Tabitha arrives, following Graham.

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

2 Armed Confessors arrives, following Elara.

Lisebet shows up, curious to see this dance off, and learn what goes on at such events. She slides into a seat on an empty bench quietly.

Itzal arrives, or appears, alone, clad in dark leather as is his habit. He has a rebec in hand, the bard all ready to play for the participants... or participate himself in the dance-off, as he gives Derovai his hundred silvers. "Will we see you dance, Derovai?" he asks with a grin. "I think Thena's been looking forward to it!"

Silvio arrives for the evening with the lovely Saoirse on his arm. He does not care if its couples dancing or not! He has brought the Princess in all her fabulousness to match up with his own fabulousness. If there's a fashion component to the dancing, well, they shall have fine marks in that. He leads the lady with a cocky look on his face over to Derovai, and pays for the both of them. "Here you are...for myself and her Highness..."

One of the first arrivals would be Islin. Swaggering in with a cheerful bounce to his step the Harthall lord glances around with open curiousity. As he spots the place where payments are taken he moves over that way, handing off a purse to whoever is manning the table at that point. Then he moves over to take his place with the hopeful dancers that are gathering.

The dance-off is ready to begin! Derovai is seated at the table with the trophies, a small metal cash box at the ready, and three trophies, made of cheap metal but nonetheless very pretty, resting before him. It's afternoon, and there's a light breeze -- and music! -- in the air. Things are quite genial. He lets out a sharp bark at Itzal's question. "Gods, no. I'm just here to talk." He glances past Itzal at Silvio, raising a brow. "Duets? Are we doing duets, Master Culler?" he asks Ital. "I don't think we're doing duets."

2 Kennex corsairs, Chief Rin Redreef arrive, following Catalana.

Catalana arrives, following Jan.

Steve, an ungainly pelican arrives, following Niklas.

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

Daemon is quickly dashing into the botanical gardens. There's little subtly in the man, he did absolutely just /sprint/ here straight from the House of Solace. His eyes wander, eventually spying Derovai. The knight clanks and clamors his way over to the man, a pouch of jingling coins in his hand. "I'll give you 500 for the admission, 500 more if you let me polish those trophies..." Daemon raises a brow. "... Deal?"

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

Elizabetta, a disapproving lady-in-waiting have been dismissed.

Lily, a lithe young woman have been dismissed.

Boy DO they have fine marks for fashion. Or scandal. Definitely scandal. Saoirse, in a tight, thigh-high be-slitted outfit with FANCY BOOTS! to ..boot (sorry) enters on Silvio's arm, pulled close to him, and she pauses at the entrance to give a hair flip over her shoulder. "Wait, we're dancing?" She glances at the outfit. "Okay."

"I think the good man is merely paying for himself and Her Highness, not proposing that they dance together." Itzal remarks to Derovai. "Not to worry! I'm sure you'll be able to handle all this... administrative work just fine!" And with that, Itzal wanders off to start warming up the strings of his rebec, tuning it for the upcoming danceoff.

Elara arrives on Halsim's arm and dressed for dancing. As they make their way in she breaks away from him with a whispered word. Making her way to Derovai she offers him the faintest of smiles. "Good evening," She says softly.

Sabella comes running in, practically dragging most of Kennex House in her wake. "Are we too late? Are we too--oh, we're fine!" she says brightly.

Thena walks in solemnly, tailed by her usual panoply of one (1) Solace acolyte and one (1) giant mastiff. Pyotr at least looks apprehensive. The dog doesn't seem to care. Dressed all in black as usual, she looks at the setup with an arch of one dark eyebrow, then stands with her arms crossed and watches as a surprising number of other people filter in.

When someone mentions dance off...you'd be hard pressed not to see Ford there. Will he be dancing? No. But he'll be damned if he doesn't go watch. Upon entering he lingers near the entrance somewhat before peeling off to find a good place to watch.

Catalana has joined the an old wooden bench.

Derovai stares at Silvio for a moment, before he looks up towards Daemon. "Polish -- all right." He's more puzzled than he was before, but he manages to produce a cloth from somewhere, all but lobbing it at Daemon. "I don't even want to know why," he states casually, before giving Elara a quick smile. "Dancing?"

"Its for charity...and for the glory of besting Grandmaster Dancer, Thena...I just know that you will win the entire event, Princess Saoirse. I shall graciously accept a mere second place. And then we will put our little fingerprints on the trophies right in front of...that man." He points a slender, graceful finger at Daemon.

"Oh Thena, look at all the people gathered here to see you!" Itzal waves cheerfully at the Grandmaster, his smile... positively devilish. But it's all in good fun, surely! He then begins to look around at the many more who join in on the event. He looks around to those faces he recognizes, those he doesn't, and just smiles to everyone just to make sure. "It warms the heart to see so many participate." he notes to no one in particular.

Lisebet watches the arrivals, trying to guess who is dancing and who is not. She tilts her head a bit, eyes moving from person to person, a nod and smile for those she recognizes.

Princess Sally Acorn, an acorn toting red squirrel arrives, following Kenna.

Coming into the dance with Elara in arm, the black clad Halsim Darkwater gives a look around as keen eyes take in the surroundings. "This look big." Halsim gives to Elara in a side-comment as they head inside.

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

Catalana blinks as she follows in Sabella and co. Her hand resting on her growing belly she just points to an old wooden bench. "I think I'm going to sit here....."

Thena leans over and aims a punch at the side of Itzal's head. It is, luckily, very slow and not remotely intended to hit. "This is insane. You are insane." She flattens her punch-hand to point at Derovai. "Also, you are insane."

It seems the gathering for the dance-off is growing, and those who were at sparring match are also making there way in. Graham walks into the area with Tabitha the two walking arm in arm. "Hm it seems more of a one versus all, but the donation at least will go towards the right thing perhaps dancing aftr will be best?" He offers to the other.

Ford waves to the Kennex gang, lifting a hand in their direction.

"This will not be needed." Daemon says as he stows the cloth in his auxiliary cleaning cloth pouch. From the front-line cleaning cloth pouch he pulls out a silken garment, utterly spotless. Soon, so shall those trophies be. He rushes passed Derovai and begins meticulously inspecting each prize for every flake of dust, spot, or anything at all that would ruin their perfection. He begins to wipe. Huff to create a spot of warm air, and then wipe. Polish, polish, polish. He is in the zone. The cleaning zone.

"I mean, I'm fairly sure I can -- uh. Wriggle slightly," Saoirse replies, letting Silvio guide her to the dance floor or wherever. "Are you looking forward to becoming Lord Silvio Rubino?" The princess brushes off a few messengers, though she does smile devilishly when she listens to one of them. "Think you can bill it to Niccolo?" The messenger ... seems uncertain.

"And put your feet up," Sabella instructs Catalana with all the regal bearing and authority of a Princess. She's pretty good at it, having had practice all of her life. "Master Voss!" she calls out, heading Derovai's way like everyone else, "This is such a wonderful idea! I am so excited to donate and participate."

Jan has offered her arm to Catalana should she care for the support from her sister. She drops into a seat next to Cat. "I'll keep you company."

Elara nods her head to Derovai, "That I am," She says. "Elara Kennex." The name is offered warmly enough. "Is there anything special I need do but wait for my name?" She asks with a glance at Halsim. Faint amusement dances in her blue eyes at his comment. "Well, dancing does tend to draw a crowd. If only to heckle."

Itzal does manage to avoid the slow, playful punch, and grin all the more for it. "Take heart! All people wishing to offer their own time and silver for Gild's work. Or Jayus. Or both. Either way, nothing to complain about! Unless you lose before all those people, I suppose." He tilts his head to the side, looking over all those gathered. "Feel your chances are good?" he asks Thena.

"See, Itzal? I tell people to come, and they do," Derovai remarks easily towards the musician, but then he grins towards Thena. "You knew that already on both accounts, I think. Tell me new information when you've got it in hand," he remarks dryly, before glancing sidelong at Daemon, just a little warily. But he shrugs, and continues taking money behind his cash-box. A slightly forced smile towards Sabella. "Well, really, it was more to see if someone could show up Thena."

6 Thrax Guards, Humphrey, a humorless brute with a ribbon in his hair, Stumphrey, a toast-colored corgi with big ears and a floofy butt arrive, following Caith.

Tabitha follows Graham arm-in-arm, quietly nodding to him as he speaks. "I have every confidence that the donation will go to a good cause," she says, smiling up at the Stonewood lord. When they arrive before Derovai as he takes donations, she waits quietly until he's ready to address them. Meanwhile she casts admiring looks around the gardens and their many decorations.

6 Thrax Guards, Humphrey, a humorless brute with a ribbon in his hair, Stumphrey, a toast-colored corgi with big ears and a floofy butt leave, following Caith.

Derovai adds to Elara, with a shake of his head, "No. Nothing left to do but to assemble." And then he pushes himself away from the cashbox, someone else taking over, and then stands, starting to make his way forward.

Catalana smiles to Jan. "Thanks sis. Let's sit." Seeing Ford she waves and and then winks. "Hey cousin!" At that she looks to Sabella. Slowly she put those feet up.

"Nope," Thena tells Itzal, popping the 'p', and then her grave expression cracks into a quick grin at Sabella's exchange with Derovai. "The mistake Master Voss and Master Culler have made is thinking I won't sell my dignity for charity."

6 Thrax Guards, Humphrey, a humorless brute with a ribbon in his hair, Stumphrey, a toast-colored corgi with big ears and a floofy butt arrive, following Caith.

Islin watches the crowd grow with a look of amusement. Rocking back and forth on his heels he watches the people come in and get ready or settled in to watch. He stays off to one side observing the gathering as he waits for the fun to start.

Jan has joined the an old wooden bench.

Ford makes his way over to Catalana and Jan at the bench.

Ford has joined the an old wooden bench.

"What mistake?" Itzal asks, arching a brow at Thena, then Derovai and Sabella. "I see no mistake. The selling of dignity was entirely wished for!" And then he's back to tuning, playing a few notes with the bow before nodding, satisfied.

"Is someone asking you to pay for something, dear?" Silvio asks of Saoirse as he guides her to the floor and does a little...warmup twirl. His jacket flares out at the movement, as does his curled, jet hair. "I am not looking forward to the /Lord/ bit, but the Rubino house is surely exciting." He smiles pleasantly. "I shall have plenty to do with myself. Unless you enchant me too much and we run away together." He harmlessly flirts.

OH. EM. GEE. Is she too late?! Caith comes /sprinting/ in, her skirts hiking up because that is how you sprint. Her guards are all racing to keep up, her corgi doing the best he can with the little legs the gods gave him and it's all a big TO DO! She is huffing and puffing and she skiiiiiiids across the damp grass and bumps against someone. Saoirse. Of course it would be Saoirse. "Oh!" she gasps, pushing blonde hair that has gone positively WILD out of her face, her cheeks all pink from the effort of getting here. "HI."

Sabella grins at Thena, "Anything for a good cause, right? Master Itzal, it's delightful to see you as always!"

Caith throws silver at Derovai's face.

Wynna eventually makes her way to Derovai, paying up obediently.

Elara has joined the an old wooden bench.

Tabitha donates too, stating with a smile that she won't be dancing. Money is handed over, however!

Wynna has joined the an old wooden bench.

"I see nothing wrong with that," Saoirse replies, twirling under Silvio's arm-- right into Caith! Ow! "Oof- oh. Hello, Caith," she tells the Thrax princess. "No lecherous dukes around you tonight, I hope?" Then she turns to Silvio. "Yes. Let's take off. You can still sleep with whoever you want. We are /southerners/, after all." So liberal! The princess pauses to fiddle with one of the slices on her skirt. Hm. So it rides up a little bit. Good to know! "A crafter is making a bit of jewelry for this outfit and I'm still feeling the sting of being a new arrival who had war taxes hit."

"It will indeed." Graham agrees using his free hand to reach to his side and prepare his own donation ready to hand over. "This will be interesting, I cant say i've ever really seen a compition, where shall we view the dancing from?" He wonders looking about the area for a good spot.

"Master Voss! Still offering me two thousand silver for things you don't know? Because I've had a hell of a couple of days and could probably break your bank." Niklas waves a bottle of Kennex Crystal towards the man and says, "Sign me up. Last time I tried to dance I swung an elbow and knocked Sabella unconscious for forty minutes. When she woke up she could no longer see the color green or taste citrus fruits. I want, no, I /need/ to make this right."

Halsim has joined the an old wooden bench.

Kenna strolls inwards with the air of someone who is really here just to see what is to be seen and then is out again. on tip-toes she catches sight of a familiar place and wanders towards the current occupant.

Kenna has joined the an old wooden bench.

Thena rolls her shoulders and steps into the midst of the chaos, looking around for quiet and then just projecting her voice. Loudly. Very loudly. "Good afternoon everyone!" Maybe slightly less loudly. "Thank you for coming to this event that I have nothing to do with except volunteering to dance in front of a lot...a /lot/ of people. Part of my terms for allowing this is that the proceeds will go to charity. As you may know, the Knights of Solace have been working on a charity gala and auction to benefit orphans across Arvum. This is especially relevant after the war we have all gone through. Therefore all donations from this event will also go to that goal." She looks around one more time, then gives a quick little head nod and turns it over to her frenemies.

Silvio casts Niklas a terribly dirty look, briefly and suddenly.

Kenna has left the an old wooden bench.

Kenna has joined the an wobbly pine bench.

Tabitha looks around the gardens, then arches a questioning eyebrow at Graham. "Perhaps we should head over to the bench with the ivy? It looks nice and quiet."

Rinel has joined the an old wooden bench.

Lisebet is seated on a bench with ivy, but she's approachable, surely. More the merrier.

Daemon works his cleaning cloth in a vigorous circular motion, ensuring that one specific spot of the first place trophy was utterly spotless. Once he could see his own reflection, he turned back to spy his Grandmaster with pride. That cleaning cloth waved up and down in the breeze as he whistled in support! But, back to the duty at hand. Nobody was taking home anything less than a perfect reward today!

"Oh, you have it wrong," Caith replies to Saoirse, the Thrax woman still gasping a bit. She fans herself, trying to get her complexion to dial down from bright pink to something a bit more muted. "He wasn't being lecherous. It was just some light flirting. But it's all sorted out now -- we understand enough other, I believe." She looks the taller woman over, eyeing the daring slice up the side of her dress. "My goodness, don't you look lovely! I bet you will be striking on the dance floor." When it comes to the princess Thrax? She's worn her twirliest frock. Because .. of course.

Niklas wanders over to the bench where basically his entire family is hanging out. He misses any glares, glowers or grimaces sent his way.

Niklas has joined the an old wooden bench.

Derovai catches the coins that Caith throws at him, with a little glower. Then he looks back towards Tabitha. "Sorry -- talk soon. Very busy!" He spreads gloved hands helplessly, shrugs at Niklas, mouths, 'Later' to him as well, and then falls silent for Thena's spiel. "/All right/!" he remarks loudly. His voice carries. Of course it does. "Dancers up! Master Culler, start playing!"

"Likewise, Your Highness." Itzal bows to Sabella with a grin. "Looking forward to see your dancing, Princess! Mm... Speaking of!" Itzal takes a few steps back to listen to Thena. He even applauds at the end of the speech! But then he steps right in the middle of the open space kept for the dancing, and looks over the crowd. "Good people, Princes, Princesses, Lords, Ladies, Brothers and Sisters of the Faith, various individuals whose titles I don't have time to enumerate, welcome! Now begins the dance off you've all been waiting for. We shall proceed in turns, with each winner advancing to the next round, till we have our finalists! Without further ado, I would welcome... LORD GRAHAM STONEWOOD AND PRINCESS SAOIRSE VELENOSA, STEP UP TO THE CHALLENGE AND AMAZE US!" And with that, the bird steps out of the way, and begins playing with his rebec. It's a good paced tune, allowing dancers to be creative, while ensuring that they'll keep on moving for the duration of the challenge.

Niklas has left the an old wooden bench.

"Wait, what?" Saoirse says, looking at ..who is this? GRAHAM Stonewood?! "Why can't I dance with Prince Silvio?" A beat. "He's... safer." She gestures to her outfit. Then Silvio's Nether Regions. Then her outfit. She lifts her brows. /Get it/?

Reyna has left the The Lianne Pravus Ivy covered swing.

Graham offers over his own donation and then nods in agreement to the suggestion. "Ah, a great idea indeed shall we?" He offers to Tabitha and will begin to move to the mentioend bench he will if she will allow, assist with the sitting process before sitting beside the artist himself.

Niklas checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 13 higher.

"Wait, what?" Saoirse says, looking at ..who is this? Niklas?! "Why can't I dance with Prince Silvio?" A beat. "He's... safer." She gestures to her outfit. Then Silvio's Nether Regions. Then her outfit. She lifts her brows. /Get it/?

Silvio takes Saoirse's hand for a moment. "This way I can watch you, my darling. And we will not defeat each other."

Tabitha has joined the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Graham has joined the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Curran has joined the an ivy covered ancient bench.

"This is a terrible idea, what if I--" she gestures again to Nether Regions. But she slumps onto the dance floor, having made it Very Clear that there is boner danger, and dances as FAR FROM Niklas as possible.

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

Saoirse checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 2 lower.

Niklas calls out, "I gratefully accept her surrender!" as he starts doing some of that northern dancing where your legs flail around like crazy but you remain completely still from the waist up, hands clasped behind his back. Fortunately he doesn't watch his opponent, else the boner he always gets from watching people fall down would be profound!

Silvio claps extremely loudly for Saoirse and looks left and right, daring others to disagree with his professional assessment!!

Barric has joined the The Lianne Pravus Ivy covered swing.

Saoirse doesn't FALL, per se, but she sure doesn't dance. It's like, gentle swaying. YOU try moving in this dress.

Oooooooo Saoirse. That was very ... well. Caith bites her lower lip and claps for her frenemy very politely. Very, very politely. Like the politest of polite claps. Look at how polite she is!

Thena sticks her fingers in her mouth and whistles as Itzal starts up a catchy tune and the first dancers take the floor. Saoirse might not win the round, but the dress seems to have a good shot.

"Wooo!" Sabella cheers for Niklas, clapping loudly with a laugh, "Maybe the key is keeping your arms down?"

Derovai p itzal=Okay! That's how I thought it was but then I thought you had round-robin in mind.

Elara checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 56 higher.

Elara checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 27 higher.

Elara checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

Barric has left the The Lianne Pravus Ivy covered swing.

Niklas checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 38 higher.

Niklas checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 13 higher.

"LADY ELARA KENNEX AND PRINCE SILVIO VELENOSA, YOU'RE UP!" Itzal announces cheerfully, lively tune still playing with his rebec.

Elara has left the an old wooden bench.

Silvio checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 7 lower.

Silvio has rolled a critical success!
Silvio checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Silvio checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 5 lower.

When it is Silvio's turn to dance, he comes out to the dance floor and starts by putting both arms out dramatically to the sides. Chin up. Jacket swaying. Subtle smile on his pale lips. His heeled shoes sparkle in the light and his entire routine is a dazzle of glints, shining, spinning hair, flirting, and noble confidence on display. He may or may not win the entire contest, but he's SURE to win himself a clandestine tryst or two.

Niklas has joined the The Lianne Pravus Ivy covered swing.

Niklas has left the The Lianne Pravus Ivy covered swing.

Niklas has joined the an old wooden bench.

Elara steps out onto the floor as her name is called. She leaves the cloak she was wearing behind to reveal the dress she wears. Out onto the dance floor and once there she looks about briefly at the crowd. Her face is a calm mask as she pulls two fans out and opens them. Then she begins to spin and dance. There is no slow start to her dance. It is based loosely on the footwork of the Kennex corsairs and her fans do admirable job pretending to a weapon of elegance and beauty here. The whole thing is swift and intense and when she ends one fan hovers at her back and the other before her face, only showing her eyes to the audience.

Saoirse checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 12 higher.

Saoirse checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Mirari arrives, following Jeffeth.

As the dancing takes place, and the seeming mismatch between the two occurs, Derovai just sort of stares at Silvio again, grimacing. "A valiant effort," he remarks, not unkindly, but not terribly believably either. Then there's Elara dancing, and -- does his jaw drop a little? It does. "Lady Elara Kennex wins. By... ah, a mile. Master Culler, next?"

Kenna has left the an wobbly pine bench.

Waldemai has left the an wobbly pine bench.

Kenna has joined the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Waldemai has joined the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Henrick has joined the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Silvio checked dexterity + propaganda at difficulty 15, rolling 47 higher.

Silvio performs the most magnificent eyeroll that many people have ever seen as he exits the dance floor.

"MISS WYNNA, COME ON UP! AND WHY, PRINCESS SABELLA GRAYSON!" Itzal apparently randomly decides, still playing, wheee!

Henrick has left the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Sabella checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 36 higher.

Sabella checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 26 higher.

Wynna gets up and rolls her shoulders.

Sabella checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

Wynna aaand proceeds to compete with someone who highly outclasses her, but she tries!

Wynna checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

Wynna checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Wynna checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 34 higher.

Kenna has grasped onto Waldemai as they make their way though the area her eyes scanning... scanning... THERE. "TABITHA!" It gets yelled out to her cousin as they make their way closer. (Sorry everyone else, Family first~)

Silvio has joined the The Lianne Pravus Ivy covered swing.

Red faced and looking more than a bit sweaty, Sir Jeffeth Bayweather arrives, drenched in sweat. A few red welts clearly visible on his face. Even as he walks into the gardens he is quickly putting his tunic and jacket on even as he rushes in. It seems the big man is coming straight from beating up people or getting beat up himself. The large man looks around wildly, still breathing heavily with Mirari on his tails as he tries to locate someone in particular.

Tabitha looks up as her name is called, and outright springs to her feet when she notices her cousin. With wide eyes and a big beaming smile, she moves forward for an unashamed hug. "Kenna!"

Maybe it's a little unfair because Princess Sabella has heard Itzal play a few times before and even taken lessons while he played the music, so when she starts moving it's with a confident, easy grace and a bright smile. Slippered feet glide across the floor, hopping forward, spinning, sliding back as if she's practiced these exact steps several times before. Probably even the delicate swishing of the skirt as she twirls and twirls and then ends with an elaborate curtsy to Itzal for his playing.

Jeffeth has joined the The Lianne Pravus Ivy covered swing.

Wynna's dance is very much born from her upbringing as a sneak thief - all athletic, swaying shows of motion that showcase more flexibility than learned ability with matters of dance. There's a fair number of tight twists and bends, seemingly all improvised - perhaps a few nights as an impromptu performer in her past? She caps it off with a twisting, gentlemanly bow in Rinel's direction.

Saoirse has joined the The Lianne Pravus Ivy covered swing.

Daemon has joined the The Lianne Pravus Ivy covered swing.

"After due consideration by all judges!" Did anyone see Itzal confer with his fellows? Surely he must have. "PRINCESS SABELLA GRAYSON WINS! Thank you both for the dancing, it was quite inspired!" he grins, before looking at the crowd. "LORD ISLIN HARTHALL, PRINCESS CAITH THRAX, it's your turn!"

Caith checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 30 higher.

Caith checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 26 higher.

Caith checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 20 higher.

Islin checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

Islin checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 21 higher.

From the benches Niklas cheers for Sabella. "Finally, a princess with grace!" Next to him a pelican honks loudly. Steve is also excited for Sabella's performance.

Islin checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Rinel stares raptly at Wynna throughout the performance, her eyes sparkling with delight. The scholar leaps to her feet and claps happily as she finishes her dance.

There's a thunderous clap from Jeffeth Bayweather, "Go Princess Caith!" He bellows loudly and happily.

Thena is clapping along with the music...well, it sort of looks like she's trying...but is that a honk? Her head swings around, looking for the source.

Sunrise, lilac breasted roller arrives, delivering a message to Catalana before departing.

Wynna doesn't seem terribly fussed at her ignoble defeat - something something noble privilege -, bowing to Sabella with a smile as she goes to sit with Rinel at the benches again.

Saoirse sinks down onto the swing and BOY is it ... uh. Not easy. She awkwardly wiggles this way. Then that. Wait she's stuck. Nope, just -- gotta like, cross your-- Curses! Saoirse turns to the nearby Jeffeth and says, "Can you stand in front of me while I get on this thing so no one gets a total view up my skirt?" To Silvio, she adds, "I don't want an angry message from Eleyna."

Lisebet watches the dancers, clapping for all of them in turn. Because they're all up there dancing for a good cause.

Oh boy, oh boy! It's her turn! Caith hops to her feet and runs out to dance her little tush off! It begins as an elegant affair, all swoops and twirls -- her dress is perfectly suited for this sort of thing, ya know. But she is Thrax and it gets more aggressive! There are jumps! There are stomps! There are pantomimed spear thrusts! All of a sudden! Hark! A Stumphrey! For a moment, it looks like her fat corgi is going to rush in and ruin /everything/ but the princess whirls about in a Very Dramatic Fashion and ends with a gesture that looks like she stabs him! And the dog rolls over like he is dead, all four stubby paws sticking straight up in her air as she holds an elegant -- yet fierce -- pose. "Taadaa!" she chirps after a few seconds! Every good dance ends with a 'taadaa'.

Jan is sitting with her trousered knees apart, leaning forward with one elbow on her knee and her chin cupped in one hand. She looks pretty disinterested, though at least her foot sometimes taps along to the music. Dancing is not for everybody.

Elara has joined the an old wooden bench.

"You did a wonderful job! I've just had more practice," Sabella assures Wynna with a big smile as they clear the floor. Then as she watches the next round she calls out, "Princess Caith, perhaps we meet for another competition here and now before our challenge of hugs!" Sabella calls out, clapping for the Thraxan Princess.

Tabitha gives Kenna a little squeeze before she releases her from the hug, and then dips into a little curtsy-type dip thing for Waldemai, one that has the effect of looking respectful without obsequious. With a smile she says, "Good to meet you too, Master Waldemai." A look between the master smith and Kenna. "Have you been here for a while now?"

Sunrise, lilac breasted roller arrives, delivering a message to Catalana before departing.

Caith skips away after she is done and laughs brightly toward Sabella, pointing to her own eyes before pointing at the Grayson. "I'll see you on the dance floor, perhaps," she trills and then gives her a wink.

Stepping in front of Saoirse as commanded, Jeffeth claps once more for Caith smiling brightly. As he stands in front of Saoirse as an impromptu privacy screen.

Saoirse gets a tiara of thin amythyst spires cradled by delicate white gold from Velvet Lined Wooden Gift Box.

Islin takes the floor with a grin. His movements while not as lively as Caith's are still fairly graceful. He spins and sidesteps twirling and moving with dramatic flair across the floor. As he finishes he bows to his opponent and gives her a winning smile. "You win this battle Your Highness. Well fought." He winks at her and moves off the floor.

Derovai looks a bit concerned -- first at Jeffeth's rather troubled entrance, and then at Itzal's seeming mode of decision. But it's apparently his turn to announce the winner. He at least seems to take it into solemn consideration. "Despite apparently throwing money at my face, Princess Caith Thrax wins, and Lord Islin Harthall is eliminated. Despite the 'tadas' and... whatever that /was/. But it was well worth watching, I think we'll all agree. The dog wins, anyway. My apologies, Lord Islin; that dog." He shrugs helplessly.

Itzal doesn't wait too long "DAME THENA PARADE GRAYHOPE! SIR DAEMON DRACONE! Your turns to shine!" he grins, and just for them, he picks up the pace of the music! He's nice like that.

The Thrax princess grins brightly at Islin and claps quite a bit. "That was wonderful!" she tells him. "I especially liked the turn at the end. You'll have to show me how you did that." She steps over next to him and nudges him gently with her elbow when it is announced that it is Dame Thena's turn, her lips wrapping around a quiet 'oooOOooOoooo'.

Thena checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 3 lower.

Thena checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 2 higher.

Thena checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

Daemon checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 2 higher.

Daemon checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 15 higher.

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

Sunrise, lilac breasted roller arrives, delivering a message to Catalana before departing.

Jeffeth looks very conflicted, glancing from Thena to Daemon to Thena and back. Frowning DEEPLY. Loyalties?! Who knows what they are anymore. He is torn asunder, emotionally. War is hell. Danceoffs is hell.

Thena has a secret. A terrible, terrible secret. And it's pretty obvious as she takes the floor, offering a surprisingly bright flash of a grin at her Knight before going into...well, it's energetic and there's a lot of flailing. The mastiff, usually somnolent, seemed concerned. Perhaps inspired by Stumphrey, he wanders out towards his clearly troubled mistress...who proceeds to back over him and fall on her ass.

Daemon has been in another world entirely. But when he re-emerges to reality, by god are those trophies spotless. Through each competition he'd only picked up the pace. His brow is laced with sweat and his cloth is thoroughly worked to its imaginary bones. Those trophies are sparkling, reflective. He's done good work. Yet, one more challenge lays ahead. As his name is called, his eyes look out to the crowd until they settle on his Grandmaster. By god. The champion of dance herself. "... I am not worthy." He says to her with a deep bow as he takes to the floor. "... BUT I SHALL GET JIGGY WITH THE IT, FOR THE SAKE OF CHARITY!"

Daemon /cartwheels/. In armor. He lands halfway on his ass, but the momentum does carry him enough that he can get right back up and begin shaking what his mother gave him. Is it good? No, it's really not. But it is... something. Yes, it's something. Much like a worm on a hook that struggles to flee, but you know, with a person in armor. It's real, real awkward.

Lisebet's mask of calm is broken, as she starts to giggling softly at the wonderful dancing.

Kenna checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 3 lower.

Jeffeth has his hands on his face, not sure who to cheer for who to jeer for. This is a very emotional moment for him.

Elara's mouth opens slightly as she stares at what happens on the dance floor. It is hard to say whether she is affornted or amused the way her face twitches. Finally she does drops her head slightly, hair falling down, and puts two finger sto her temple.

Thena just stares at Daemon for a long, long moment...then tips her head back and bursts out laughing.

Tabitha checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 11 higher.

Catalana makes her way from that bench, chuckling at what was going on and made her way on out.

"DAEMON WINS! Ladies and gentlemen, the title is now up for grabs, with the previous champion defeated! And I? I'm utterly bored." Itzal pauses for a moment, his playing slowing, until... "DEROVAI! YOU, ME, DANCE OFF, NOW!" he orders, and still playing, the bard jumps upon the dance floor and gets ready to amaze! Or fail horribly.

Thena checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 21 higher.

Derovai checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 2 lower.

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

Derovai checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 3 lower.

Itzal checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 21 higher.

Itzal checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 56 higher.

Itzal checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 54 higher.

Catalana has left the an old wooden bench.

2 Kennex corsairs, Chief Rin Redreef leave, following Catalana.

The Master of the Dance, or at least the Master of the Grand, manages to hop nimbly to her feet and scramble out of the way, tugging the mastiff with her, before Itzal proceeds to wipe the floor with Derovai. Gone is Thena's usual air of composure. "GO ITSY!"

Wynna averts her eyes from the massacre.

Sabella points at Itzal and nudges Jeffeth with her elbow, "He taught me how to dance!"

Derovai stares at Itzal. He's very, very reluctant. He even holds up his hands in protest. He doesn't like this at all, needless to say. His dancing consists of... standing there. Tapping his toe. Yes, this is all the dancing he gets up to, seemingly in no mood to embarrass himself. Nonetheless, as he gets out of the way, he /still/ manages to trip as he heads back to his table, trying to compose himself. Nobody saw that, right? And they /definitely/ didn't see that glare at Thena for her /clear/ partisanship. Performance, ladies and gents!

When Daemon is done, he is on the floor. "I believe I have wounded my hindquarters..." He laments as he drags himself back to his feet, following after Thena with an awful limp to his step, as if his own body was about to betray him at any moment. Such was the cost of DANCE.

Rinel is far too busy trying to feed a pelican to take notice of the dance.

Niklas calls out to Derovai, "Master Voss! You're worse at dancing than I am at swordplay! That ones a freebie!"

"He's a Culler." Jeffeth says happily over at Sabella. "We're good at everything."

Rinel says, "I thought you were a Bayweather!"

It is a dangerous thing, to face a bard in a dance off. Though Derovai rises up to the challenge with bold heart and clear mind, he faces a musical storm in Itzal. The young man dances, his playing flawless as he spins, even flips, and generally dances around Derovai. At least he shows humility in victory, only calmly stating... "I WIN!" Less calmly stating, more yelling. "Good show, Derovai! But now back to our other contestants! Victors all, let us see what they have in store for us! LORD NIKLAS KENNEX AND LADY ELARA KENNEX! WHICH KENNEX WILL TRIUMPH? FIND OUT, RIGHT NOW!" and he steps out of the dance floor to continue his playing.

Niklas has left the an old wooden bench.

Elara has left the an old wooden bench.

Jan has left the an old wooden bench.

Ford has left the an old wooden bench.

"Do we need to get you to the House of Solace for your bu...uh...hindquarters?" Thena murmurs to Daemon, expression torn between sympathetic and highly, highly amused.

Niklas pushes himself to his feet and points fist at Steve, then at Elara. Rather menacingly he hisses, "Pelican curse!" then he heads for the stage. "No one tell Gareth I did the pelican curse. It's not okay. It'd be potatoes all over the place for weeks."

Niklas checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 59 higher.

Niklas checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 43 higher.

Niklas checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Elara has rolled a critical success!
Elara checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 95 higher.

Elara checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 35 higher.

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

Elara turns to Niklas as she pulls out her fans again. Then reaches down and pulls a hidden lace. It releases both side of the skirt up to mid-thigh. The fans snap out and she bows with a dangerous little smile for her cousin. This dance is much slower than that previous. It is a stalking dance reminiscent of a cat chasing and playing with a mouse. Those skirts part and swirl about her in an even more evocative way now as she goes. When she spins into a finish one fan is snapped close pointing at Niklas, the other held abover her and spread like a blade about to be thrown. The skirts settle displaying one lone and lithely muscled leg.

From the ivy-covered bench, a rapid series of little claps are struck by Tabitha's dainty hands, coming out much louder than they have any right to. Is it any wonder, though? Like seriously. Wow. That's some good dancin'

Niklas listens to Itzal's beat for several seconds before he just goes for it. It's some crazy interpretive jazz dance nonsense and he's all over the place. Is it weird? Yes. Is it sexy? Not really. Is it interesting? Probably! He's certainly got better moves than he did back when he earned the title The Elbow Of Kennex Kay. And he's got so much confidence that he bows before realizing that everyone is cheering for Elara. He turns and looks at her, sighs and says, "I knew I should have flashed some leg."

Another gape-mouthed stare from Derovai. Is Elara making a fan out of one of the judges, pun fully intended? It looks like she may well be. He does laugh at Niklas. "Wouldn't have helped," he assures him readily. "But I assure you we're entirely impartial. Lady Elara Kennex wins!" Cough. A raise of brows to Itzal. "Next up?"

"NOW, who's next you ask? NONE OTHER THAN PRINCESS SABELLA AND PRINCESS CAITH! Duel of the Princesses, I better play my best!" And Itzal does just that, letting the rebec sing, while the two princesses are to dance!

Sabella checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 58 higher.

Sabella checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 37 higher.

Sabella checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Caith checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 33 higher.

Caith checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 49 higher.

Caith checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 27 higher.

Niklas points at Derovai, "She may have been better but I was amazing and you know it, sweetie." Then he scoots back up to where he was sitting.

"My heiny will survive. But a delightful suggestion nonetheless. I shall enjoy a warm cot tonight." Daemon muses back to Thena, his eyes upon the cadre of dancers that take up after their bout. "I'm terribly sorry about your renowed title, Grandmaster. Truly, I knew no one better who carried such a prestigious HONOR with more grace."

Elara has joined the an old wooden bench.

Sabella gives Niklas a kiss on the cheek as he moves off the dance floor and she moves onto it, "Where were those moves when we first met? The rumors could've been true so much sooner if I hadn't've had that concussion!" She gives Itzal a grin as she starts twirling, taking a page out of Elara's book and flashing some ankle as she moves through some steps that anyone who saw the latest opera might remember the main character used to confuse and seduce every powerful man she ever met. Luckily there are no evil mages here!

OR ARE THERE.

Princess vs Princess. Sunshine vs Sunshine. Good vs Good. WHO WILL TRIUMPH?! Caith flits onto the dance floor and does her twirly best! And really, they are very well-matched, the two of them. But the Grayson? She's just a liiiittle bit better. No matter how twirly Caith twirls, no matter how wiggly Caith wiggles, no matter how doodle-y Caith doodle-doos -- Sabella twirls and wiggles and doodle-doos better! Maybe it's because Stumphrey is off stupidly licking a tree (why, Stumps, why??) instead of being her partner than Caith comes up short. "Oooh, you got me this time," she laughs at Sabella, snapping her fingers and then shaking one at her. "But don't think you will be victorious when we hug to the death!" TO. THE. DEATH.

Caith has joined the The Lianne Pravus Ivy covered swing.

Itzal grins happily at the dances thus displayed, but alas, someone insists the young bard be called on as judge. "PRINCESS SABELLA GRAYSON WINS! While I would take all the credit for teaching her, I really did very, very little, I assure you. Well done Princess Caith! Walk, and dance, with your head held high! But now, it seems we've another duel to take place. SIR DRACONE, COME AND FACE ME! I'LL AVENGE YOU THENA PARADE!" Uh oh.

Niklas has joined the an old wooden bench.

Thena gives Daemon's reply the solemn, concerned attention it deserves and replies, "It's all right, Sir Daemon. I've still won half of all the dance competitions I've been in. That's not so bad." She reaches out to give Daemon what might either be a comforting pat or an encouraging push, than drags her hand down her face when Itzal yells her nickname.

Silvio is overheard praising Saoirse.

Daemon checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 6 lower.

Daemon checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 15 higher.

Daemon has rolled a critical success!
Daemon checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 48 higher.

Itzal checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 66 higher.

Itzal checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 39 higher.

Itzal checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 26 higher.

Niklas is overheard praising Elara for: Good moves!

Niklas is overheard praising Sabella for: Great dance!

Niklas is overheard praising Caith for: So wiggly!

Kenna is overheard praising Elara for: Holy smokes THAT DANCE.

Wynna is overheard praising Niklas for: A well-behaved pelican.

Sabella is overheard praising Niklas for: Not knocking anyone out!

Sabella is overheard praising Wynna for: A worthy adversary!

Tabitha is overheard praising Elara for: Gosh, she can really dance!

Sabella is overheard praising Caith for: All around amazingness

Revenge is a dish best served with some awesome moves. And this is what Itzal does, his steps in tune with his playing, filled with the spirit of the fallen Thena. Or more probably just having a blast from that huge grin on his face. He dances, he plays, and shows no mercy for poor Daemon. Who knew bards could be so cruel?

Daemon had a smile for Thena but that turned into an incredible moment of dread. "Again...?" He gave a deep breath. "AGAIN! FACE THE MIGHT OF DANCER'S REVENGEANCE!" Revengeance is not a word. Daemon takes to the field in the very same maneuver he made in the first place, an armored cartwheel! Such a move requires finesse. But this time, disaster! "OH SWEET BOLOGNA, NO!" Halfway through, the knight feels a cramp in his arm and ends the maneuver with his face right down onto the floor. He shows some impressive spinal strength in the fact that he is literally turned into an upside-down pillar for a moment. Eventually gravity would win and send the man crashing onto his back.

Just when all would seem lost... The spark of hope is reignited. As if a divine beam is cast through the heavens, Daemon becomes invigorated! If the band knew what montage music is, this is the time to be playing it. Of course, you must have known Gild was also the goddess of sick comebacks? Now flat on his butt for a second time, he mimes holding two oars and begins SCOOTING ACROSS THE DANCEFLOOR ON HIS REAR! All good dancers know this famous move, FORDING THE BAY OF THRAX! AND HE'S GOING ALL THE WAY TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE FLOOR!

Of course by the end of it he's rolling around, as his ass is now incredibly sore. But boy did he try. He tried his heart out.

Niklas is overheard praising Daemon for: Incredibly sore ass.

Rinel looks at Daemon. Looks at the ground. Goes back to lecturing the pelican on why curses are wicked.

Sabella is overheard praising Daemon for: I can't even

Sabella is overheard praising Daemon for: Fording the bay of thrax

Itzal is overheard praising Daemon for: He dances as Knights of Solace should!

Derovai watches the goings-on. And it looks like Daemon just might turn it around with that oh-so-impressive comeback, which makes even Derovai laugh aloud, audibly! But then there's Itzal, outdancing Daemon just like he easily outdanced Derovai. A little reluctantly, Derovai announces, "Master Itzal Culler wins again! Don't yell at me; I don't make the rules." And then he clears his throat and raises his voice: "FINAL ROUND! LADY ELARA KENNEX VERSUS PRINCESS SABELLA GRAYSON VERSUS MASTER ITZAL CULLER! One final dance to determine who gets these statues!" And they really are very pretty, if tiny and made out of cheap metal. He holds up the first-place one, which is made of less cheap metal, to show it off.

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

Sabella checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 30 higher.

Sabella checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 54 higher.

"I'll just have some ice packs sent to your chambers," Thena says helplessly as Daemon takes the floor again with reveangeance.

Tabitha checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Elara is overheard praising Itzal for: His music is perfect to dance too. I would not have danced so well without such an excellent bard.

There might be some good-natured giggling and laughter coming from the ivy-covered bench as after Daemon showed everyone his sick moves. Whatever the case, Tabitha has both of her hands clapped over her face and her shoulders are shaking slightly.

Itzal checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 36 higher.

Itzal checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 33 higher.

Itzal checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 23 higher.

There is thunderous clapping as Jeffeth steps forward for Daemon, cheering loudly for his brother. "Sir Daemon! Winner of our hearts!"

Tabitha may not be the only one trying not to laugh at that ivy covered bench. Lisebet is also striving for composure.

Daemon gives something of a tortured mewl in response. It's a grateful one though as he slips and slides his way off the floor and into the crowd again.

Elara checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 27 higher.

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

Elara checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 27 higher.

Waldemai claps for the competitors. "A good show by all!"

After a few moments a small contingent of junior Mercies are seen moving through the crowd, probably looking for wherever Daemon rowed himself off to. Thena lets out a loud whistle as the final dancers square off.

Elara moves out onto the floor one last time. The time without the fans. Instead there is a glass globe in one hand. This time she is contact juggling as she moves through her moves. The orb glides along her hands and cross her back. Down one leg to where she holds it on the tip of one slippered foot.

The orb arcs and she turns to catch it and it on the back of her head before it seems to slighter down and around her arm, torso, arm. When she finishes swirling those skirts about the ord is held aloft on one finger spinning neatly till she catches it.

Honestly, Sabella is pretty sure she's going to lose here. The bard and the fan dancer? That's hard competition! So, when she takes the dance floor she is very relaxed, arms up above her head like some fancy ballerina. And then when Itzal starts to play and dance she's off! Leaping and twirling and spinning around, laughing as she does so and just enjoying the moment. There's pure joy in her movements, an effortless grace to every gesture, and a brilliant smile for anyone whose eye she happens to catch. She claps her hands to the music, twirling in a circle around Itzal and coming to a rest on the very tips of one sunflower slipper, her other leg extended off the ground behind her. And she holds that damn pose until people start wincing. Then she drops back down to flat feet and into a deep curtsy.

Waldemai has left the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Jeffeth checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Itzal dances and plays anew! It's the last performance of the event, arguably the most important! Yet he is not the victor, no, the one that wins the night is none other than Sabella! He laughs at the end, grinning. "AND THE WINNER IS... PRINCESS SABELLA! LET'S ALL APPLAUD!" And he does, quite happily. "FOLLOWED BY... ME APPARENTLY! AND FINALLY, LADY ELARA KENNEX!" he keeps on announcing. "Now get your trophies before I take them all in a pique of envy!" Though he doesn't seem to be moved by that particular emotion at the moment, the man instead looking particularly pleased. Must be the Jayus in the air. "But most importantly, thank you all for attending this dance off and taking part in inspired art, where Gild and Jayus meet." and he bows deeply.

Elara picks up Third Place Statue - Grandmaster Dance-Off.

Silvio checked perception + empathy at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Sabella picks up First Place Statue - Grandmaster Dance-Off.

Wynna claps with a small smile from her bench perch

Itzal picks up Second Place Statue - Grandmaster Dance-Off.

Derovai applauds readily, from where he's reseated himself near the cashbox and the trophies. He has them ready to go. "I'd also like to announce that we've raised over ten thousand silver to go towards the orphans! So really, thank you all for coming; thank you all for your contributions, even those of you who didn't dance! We also got a thousand silver from a mystery benefactor!"

Jeffeth is overheard praising Sabella for: Dance on, Tiny Dancer

Elara smiles slightly as she finds herself awarded second place. Turning towards Sabella she curties and says, "Congratulations." Then she turns and gives Itzal the same treatment before picking up her own. "Hmph. I've never won a thing in my life." She admits to the two quietly.

Rinel claps politely, then goes back to prodding at Steve's bill with a salted sardine.

Tabitha applauds for all the dancers, a bright and cheerful smile on her face. Anyone near her might overhear her saying, "I hope Sir Daemon's alright..."

Thena applauds loudly, looking not at all dismayed to have 'lost' her 'title'. "Excellent dancing, everyone! Thank you Master Voss, Master Culler, for putting this together even if you're trying to make me look bad and Itsy's a show-off!" She's grinning though, an actual grin.

Niklas checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 34 higher.

SOMETHING is going on over at that swing -- Saoirse suddenly almost flips over out of NOWHERE??? And then there's a whole lot of whispering.

Niklas jumps to his feet and hops over benches to run up and grab Sabella in a big hug. He spins her around, WITH SUCH GRACE! Then sets her down, gives her a kiss on the cheek and then walks over to his cousin. "You put on a hell of a show!"

"Be careful where you touch those trophies...!" Daemon calls from the back of a gaggle of mercies sent to aid the poor man. "If you touch the base you might smudge it with finger prints, keep hands toward edges, EDGES!"

Sabella gets her trophy, cheeks still a little red, and says to Itzal, "You really are a brilliant musician and I am lucky to have heard you play numerous times. You can't fool me with your tempo changes anymore!" Then she grins at Elara, "Thank you! I was sure you were going to win. And you did w--ah!" she exclaims in surprise when Niklas picks her up. "Thank you! I had to keep getting better because everyone was so good!"

"You did fantastically well, milady. I dare say that this is a prize that will be won by various dancers, the competition was so close!" Itzal assures Elara. "Of course I'm a show-off! I'm a bard, what did you expect I do, fade in the background?!" he calls right back to Thena, still grinning. "Is that a challenge? Very well, I'll see to it that my music becomes as inscrutable as the deepest mists, just for you, Princess!" he tells Sabella.

Sabella is overheard praising Itzal for: BEST BARD

Sabella is overheard praising Derovai for: Incredible host!

Caith might have kicked Saoirse's foot. And by might? I mean: definitely. The Thrax woman looks .. well, her cheeks are pink, turning redder by the moment.

Elara smiles and bows her head to Itzal, "Your playing was amazing though. Perhaps I should take some lessons from you as well sometime," She tells him in her quiet and soft voice. Then Niklas is swirling Sabella away and she watches them before retreating quickly to Halsim's side.

Elara turns to Niklas and shoots him a little smile as her eyes dance, "Well, I had to beat you. So a show was required," She calls to him out on the floor.

Walking away from the swing is Jeffeth, his face absolutely RED. The big man moves over to Sabella and Niklas as they twirl, going to murmur something to them soflty before moving away.

Itzal checked dexterity + stealth at difficulty 15, rolling 40 higher.

"Perhaps! I've not the first idea how to teach, so whether you learn anything from that is probably more thanks to you and less thanks to me, but I'd be happy to." Itzal answers Elara. And then he's walking over to Thena and pats her shoulder. "Truly, you proved worthy of your name, Thena parade." And then, with the press of the crowd, the bard... disappears. Where did he go?

Tabitha notices Jeffeth, giving him a look of concern. If he notices her in return, she lifts her hands in a hesistant wave.

Kenna has left the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Princess Sally Acorn, an acorn toting red squirrel leaves, following Kenna.

"I think I--huh," Sabella was looking at Niklas, turns to talk to Itzal and he's vanished! But then Jeffeth is talking to them and she turns to smile at him. "Maybe not tonight, but soon. I'm exhausted! But thank you."