Fecundo steps into the coffee shop, taking his helmet of f and running his fingers through hishair before shking it out and looking around curiously.

The doors swing open and Bold Espressions is open. Of course, it's been open for a while, so that's not exactly anything new, but this evening there is music playing and Lisebet is here, dressed in black and looking at her most decorative. She smiles as she spies folks entering, offering a nod of her head, and a "Welcome to Bold Espressions. Have you been here before?"

"No. Never." Thorley's comment is dry, even as he takes off his cloak, giving Lisebet a bow of his head before he finds a spot to sit and watch. No Violet is with him yet. For now, he's here in more of his official duty of keeping an eye on the Farshaws to make sure there's no issues.

Thorley has joined the a cozy reading nook near the bookcases and fireplace.

Sabella comes in on the arm of Niklas for the second time today! Coming into Bold Expressions that is, not holding Niklas' arm. She's probably been doing that all day! "--if you say so but it all tastes the same to me." she's commenting as they step in behind Fecundo. She gives those already there a big smile, "But! I am open to new experiences!"

Ember walks into the coffee shop, glancing around at the various people gathered. She finds a seat and waits to hear how the tasting is going to go, pulling a ledger from her sack to open in front of her. She nods towards Lisebet, offering the woman a polite smile.

Fecundo shakes his head to Lisebet, "Fairly new to the city. Heard about the place, but this is my first visit. Not bad at all." He looks about at the others gathered before he looks back to Lisebet.

Carita's arrival has the young Darkwater hurrying in, clearly chilled from the wintery weather, she doesn't remove her hood until she's well and fully inside, cerulean eyes scanning for familiar faces. "Lady Ember, we meet again." Her smile warms for her fellow islander, "Have you been the pleasure of coming in here before?"

Lisebet laughs, amusement lighting up her face. "Indeed Sir Thorley, if you say so," she teases. "But we might have to find you a very bitter cup of coffee for that line." Fecundo gets a nod, and an inquiring glance which eases as he speaks up. A little wave to Sabella, along with a polite curtsey. "Princess Sabella, welcome. Prince Niklas, welcome." She stops there, for a moment and then glances around. "For those who don't know me, I'm Lady Lisebet Farshaw," she says. "And Bold Espressions is run by my family, on behalf of the people of Westrock Reach. Many of our servers and coffee experts come from there." She smiles, and then adds, "Today, there is a free cup available to all who are here for the first time. Just ask your server for a cup on Lady Lisebet, and I am certain they will be able to assist."


Ryhalt arrives in Bold Espressions with a scroll case full of papers, muttering over at the head strong eagle owl on his shoulders. He stops as he looks up to see Lisebet dressed so stunningly. He blinks a few times, a look of confusion about him. "Did you get betrothed and I not know about it?"

Thorley has left the a cozy reading nook near the bookcases and fireplace.

Ember shakes her head at Carita. "Can't say that I have been here before, but who doesn't like coffee?" She steps a little closer to the Darkwater woman and leans in to whisper quietly as she shakes her cloak from her shoulders.

Another new entry is soon on the heels of the others. Lord Baltus Darkwater enters into Bold Espressions, his coat pulled tight and fastened with the large brass colored buttons that adorn the garment. He takes a moment to shake his arms as if to work some of the feeling or circulation back into them before stepping away from the door, eyes peering about for any that he might know.

Niklas leads Sabella in, laughing softly at her words. "They do taste different. Even if you can't taste the difference between these higher end coffees, have any of the coffees from the Oathlands and then go to the Ebb and Flow and drink some of the swill they call coffee in the Islands. You'll taste that difference quickly enough. And /that/ we can go to the Spirits, where the coffee is served with a sword." He glances around for a moment before escorting his wife over to some seats.

Ember has joined the a small table under the window.

"What a wonderful crowd already!" Sabella beams at Lisebet, looking around at old and new faces alike. "I hope everyone is keeping warm! This winter has been exceptionally chilly, I think. Or perhaps I just have blocked the memory of last year's winter. Whatever the case, I am quite looking forward to spring and hope it arrives swiftly. I've always been a bit sad to be born in April, which is still winter so I cannot have an outside birthday party." She laughs at Niklas' description as she has a seat, "If you say so. I think it just all tastes...somehow dry?"

Fecundo smiles to Lisebet and ahhs, "The lady at the back couches when last I visited the Ambassador." He nods to her and then moves around the shop to take in the decor as well as get a better look at the patrons this evening.

Lisebet pauses to stare at her brother for a moment. And then she shakes her head negatively. "I am quite sure I could not become betrothed without you knowing, Ryhalt," she says, with a little laugh. "But I do thank you for the compliment." She nods to Carita and Ember, offering them a bright smile. The servers are now moving about, offering menus and taking orders. "My birthday is in December, so I do understand, Princess," Lisebet offers to Sabella. And then her attention goes to Fecundo. "Ah, indeed, that was me, I believe. Though I do not think I caught your name?" She catches the entrance of someone new, and offers a wave to Baltus as well.

Carita has joined the a small table under the window.

Fecundo hmms a little and looks back from his wanderings to Lisebet and offers a half nod, half bow to the lady, "Lord Fecundo Rubino, Lady Farshaw. A pleasure. I no sooner got there than a message took me away and I did not get the chance to socialize."

Baltus catches the wave from Lisebet out of the corner of his eye, the young lord turning his attention around to the Lady Farshaw and offering her a respectful dip of his head. He is about to speak when a menu is shoved under his nose and he finds himself widening his eyes and leaning his head back to try and look at the script on the menu. His eyes flicker up to peer overtop the menu at Lisebet and he lifts a hand to pat his own chest, "Good evening, Lady Farshaw," picking Lisebet's name out of Fecundo's statement. "I am Lord Baltus Darkwater. A pleasure, I'm sure."


Ryhalt smiles his charming smile, chuckling a bit as he shakes his head slightly. "Oh I do not know, I have had my head burried in so many things it could have slipped my notice. Oh we are having a party? Do we have mince meat trarts? I love those...well I love all we serve here, but then again I am biased, but looking forward to the rum soaked minced meat today for some reason. Call it a craving." Ryhalt gives Lisebet a peek on the cheek, and then smiles and inclines his head in greeting to all about his sister before he goes out in search of said tarts. He is on a mission!

Sabella's protest gets a sigh from Niklas. "Some of it is dry, but your tea is every bit as dry. The tannins leave your tongue feeling like fruity sandpaper. At least coffee wakes you up." At the mention of Fecundo's name, Niklas looks over and offers the Gemecittan lord a smile. "Ah, are you a cousin to the Duchess?" He sizes the man up, considering, then laughs and says, "I'm being rude. I'm Prince Niklas Grayson and this is my wife, Princess Sabella Grayson. Any kin to Duchess Grazia is a friend of mine. And not just because I am hoping to hear embarrassing childhood stories."

Something Carita says at the table makes Ember burst out laughing, but she manages to get it under control quickly. She takes a menu when it is handed to her and she lets her gaze drift around the shop before she moves to study the items available to order.

Sabella looks over to Fecundo with a smile as she overhears the name, "Rubino? My cousin just married into your family, I think. Duke Aiden. He seems quite happy!" And then Baltus is introducing himself, "Another Darkwater! How glorious! Every Darkwater I've met so far has been wonderful and I am happy to know there are more of you. I have not had a chance to visit Darkwater of late, but I have heard good things about the shrine there and the rebuilding." She grins at Niklas and says to Fecundo, "Don't tell him anything unless you want to hear a song of it later!"

"A pleasure, Lord Rubino," Lisebet says. "And you as well, Lord Darkwater. Have you tried coffee before? We have a fair number of options on the menu, as you will see. Do please try one and start the journey to learn which coffee suits you most." She glances at Niklas, letting him and Sabella assist with all the socializing. She tilts her head for Ryhalt's peck on her cheek, and then she says, "I believe there are mince tarts, but they may not last long."

Carita's smile widens and her laughter lifts along with Ember's as she laughs, a hand coming to rest on her blushing cheeks.

Baltus is looking at the menu once more, and he nods to what Lisebet has to say before he says, "Which of these coffee drinks has alcohol in it?" His eyes come up to peer over toward the woman with a scrutiny that shows that he figures she is the most qualified to know this answer. "If none of them, then which of these would welcome the addition of alcohol best?" Baltus is about to say more, when the sound of loud laughter draws his eye and he spies Carita and Ember over at their table. His eyes linger for a moment before he glances back to the menu and points out one of the selections, then looks to the server as if asking if that one looks good to them.

Fecundo nods to Lisebet and glances to Niklas and Sabella as he is addressed. He nods to Niklas, "The Duchess Grazia is my cousin, Highness, yes, though I am afraid that we did not spend a great deal of time together when we were younger, so do not know any stories. He nods to Sabella and smiles, "I have not had the pleasure of meeting him yet, I am afraid." He does glance over at the laughter at Carita and Ember's table a moment before looking back to the couple. He does stop a server and orders and Everwinter Deluxe.

Atreke, a severe-looking scribe arrives, following Rinel.

"Darkwater -- that's essentially coffee, isn't it?" Karadoc muses to himself as he strolls into the shop, glancing over his shoulder back out at the cold as though it's personally offended him. It has. This Lycene wants spring back, please. With a shallow, casually charming bow dipped to the room he proceeds to find a place to settle himself. "Heard there was a tasting. Coffee or something else? Either way, brought my own. How is everyone?" Choosing a place with Carita and Ember, he nods, "Lord Karadoc Saik. Voice and minister of con for my house. A pleasure."

Karadoc has joined the a small table under the window.

Atreke, a severe-looking scribe have been dismissed.

"That," says Niklas, expression indicating genuine woe, or something approaching genuine anyway, "is a true tragedy, my lord. Still, it is good to meet you. I hope one day to visit Gemecitta. It's the subject one of my first truly popular comedies." When he sees Carita and Ember in quiet conversation, Niklas pauses and considers for a moment before he turns and walks in that direction. "Ah, Lady Carita, Baroness Ember. Good evening. Baroness, may I have a moment of your time?"

Rinel bustles into the shop, teeth chattering. "Cold cold cold cold cold." The scholar rubs her arms hurriedly as she looks around. "Coffee? I heard there was free coffee. Coffee tasting. Yes?"

Ember nods to Karadoc, offering him a cool, but polite smile. "Ember Redreef, Baroness and..whatever else." She turns to a server and orders some Orange Blend regular and butterrum tarts. Offering an upnod to Niklas, she smiles briefly and gestures for him to speak.

Lisebet chuckles softly, and she moves to point out a couple options on the menu that have alcohol, as well as a couple that might do well with some alcohol added. "I believe this and t his, Lord Baltus," she says with a sidelong glance a thte man. Her gaze follows his to the table where Carita and Ember are seated, and she smiles, happy to see they are having fun. "Lord Saik, welcome," Lisebet says. "We have several types of coffee to try, as well as our full menu." She is distracted by Rinel's arrival. "Goodness, you look very cold," she says. "Scholar Rinel, do come in and warm up. There is most definitely coffee here." There's a server with a tray already approaching.

Sir Rhys, a Valardin Knight, Laurene, a military adjutant arrive, following Alis.

Rinel bows to Lisebet. "Th-th-th-thank you, m-m-my lady," she manages, teeth chattering wildly. She seizes the offered coffee like a drowning woman clutching at driftwood and takes a sip. A sip that she instantly regrets. "Ah! Hot! Hot hot hot hot hot!" The scholar waves a hand at her mouth frantically.

Adjutant General Theodora arrives, following Cullen.

Sabella explains to Fecundo, "Prince Niklas is a playwright. You may have seen some of his works? He publishes under the name Niklas Kennex. His most recent comedy is playing at the Black Rose right now!" She thanks the server that brings her some tea and glances curiously over as he approaches Ember.

"Oh, Lady Ember," Carita's laughter is soft as she listens her her tablemate's introduction, "You really /are/ refreshing." For Karadoc her hand motions towards the table, "Do, please join us, we were about to order some butterum tarts, which I'm fairly certain I could live a happy life if I had the opportunity to roll around in them once in a while."

Alis, being a habitually addicted coffee drinker, followed her nose right to Bold Expressions. There may even be rumors her blood is half coffee, to counter balance the half whiskey blood of her husband. "Oh yes, that's the scent." Inhaling deeply, and not caring a whit that she might look ridiculous, the Valardin princess exhales on a contented sigh.

Harlen arrives, following Duarte.

"Do move further in, Scholar Rinel. You will warm up more quickly," Lisebet says, moving out of her way. A sympathetic smile for the woman, as she burns her tongue. Oh dear. And then there's another person coming in, and Lisebet's laughter, light, musical and airy, peals out. "Princess Alis, I should think your nose has led you to the right place, your highness."

Niklas catches the server with whom Ember just placed her order and orders himself a Red Eye, then nods toward Sabella and adds in an order for some fruity tea. Looking back to Ember he says, "I just wished to speak to you about the other day. I took something more personally than I should have. That is on me and was unworthy. So I do apologize."

Rinel moves quickly inward, buys a pastry, and is munching contentedly as she approaches... Baltus! "Oh. Hello!" she says brightly to the man. "Have we met? I'm Rinel Tern. How do you do?"

Striding in with his stern faced adjutant at his side, Cullen knocks some snow off of his boots and takes a sniff of the air with a grin. "Lady Lisebet, what do we have here today? I'm looking forward to finding out." Throwing out a random bow to people, Princess Alis gets a particularly warm smile, as well as Lisebet herself. "Anyways, let's see how jittery I can get, I feel like I could use something to make me climb the walls and such. Perhaps ride Alces through the streets."

Fecundo nods to Sabella as Niklas departs for the table he was watching , looking back to her and nodding, "I see...I have not had the pleasure of visiting the theater here, Highness." He receives hid drink and tries it, looking a bit surprised before continuing the conversation, "So he was seeking stories to put on stage, then?"


There are some mince tarts left, but perhaps far fewer than there should had been. Craving scratched, Ryhalt circles about the room with his coffee in hand, a rich Westrock roast. He stops before a table with someone he knows, smiling to the Lady Carita. "Lady Carita! Well met. I think there are some butterrum tarts I left alone tonight for you. The minse tarts I am afraid ran afoul with some terrible beast and are far fewer in number."

"And thank goodness for it, Lady Lisebet" Alis replies cheerfully to Lisebet. "I've been looking forward to stopping by here for some time now, and this was just the perfect opportunity." The guard that accompanies her looks long suffering, at that. "We have so much paperwork to get through later, so I intend to imbibe far more coffee than my small frame should handle. Lord Cullen! How nice to see you." Recognized, she returns his warm smile.

Ember watches Niklas for a moment before she gets to her feet, dipping her head politely towards the Grayson Prince. "I'm not exactly a bushel of sunshine, your Highness. Your apology is accepted, and I offer an apology of my own for being such a cantankerous person, in general. Hopefully I can terrorize you in a more friendly way in the future." This is delivered in a polite and honeyed tone of voice. "I hope you enjoy your coffee this evening." Having said that, she nods towards him again before she plants herself in her chair again.

"Just coffee and cream, thank you." Duarte tells a server as he readies a flask for to pour his own secret ingredient in to the brew. "And a pastry. Something light, not too dry."

"Oh, no. He's already working on his next epic," Sabella says with a laugh, "I think he just wanted to know more about the Duchess so they could have things to converse about. I admit, it's hard for me to imagine her as a child and I have quite a vivid imagination! But what about you? Are you new to the city? I highly suggest stopping by the theater to catch a run of the Playwrights before its over--if you can get tickets! It's been mostly sold out already!" She glances over at Ember and Niklas again and calls out, "I'm sorry about the boots!"

Lisebet inclines her head to Duarte, both recognizing him and welcoming the man. But since he's already ordering, she doesn't interrupt him. She does catch sight of Cullen, offering him a warm smile. "Lord Cullen, welcome," she says. "There is a lot of coffee, certainly. If you add some of the pastries to it, I'm certain you will be climbing the walls in no time." She takes a breath and smiles to Alis. "I wish you the best of luck with that paperwork, your highness. Though perhaps sometime when you have a moment or two to spare, we might have a chance to get together and drink coffee?"

Rinel scoots over towards Duarte. "Hello!" she says brightly. "Don't suppose you've found any more time for lichen-searching?"

"Duke Ryhalt!" Carita's smile it bright as the Duke makes his way to her table. "You did? For /me/?" A hand lifts to her cheek in an effort to disguise her pink cheeks. "Have you had the pleasure of meeting Baroness Ember Redreef?" Then a slender hand rests on Karadoc's shoulder, "Or Lord Karadoc Saik, Voice of his House?"

"And your apology is accepted as well. To be fair, my wife did kick things off by vomiting on your boots. So perhaps some terrorizing is in order." Niklas glances back to Sabella, then offers both Ember and Carita a nod. "Baroness, Lady Carita. Do enjoy your coffee. It's so much better than anything in the Isles. It makes me wonder why we even bother." Then he steps away and returns to Sabella just as his coffee arrives, then calls out, "Scholar Rinel! It has been too long!"

Baltus waits until his coffee is delivered, and once it is he lifts the cup to take a sampling sip. His face is inscrutable for a moment but anyone paying particularly close attention to the Darkwater Lord might see him slip a hand inside of his jacket to pull out a flask. A bit of the contents are added to the cup before he slips it back into his jacket and takes another sip, then nods his approval.

Ember glances towards Baltus, a thoughtful look on her face before she nods at Sabella. "It's fine, but thank you?" She returns, waving towards the blonde.

Ryhalt has joined the a small table under the window.

Fecundo nods to Sabella, "I am relatively new, yes. First time staying long term in the city, though I have passed through before." When the mention of boots and an explanation is given, he looks back and forth between Sabella and Ember a moment before shaking his head, "That had to be an adventure."

Duarte drapes an arm over Rinels shoulder and leans on her. "Not as of yet, scholar. I'm afraid it will need to await the next wardrobe rotation." He pinches at the silk of his shirt. "I can't get these grubby, after all. But do you require funding? I am looking for a protege and who better than such an intelligent and studious personality, such as you, and bristling with integrity."


Ryhalt smiles and turns to Lady Ember, inclining his head so. "I have not but I would love too. Greetings to you, m'lady, I am Ryhalt Farshaw. Welcome to Bold Espressions. I hope you ladies ad kind sir do not mind me joining you."

"A pleasure to see you as well, Princess Alis. I do hope all has been well, and the new addition to the family is allowing you to sleep." Lisebet's words catching his interest, Cullen asks, "What would you recommend, then? I am open to suggestions." Dropping onto a couch, a wave and a smirk is given to Ember before a grin to Rinel. "Scholar Rinel, a pleasure. Still working on that lichen, are you?" Glancing over at Baltus, the lack of recognition on his face causes coppery brows to furrow."

Cullen has joined the a pair of sea blue leather couches on a handwoven blue rug.

Thorley continues to sit at the rear of the shop, keeping an eye on things. Sipping from his mug on occasion, the Sword of Westrock Reach keeps an eye on things in the shop as he doesn't seem to be too chatty tonight.

Rinel waves at Niklas, and then--she's being leaned on! "Erm. Well. The Archscholar is... my patron. Patroness. My lord. Well, she was. She's been busy. I've just, erm, been waiting. Because she's been busy." The scholar offers an apologetic smile.

Ember smiles at Ryhalt and nods. "Ember Redreef, please, come and join us." She gestures to the table and scoots a bit to make room for him.

"Luck, patience, and insomnia. All of those things are necessary for paperwork." Alis confides, inclining her head slightly in agreement. "I would be delighted to sit and speak with you over coffee. Just let me know when you'd like and my adjutant will make sure I've time." she promises, gaze alighting on the pastries as soon as they're mentioned. "I will let you get back to greeting your guests, of course. Surrounded by coffee! This makes me unnaturally happy." She definitely goes to find a cup and a drink. "Oh, I would reccomend a Vanilla carmelized; with a shot of Bourbon as an enhancer Lord Cullen. In fact, yes, that is exactly what I'm going to request."

Alis has joined the a pair of sea blue leather couches on a handwoven blue rug.

Duarte inspects the nails of his hand attached to the arm draped around Rinel. "Is she? Hrm..." He shrugs and releases the poor scholar. "Any luck getting her to crawl in sewage for you?" Duarte pours scotch into his coffee.

Lisebet might notice all the folks surreptitiously spikign their coffee. She just smiles and has given up by now letting them know there is alcohol behind the counter for such things. They'll figure it out eventually no doubt; and apparently it's the sneaking it in that brings the best taste. Lisebet laughs softly. "I think Princess Alis definitely has it covered, Lord Cullen. That would probably do very nicely. Maybe pair it up with a butterrum tart?" She inclines her head on the other matter, leaving such chatter for a time when there is at least a modicum of time.

"It was, ah. Very messy." Is all Sabella seems to want to explain to Fecundo about that! "But please, Lord Fecundo, have a seat! Have you tried any coffee yet? I'm sticking to tea, but we'll see if I'm adventurous enough to try something new. I think it will depend on what the names of things are, as silly as that is!"

Ford pauses after entering, taking a glance around to see if he recognized anyone in the vicinity. Of course, taking in that deep breath of coffee. Ahhh.

Rinel says, "I wouldn't dare ask the Archscholar. But other people... maybe I'll find someone."

There are servers with coffee, bringing it round. Cappuchino, espresso, latte - the usual. "Have a coffee at Lady Lisebet's expense," is offered on a card at the front of the shop. And of course there are menus, pastries, and other desserts.

Niklas leans over and kisses Sabella's cheek, then calls out to Ford. "Oi! Ford! I hear the High Lord of Valardin found a painting of you in his hallway!"

"Looks like you're doing well so far, Lady Lisebet." Thorley moves to stand next to the younger Farshaw, arms folded over his chest. "You also look rather lovely tonight. Well suited for a hostess." It may be a begrudging admission, but there's a smile offered with it. "And I see that the Duke is doing well."

Fecundo smiles to Sabella, "Highness...while I would love to stay, I have pressing matters which call for my attention. I would ask your pardon and promise to sit and talk at length another time."

Derovai slips in a short while after Ford does, leaning against a wall near the entrance. A voice catches his attention, exclamatory as it is. "I'll try whatever you'll try, Your Highness, if that heightens your taste for adventure. A dare. You drink, and then I drink the same thing. Last one to finish has to pay the other a compliment in the Whites -- and mean it." Satisfied with the challenge, he raises dark brows at Sabella, before letting his gaze drift to take stock of those gathered within the coffee shop.

"Oh I wouldn't dare either. She can give such blank stares." Duarte says to Rinel. He takes the first sip of coffee and opens and closes his mouth to analyze the taste. He sets the mug down and decided it needs more scotch.

Ember picks up one of the delivered tarts, and though the coffeehouse is crowded, she's got a sight on her target. She glances around briefly, checking for someone who might stop her before she hurls a tart at Baltus. She then quickly clears her throat and turns back to her tablemates, speaking quietly as if she hadn't just done the thing she did.

"Please, no. No talk of the butt in our hallway! I just know my daughter will hear it all the way from the manor and start shrieking about butts again!" Alis pipes up from the counch she flopped herself into. "She hasn't stopped. Butts this, butts that." She sighs, despite the way her lips quirk with amusement.

Sabella just about dies laughing when Niklas says that about the painting, having to stop and wipe her eyes and catch her breath, "Of course!" She replies finally to Fecundo, "I will look forward to it!" She then grins at Niklas, "Highlord Edain shares your dislike of the Nox'alfar, I discussed it a bit with him in messengers today." She gives Ford a wave and a smile then looks to Derovai, "I think my palette is not as adventurous as it should be lately. But you're welcome to have some tea," she raises her cup. "It's very fruity."

Deciding that Alis' advice sounds quite tasty, Cullen flags down a passing server to order precisely that, along with a butterum tart, as suggested by Lady Lisebet. Leaning back in the couch with a grin to Alis, the Sword murmurs, "I really ought to have to talk with you sometime. It's been ages. You and the High Lord both. And I still have to meet Princess Isabeau. It's all quite a bit, but I shall chase you all down, I promise." Peering over at Ember, "Baroness. Weren't we supposed to spar or break something or the like? I can't remember now, I was fairly forgetful." A glance given to Baltus, his eyes squint, trying to place the man - and then the rogue art in the hallway comes from, bringing a laugh."

Rinel takes the opportunity to slip away towards Niklas and Sabella. "Your Highnesses!" She bows deeply to the two. "I hope you are both well."

Silvio enters the coffee tasting with his long hair bobbing. He casts a glance to Ford and Derovai as they enter ahead of him, the latter getting a look like he was just certain that Derovai was dead. Then his gaze flits around the rest of the room and he stands there observing without attempting to draw any immediate attention. He's a silky spy on the room for the moment.

"Her and three quarters of Arx, it seems, Your Highness." Thorley offers to Alis. "It is good to see you again." there's a bow of his head towards Alis as he takes a sip from his mug.

After excusing himself from Sabella's company, Fecundo makes his way to Lisebet and nods to her, "Impressive place, Lady. I will have to make it part of my reglar stops, particularly in this cold weather. I wish you well and good evening."

Duarte takes his coffee over to the window table and tucks his flask back into his coat. "I know you and you," he points to Karadoc and Carita before inviting himself to sit. "And so I shall sit here." He offers a small wave to Ember and Ryhalt, "Duarte Amadeo."

Duarte has joined the a small table under the window.

"And you as well, Sir Thorley. At least we have provided the city some amusement. Despite being so humorless." Alis qualifies, tongue firmly in cheek as she tries to sip (rather then gulp) her coffee.

Lisebet gives Thorley a smile. "Thank you, Sir Thorley," she says, with a breath. "Do have a drink," she says to the Sword. "And join in. I think we are all enjoying the party." She gives the newly arriving Ford and Silvio a nod each. Welcome to Bold Espressions," she greets lightly. And then Fecundo comes by, and Lisebet offers him a smile, eyes gleaming with her thanks. "Your praise is quite welcome. The folks from Westrock Reach who work here are all wonderful and they deserve the credit, my Lord. We look forward to seeing you here again."

Ford takes in another deep breath of that coffee smell, he purses his lips slightly, spins on his heel and heads right back out.

Derovai gestures at someone within the crowd, before he offers Silvio a slight shrug and a wordless shake of his head. Looking back towards Sabella, he murmurs, "Why not," making his way towards her. "Are you going to yak at me the whole time? If so, I might set you up with half a dozen varieties of tea, so you won't have the chance to talk." A gloved hand flicks towards Niklas. "Him, too." He looks sidelong towards Ford's exit, a bit puzzled, as he lands wherever Niklas and Sabella are.

Ember nods towards Cullen, raising her voice to briefly converse with him. "I think we were supposed to chat, I don't remember promising to break your face. Perhaps we can fit that in sometime." She offers the man a casual salute before she goes back to drinking her coffee.

Niklas grimaces at Sabella's words. "Well, it's nice to know that the prince and I have something in common, but just saying that seems like a good way to make Softest Bliss pop out of nowhere and resume lecturing us." When Derovai approaches, Niklas gives the man a wide, toothy smile. "You remember that portrait I promised you. It's almost done. Maybe I'll bring it out to your snowball fight. Though I suppose I don't want the Marquis to confuse it for you and damage the canvas."

With his words offered to Lisebet, Fecundo re-dons his helm and slips out into the cold.

The thrown pastry flies through the air, managing to make it through the others milling about to strike Baltus on the shoulder. It sticks for a moment and leaves a slight sheen as it slips down to thud to the floor. The Darkwater Lord turns to peer down at the thrown food item, then looks in the direction of where the thing struck him from. His eyes scan the table, though rather than coming to rest on Ember, they settle on Carita. He frowns as he looks at her, then shakes his head with what is obviously disappointment. He reaches out to put his cup of coffee on the nearest server tray before he starts to weave through the press of bodies and toward the door.

Returning Ember's casual salute, Cullen takes a long sip of the Alis recommended drink, a sound of pleasure upon tasting it, as well as the pastry. "Alright, if I spent too much time here I'd be afraid I'd gain weight from so many pastries and sweet coffee, not that I am complaining...I'll just strap myself onto the back of my elk and then I don't have to worry about waddling about," he confides to the Valardin princess.

Ember gets to her feet, walking casually towards Baltus, holding up a finger to forestall his exit. "A moment, my Lord, and a word?" She asks, gesturing him closer.

Lisebet flashes a grin at Cullen. "You can always come jogging in the early mornings, Lord Cullen," she offers. Though is she really doing that? Surely not? Her steps are drifting now, between one table and the next, catching bits and pieces of the conversations. A server brings her a drink and presses it into her hands, and the petite Lady looks down at it with some surprise. Then she takes a sip, grimacing. "water?" she says, sounding startled. The server just nods and heads off, and it does appear they are in fact taking care of their Lady.

Duarte bows his head to Ryhalf, "Duke. Well met." To Karadoc he waves and smiles, "Yes, Lady Carita, he and I have met." He gazes over to Ember and Baltus for a brief moment before gripping his mug once again.

"You could always have some kind of seat made, that you could then strap to the elk, and the elk could then drag you everywhere." Alis suggests helpfully. "I mean, then you wouldn't have to worry about waddling /or/ having to heave yourself up on a mount." And she /knows/ about waddling.

Silvio slides along the outskirts and captures a cup from a passing server. His eyes are slightly lidded, but eventually he makes his way over to the small table, where there is but ONE spot left to sit. He glides into it without asking if its fine for him to join or not. "Good evening." A smooth smile spreads across his face. "Baroness, Duke, Count, Lord and Lady. A potpouri of nobility, it seems."

Silvio has joined the a small table under the window.

Baltus' stride slows as Ember gets to her feet and moves on an intersecting path as he reaches the door. His eyes look toward her and one brow lifts as he says, "Yes? I am just on my way out, but I can wait a moment I suppose." He steps closer to the woman as she gestures him, curious though obviously a little disturbed by something.

Silvio has left the a small table under the window.

"While half a dozen varieties sound delightful, this is a coffee shop and not a tea shop, so we shall have to arrange a time to meet at the Mercier's some other time. I suddenly find myself incredibly tired." Sabella gives Derovai a smile, which she then turns on Niklas, "Do you mind if I head back home? I think I need to lay down for a bit. And considering the hour, probably the night."

Derovai smiles back at Niklas, quite genially. "Oh, I'm sure it's a sight to behold. Exactly how many colors besides black /did/ you use? And I wouldn't put much stock in the Marquis' ability to pitch a snowball, but I suppose we'll find out, hm?" He blinks at Sabella, looking a bit askance at her comment, leaning in to murmur something quietly to her, his brows raised in what for him is obvious concern.

Lisebet smiles to Alis and Cullen, and then moves along, keeping on her feet, sipping her water and making sure that everyone is doing well.

Silvio has joined the a small table under the window.

"And we smell as pleasant, too, Lord Silvio." Duarte says with a grin as the man arrives to the table. "Looking as fine as the setting sun today, as usual, my lord. How are things?"

2 House Velenosa Guards, Dreya, an older woman in Velenosan livery, Ailfryd, a tall, thin man with a haugty air arrive, following Saoirse.

Ember leans in to quietly speak to Baltus, and after an exchange she steps out of his way and makes her way back to sit at the table.

"My plain black canvas is called 'Bastien's Internal Life'. It's coated with real dust smoke. No, my painting of you is... no, it's particularly pleasant in its own way. I will say, it's somewhat transgressive, but I think you'll approve." Niklas finishes off his coffee and sets the cup down on a table. "And no, I believe Ford didn't care for my comment. You'd think that as my older brother he hadn't subjected me to worse for most of my life." Niklas just shrugs, then reaches out for Sabella's hand. "Let's get ourselves home, my love. If I keep drinking coffee I'll be up all night staring at blank pages and writing absolute nonsense."

The coffee servers continue their steps, cheerfully serving up coffee long after the first free one. Lisebet is social butterflying about, checking to make sure that all is well. She pauses by the table with Niklas and Sabella. "Are you taking your leave so soon? I am glad you got the chance to stop by. I hope you continue to enjoy it here."

Rinel starts giggling madly at Niklas' comment on 'Bastien's Internal Life.' "I wasn't aware you painted, my l-Your Highness."

"Like normal?" the incoming princess (it's Saoirse, hi, hello) says in jest to Niklas as she passes him on his way out.

Alis has already finished her first cup by now of course, and starts to flag down a server so she can refill. "I did say I intend to consume more than it looks like I can handle." he points out, for Cullen's benefit, since she sat near the poor fellow. "So tell me, how have you been?"

Thorley fades into the background to drink bitter brew and watch over things to make sure there's no trouble for the Farshaws.

Derovai eyes Niklas a little suspiciously, not quite buying his claims about the painting. "Mm. We'll see if I approve. What happens if I don't?" he wonders, reaching out absently with a gloved hand to take a sip of the drink as he turns to watch the pair's egress towards the door. He laughs dryly at Saoirse's comment, settling where Niklas and Sabella are departing from.

Derovai has joined the a cozy reading nook near the bookcases and fireplace.

Azova enters the crowded coffee shop, looking rather in need of some caffeine herself. Her eyes are sleepy and her posture slumped, but her expression brightens when she notices some familiar faces in the crowd-- Niklas and Sabella, Carita and Baltus. Hurray, she knows some people here!

Lisebet pauses as there are a few new arrivals. "Hello, and welcome to Bold Espressions" she calls out. She doesn't even sound like she's tired of saying that somehow. She does chuckle softly, glancing Derovai's way and shrugging just a little. "I suppose we will find out," she offers, dryly.

Sabella stands and laughs, shaking her head at Derovai, "No, nothing you did or said. I just find myself more tired of late." Azova is given a bright smile and a wave, "Lady Azova, I feel like the city is being taken over by Darkwaters and that is all right by me. I'm afraid that we were just leaving, but I hope to catch up with you very soon!"

Duarte finishes his coffee and stands. "Have a good evening," he wishes to his tablemates before departing.

Lisebet might even manage to wave to Sabella and Niklas as they depart, as well as offering a "Lovely to see you, m'Lord Duarte. Do come back again."

Niklas shrugs at Derovai's question. "Then you don't, I guess! And I hang it in the Hall of Heroes one way or the other!" Rinel gets a grin. "I've been painting for the past six months or so. I have images I need to get odwn on canvas. But, if you will pardon us." But as they're leaving he stops to greet Azova with a smile. "Lady Azova! Ah! I'd actually hoped to see you again, but we're just on our way out. It is good to see you again, though!" As they head out the door he calls back, "I'll send you free tickets to my play, Princess Saoirse! You'll love it, or I'll give you your money back!"

Azova smiles and nods a polite acknowledgement to Lisebet, and laughs in amusement at Sabella's comment. "Well, now's as good a time as any to invade, I think. I'll see you two later, in that case!"

Derovai's brows lift at Niklas' claim. "Not much of a hero, really, but thank you for the compliment, I think." He sounds unconvinced, but looks towards Sabella for a long moment. Studying her, really. He says nothing, but looks over towards Lisebet. "We will, apparently. And if Prince Niklas puts this thing up and it's destroyed, we'll find out who doesn't think highly of me. I mean, it'd be a long list, but we'd get through it, with effort. Take care, you two," he tells Niklas and Sabella. "Have a quiet night for once. You'll thank me for it."

Duarte pauses by the door and bows to Lisebet. "I shall, my lady. It is fast becoming one of my favored spots. Thank you for being such a cordial hostess."

Duarte has left the a small table under the window.

Harlen leaves, following Duarte.

2 Grayson House Guards, Lily, an aloof lady-in-waiting, Clark, an exasperated guard, Elizabetta, a disapproving lady-in-waiting, Valor, a small brown and white corgi puppy leave, following Sabella.

Isabelle, who isn't happy to be doing this, Steve, an ungainly pelican, 1 Grayson House Guards, Sabella leave, following Niklas.

"I," Saoirse says, twisting aside as MORE people take their leave, "readily accept. Let me know when the next show is. I look forward to sitting in utter silence with not one single performer on the stage."

Rinel shrugs, then turns to Derovai. "Master Voss." She raises her mug of coffee in a toast. "I've found a scholar who drives me to distraction with even greater ease than you. You shall have to redouble your efforts."

Alis can't help but wince, listening to Rinel. "Goodness. I believe you just dared him to be obnoxious. That will never end well." Indeed her expression continues to look pained up until the cup is lifted to her lips again.

Lyric, an aspiring vocalist arrives, following Melody.

Derovai settles, turning towards Alis and Rinel, cracking his neck. He smiles quite beningly at the women, but opts to sip his coffee rather than say anything back to the Scholar, pulling a book from the shelves and offering nothing in return. He kicks back and starts to read. Perhaps it's a strategy to frustrate the taller woman further.

Lisebet waves to the new arrival. There is coffee, there are servers with coffee on trays, there are pastries and tarts and squares to tempt the palate. There's a sign at the door that says, "Have a coffee at Lady Lisebet's expense!" And the servers are really giving everyone their first coffee free today.

Rinel smiles at Alis. "Win-win situation. Either he leaves me alone or does as I ask." The scholar taps the side of her nose and winks.

Azova snags a coffee and downs a big gulp of it before she even reaches her seat. Mmm, caffeine. She grabs a pastry as well, and makes her way to the table where Carita is seated-- though her sort-of-sister-in-law seems occupied at the moment. That's fine, Azova is just here for the coffee, really.

Ember has left the a small table under the window.

3 Redreef Guard leaves, following Ember.

2 House Velenosa Guards, Dreya, an older woman in Velenosan livery, Ailfryd, a tall, thin man with a haugty air leave, following Saoirse.

Well, there is only one good response to that. And Alis inclines her head almosr dramatically, in deference to Rinel's obvious superior deviousness. "I... cannot argue with that at all. Instead, I will simply wish you luck." she decides, chuckling into her drink.

After tapping her toes against a plush rug to shake off the snow, Melody flashes a warm smile at Lisebet. "Free coffee?" Don't mind if I do. Daintly plucking a cup off a serving tray as waitstaff passes by, she cradles the drink between her hands, glancing about the room as she takes a few moments to pick friends out of the crowd.

Derovai flips a page. And then another page. He might even be reading. At length, he snags one of the servers, murmuring something to them, and slipping the fellow a rather shiny few coins. He eyes Rinel and murmurs something quietly to the server, and the man looks a bit askance at him, looks over at Lisebet, and appears more than a little uncertain as he makes his way over to the proprietress.

Something catches Melody's eye at the small table under the window, and the Prodigal promptly makes her way over there. "Dearest Karadoc," she'd offer in gentle tones. "Lady Carita; friends. What do you say about shaking things up a bit?" She'd pause a moment. Blinking. "As in, can I join you all and probably hopefully draw out some excitement?"

Lisebet grins at Melody's comment, and inclines her head. "You are most welcome." Of course, the servers are accepting coins for anything after the first coffee. Though she pauses as one of the servers comes her way, and shakes her head. "Please do not," she says simply. "Go on about your duties, and I shall go see what is going on." She then makes her way over to slide into the seat at Derovai's table, at least briefly. It's a place she can set her own drink down, and promptly forget about it.

Lisebet has joined the a cozy reading nook near the bookcases and fireplace.

"We can exchange places, messere Melody, as I have run out of time, brandy, and charming smalltalk. The last is a lie -- the first two are unfortunately true. To borrow Duke Ryhalt's exquisite turn of phrase," Karadoc pockets his flask before setting a hand over his heart, "I am a cad of the highest order. I will introduce myself as such. It's got such a delicious little ring to it."

Alis lifts her cup a little in quiet greeting to those who enter, whether she knows them or not. A cup or two or three of caffeine does wonders for her capacity to be social in any setting other than a military meeting.

Rinel checked perception + investigation at difficulty 50, rolling 1 higher.

Rinel peers at Derovai. At a servant. At the proprietress. And then she makes her way to their table. "Pardon my egotistical nature, but I have the /oddest/ feeling that I am being discussed."

Rinel has joined the a cozy reading nook near the bookcases and fireplace.

Both Lisebit /and/ Karadoc step away, earning a disappointed expression from Melody. "Well that's so very unfortunate." Another smile blossomed as she considered Karadoc a moment. "I'm sure I'll be able to claim some fun another time." With that, she's wiggling her fingers to the Saik Lord while sipping at her coffee.

Derovai responds, loud enough for the room to hear, "No, actually," and it has the ring of truth. He lowers his voice to the table.

Lisebet did not lose sight of Melody, no. She did not. She does give the other woman a glance, and a nod. She's next on Lisebet's list.

Alis makes a somewhat mounrful face as Laurene enters the cafe to pass along a message for her; nose crinkling up as she reads it. "Looks like I need to make my grand exit. Which really just means I hustle out in an over caffeinated rush." Murmured wryly, the silver for her extra coffee(s) and some extra is given to the waitress. "Lady Lisebet, it was a pleasure. I hope we'll find that time to speak soon." She didn't forget! And after various other nods or waves she does, indeed, hustle.

Alis has left the a pair of sea blue leather couches on a handwoven blue rug.

Sir Rhys, a Valardin Knight, Laurene, a military adjutant leave, following Alis.

Melody has joined the a small table under the window.

Silvio stands up. "Its not allllll about youuuuuu." The normally pleasant man suddenly says cattily to Rinel. Then he rather suddenly makes to depart the event, though he'll pay for his coffee on the way out.

It seems that people watching and free coffee was enough for Azova. Polite smiles and nods ensue, and she heads out as well.

Lisebet glances up from her spot at the table and smiles at Alis as the Princess takes her leave. "Indeed, I look forward to it," she says, with a smile. She waves to those departing, calling out, "Thank you all for coming."

After having bowed to his excellent company at table, Karadoc lazily saunters back out into the terrible cold.

Karadoc has left the a small table under the window.

Derovai glances up at Silvio's words, laughing a little dryly, before he adds, "Your face will freeze like that," to Rinel, lifting a hand to the departing long-haired fellow in leavetaking.

Lisebet checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 37 higher.

Silvio has left the a small table under the window.

Stirring himself from a long reverie, Cullen gazes over at where Alis was with a look of disappointment, then shrugs over at Lisebet with a yawn - apparently more coffee is indeed needed. This time, he just goes for the espresso, attempting to finish the pastry, determined in his chewing.

Rinel checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Rinel smiles sweetly at Lisebet. "Of course. My apologies for any problems Master Voss' attempts at humour may have caused." She smiles even more sweetly at Derovai. So sweet. So innocent.

Lisebet says something intently at the table she is at, and then she gets to her feet, adding in one last word. "Now then, there is coffee, there are pastries and there is very good company and discussion I intend to take part in.

Pawn, the courtier's apprentice arrives, delivering a message to Cullen before departing.

Derovai smiles sharply back at Rinel. "Oh, don't worry. It was no problem making a joke at your expense," he assures the Scholar, before he dusts himself off with a gloved hand, slipping from the table. "See you, Mistress Tern. Keep writing that poetry; I liked the last one. I'll write you one before I fall asleep tonight." And he starts for the door.

The coffee continues to pour, the treats to be eaten and the event continues on until the last customers leave.

Rinel blushes a little at that.