's, but his mouth is too full to actually say anything without ruining his shirt.

Sparte nods to Victus slowly. "Highlord Victus. Well, yes. I mean, Tiny Tom doesn't like cats much." Sparte glances over to Alarissa then back to Victus. "Sort of fights them to the death if you let her. I was wondering why she hadn't wandered back yet on her own."

Titania ohs as she moves to hug Vanora, "We should speak seems much has changed." she says then looks to Valdimar, "It is good to see you as well." when Victus starts to speak she looks up and takes a shot glass holding it up, "Tears in our wake, never at our wake." she downs it and puts the glass back, "Thats my limit for tonight." she smiles looking to Malesh and Ariel, "Marquis Malesh, Marquessia Ariel it is good to see you both again. Yes lets find a seat shall we." she smiles.

Dagon moved to Margot when she arrived, offering her a grin and a slight bow. "If I might?" offering her his arm in order to escort her further inward. "Something to eat, or drink?" he's been here, but hasn't yet started to do much of either, aside from the recent toast.

Lethe nods to Archeron. "I do trust Margot's mind." She shakes her head. "I don't think so, but I did hear a little about it. It was suprising, and not the most pleasant news." She shrugs. "That does remind me. Have you met Countess Reigna? She's a cousin of ours. I decided to join the Physicians Guild, and the subject came up."

4 Thrax Guards, Teonia Redreef, Aryka Wyrmfang arrive, following Sorrel.

Titania has joined the simple benches lining the northern wall.

Margot waves to Niklas and then glances to Archeron before she smiles to Dagon and reaches to take his arm. THe duchess leans over to kiss her husband's cheek. "A drink I think. I am glad you are here already I was worried I would be on my own tonight."

Graham raises his free hand in the toast and echo's the others. He looks to his side to Titania as she speaks and then back to his brother and sister. "I dont as of yet, but we can sit for sure." He will move over towards the benches and takes a seat beside his newest sister in law.

Graham has joined the simple benches lining the northern wall.

"It's a she-weasel?" Victus asks, perplexed. "The she-weasel is named Tiny Tom?" Blink, blink. The Thrax's face turns down in a grimace. "And it does WHAT to cats?!" His head whirls around to stare back at his wife, growling in the same vein his own pet might. "Well... Fuck. You'll get her back then, soon. Gotta find out where she went first. Not that she's lost, mind. She just fucking wanders about on her own pretty often and I keep finding her in random places." He takes a step back from Sparte, running his hand down his face at the terror that lurked within Thrax's halls, now that he fully understood the danger. "Fuckin' animals are so complicated... Margot! You made it! And you got all your limbs still attached from Setarco, eh? Good shit."

When reddish-gold waves fall from the elaborate style that those black and garnet hairpins maintained, Vanora's green eyes open with confusion and then alarm. "Oh dear. Astrid. No. No Hairpin. Bad." There's a movement to hold the baby a bit farther away from her body, but she has no free hands to grab the pin. Looking around she catches Valdemar's glance. "A little help? Disarm this baby." Titania is given her warmest smile. "Much has changed but not so much as that. I still love you dearly. We will talk though, and soon, I promise." She looks around to see if she might catch Niklas' gaze for greeting too, without becoming too distracted from the challenging baby situation at hand.

Ariel shakes her head slightly, "A kind offer Princess but he needs to bend the leg, lest he looses even more mobility. Given his ability to move out of harm's way..." Ariel smiles then and the hand on Malesh's back rubs absently. The calling of their names draws her attention for a moment and she smiles at the source.

Malesh leans down a little, something of a bow to Alarissa. "Well you know, between Gailin's bride and my own, you might say we have something of an interest in the isles. At some point, Ariel or I will have to engage you about how we might help in the efforts to restore Darkwater to her former glory." He lifts his walking stick to gently tap his leg with it, "I think I'll be fine thank you Princess, once I get the weight off of it that is. I'm told bending it will be good for my flexibility." He smiles down at his wife as he says this, "She's doing a good job of keeping me on the mend."

Malesh has joined the simple benches lining the northern wall.

Victus has joined the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Margot grins to Victus and nods, "Indeed I do your grace. Something tried to take a bite out of my side but it died." She winks and squeezes Dagon's arm.

Ariel has joined the simple benches lining the northern wall.

"Then no ottoman to rest your leg, but plenty of rum to make you forget about it. As for Darkwater, we wait for word from the family how best they would like to proceed and how we can help them. But the moment we know, we will be reaching out. I promise. Malesh, Ariel, I'll turn you loose, my husband is... growling..." Which is confusing and that gets him a puzzled and questioning look as she turns away from the Stonewood pair.

Archeron wriggles his now free fingers at Margot before he shakes his head to Lethe "Countess Reigna? Can't say I've met her - but we do get around with the two houses. The Ashford side I take it?" Victus' latest bit gets an amused look from Archeron before he comments to his sister "I wonder why people are always so surprised to see Tydes survive."

Dagon returns the kiss to his wife's cheek before he straightens, considering before accompanying her to the table of rum. Taking one for her, first, before claiming one for himself. "You missed all the thoughts of you having locked me in a cellar, and threats to follow through with it." sounding amused, as an aside to Margot. "But otherwise, a toast to our victories, and everything else is just getting started."

Dagon has joined the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Margot has joined the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Valdemar smiles when Titania addresses him after she hugs Vanora. "I am glad to see you here, Lady Titania. Father is finally feeling better, I thought you'd be happy to know," he tells her, before he hears his name being called. Looking toward the red-haired Lycene, his eyes widen with surprise to see the baby she is holding has her hairpin, wielding it like a tiny dagger. Finishing his glass of rum to free one of his hands he steps over and reaches to try to get Astrid's weapon away from her. Maybe he moves a little /too/ quickly, though, because the tip of the hairpin ends up sticking the palm of his hand before he manages to get hold of it, causing him to exclaim, "Ow, shit!" Still, the little princess is disarmed, but not before drawing blood for what might be her first time.

Margot laughs as she follows Dagon to the drinks, "Oh? We don't have a cellar.... though perhaps we should have one built I do rather like the idea." She winks and then looks over the drinks lain out. "Oh wine for me I think."

Niklas sets down his empty plate once finished, grabs another glass of rum and wanders toward the exit. When he sees Vanora he offers her a wan smile, but she looks pretty busy baby wrangling, so he heads for the exit. Lifting his glass he says, "The winds of change at ever at our back," then murmurs, "Been pretty fuckin' windy, though."

Steve, an ungainly pelican leaves, following Niklas.

Graham looks over to his brother and will smile "Take it slowly, and seriously leave it to your younger brothers next time." He chuckles though he nods to Ariel's words "She is correct though motion is important." He looks back to his side where his other brothers wife sits now and smiles "Did you need anything?" he asks curiously.

Alarissa has joined the a refreshment table lined with rum.

"The hard truth is that it's a pleasant surprise most did survive those battles, Lord Archeron." Victus muses to the Tyde bluntly. "The fact that even more made it out without permanent damage may well be a fucking miracle. Not that I don't know Margot doesn't have the capability of a barbarian if she really /needs/ to put an axe into someone's skull..." An amused grin flickers over his face as he makes his way to the refreshment table. Though his attention is briefly stolen by the shenanigans occurring between his child, Vanora and Valdemar. For a moment his grin wanes and is instead replaced by an expression of pure pride. If someone was crazy enough, they might even note that it looks like Victus is /smiling/. But a trick of the light would definitely be a more accurate descriptor to something so preposterous. "... That's my girl."

Lethe gets another drink and nods. "Yes the Ashford side." She ponders. "I'm not sure, but actually I've never noticed." She listens to Victus but says nothing more.

"Oh my." Vanora responds to Valdemar's wounding with initial concern and then a concerted effort not to laugh. Lips press together to force a smile off her features. "No Astrid. No Stabbing." Her reprimand is half-hearted at best, though she does seek out a servant to relieve her of the burden of keeping Astrid from attacking other guests. Eventually one does, a nurse or nanny or someone familiar with the little princess, moving to either return her to Alarissa or mind her themselves. "Sorry. First blood goes to Astrid" she comments to Valdemar, reaching out that he might hand her the pin and coiling her hair quickly back into place before tucking it back in.

Food is being placed on tables, brought out in a steady stream and the smells filtering through the courtyard. Genaile moves forward at the ready to Take Astrid and filter the young girl off to the nursery. "Margot. Up and moving about." Alarissa presses a kiss to the Duchess Tyde's cheek, happy to see her up, a murmur to victus.

Sorrel wanders in, a cheerful smile on her face, full and warm and dressed in a fantastically beautiful gown that shows off her small pregnancy bump and increased curves to perfection. Her necklace and earrings are all Thraxian gems, and she looks an ideal princess in them, gracefully milling about amid the guests.

Margot leans in and kisses Alarissa's cheek, "Yes, thanks to Lethe's handy work with a needle." She glances to Victus. "Shush, you'll ruin my gentle reputation." She chides affectionately.

"I should have known better. My sister Lovisa stabbed me more than once when she was her Highness' age. She loved picking up sharp objects, and somehow I was always the one to find her," Valdemar remarks as he hands the hairpin back to Vanora, adding as she takes it, "You might want to clean that a little before you put it back in your hair. She /did/ break skin, just a little. First blood indeed." He gives the baby a grin as she is taken away by one of the nurses, clearly no hard feelings over the wound.

Malesh shakes his head, "Not too much rum, what do you think has the High Lord so growly?" He chuckles a little and follows Titania's example and makes for the benches so that he can slide his gangly height down onto one of them. He leans his walking stick against his body to keep it from wandering off, and then he rubs at his left leg some. "Time, so they tell me. Maybe another drink, eventually. They still have me drinking this really hideous tea." He sighs a little and settles in to that bench like it's the greatest thing ever. "I had my parade armor, thank you, and a good thing too. Because of it, I'm mostly spared the permanent effects of being on fire."

"We made our choices and knew the consequences, Prince Victus. Almost all things stem from choice - we just have to hope we have the wisdom to make the right ones. And if what we choose to fight for is good enough, then the consequences are worth it. We all accept that fate. But I would possibly lay a good deal of what silver I have on Margot surviving anything that she chooses to." There is a faint grin as Archeron glances over to his Cousin "It is amusing though. That people think we keep our women more behind because we are backwards in our traditions. They do not realise it is because it would be unfair on our enemies should we let them loose. I'd rather take on the Gyre again than have Margot glare at me."

2 Armed Confessors arrives, following Elara.

"I have already offered to show him, how to dodge." Graham tells Ariel with a grin though looking to his brother. "I am not sure if chains would be enough though, he's a Stonewood. We are a hard headed bunch, i'm sure you've figured this out though." He shakes his head "That hardly counts as armor.. do I need to personally get you some made?" He says his voice is teasing but there is the hint of proper worry there as well.

"We're off to see /my/ family next." Vanora responds lightly, pushing the pin into place. "Its considered lucky among the Lycene to have a little blood on you /before/ the party." That's almost certainly not at all true, but she states it to Valdemar anyway. "Do you still have my rum, or did you drink it already? Shall we get you a healer after your tussle with the toddler, or allow you to keep some of your dignity? I'm not in a rush." Teasing and comfortable, the Lady is effervescent before even sipping her first drink.

Ariel watches as Malesh settles, "The tea is a small price to pay, I suggested they bathe the leg in sea water." a wink is given to the wounded man then. When one of the servers passes she takes two of the glasses of rum handing one to her husband before she takes a seat beside him. Graham is nodded to, "That is the truth of it, very hardheaded. I have two more to raise now, I have no doubt our sons will turn out to be just like their father."

Chuckling, Valdemar replies, "Good luck, huh? Only as long as they don't know how it happened, in this case." Then Vanora mentions the glass of rum he had gotten her, and he looks at his other hand, to see that it is wet too. "I still have most of it," he answers her offers her the glass, though it is clear that some of it got spilled in the effort to save everyone from Princess Astrid, "I can do without a healer. I think I might have taken worse injury than this before, though I'm not entirely sure." With this, he gives Titania a sidelong glance.

Prince Luca doesn't look like he ever made it home after the sparring matches earlier in the day. If anything, it seems as if he's wandered into further excitement or adventure. Not that dressing up is ever required for a feast in these parts. He's still garbed in most of his dueling leathers, with his sword belt still on, and he's really rather just sort of carrying a rather dirt-and-blood-chic sort of look to him at the moment as he strolls into the courtyard. "I thought I heard a bunch of trouble coming from over here!" he calls out, like he didn't even mean to show up at all. Clearly he did, because he fixes the room with a lopsided grin, "Well, I guess I'll stay if it's a party. Just nobody twist my arm to drink, okay?"

Victus stares for a very, very long time at Alarissa. Blankly. Then, he'd simply shrug and turn back to the table of drinks. "Margot does have a most intimidatin' glare to her. Deadly gaze really if you wanna get all fucking specific about it. Something about it does quiver your bones." If such a thing were also possible. "Had to put money on anyone in the world, I'd probably throw it at the baby. Astrid already survived storms, krakens, you name it she's done it. AND she just stabbed a Grimhall and lived to tell the tale. That kid is a fucking prodigy. One day she'll be ramming boats with the best of 'em." His praising goes on and on and his eyes trail back to the entrance as another soul filters in. "Oh fuck, it's Luca. Hide the good shit."

Titania miles wide, "That is excelent news Lord Valdemar, please let him know I wish to speak with him, it has been to long since I have and I do miss his company." she smiles and chuckles as the princess takes first blood with her hair pins. She looks over to spot Luca a small smile coming to her lips but then looks to those she is sitting with.

"More of your company," Caspian responds back to Fatima without hestitation. "And a smile as I give all the embelishment to you." Though when Fatima says that, he tilts his head curiously to the woman. "That is a lofty goal. Traveling across the sea is hard. The Explorers hope to get a ship that can sail across the Eventide Vast, but even with such a ship, it's likely still dangerous." He pauses for a moment, "I should ask Princess Lou about that. I haven't heard about her progress."

Elara makes a quiet and, hopefully, unobtrusive enterance to the gathering. Her face has a faint smile and she looks calmly and curiously about. And as she approaches the table of drinks she can't help but overhear Victus' colorful words. "Good evening," She says her smile growing a little as amusement drifts in her eyes.

Sparte has taken the shift in conversation as an opportunity to slip off and attempt to move through the crowd. The sight of Luca gets Sparte raising his hand to wave briefly, the distracted Sparte bumping into Malesh. Sparte quickly backs up, giving Malesh a wincing smile. "Sorry, sorry."

Margot leans lightly into Dagon's side, her shoulder against his and lifts a brow at Victus, "A glare is more effective than a punch most of the time." She notes. Glancing over she smiles to Luca and then pauses, glancing past him and then back with a slight lift of her brow.

"The trouble is coming on your coattails Prince Luca!" ALarissa calls over from the table. "Join us. They hid the good stuff under the table. So make yourself comfortable there dear Prince." Sparte's making his leave and Alarissa stops him ever so briefly then back to their small group. "I finger sharp rings on the fingers to be very effective." Blithely spoken and an innocent look on her face. "Ribs are so tender."

"I've got a good place you can hide it, Vic! Just tell me where you're keeping the stuff! I came to drink and to eat, and I'm all out of..", Luca begins, casting his dark gaze around at the nature of the gathering. "..well.. it looks like I'm not all out of either, now that I'm here. So I guess I'll do both. That's fair. I need that after today." He grins at Sparte, and gives the man a wave in return, before he catches Margot's look. When she looks past him, he glances over his shoulder, searching for something, then allows his attention to light on her again, his own brow lifting as if to question in return. Alarissa's calling to him, and he flashes the woman a grin, "You can't fool me. You have to drink yourself under the table to get there. I guess I'll have to work my way to the good stuff then, won't I?"

"I will be sure to pass word on to him, Lady Titania. And hopefully I will see you again before too long, myself. As Lady Vanora said, though, this is not the only party I agreed to take her to tonight," Valdemar responds to her, smiling back at her before once more seeking out the hosts. Finding them just as Victus mentions his daughter stabbing a Grimhall and living, he lets out a laugh and tells them, "A prodigy indeed, your Grace. However, Lady Pravus and I need to take our leave now. It felt good to gather and pay our respects to those no longer with us, though."

Maleshs long legs are something of a tripping hazard even normally, doubly so when one or the other is stretched out. He winces as well, one hand pulling his leg back while the other raises his drink a little higher to prevent spilling. "Shards." He hisses out, but grits his teeth and turns it to something of a smile soon enough, taking just a moment to recompose himself.

Luca has joined the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Archeron has joined the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Lethe has joined the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Sorrel has joined the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Elara has joined the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Dagon listens, then chuckles, whispering back to his wife. Only slowly drinking from the glass of rum that he has in hand.

Archeron taps Lethe's arm before he heads over towards his cousin "Good to see you up and about Margot. I hope whatever cunning plan you had with your Peacekeepers came to something? And, is there any word on our mischevious returned cousin since the defeat of the enemy?"

Her hair now back in place and babies handed off, Vanora finishes her one half-glass of rum and sets it down before approaching the hosts at Valdemar's side. "Yes, thank you for having me. The toasts were moving. I hope the rest of the evening is wonderful." A dip of her head to Victus, Alarissa, the other Thrax royals assembled at the tables and other guests. "Enjoy the night." She nods to Valdemar after saying her own farewells, putting a hand on his arm as they make their way out of the courtyard.

"Be well lady Vanora! Lord Valdemar. Give Juliana my regards."

2 Grimhall House Guards, Gustav, a gruff Islander advisor, Vanora leave, following Valdemar.

Titania nods her head looking to Val and Vanora, "I look forward to seeing you both soon." she smiles and looks back over to Ariel, Malesh and Graham.

Margot squeezes Dagons arm and nods slightly. She smiles a bit to Archeron, "Actually they were not keeping peace so much as killing everything and one who got in their way this time. It was an unusual turn of events."

Victus' hand goes up to wave to the departing Vanora and Valdemar. He shares a look over to Luca again, a snort of amusement had for the man. "Just don't drink every-fuckin'-thing we got here, eh? We need it for the rest of the party too..." Nonetheless he beckons the foxy prince closer. "Ya' missed getting to hold a baby. Poor you, eh?"

"Margot's Band Of People Who Are Normally Peacekeepers But At Other Points Brutally Murder All With Whom She Disagrees /might/ be a little long to fit on banners and the like, Cousin." Archeron suggests glibly, a little grin flickering on his features. "But I'll happily make the appropriate notes in the house accounts."

Caspian gives Fatima a fond smile and a deep bow, telling the woman, "Good night, your highness." He turns and gives that bow to Sorrel as well, then waves to Sparte, "I'll see you at the tournament grounds. I'm going to go get ready!" And with that, he is off!

Caspian has left the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Anya, the cool as an ice cube Champion apprentice, Renn, the mousy, scholarly brunette, Morgan, a roguish looking gentleman leave, following Caspian.

Malesh is rubbing his leg and trying to be in his best spirits with his extended family around him. "I might wish for some of that armor now..." He bemoans, having been bumped into by Sparte. He waves ihs hand once it's done rubbing his leg, "It's fine... or it'll be fine. No harm done I'm sure." He's coresponed with the man before, but doesn't seem to recognize him. At least not right off.

The Fox-Prince makes his way over to the refreshments table, looking very casual about getting his hands on a bottle of fine rum. "Where's the Warstache of Thrax at tonight? You wouldn't think he'd miss this sort of thing." and then he's heading over in Victus' direction, popping a cork on the bottle he's found, "They never hand the kids off to a Fox. It kind of comes with the territory. Besides, I like them much better when they're old enough to swing a sword. That's my kind of child."

Fatima has left the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Anya, the cool as an ice cube Champion apprentice, Renn, the mousy, scholarly brunette, Morgan, a roguish looking gentleman arrive, following Caspian.

Anya, the cool as an ice cube Champion apprentice, Renn, the mousy, scholarly brunette, Morgan, a roguish looking gentleman leave, following Caspian.

"Right! The tournament grounds." Sparte starts to head off in the other direction on Caspian's cue, giving a parting awkward wave to the briefly accosted Malesh as he goes.

Anya, the cool as an ice cube Champion apprentice, Renn, the mousy, scholarly brunette, Morgan, a roguish looking gentleman arrive, following Caspian.

Anya, the cool as an ice cube Champion apprentice, Renn, the mousy, scholarly brunette, Morgan, a roguish looking gentleman leave, following Caspian.

Wilhelm the Iron Messenger, 3 Iron Guardsmen, Gene Erique, Guardsman leave, following Sparte.

Dagon suddenly covers a yawn with his hand, and offers an apologetic look to Margot. "It seems I am still a bit tired from the journey home. Do you want to stay, or shall I accompany you back to the tower?" finishing off the last of his rum after asking, before he sets the now empty glass down onto the table.

Ariel lays a hand on one of Malesh's arms after his outburst. "Are you alright? Do you need to go?" The soft spoken words accompany the look of worry that crosses her face.

"No idea where Galen has run off too." Victus muses in kind to Luca. "It could be anything from being drunkenly lost in an alleyway and trying to fist-fight ghosts, or proudly raising an army to fill the gaps in House Thrax's lost manpower. Either or!" Another chuckle rumbles through the man like a tidal wave. "Ahh, Eleyna and Talen have seen her at least and she ain't been gobbled up by some unmentionable horror. I think that's pretty good, aye?"

Dagon has left the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Malesh grins and puts on his good face, at least what can be seen of it from under the bandages across the left side. "It wil be fine. Just some rest I think. Walking on it right away certainly won't improve it." He sighs a little tries to relax, the drinking helping and so he sips at it. "Is it too much if I tease you brother, by trying to marry you to a fine island lady like Gailin and I have done?" He looks across the way, scanning the group to see if he might find an available young lady.

Titania chuckles saying something to her group before she stands up slowly its getting abit hard for her to move about, her eyes fall on those at the table, "Your Grace, thank you for having this. I am happy to see so many come back safe and those who did not remembered." she says softly to Victus.

Graham moves to stand himself along side his brothers wife. He offers his arm to her much like the way they'd entered it seems that a new destination is picked out already. "Please take it easy Malesh, and it was wonderful to see you sister." He says to Ariel while he looks between them.

Titania has left the simple benches lining the northern wall.

Graham has left the simple benches lining the northern wall.

2 Iron Guardsmen leaves, following Titania.

Titania leaves, following Graham.

Lethe has left the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Margot has left the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Margot has joined the a cleared portion of the courtyard for dancing.

Luca has left the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Luca has joined the a cleared portion of the courtyard for dancing.

Margot is pulled to the dancefloor with a bit of a laugh, her head shaking.

Prince Luca departs the rum table (there's food too, but let's be honest, it's a rum table) with Margot in-hand, pulling her over to the part of the courtyard that's been cleared for dancing. He brings her around into a quick, slow spin after lifting her arm up into the air, and then settles in against her. It doesn't exactly look like it's going to be a fast dance, at least for the moment. His other hand finds the small of her back, and he leans in the murmur something.

Margot checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 9 higher.

Margot manages NOT to crush Luca's toes though she clearly is letting him lead, falling into step with the eerily graceful prince.

Luca checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 10 higher.

Luca doesn't manage to look all that graceful, though, how much grace is really needed in slow dancing? It's clear his attention is more focused on the conversation they're having, though his foot are doing as they need to, to the left and to the right, and he doesn't manage to get his toes stepped on. "I don't think people are supposed to dance this slow at a Thrax feast." he tells the First Duchess of Tyde.

Margot speaks quietly as they waltz about the space, "Indeed but I fear if we try anything else I will trip and break my legs."

Ariel watches the dancers as she leans against her husband. A smile quirks her lips as she leans over murmuring to Malesh. "That is the next step in your recovery. Dancing to stretch the skin and muscles, i'll have to get protective boots made for my feet though."

"Mhm. It's not a real dance anyway, unless people are judging you. That means something different here than it does in, say, the Lyceum." Luca tells Margot, shifting back a touch and bringing her around slowly, his dark gaze watching over her shoulder, taking in the feast as it goes on around them.

Malesh leans in on his wife and chuckles. "If you like, you can just stand on my fet and be safe." She really is a tiny next to him, but the rumor is they fell for eachother through letter writing, so maybe that doesn't matter so much. "I do look forward to being well enough to dance again." He sighs a little, turning towards sadness but then reversing course quickly, "Oh, did I say, there's another boat race coming up. I intend to lead the Grayson boat again, that we might retain the title. So you know, that might be good for me."

Elara has left the a refreshment table lined with rum.

2 Armed Confessors have been dismissed.

Around they go, slowly, like two fireflies. Prince Luca leads, bring the First Duchess of Tyde along with him. There's nothing hurried about how he leads, one hand in her own, the other on the small of her back, even if it's clear that he's speaking to her in the quietest of tones. At a point, he steps back from her so that he can artfully roll her through another spin. It's a very evenly measured spin, designed for those who might be prone to crushing feet, before he pulls her back up against his lean frame again.

Margot finishes the dance and smiles if a bit whistfully. Finishing the dance she curtsies to the prince and then steps back. "Thank you Your Highness. Have a good evening."

Margot has left the a cleared portion of the courtyard for dancing.

Luca has left the a cleared portion of the courtyard for dancing.

Luca has joined the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Margot lifts a hand to the High Prince and his consort and apparently is calling it a night.

Malesh nods a long some and starts to push himself up. "He may not be the only one." The ma says before wincing a litte as he gets his weight on his walking stick. He sighs a little, trying not to get too frustrated at his condition, and holds an arm out for his wife.

Ariel dips under the offered arm to place a hand on the tall man's back to steady him. "Well I am sure we can find you something." is her off hand remark to his words. She dips a bit to the remaining guests before assisting Malesh to the exit.

Malesh has left the simple benches lining the northern wall.

Ariel has left the simple benches lining the northern wall.

Sorrel has left the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Luca has left the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Luca has joined the a cleared portion of the courtyard for dancing.

Sorrel has joined the a cleared portion of the courtyard for dancing.

Sorrel stands from the table and allows herself to be led by Luca over to the dancing area, preparing to dance. She's very light on her feet, very agile, in spite of the extra weight she's carryiing around. She's got a broad grin on her face. "You flatter me," she tells him fondly. And then the dancing begins.

Sorrel checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 19 higher.

Luca checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 11 higher.

"I've never danced with a pregnant woman, before. How do we do this? I could cuddle up to your backside, instead, but the Moustache might be looking to fist-fight more than just ghosts if he walked in on that..", Luca remarks, grinning still at Storrel. He's the most agile.. on the field of battle. The delicate nature of dancing doesn't seem to translate quite so well as he would look. Or perhaps it's something else."

Sorrel checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 31 higher.

Luca checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 7 higher.

Sorrel is only getting started, her footwork quick and complex as she dances with Luca, spinning circles around him without ever quite letting go. Being pregnant is clearly no hindrance to her style or ability to dance. She's like a little bird, so light on her feet.

"Same to you, Lord Archeron. Stay safe and I'm lookin' forward to your progress." Victus gives the Tyde lord a little salute before his eyes move over to Sorrel and Luca's dance. Quiet in his observation.

Luca, for his part, seems as if he's just keeping up with the woman he's dancing with. At a point, when he's stretched out along her arm, he slips the bottle of rum from his pocket and takes a long swig of it, before slipping it back once more, and on he goes, under her arm, stretching back and then following her lead when she's directing him elsewhere. It's clear he's not leading this one at all.

Archeron has left the a refreshment table lined with rum.

Root, a ferocious badger leaves, following Archeron.

"Luca, Alarissa sent me a Reese dolly for the baby to play with when it comes," Sorrel notes delightedly as the pair dance together, exchanging words now and again when he holds her close. "I'm so excited! Reese is a doll, and Reese as a doll!"

"Alarissa never sent me a Reese doll. I guess I'll have to settle for the real thing?" Luca asks, grinning at Sorrel as they pass during their dance, "I'm sure we can make sure the child has the real thing to play with, too. She has great hair for pulling." That's a casual way of mentioning that, when he dips under Sorrel's arm and pulls her close again, going through the motion of the dance. The woman is still very much in control of it, so light on her feet.

"Well, I'm not sharing mine. It's pink and adorable!" Sorrel says with a giggle. "Just like the real thing! And yes! When the baby is born, you and Reese are absolutely going to have to come meet him or her. You'd make good godparents."

2 Grimhall House Guards, Gustav, a gruff Islander advisor, Vanora arrive, following Valdemar.

2 Grimhall House Guards, Gustav, a gruff Islander advisor, Vanora leave, following Valdemar.

"We accept!" Luca agrees, right then and there, like it were ever a choice, and he's careful to add, "I'm sure Reese would make a fantastic godparent. She's very caring and loves to fuss!" He pushes Sorrel through a spin, but not a fast one, and he sort of canters along with her through it despite how she's the more graceful one of the two in the art of dancing. "Having me for a godparent just means I get to teach them how to wield a sword. Which is useful. Better me than the Moustache with that big, unwieldy thing he has." He grins again, stepping around Sorrel and wrapping her arm around her stomach as he does so, coming right up behind her to murmur something.