Barbara, the stalwart Stormward secretary, 4 Kennex corsairs, Naomi arrive, following Ford.

Teiddwen the Otter, A fiery headed prodigal named Gwddfgwyn arrive, following Asger.

Adam, A Young Apprentice, 4 Navegant Marines arrive, following Turo.

As the Grimhall family prepares for the feast to begin Vanora stands at the chair to the left of the large one at the head of the table, with her husband across from her and the Grim Duke not yet taking up that thronelike seat of his own. Other guests file in and are given warm greeting, and the Lady Grimhall states, "Find somewhere to sit, we're keeping it rather casual tonight I think, so grab your favorite seats before someone else does. We're expecting a few more people and the Duke himself of course, but I welcome you to sit, drink, and relax for a few minutes in Grimhall's hospitality.

As usual Edward has arrived exceptionally early and has sat off center watching the caterings be set up for the feast. He leans against the wall with one leg crossed at the ankle of the other while keeping his hands hooked on his belt to hang casually. Once the Lady welcomes people coming in to take their seats, Edward wanders down the table to choose a seat about the middle of the table. .

Arriving with Naomi next to him, Ford is in the process of catching her up. Once they're inside though, he gestures to a seat and helps Naomi into a seat before taking one himself.

Mikani enters with Jace and takes a seat next to Ford and motions for Jace to join her.

Naomi follows behind Ford, a stoic look on her face. She takes a seat, nodding towards him politely before she glances around the room at the others. She doesn't speak any greetings, just makes an attempt to get comfortable.

Turo manages to make it to a thing on time, and few are as surprised as he is. He is, however, without Arcelia. Welcomed by Vanora, Turo moves her way and says something quietly to her, nodding pleasantly. Then he goes to find a spot.

"Welcome to our longhouse here in Arx. As my lovely wife says, please sit and enjoy some drinks with us while we wait for everyone to get here," Valdemar says to their guests, before sitting down in the chair to the right of the head of the table. Thralls make their way around the table to pour drinks as he settles in his chair, nodding slightly to the woman who pours his glass of mead for him.

Vanora greets Ford silently with a smile and a curious raise of her brow, smiling at Naomi too, though it's been a while. "Marquis Kennex, Mistress Cutter, welcome. Come have a seat, find a drink. Count Navegant, the same to you. I'm sorry we will not see your wife tonight. And yours, Baron Stormbreak! You've been hiding her away ever since the wedding, it's downright suspicious." Turo whispers something in her ear and Vanora smiles softly, placing a hand on his arm and murmuring something back.

Cambria enters into the Great Grim Hall with quick, sure strides. She takes up a seat when Vanora gives the call to do so, though the Marquessa spares a moment to greet her fellow Lycene with air kisses to either side of her face. Valdemar, too, is greeted, though not in a similar manner.

Ford has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Cambria has joined the a cozy stone fireplace.

Turo has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Vanora has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Naomi has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Jace nods , looking around at those gathered, before settling next to Mikani. For the moment, he is quiet and observant, not voicing anything or making any real greetings, other than to Ford, which is a soft nod.

Edward has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Valdemar has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Jace has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Mikani has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Asger comes strolling in with his characteristic swagger, and makes his way to greet the hosts a broad grin pulling at his lips "My friends it is good to see you again, thank you for the invitation to your feast, I know I have been looking forward to this chance to break bread with you." with a hearty laugh he informs them "Ann'll be along soon, she's putting down the wee punchy Crovane. Decided it might be best to avoid a diplomatic incident when the lad reaches out to punch someone."

Mikani watches like Jace does. She nods as her drink is poured and picks up the cup to take a bit of a sip.

Luna, the sweet, studious assistant arrives, following Carita.

"Welcome, Duke Asger. Yes, that seems like a wise decision. Avoiding a diplomatic incident for at least one evening? Though if it comes to it, you could probably have an easier time sorting out whatever it is here." Vanora beams at the Northman, warmth in her voice to melt snow. "Come make yourself comfortable, grab a drink and get settled...the first course will be out shortly when our Host of Hosts graces us with his presence." She grins.

Edward smiles to Vanora, "The wife is not one for large social gatherings such as this. I will bring her by sometime soon though and let you make her acquaintance." he then glances to the others at the table and smiles, giving some a nod, and Turo a notice if there is a seat near him he will motion to it. Then with that done Edward will avail himself of the rum at the table.

Marius, 1 House Corvini Guard arrive, following Giulio.

2 Armed Confessors, Angwyn the otter, Mordred, Abner arrive, following Ann.

Ford dips his head towards Vanora as he settles into his seat. He withholds from any drink for the moment while he chats idly with those around him. You know, the Mikas, the Jaces, the Caritas. The lot.

Asger winks and says "I can't promise I'm avoiding all incidents, just one where someone might try and challenge my son." and with that he is heading to take a seat at the able, making sure there is an open spot beside him where his wife might settle when she finally joins them.

Mikani murmurs to Jace softly before smiling warmly at Ford. "Did you ever finish your experimentation? The vegetables in the large pot."

Ford laughs and shakes his head, "No, I never did. I ended up getting distracted."

Ann enters not too long after Asger, sans Fat Lord Crovane wearing her everyday leathers and a big grin. She heads over to her Duke and gives Vanora her first bow before turning to all others to greet them whether by wave or bow, depending upon how familiar she is with their faces. Her eyes sparkle when she sees Giulio. He gets a finger wiggling wave and her brightest smile before she turns to address Vanora. "My Lady! Your home is lovely, as ever. Thanks for having us."

Mikani laughs, "Pity ... I was wondering how the seasoning would turn everything out." She smiles at Naomi. "Mikani Redreef." She introduces herself before motioning back to Jace, "And this is Jace Redreef."

Carita's fashionable lateness doesn't please her, if the air of hurried distress were any indication. She pauses just inside to smooth her hands over hips and let that distress go, before she smiles warmly and makes her way in further, looking at all the familiar faces, but the most important ones being the host and hostess, "Lord Grimhall," she dips a curtsy for the couple, "Lady Grimhall."

Turo finds a spot at the big table, near where Edward motioned. He doesn't have much to say, it appears, though he does enjoy the glass of rum he picked up on his way past the drinks.

Simple silks clothe the newly minted Corvini Count, little sign of ostentation in his garb. He is trailed by a guard and, as usual, his secretary, Marius. His head is tilted towards Vanora and Grimhall. "Lord and Lady Grimhall. I pray you are both well this day?" he offers, his smile a warm thing.

OH also, because I forgot. Ford also has his son Darion in tow. And by in tow, I mean carrying. Because somebody threw a fit having to walk next door.

Ann then turns to Valdemar, giving him a friendly bow. "Lovely to see you too, Lord Valdemar. Looking dashing as ever!"

Jace leans to listen to what MIkani has to say and offers her a smile and a nod, looking back to study folks as they arrive. When Mikani instroduces him to Naomi, he nods to the woman, "I believ e they called you Mistress Cutter? NIce to meet you."

"Thank you. It's a beautiful place that I think is thriving with a woman's touch again. How is the little one? Our boys are asleep in the nursery, but are excited because later they get to meet someone very special." To this Vanora's voice edges towards singsongy and she wrinkles her nose at...oh probably not Ford, that would be weird. The little blonde toddler in his arms.

Mikani also introduces herself to the boy, "Hello, you must be Darion Kennex." She offers her hand for a shake to the boy.

Ford watches Darion as both Vanora and Mika say hi to him. Obviously his mom gets a reaction, but he clams up with Mika greets him. Ford gives the boy a look, "Hey, c'mon. Don't go strong silent type now. Say hello." To which the boy obliges, and Ford nods, "Thank you."

Naomi leans back against her chair, keeping two eyes on the people seated around her and Ford. She reaches for a drink and takes a sip before she chuckles softly.

The Grimhall house is prepared for a feast. All lanterns are lit along the walls, a great fire burns in the hearth, and a dozen thralls stand with backs to the wall and heads bowed, awaiting the wishes of the house's noble guests. Standing, to the right of the head of the elaborately carved and painted long table is Valdemar, with a cup raised as he intones in a deep and level voice, "Kith and kin, faces new and old: be welcome in the Hall of Grims." With the formal benediction, he takes a drink to seal the ritual of hospitality, and the young reaver greets by name each present. "Duke Asger Crovane, Duchess Ann Crovane, Marquessa Cambria Mazetti, Marquis Ford Kennex, Count Giulio Corvini, Count Turo Navegant, Baron Edward Stormbreak, Lord Darion Kennex, Lady Mikani Redreef, Lord Jace Redreef, Lady Carita Darkwater, Mistress Naomi Cutter, and Lady Vanora Voice of our family. In my father's name until he arrives: be welcome, one and all."

Captain Teemo, a mountain lion cub, Flappinum, a human with many opinions arrive, following Leona.

Mikani smiles at Darion as Ford holds him. "I know I had a hard time walking all the way here for a dinner from my house too." She whispered loudly to the boy with a smile. "Must be fun though to be able to come with your dad and see your mom."

Edward raises his glass and nods, "Thank you my Lord." said to Valdemar and then he takes his glass and tips it back to drain it before he reaches to pull a bottle across and top his glass off again. He makes sure to fill Turo's glass who sits next to him.

Darion tucks himself into Ford's neck, "Good grief, pal, one pretty girl talks to you and you go cold turkey? Sheesh."

Asger winks up towards Ann as she heads towards the host "Fancy meetin' you here lass, you're lookin pretty good." as if it were a chance meeting with her. Turning his grin on Valdemar he greets the man "My friend, it's been too long since we last shared a meal here together. One of these days I'm going to have to invite the two of you to my hall to sample the shark stew."

Cambria finds a glass for herself, which she raises when Edward lifts his, that she might join in on toasting their hosts as well.

Vanora cants her head at Darion, studying his shyness, and then flashes him a smile and addresses the table. "Please, make yourselves comfortable and break bread with us. The first course will be served now." She's pretty sure that between 'serving before he arrives' and 'serving cold soup' Harald would prefer her err on the side of the former. Thick crusty bread and a seafood stew that seems to be based in cream or butter, it's delicious and rich.

Carita has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Ann beams at Vanora, "He's great! I mean he doesn't do much yet he's still a baby but I find motherhood agrees with me," and she begins to head to a seat at the table since it seems to be the thing to do now, so that she may lift her glass in genuine, whole hearted toast to her hosts. "To Grimhall!"

"Shoot - darned - blasted dumb raven doesn't TELL time like a rooster does and I ought to teach him to but he'll probably -- nope, nope - in public now. Now we're using the inside voice." Elloise's voice (who surely attempted to arrive before she did, especially at that volume) suddenly drops to a squeak, then a warble. Moving through the great Hall in order to look up at all the banners. Then, look, she's taking a random seat at the large table like she's expected to.

Naomi turns to give Darion a look, a wry smile possibly playing on her lips. She picks up a glass and joins the toast, still looking serious and staid. There is a moment where she studies the food served before she leans in to sample it. Her face lights up for a moment at the taste and she begins to eat in earnest.

Orre, 5 Grimhall House Guards arrive, following Harald.

Elloise has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Garibaldi, the Lycene swordbearer arrives, following Theron.

"Yes, it has been too long. It is good to see you and your lovely wife again, of course," Valdemar responds to Asger, smiling at the pair of Crovanes as he returns to his seat, "Have your cooks perfected it yet? Shark is not my favorite, in general, but if the stew is made right, it can be tasty." As food is placed before him, he begins to eat as he listens to the conversations going on at the table.

Mikani winks at Darion then smiles at Ford before taking another sip of her rum after joining the toast. She looks over at Jace before she starts to eat her food enjoying dipping the soft parts of the bread into the stew almost like a spoon. "Have you had a chance to see any of the sights?" She asks the other Redreef.

Leona makes her way into the Hall - she's not a regular visitor here, but she pauses just inside the entrance to observe for a brief moment. And then she makes her way to Vanora as she hosts, and gives a slight bow. "Lady Vanora," she says by way of greeting. "It's been too long. The hall looks wonderful." She turns slightly and bows as well to Valdemar. "Lord Valdemar. It's good to see you." Thrax is as Thrax does, even if she's sworn to the King now. Those eyes travel across the room as she notes who is here and who perhaps who is not. Or maybe she's just looking at the spring decorations.

Giulio has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Carita remained risen as Valdemar made his toast,so when he drinks from his glass she drinks from hers. Then it's Giulio that she dips the curtsy for next before she motions to the table, taking a seat near Turo. She drops her voice down lower so as not to disturb those around her, her smile warm as she speaks.

Marius hands Giulio a glass, which he raises in salute towards Valdemar. "Well spoke my lord," he offers, his smile a warm thing. Cambria receives a nod, his glass lofted her way, before he's looking to Vanora and the child. They also receive a bow of his head, before he moves to sit next to Carita.

Ford takes to tearing pieces of bread, soaking them in stew and feeding Darion. It's a process. And one that means Ford almost eats nothing himself.

Asger has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

When he spies his wife coming in he will stand to take her from her randomly chose seat and bring her down to one next to him, "Here is okay." he chuckles and then he slips back into place on the otherside of Turo and then he begins to try out the soup. He takes a few bites and then nods before he returns to the rum and he takes a bigger drink of that. "You should try this. It is not too bad." though he could be speaking to Turo or Elloise.

"Thank you." Vanora responds to the toast. "We are all here to break bread together and enjoy the warmth of friends and family, kith and kin as in my husband's greeting. In addition there may be some minor incidents of politics and...erm...current events that we choose to bring up at a time where we've the company of so many of our vassals to consult with. For now however, eat drink and be merry." More wine and run and mead are brought out, and after a few more minutes the soup course finds itself cleared away. "Dame Leona. It is lovely to see you, welcome to the Great Grim Hall. Thank you. I think it looks some kind of combination of homey and...scary. I suppose that's the look to go for. Thank you for joining us, I hope you'll have a drink."

Cambria offers Giulio a smile and a cool, "Count Corvini. Good to see you this evening." Her gaze slides towards Leona when the knight enters, before she returns her attention to the remainder of the first course.

The second course is summoned with a gesture: braised cod, roasted with sliced lemons and crushed peppercorns. A mainland touch has been added, in experiment: a sauce of white wine common to the Lyceum, and highly popular there. Platters are brought for everyone who would have one, and drinks are refilled and refreshed along the way.

"Good evening, all. Good evening, Lord and Lady Grimhall. Thank you for the hospitality you're extending to us today - this spring day. Full of, uhm, springy-ness. And flowers. And food." Elloise sing-songs, offering an uncertain smile toward the others at the table before taking a good look at Edward, "Like that! SEE?"

"You honor me, Marquessa Mazetti," Giulio offers in return, his own words even, his smile a faint thing. "Thank you." He smiles towards Theron as well, before leaning back to speak with the lady with whom he is conversing.

Asger chuckles and assures "Aye the shark stew is done perfectly, and has been known to rouse the dying on the coldest of days." and with that he turns to start enjoying the bountiful meal set before them, he digs in with an eager enthusiasm.

Mikani nods to Carita when she catches the woman even glancing her direction. She smiles as she watches Darion eat and she murmurs softly back and forth with Jace.

As his wife greets Leona, Valdemar bows his head to the arriving member of the King's Own. "Dame Leona, welcome, and thank you for joining us here tonight," he speaks up as well once Vanora has spoken to her. He then looks toward Giulio and adds with a slight grin, "Thank you, Count Corvini. I've observed my father doing the same often enough, I would hope I have it all down by now." Finally, he turns his attention to Elloise. "And you must be Baroness-Consort Stormbreak? I am glad to finally meet you," he tells her.

Duke Harald Grimhall strides into the hall as though he has somewhere very important to be. It may in fact be that the important place to be is right here. Upon appearing from the entrance doors, he raise his voice to boom out over the assemblage. "Welcome, everyone. Accept my apology for being delayed. You never know these days when when the next 'very important meeting' is going to throw off your schedule." It's not so much asking for acceptance of the apology as it is expecting that it'll be so. Greeting complete, he takes his place at the head of the table and seats himself there.

Harald has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Taking a moment to observe the hall and its occupants, Theron shifts his shoulders briefly. Clad in his usual dark silks, his eyes pluck out his family rapidly. With Garibaldi in tow, he makes a beeline for his Marquessa Cousin and Count Brother. "Giulio." A quick clasp of hand to the mans shoulder and a slight teasing tone. "Looking fine, I see. This Count thing may suit you after all" His eyes shift to Cambria and he flashes her a grin as well. "Marquessa, you are looking good as well of course."

Ann perks up seeing Leona and as her eyes sweep this way, she catches her attention with a wave and a friendly smile. "Dame Leona, It's nice to see you here." She then turns her attention toward Darion and when Ford isn't looking pulls funny faces at him and reaches over, offering him a hand for a shake. "Lord Darion. I understand you to be the new heartthrob of the Mourning Isles. I trust when Silain is ready, we will be good friends."

Leona has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

"And that is why you keep agreeing to trade lumber for...sharks. Because of the stew. It must be incredible stew." Vanora states offhand to Asger, who is close enough to where Lord and Lady Grimhall sit that conversation works well enough. "This is just braised fish in wine and butter I'm afraid, it doesn't revive the dying but it's also cheaper." The Lady teases Asger gently. When The Grim Duke arrives to dinner Vanora rises briefly and reseats herself, typical for the Grimhall family when receiving their patriarch. "Lord Theron, Count Corvini, Lady Carita...I don't even know who else I have missed, but welcome /all/." She locates her wineglass and takes a steady sip of Lenosian red.

"Of course," Leona says to Vanora. "I'm not here for long as I have made other promises, but it's been some time since I've been in the Grim Hall." She grins at Valdemar and Vanora both. "And I felt rather certain that neither of you would mind me crashing the party." She takes a drink from a passing server with a nod of thanks and adds, "But the last time I saw Duke Harald, we shared a companionable drink, and I wouldn't miss the opportunity to do so again." And then there's Harald himself and she raises her glass toward him, inclining her head. "Duke Harald. Thank you for your hospitality." Cambria's look gets a considering one in return, but then she's finding a seat and settling - even if it's temporarily. "Duchess Ann," she returns her aunt's greeting with a thoughtful look. "It's good to see you again as well."

Theron has joined the a cozy stone fireplace.

Edward of course rises when the Duke enters the room and waits for him to take his seat before Edward himself resumes his own. He gives the Duke a nod and then he picks up his glass and drinks it some more while eating lightly. The Sword of Ostria is given a raise of his glass in recognition and then he leans in to say something to his wife for a moment while he listens to people talking.

Rising, Giulio offers a bow towards Harald. "Duke Grimhall," the man offers, his tone a thing of the utmost politesse. "Oh! Which reminds me!" He glances towards Marius. "The guest-gift," he says. The man is already stepping towards the table, drawing out an earthenware jug from the ever present satchel he carries. It is set before Valdemar.

Meanwhile, Giulio grins to Theron, offering the man a slap to the shoulder. "Well, you know me. I've been well talented in avoiding being stabbed. And my adventuring is non-existant. It helps with more salubrious personal understanding." And then, he's sitting next to Carita again. A sip is taken from his glass and he grins a little.

Oh the funny faces are a big hit. While Ford is talking quietly with Naomi, Darion spots Ann's funny faces and starts wiggling and waving his arms. Ford catches a stray hand in the eye, "Oh.. thanks man." THen Ford sees what all the wigglin' was about and smiles to Ann, whispering to Darion who manages, "Wello ushchess" followed immediately by a series of babbles and noises that HE probably thinks is the worlds greatest pick up line. But it's just gibberish dude. Ford nods approvingly, "Good work, pal. I think she likes you."

Alizarin, an ethereal bard arrives, following Nuala.

"Yes, Lord Grimhall, I am the Baroness Elloise - please just Elly - Stormbreak. Nee Leary. I am not sure if it's gauche whether or not to mention one's former House because I do have much more important things to consider than the finer graces of etiquette. I'm wondering if I should have kept that to myself. Happens, the open-mouth-insert-foot syndrome. I suffer from it. Aaaaand, look, second course." Which Elloise starts to eat. She pauses mid-chew to offer Edward a WIDE smile.

Cambria greets Theron as well when he arrives, gesturing to the seat beside her. "Good that you could make it, cousin," she says to Theron. She then leans in to murmur something to him.

Turo rises when Harald does as well, then sits once the Duke take a seat. He salutes the Grimhall Duke with his glass of rum. Otherwise, he speaks quietly to Carita on one side or Edward on the other. The food, however, is a big hit with the Navegant, and he eats with gusto. And manners.

Asger laughs at that with a glint of mischief in his eye "Oh, the stew is good enough to launch wars over its recipe. Sometimes the greatest treasure we hold aren't gold or silver, but the warmth of family tradition passed through the ages, aye?" bringing his goblet up he takes a deep drink from it and raises it in silent toast to Harald when the Duke appears "Normally the best time to hunt for sharks in our lands is when the bring whales back to the inlet to butcher. The blood attracts them en masse, so it is truly a festive occasion with feasting in drinking." finally addressing Harald as he enters the hall he calls to him "There you are Uncle, it's been too long."

Sam, who is a boy and definitely not a princess in disguise arrives, following Niklas.

Mikani smiles at Darion every time he looks at her. "Hello ... again." She says warmly. "Want to sit with me so your dad can eat? We can make silly faces at his food and see if he laughs." She looks at Ford to see if it's okay so he can eat something.

Carita rises to dip a curtsy for Harald and when she sits, lifts her glass in his direction before drinking. When Giulio isn't occupied, there's quiet conversation with him, but otherwise Turo on her other side. There's a smile for Ford and his little one, bottom lip bitten before her attention shifts again to fingerwave in Mikani's direction.

Ford looks to Darion, "You wanna hang out with Mika so I can actually eat instead of wearing most of it?" Darion is already trying to wiggle his way out of Ford's grasp to get to Mika. "Alright, I guess we're settled then."

Naomi glances at Ford when he offers quiet words, pausing from her meal to quietly answer him. She watches as Mikani offers to take Darion and nods approvingly. "He's getting big."

Nuala's not the most impressive figure to cut her path into the depths of the Great Grim Hall. She and a platinum-blond woman shadowing her venture into the handsomely decorated building, and she never hesitates in her stride. The passing of her mindful gaze takes in many unfamiliar faces, the greenery, the banners. Smallest of smiles are allowed, obscured by the fall of her sooty hair over half her face. Dressed in simple grey silks, she must take upon herself the role of playing the rainstorm.

Ann finally begins to eat a little more than picking, having settled down and socialized a bit, her smile lingering upon her mouth. "Baron Edward, it's nice to see you again. Been a long while. I don't think I've met your wife yet - Baroness Elloise? How is marital bliss treating you both? Are you adjusting well, my Lady?"

Children do not seem to be Jace's thing and he lets Mikani occupy Ford's son for the moment. He seems to be taking his time to look about and get a feel for the people here. He's listening to names and matching them to the faces that turn when addressed.

Vanora casts a few lingering looks over to where Darion is charming the ladies, a half-smile at her lips and the level of wine in her glass lowering steadily, even after she's nodded at a thrall to remove her half-eaten plate of fish. "Uncle' Asger? Are you claiming to have Grimhall blood yourself. I told you you and Valdemar could pass for...some kind of relation." She plays the role of hostess as bubbly as Harald's role of host is...not, and brightens to greet each new or thoroughly familiar face. I swear, Father Harald, you have so much extended family..."

"Father," Valdemar greets the Duke when he approaches the table, taking a moment to stand and bow. As he sits back down, he notices Theron's arrival and grins, saying, "Lord Theron, it has been too long. Setarco, I think, was the last time we saw each other? I am glad that you are back in the city." Watching as Giulio approaches with the guest gift, the Grimhall heir then lets out a chuckle. "Is this the same that you shared before, or some new masterpiece of your brewer?" he asks the Count, before telling Elloise, "You are fine, Baroness...Elly. Please enjoy yourself." He then takes a moment to drink some mead and enjoy a few bites of the next course himself. "So, recently I organized an expedition back home, one that some here took part in, to thin out the pirates in our waters. It turned out far better than expected, and so I wanted to offer my thanks, and that of house Grimhall, to those who took part. Baron Edward, Count Turo, please convey our gratitude to those of your people who assisted. Particularly the Isles Canines, Baron. They were definitely a worthy investment," he tells his fellow Islesmen, inclining his head to them.

Politely inclining his head to Vanora. "Thank you so very much, it is appreciated." Theron plucks up a random drink going by and raises his glass in return to Edward. A look to Giulio as his brother speaks. "Ha! Someday, I should just drag you out into the field again." Cambria gets a deeper incline of the head. "I am glad I could make it." His head cocks to the side to listen, and he murmurs his own response with a solemn look, that breaks into a boyish grin.

Oh, he's definitely late to /this/ party. For one, because it takes at least a thirty-minutes' trek when you're moving around in a gown that's almost bursting at the seams from the Thrax to the Grayson Ward, and then putting on all the knightly paraphernalia, and another thirty to go back to yet another festivity. When Jordan comes in, it's with a bow towards Harald, Valdemar and Vanora, the hosts of this party, and respectful nods given in passing to his fellow guests until he spots Carita.

With a suppressed grin, he approaches the Darkwater lady, proffering some words in a lower tone to her before a more politely louder, "Thank you again. You should've seen it." Once he spots Leona, though, he heads the Dame's way. A salute is offered, along with a quiet greeting.

Mikani smiles at Darion as he clambers into her lap. She softly bounces him gently to get a few giggles before she helps the boy pick at her food. "Nom nom nom ..." She whispers to Darion as he eats before carrying on Darion's conversation of gibberish and her questions. Her attention though on the boy - she watches the others in the room. With a wiggle of her fingers she waves back at Carita. "You know Ford ... I think he's gonna get taller than you ...." She laughs softly as Darion eats her food heartily.

Asger casts a broad grin at Vanora "No such thing, though since I met him here in the city the Duke has been akin to family to me. We'd meet and discuss that weeks events over mead here in this hall, and when I had a tough choice he'd advise me. For as warmly as he has welcomed me and helped me, it'd be an insult to not greet him with such respect."

Harald respectfully and even somewhat pleasantly nods towards each of the people that greet him, giving a little extra time to Elloise. "I promise you, Baroness, that we will not hold mention of birth family against you in this hall. Not even my daughter-in-law." It was surely meant as a bit of lightheartedness, but the duke could be forgiven if it isn't executed all that well. He nods in Vanora's direction. "We're very popular."

"The same!" Giulio calls out towards Valdemar. "I'm hoping he well be arriving soon in the city. We're still in the process of transferring the remaining materials to Iasu, so, we've had little time to develop new and interesting drinks. Still, I will see a few bottles of some of the other, less known things are sent your way." He raises his glass in the man's direction.

"Taller than me?" Ford laughs, "He better not. I'm still in charge, pal. But all the same, eat your food, get big and strong."

Elloise leans toward Edward, then forward, grinning as she peers around toward Ann. She offers a bright (if slightly manic) beaming smile and flickers a wave over with her fork-holding hand, "Duchess Crovane. Inquisitor Ann. It's ever so nice to formally make your acquaintance." She pokes Edward with the (dull side - we swear) side of the fork. "You know a LOT of people. Honestly, I didn't know." Then, back to considering, "Martial bliss is sweet like honey. Or will be, once the bees start making it. Literal, not figurative."

"Yes thank you indeed Baron Edward and Count Turo. For the kind of victory that...makes one's ancestors jealous, or notice? I'm getting them confused. For a victory that will lead to more victory if it is properly utilized." To Asger Vanora nods. "Lucky for you he's never been one for reading the whites, so he's no idea what trouble you got yourself into." Harald's jests about birth families just earn a playful pout and a haughty lift of her head to go with the...next drink of wine. If she manages eye contact with Ford, she'll use it to gesture Darion over.

Leona inclines her head to Jordan and responds to his salute with one of her own - the salute of the Hundred, fist to chest, and a murmured word in response.

Turo lifts his glass to Valdemar's credit and says simply, "Hunting pirates is a joy unto itself, my lord."

Elloise ducks her head to laugh with Harald, "Excellent, Duke Grimhall. We'll not hold it against one another," she offers with an impish grin.

No rush to Nuala here. Her method of navigating around the hall to the feasting table is unrushed, allowing a fine opportunity for people-watching, at something of a languid pace. Under other circumstances it might be considered stalking, a sureness found therein. The slight smile playing over her mouth takes form finding one or two faces. "Evening," she calls out, a studied casualness to the northern princess' voice in Theron's direction, supposing he won't take badly to an interruption in the middle of a break. She might be comfortable sliding onto a spot on the bench near the end, a mead mug chosen.

After finishing her drink, Cambria politely excuses herself and gets to her feet. She makes her farewells to the hosts, and then departs the hall.

Cambria has left the a cozy stone fireplace.

5 House Mazetti Guardians, Possum leave, following Cambria.

Leona leans over even as the next course comes, and speaks quietly to Ann with a rather composed expression on her face. Whatever is said is said gently.

Mikani laughs softly, "So height means you are the boss?" She shakes her head, "You have met Ember ... right? I mean she's short ... yet seems to know she's the boss." She teases Ford as Darion relaxes into her as she helps him drink some water from a cup.

The poke from the fork draws his attention and he wrinkes his nose at the mention of the bees and then he smiles to Ann, "Thank you Duchess," he nods to her and gives Asgar a smile before he glances to Valdemar and Vanora, "Thank you, both of you. I think the Isles is one of the best unattached fleets at sea, and if you need them again they are available of course. Always looking for work." he smiles to the Duke at his joke and then he looks at Elly before glancing to Nuala, "Greetings Princess Redrain," he smiles to her and gives her a polite nod before he leans in to speak to his wife again.

Ford is in a mad dash to eat his food so that Mikani isn't stuck with Darion for toooo long. When he's gotten his fill he turns to her, "Alright bud. C'mere you." He leans over and does the most dad groan ever when lifting a kid who's getting big.

Ann is busy taking a sip of her wine when she nearly snorts in laughter, beaming broadly at the new Baroness. "In the Silent War, he defended me. Saved my life. Took a sword right to the gut. If he hadn't... I would be dead. Very, very dead. Not only do Edward and I know each other I call him a friend and ally and someone to whom I owe a debt of gratitude," she says to Elloise and then to Leona she looks with a smile and a nod that looks thankful. Then, back to Elloise, "If anything the man should have free drinks in Redrain for the rest of his natural life." She winks.

Looking towards Valdemar, Theron raises his glass of mystery-alcohol towards the man in greetings. "Likely you would be right, Lord Valdemar. That does seem about right. Thank you, it is good to be back. A lot of interesting things going on here and there. Well, you cannot go wrong with Giulio's products." There is a sharp nod towards Giulio at the compliment. At the sound of a new voice addressing him he shifts to see. "Ah! Princess Nuala, good evening. Since we formerly were not introduced, message not included." Nuala recieves a respectful incline of his head. "Lord Theron Mazetti, at your service."

Something Elloise hears has her head tilting in Edward's direction. She listens, offers him an utterly blithe, sincere smile and gestures toward Ann with her fork again. "See, Edward, free drinks - Redrain ward - for the rest of your natural life."

Jace eats and drinks politely enough. He doesn't seem to need to be in the fray that is the conversation going back and forth between those gathered. He is observant though and his visits to the drink, for the moment, are sparing.

"Who could pass something like that up?" Naomi speaks up, a brief hint of a smile showing on her features. She goes back to her drink and her food, listening but making a point not to interrupt the conversation.

Is it crashing a party if you were invited? Mostly? The former Lord Niklas Kennex wanders into the grim hall with a lute strapped to his back and his newest assistant following close behind, his last having been given the day off to spend with her new husband. "...and now you know the whole, incredibly awkward story. Fun, right?" Sam looks uncertain as to whether or not he's actually supposed to answer this, but that's okay, Niklas just keeps going anyway. "Let's see. Okay, just follow my lead, this is my favorite game." He walks further in and takes a deep breath before he says, "Good evening to... Duchess, Duke, Duke, my Lord, my Lady, Marquis, Marquessa, my Lord, Count, my Lady, Baron, Baroness, Dame and Sir." He looks over the table, the nods. "Covers everyone I know!"

Vanora states to Edward, "Of course. One of the only things we're hoping to give our vassals and assorted allies an opportunity to speak on is what they would learn from what was brought back. It may be too chaotic an evening to make that happen as I had a terrible time containing the guest list and must practice. I shall, I promise. However hopefully tonight and if not, extremely soon...Grimhall and others will have a plan in place for making the most of a small advantage." She looks to Harald here and then back to Valdemar.

Leona reaches out and puts a hand on Ann's shoulder and squeezes once, very gently. And then she's standing, to say something quietly to Jordan before adding, "As I said, I didn't have long. But it is good to be here and see those gathered. Thank you for your hospitality this evening, Grimhall." And with little further ado, she slips out the door.

Mikani smiles at Darion and Ford before she makes sure that she eats what she wants. The food was very good and she enjoyed every bite. She looks over at Jace and smiles at him.

"Thank you, Duchess,you are way too kind but if the Spirits starts serving good quality rum I may take you up on that." Edward smiles to his wife and then he motions, "But please I only did what I had to do. It was merely good upbringing and family training that gave me reason to act without pause. You could ask Lord Jace there as well, he suffered under my father's tutelage." though suffer is said clearly in jest.

Leona has left the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Captain Teemo, a mountain lion cub, Flappinum, a human with many opinions leave, following Leona.

Ann taps the side of her nose to Elloise with a grin and then looks over to Edward, raising her brows. "Oh did he?" Oh look, Edward threw Jace under the cart there and she directs her attention toward him with a grin. "Planning on throwing yourself in front of Princesses in the near future Lord Jace?" She winks playfully, "Was his father that bad?"

Vanora rises to her feet and moves from the table enough to lift her hand and summon the next course, which has nothing to do with fish but is stuffed game hen with rice, spiced not -Southern- hot, but hot. She takes a moment to walk over closer to where Mikani and Ford are seated, greeting each with a dip of her head but reaching her arms out for Darion 'Come see Mommy! I have people to show you. Things to show you!"

Nuala nods to Edward in return, swinging her knees underneath the table. She perks up at the mention of her House name twice over. Hard not to have an ear for that kind of thing, right? Listening in to conversations over a cup of mead is especially honoured in northern and eastern areas. She sips the drink, probably not in the way of sparing. Lifting that cup in salute, she says, "Lord Theron, we let dancing get in the way of manners, didn't we? Well met." A brief pause, and she adds, "Princess Nuala Redrain."

Ford rises as Vanora comes over, so he can make the hand off. As Darion is passed to Vanora he leans in to murmur something.

Asger blinks as he overhears part of Ann's conversation "Wait, who was it who saved your life in the Silent War, Edward?" Eyes scanning over the table till he finds Edward, regarding the man with a warm friendly smile "Somehow I must have missed this story of my wife, I owe you night of drinks for saving her life. C Can't even imagine where I'd be now if I hadn't met her."

Leaning in, Giulio whispers something to his manservant, before returning to speak with Carita.

Naomi eyes the new dish warily, glancing around to see how others receive it before she chances a bite. She nods at the spices and starts to pick apart the poultry with her cutlery, politely keeping quiet as she eats her meal. She leans in to quietly speak to Ford in between bites.

Edward blinks as something is whispered to him by Elly prompting a hard swallow of a mouth full of food and then he leans over and he says something else to her. Then another thing. Before he leans back and then he glances to Naomi, "If I do go for the hard drinking I'll take you with me. You can help me regret having free drinks." then he glances to Duke Asgar and smiles, "I am an unsung veteran of the Silent War, my lord. But I will gladly take meet with you for a drink sometime."

Mikani sips her rum and almost chokes on it with the mention of Tiberius Redreef. She closes her eyes briefly as she swallows her sip and shakes her head a bit.

"Prince Niklas, high spirits as always. That's good to see." Jordan nods to the Grayson Prince at the greeting, lifting a glass of rum to the man and then making his way to Carita, nodding a greeting to Giulio. "My Lord," is said to the Count of Iasu while the knight claims a seat for himself.

Jordan has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Putting down his drink, Jace looks to Ann, moving his hair back out of his eyes and offering a half smile with the lift of his lip on the left side, "Well, now, Duchess...I suppose that would really depend on the Princess, wouldn't it?"

Elloise murmurs something to Edward in a true whisper, reaching for her water-glass. She takes a sip, then five all in a row. Playing it nonchalannt, see, and then looks at Asger wide-eyed. "A evening of drinking. That sounds dangerous. Dangerous and fun. Go to that. Just don't throw bottles at the bronze elf, please."

"Wonderful, Count Giulio, thank you for the gift. And further examples of your man's work will be equally appreciated, I assure you," Valdemar tells him, before turning to his brother and adding, "Yes, there is a good deal going on here, Lord Theron. The Unbroken will be glad for your presence, surely." He then looks toward another relatively new arrival, Nuala, to greet her, "Your Highness, welcome to our longhouse. I am Lord Valdemar Grimhall, this is my wife Lady Vanora, and my father, Duke Harald Grimhall."

It's not weird when Ford and Vanora have their heads tilted, whispering, and varying scowls upon their expressions. Vanora's is impressive at least.

Nuala has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

"I am grateful for your hospitality, Lord Valdemar, Lady Vanora." Oh, Nuala shows that gratitude by the lowering of her head, inclining further still. "Duke Harald. This is a privilege after long at sea." Her cup is set aside for the time to accept whatever dish is passed her way, the familiar acts of taking a reasonable share and passing on if need be something she performs with a steady regard.

Asger responds to Elloise with a roguish grin "That my friend only happens if we are doing the drinking right. There will be bottles of whiskey, dice to be thrown, and in the end I'm sure there will be a tale or two told about us and a legend that will be carried down through the generations."

Ann continues to eat heartily, but of course minding her manners as she does so, "I suppose it would, Lord Jace. Speaking of which, we haven't met yet... Are you a new arrival to the city perhaps?"

Shifting in place Theron chuckles a moment. "Mostly that blame would lie with me, Princess. I did arrive late, and was called away early. I did happen to send you a message later though. Also, well done on your dancing last night!." Theron gives a bright smile and his eyes flick onto Valdemar, smile remaining. He reaches out now that they are close to attempt to grasp a forearm in greeting. "It was good to arrange to depart the reserves. Still, interesting times indeed. However, the Princess is correct. Your hospitality is certainly welcome during some trying times for my Family. You've gathered a very nice crowd here tonight. Your wife and you have done well!"

Jace offers a nod to Ann as he continues their conversation, "Very new...only a couple of days since I came in after a long time at sea." He pauses to take a drink, "When Ember and Marina took their leave, I was not sure who was left behind to tend to the house, so I returned, myself. Mikani had not gone with them, though I thought to stay and help with affairs."

Edward nudges Elloise as he laughs, "Well then good." he nods his head as he eats the food and he hmms, "Not as hot as the last time." he licks his lips and then he grins to the Duke, "Well Duke Asgar I will tell you, I am about creating a legend when it involves drinking and carousing." glances to Jace as he talks with Ann and smiles before he turns back to his conversations.

Carita's quiet conversation with Giulio, which ended when Valdemar spoke with him, turns in to the young Darkwater Voice smiling as she leans back, tugging on the sleeve of Turo. "Count Turo Navegant, I'd like you to meet my dearest friend, Count Giulio Corvini, Count of Iasu." To Giulio she says, "Count Corvini, Count Navegant is the Count of Escuma and enjoys killing both turtles and pirates." The introductions made, she's now smiling between the pair.

Ford returns to his seat and exhales a breath. Reaching over to pour himself a drink.

Mikani murmurs softly to Ford before drinking more of her rum. She smiles at Jace and nods. "Yes ... it's good to have more family around."

Returning to her place at the head of the table, Vanora cuddles Darion close and whispers things to him, pointing out Valdemar and keeping her voice too quiet to hear.

Elloise is all wide eyes, mouth parted a little - and she ducks her head to laugh cheerily at the conversation offered by Asger, and Edward's interjection. "Much too silly. Again, if there are epic songs or tales or legends that are created from your night out, at least they won't be boring ones."

Turo nods with an amiable smile to Giulio. "Of course," he says to the other fellow, "It's a pleasure. Anyone the Lady calls a friend is worth knowing. As a friend, I would say she has excellent taste." His voice is a bass rumble, quiet enough to not overwhelm the rest of the conversations.

Asger takes a deep swig of his drink "Look ya gotta start drinking with the intent to create a legend, so you down your first bottle, you play some dice, make some risky bets and then you move on. Before you know it you are challenging statues given life, and obtaining secrets no one thought possible. Really though it takes will power to reach that level of carousing." Looking Edward up and down he asks "Think you got it in you?"

"Count Navegant," Giulio offers, extending his hand towards the man, gesture open for a shake or a firmer clasp as desired. "It is indeed a pleasure," he remarks, his lips curving up into a warm smile. "Perhaps we might speak later when matters are a little quieter... and I might have my man bring another jug of drink." He smiles to Carita then. "It is a lovely pleasure to find those of distinction," his grin amused.

"I received it, and meant to respond. Here we are, though, and I may bring you a message back after this." Nuala gives that small smile again, not one apparently for effusive displays in public. Really, minding her manners takes a fair bit of attention, doesn't it? Another of the myriad princesses in town, she has good dining manners. She prefers silence, taking everything in -- listening attentively, for certain.

"I'm sure you'll love it here. I mean, I find it to be a little warm myself but I think I've acclimated alright. The people here sure keep you on your toes..." Ann says between bites to Jace, still keeping her smile lingering at the corners of her mouth. "Ah I haven't introduced myself to Lady Mikani either--" She bows her head to her, "How are you faring here in Arx? It is wonderful to have family around, I can attest. My own has been a font of strength for myself these days."

"Duke Asgar you're asking me if I have it in me? Oh I have it." Edward chuckles as he lifts his own glass filled with rum to the man and then he takes a drink of it. When he sets it down he leans in to say something to Elloise.

Mikani nods at Ann. "Nice to meet you." She looks at Jace before back to Ann, "Aye family can be a great strength."

Naomi snorts a laugh at something Ford says quietly, shaking her head as she smirks towards the Marquis. She picks up her drink and sips at it before she goes back to her meal.

"Shit," Elloise exclaims abruptly, "NO. I forgot that Madame Death Cupcake needs to be FED -" with a sudden burst of energy, the diminutive Baroness Stormbreak (nee Leary, mind) is up and out of seat, brushing down her skirts as she starts to bow while back up in a hurry toward the exit. "I do apologize all, I need to feed the full crickets to the large spider. Good evening!"

"Father Harald." After sliding back into her seat Vanora addresses the Duke. "I've wanted to make introductions for you. Darion darling /this/ is the Duke Grimhall. He is your brother's grandfather, and I'm sure would happily be yours sometimes too. Because Mommy's parents are /terrible/ people who you do not want to play with!" She whispers something to the little blond tot who says "GRIMDUKE" like it's one word.

Valdemar grins at the compliments offered by Nuala and Theron. "Thank you both. We are definitely happy with the turnout tonight," he tells them. He then lifts his voice a little, to address everyone at the table, "During the expedition I spoke of just a little bit ago, a pirate lord was captured, someone in service to the woman who has replaced the Gyre. He is being held at Grihem's Point for questioning. If anyone has suggestions as to what we might want or need to know from him, I am happy to hear them now."

Elloise has left the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Carita's smile widens at the men on either side of her, delight evendent as she leans back poor Turo to tap Edward's shoulder next. "Baron Edward Stormbreak, I'd like you to meet my dear friend Count Giulio Corvini, Count of Iasu." To Giulio she adds, "Baron Stormbreak is the Baron of Whitefrost, who is the one to go to if you're looking for rum. He /always/ has the best rum."

Theron has left the a cozy stone fireplace.

Theron has joined the simple bench of pale driftwood.

Theron has left the simple bench of pale driftwood.

Theron has joined the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

"Ask him who her informers are on the shores. People who are particularly invested in informing them of who to disrupt trade routes and supply routes from, who they pay to supply them, that kind of thing. If you need to keep your shores safe, you need to make it logistically inconvenient to your adversaries," Jordan offers towards Valdemar, lifting a tankard to the man.

Edward encourages his wife to go, "Get your...spider. Fed." he clearly has a distaste for the creature and then he hmms and glances to Valdemar, "I can make you a list of things, Lord Grimhall...there is quite a bit I can think of," and he glances to Carita and smiles, "I do. Usually. A pleasure Count Corvini. It is nice to meet you."

"Baron Stormbreak, it's so good to see you again," the man offers, a flash of a smile given the man. "I trust affairs have been keeping you well?" One brow lofts in question as he considers her. He does smile to Carita in the process. A chuckle is offered at the mention of a spider.

Mikani sips her rum slowly as she settles back in her seat.

"Welcome to the Great Grim Hall, Darion," Duke Harald answers, voice positively exuding the sort of pleasantness that it very seldom does when speaking to adults, even if the words are perhaps a little too formal to be lost on a child so young. He lowers himself to get closer to the young boy's level. "Are you having fun?"

Ann perks up, turning her focus to Nuala next, "Speaking of Redrain Princesses!" And she turns to face her, grinning, "I believe it's been... Goodness." She begins to count on her fingers.. "Uh... so long that I don't want to give away my age in such a public setting. How are you? Settling into Arx well? I'm glad to see you alive and well and returned to us."

1 House Corvini Guard, Placeholder arrive, following Ilinca.

Darion reaches towards Harald and Vanora shrugs, letting the boy climb onto the Grim Duke's lap. She's right there beside them both, and clearly it was vantage point Darion was going for. He stands up on his tippytip toes and points at the skeleton danging from the ceiling. "What Dat?"

3 Thrax Guards, Teonia Redreef, Aryka Wyrmfang, Marquessa Pudding, a pudgy puppy arrive, following Sorrel.

"Well, Sir Jordan, it's always nice to see you. And you are correct, my enthusiasm is always boundless. Well, I mostly stopped by to be certain that Lady Zoey and Lord Ian's regards are passed on. Lord Wash's as well, I assume. I honestly haven't seen him or Catalana for a while." Niklas looks over the table, then offers Ford a smile. "Marquis, next time you find yourself in a situation like the one you found yourself in when last we spoke, do remember moments like these." He turns and starts for the door, pausing to offer Jordan a wave, "Good evening, Sir Ober!"

Sam, who is a boy and definitely not a princess in disguise leaves, following Niklas.

Turo nods to Giulio and says, "Of course, Count. Send word whenever you'd like. I'm easily found." Mmm... rum.

"I understand that this pirate lord might not be of interest to our guests who are not from the Isles, though we are glad to listen to ideas from anyone present. Though we would appreciate it if, at least for the time being, such discussions might be kept in confidence," Valdemar adds, after nodding at what Jordan has to say, "And that is one thing we were definitely intending on asking about, Sir Ober."

"Dearest Ilinca," Giulio calls out as he notes the presence of his wife. "Will you please join us?" A glance is shot towards Marius, who is already finding a glass for Ilinca.

The Not-Quite-As-Grim-As-Normal Duke lets Darion into his lap easily and doesn't complain even a little bit when he stands up. "That," he says in a quiet, foreboding voice, "was once a big, ugly sea monster that tried to get very mean with me and some of my friends once. So I hung him from the ceiling and he doesn't get mean at anyone anymore."

"There's something else you could do, short of trying to interrogate him." Jordan reclines into his seat as he studies Valdemar, canting his head. "Let him go. Stage a security breach that is believable, watch him leave, give him the means to do so, and then follow him."

Instead of continuing to stand about, loitering, Theron finally claims a seat at the feasting table. His current glass gets drained so he can pluck up a mead mug and claim some mead. He shifts his gaze up and down the table looking to familiar and new faces alike.

Sorrel enters quietly, quite a bit late, a glass of rum already in her hand. She heads over towards the hosts with a pleasant smile on her face. "Lady Vanora, I thought that I would come offer greetings from House Thrax on the occassion of your Feast," she offers, bowing her head politely to the woman in a serious but pleasant sort of way. Her gaze turns to the duke next. "Duke Harald, it is good to see you."

"It is a pleasure to see you again, Count." Edward responds, "And how is buisness for you these days?" he does pause to give a nod to Valdemar to acknowledge what he said and then he looks back to Giulio, "Anything new and exciting?"

Ford looked like he might have stopped breathing when he noticed Darion climb over into Harald's lap. But when Harald suddenly goes not-so-grim. Ford suddenly exhales and sinks into his chair and takes a big big drink.

When Ilinca arrives, it is -- frankly -- more than a bit late. But perhaps that could be explained by the small note clutched in her hand, which she passes off to the Corvini guard attending her as she steps into the hall. Or perhaps by her black gown, which is not the least bit festive. Either, and especially both, seem to indicate that she'd not realized she'd been expected. "That was why I came, Iulio," Ilinca replies easily, one brow lifting. It's mirrored in the way that one corner -- and only one corner -- of her mouth lifts in a sardonic smile. "Did you expect I would come all this way, only to spend the evening ignoring the other guests and sulking in the corner?"

"Hasn't it? I scarce believe to find myself under a roof or on a floor that doesn't shift this way or that," Nuala confides in Ann, voice low. "Let us say it has been eighteen months and no more." This she nods to. "Anything else is worth speculating on. I am well. He," a nod to Theron, "went to a dance lesson. I went too, and came away with some silks. Worth to make into clothes, but not until after the matter with the Lodge. Dressing up too much seems odd to me, when others are in need." Quiet tones there and then she smiles wanly. The coming and going seems to leave the woman a touch tired.

"Thank you, Princess. We thank House Thrax for their greetings. My husband was just regaling our guests with the tale of the capture of that...well what was he not pirate leader but...leuitenant maybe? I'm not sure how the heirarchy works. Anyway, with the tale of the capture and finding out any questions that our vassals would like very much to hear the answers to. I'm sure if you've suggestions Valdemar is just as interested in those too." Vanora smiles, watching her son in the Grim Duke's arms with such a smile.

A flash of a smile is offered to Ilinca, before he hears Valdemar speak. One hand is raised, before he whispers something to Marius. With a nod and a bow of his head, the man is moving at a far quicker clip than usual. "Lady Darkwater, Baron Stormbreak, may I introduce my wife, Countess Ilinca Corvini?" he says, smiling. Then to Ilinca, he says, nodding to Carita and Edward. "Lady Carita Darkwater and Baron Edward Stormbreak."

The Great Hall is almost too noisy to communicate in, with so many conversations happening at once, and so many of them animated. Still thralls manage to clear out the game and bring out the last course, which is a simple dish of new blueberries soaked in cream.

Carita rises from her spot beside Giulio as Countess Ilinca enters, her smile warm as she introduces herself once she's at a more casual conversation distance, "It's a pleasure to meet you, finally, your husband has spoken so --" she pauses to say something softly to Giulio, then smiles at the Countess again, "--so sweetly of you. I dare say, he did your beauty no justice at all."

Mikani sips more of her rum. She murmurs to Ford softly before she settles back into her seat and watches the Thralls. She moves uncomfortably before she takes a bit of the blueberries.

Ann gives Nuala a warm smile when she hears about the sea legs, "Ah, used to the pitch of a boat. Must have been a long time out there. I can imagine you'd be tired too after such a journey. Also I don't worry about dressing up too much. I only wear my armor personally... have since I participated in the Silent War. I own one other dress. Used it to pitch some woo and find a husband and haven't found much use for it since." She winks playfully at her.

Valdemar considers Jordan's suggestion but then shakes his head before explaining, "As I said, he is being held at Grihem's Point, which is an island. If he escaped our castle, he would need a ship and a crew for it in order to get away. And if he managed that? He would likely just sail south to her, and we believe we have an idea of where she is already." He then takes a long drink from his glass of mead. "Princess Sorrel, welcome, and yes, if you have any ideas of what questions should be put to this pirate lord, I am happy to hear them," he greets the Thrax princess.

There is a raise of his glass of rum, "A pleasure Countess," Edward smiles to the woman and then he looks at at Guilio, "We shall have to meet sometime in a less gathered environment to talk." he smiles to the Count's wife again before he glances to the conversation Valdemar is having about the captive, at least keeping an ear on it.

Even with the child standing in his lap, Duke Harald still speaks with the other guests in a much more...conventional manner. "It's good to see you as well, Princess. We welcome Thrax as always." He leaves the bulk of the greeting for his son and daughter-in-law, on account of being rather occupied with explaining the glories of the skeleton of the cetellus hanging from the ceiling in a way that a two-year-old boy can find fascinating.

Asger looks about to say something when a messenger comes to him and hands him a letter, reading it over he rubs his brow and tells Ann "The potato is punching again, looks like he clocked the nurse good. I'm gonna go see if I can get him put back down, thinkin' it might be finally time for him to have a wee sip o'whiskey."

"I wouldn't blame you for wearing over armour. Armour is, itself, a welcome thing. But mine ended up pitched mostly overboard." There's a tale there that Nuala is not telling, and by the telling, admits its existence. She gives a little smile to her kinswoman. "This, however, is far more lovely than I have right to leave behind. I'm feeling a need to get my bearings, though. Another night, we shall have to meet in quieter circumstances?" She slips from the table, surrendering her space to another. If Vanora or Valdemar aren't too busy she nods in their direction, but her departure is going to be a quiet one.

"It is a pleasure to be meeting you," Ilinca replies in her thickly-accented alto. The curtsy she offers them both is clearly a practiced thing; the slender hand she holds out has seen less care, given the the number of small scars that mark her fingers. The sardonic smile she'd been sporting transforms into a low, throaty laugh at Carita's words. "You have gone from flattering me yourself to convincing others to do it for you? I do not know if I should be impressed by your cunning, or chastise you for being so idolent in refusing to do it yourself," she says to her husband.

Nuala has left the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Alizarin, an ethereal bard leaves, following Nuala.

"At least you would know if Grihem's Point has an informer or not, then. He would no doubt attempt to get to a trader or covert privateer aligned to her," Jordan considers, though he nods again to Valdemar. He offers the man a salute, and a bow towards Vanora and the Duke has him rising to his feet. "Absent more information on who this person is, I'm afraid I can't give you anymore suggestions."

Jace does take the time to sample the blueberries, but after a short bit, he leans to speak to Mikani quietly and then nods to Valdemar and Vanora, "Thank you for the invitation, th company and the meal." After that, he quietly takes his leave.

Recieving his own messenger tap, Theron turns to skim over what was sent. "Mmm." Then a sharp nod, as he rises to turn to the others. "Apologies for drinking some mead and then departing. Something demands my attention, and I cannot ignore it. Or I would." He raises whats left of his mead. "To our hosts, the Grimhalls!" He does not depart that second of course, but after the toast is accepted and performed by others.

Sorrel bows to the duke with a smile and a little flourish. "Not only did I wed a Prince of Thrax, the Warlord, no less, but I have met every challenge you put forth for me. I have sung against the Gyre and helped the troops survive the Abyssal assault," she notes, referencing their first meeting, at which the duke was quite grim. "You taught me the term Warsong, and I will sing for you at any time that you like."

"Or perhaps some truths are simply self-evident," Giulio counters, his smile a faint thing as he delivers his verbal parry. He glances towards Theron, nodding to the man as he moves to depart. He then takes a swallow of his drink, letting his eyes look from person to person. "Have you met Sir Ober, perchance, my dear?" he asks, glancing towards Jordan.

Ann raises her eyebrows right up to her hairline, "Excusemewhat. No it's okay, you can give /me/ the whiskey and something cold for the shiner the nurse undoubtedly has." She begins to stand, taking her glass in hand and holding it high with a bright smile to her hosts, "To our hosts, the Grimhalls. Thank you all so much for hosting us with warmth, hospitality, and a beautiful meal. Just perfect. I look forward to seeing more of you all." And with that, she makes all the warm and polite goodbyes and in some cases hello-goodbyes that she can and leaves with her husband.

2 Armed Confessors, Angwyn the otter, Mordred, Abner leave, following Ann.

Asger has left the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Teiddwen the Otter, A fiery headed prodigal named Gwddfgwyn leave, following Asger.

Valdemar nods to those taking their leave. "Duke Asger, Duchess Ann, it was wonderful to see you again. And Lord Redreef, thank you for coming, it was good to meet you," he tells them, smiling as they depart. He then turns back to his conversation with Jordan, "Thank you for the suggestions, Sire Ober."

Mikani raises her glass for each of the toasts.

Jace has left the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Theron has left the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Garibaldi, the Lycene swordbearer leaves, following Theron.

Valdemar is overheard praising Vanora.

Valdemar is overheard praising Grimhall.

A shake of her head, and Ilinca says, "I have not, no." But then, there's toasting to be done. And here she was, with her hands empty. Where was Marius with that glass he'd gone off to fetch?

Ford rises up from his table and makes his way around the table to stand off to the side of Vanora, leaning down to murmur to her. After that he goes over to Darion, "Hey bud, I'm gonna head home, you get to stay here with Mommy and GrandpaGrim, okay? You be good for them and maybe Harald will tell you some more cool stories about monsters." He waggles his eyebrows. This clearly entices the boy. "Love you, big guy. Be good."

Naomi gets to her feet, standing quietly behind Ford as he prepares to depart. She glances around and nods to the hosts before moving towards the door.

Edward finally shifts rising up out of his seat and he looks up to the table, "Duke Grimhall, my Lord, my Lady, I think I am going to take my leave. I should really go check on the wife. Make sure she got her thing fed and did not release the bees. Thank you for the evening."

Ilinca is overheard praising Grimhall.

Darion blinks up at Ford kind of confused, but Vanora whispers something to the boy to soothe him. "Leaving so soon? It's a shame. I'm sure we could use your conversation on...some of this. The crowd got out of hand...I'll keep it focused next time. Contained." Vanora states.

Marius is returning, having been dispatched by his lord. He approaches Valdemar and extends a black folder, leaning into whisper something. A second jug of Southern Thunder is placed on the table before Giulio and a few fingers of the pear scented liquor are poured for Ilinca first, Carita second, and then his lord last. Claiming the drink, he takes a small swallow, nodding in approval.

Mikani stands herself. Her eyes moves around the room and she nods to Carita. "I think I better be off as well."

Something in Sorrel's words catches the Grim Duke for a moment, and he leans forward to speak quietly into the ear of the young boy in his lap. "Why don't you go back and find your mommy now," he says in that almost sing-song tone with which he's been favoring the child. He waits for a moment, letting the little one scurry off before sitting up straighter in his chair. "I appreciate your words, Princess," he says, countenance stone-faced once more. "It's especially curious to hear them after all of the words that you had to say about me and those of my house right after Vademar's and Vanora's marriage though. Perhaps you could write a ballad to explain the change of heart."

"My pleasure, my Lord." Jordan inclines his head, looking over to Ilinca and Giulio. To the former, he grins. "We've met earlier. I'm afraid I was in a different garment and, sadly, I was honor bound to depart before making my introductions."

Darion -darts- back into Vanora's arms, and she catches him as gracelessly as she would a football chucked at her stomach. "Oh! Gentle with mommy. Come on, more blueberries." That's enough to make the towheaded little babe curious and she leads him towards them.

Mikani murmurs to Ford before she slips out of the event.

Nodding to Jordan, Giulio says, "Sir Ober, my wife, Countess Ilinca Corvini," offering the appropriate introductions. Then, nodding to Ilinca, he says, "A good friend, Sir Jordan Ober," he offers, with a flash of a smile.

Edward has left the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Sombra, the subtle, 1 Navegant Marines leave, following Edward.

Mikani has left the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Ford has left the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Naomi has left the Grimhall's heirloom feasting table with sophisticated engravings in sturdy wood.

Barbara, the stalwart Stormward secretary, 4 Kennex corsairs, Naomi leave, following Ford.

Carita's laughter lifts as she settles back in her seat once Ilinca has, "If you need any help in that department, Countess," the punishment department apparently, "I'm more than happy to assist." She winks and smiles, "Sir Ober is certainly the man to have in ones corner. Immensely helpful in the rebuilding of Darkwater." There's a smile for Jordan.

Gratefully accepting the cup of Southern Thunder, she takes a hearty sip of it, closing her heavy-lidded eyes briefly at the burn in the back of her throat. When they open once more, she looks to Jordan. "Ahhh, yes." Ilinca inclines her head to Jordan. "The man in the gown. It seems that my questions after the cause for your attire caused some offense, and yet the dress did not." Her free hand spreads, palms out, her fingers splaying. "So much to rediscover about the Compact and its people."

Carita's hand lifts to scratch her brow a little, "Was the dress.... not pretty?" She squints a little Jordan's way.

"Well, it -was- the Skirt and Gown night. I was, however, told that it was more of the spirit of the event to be for women only, so I departed after my shot of rum," Jordan smiles over at Carita, reaching out to touch her shoulder with his fingers. "You're most kind for your compliments, my Lady. I was glad to help Darkwater, and I will help Darkwater prosper even more; you have my word on it." He laughs, though, at Carita's remark, "It was complimented. A lot. As a beautiful gown, the envy of the party. But someone wanted me out of it because the seams were bursting."

Sorrel crosses her arms across her chest at Harald's words. "Your daughter-in-law is an Oathbreaker," she says seriously, solidly, and without apology in her Oathlander accent. "Divorce is Oathbreaking, and there's nothing to change that. It's a choice, and one people are free to take, but that doesn't mean the world won't judge them for those choices. You chose to allow your son to marry a divorcee. An Oathbreaker. As far as I can tell, the people of the Isles take Honor fairly seriously. Lady Vanora may be a lovely woman, but her honor is tarnished by her choice. It may have been the best one at the time, and she may have felt it was worth the loss of honor, but that doesn't change the fact that she's viewed as a divorcee."

Giulio is overheard praising Vanora: Grace under fire.

"Ahhh, no, no. It was a lovely gown," Ilinca assures quietly, with a shake of her head and another of her throaty chuckles. "But it seems that for asking after why he was wearing it, if he were not in costume, I have given some offense to....," the Countess trails off. Having caught some of the carrying conversation regarding their hosts and members of said family, she simply amends the words she was about to say, "some of the Keatons, I am thinking it was."

"So, your Highness, you believe you know more about what constitutes Oathbreaking than former Dominus Aldwin? Who wrote in a letter to my Father, clearly and unequivocally, that Marquis Kennex and Lady Vanora had the Faith's permission not only to dissolve their marriage, but to remarry? That is not permission that Oathbreakers get, Princess Sorrel," Valdemar points out to their guest, fixing his gaze on her intently.

Carita's eyes widen suddenly, a hand to her chest, "/Bursting?/" She looks as if she might say more, but as Sorrel speaks up she trails off herself, falling silent for the conversation at hand.

For a moment, Giulio raises a brow, his eyes widening slightly at the corners, then, he chuckles, reaching for his glass and taking a small swallow. Looking between Carita, Ilinca and Jordan, he says, "Ah, quite." A glance is shot towards Ilinca and his lips twist, slightly. "Ah. Consistency, neh?" He shakes his head, smirking slightly, before he glances to Vanora and Valdemar. "Mmm," he remarks, with a dry smile on his lips, before he leans in to whisper something more quietly.

"I am a divorcee." Vanora states. "So is my friend Carita Darkwater here. Divorce is oathbreaking and there is nothing to change that, those are facts. Dominus Aldwin counseled me through mine and granted his blessing to marry again, for myself and for Ford should he find himself inclined." She shakes her head at Valdemar. "No, don't love. I have explained myself already, so have you. Let your father react to this talk of the great stain of honor I am on his house without our bias. He can handle it."

Harlen arrives, following Duarte.

Jordan chuckles, squeezing Carita's shoulder. "I'm just kidding. It's intact as the day it was tailored." Something that Ilinca says just prompts a slight shake of his head. "Don't worry about that. People get offended awfully easily in this city, I find."

Turo scritches his beard at Sorrel's comments. He then drums his fingers on the table in front of him quickly. Turo speaks quietly to Carita for a moment, and then he rises. "If I may," Turo says, "just before I take my leave - thank you for the meal, Duke and Lord and Lady Grimhall, as it was delicious - there /is/ a difference between being released from one's oaths and being declared an Oathbreaker. This has been made clear to me, at any rate." Turo nods sharply, and then says, "Good evening."

Nodding to Turo, Giulio says, "Be well, my lord. I look forward to a future conversation... over drinks, perhaps," he remarks, raising his drink in the man's direction, before taking a small swallow.

Harald nods his head, as though acknowledging Sorrel's words. "I understand what interests a bard. It's entertainment, glory, interesting stories, and how interesting is 'everyone was fine with what happened, and Vanora was allowed to marry again, and they all lived happily ever after?' I'll admit, that's not going to bend very many ears." He stops for just a moment, long enough to get a drink from the mug before him. "However bland it makes the story, you don't get to decide who is and who is not an Oathbreaker. It may be in everyone's best interest, yours included, should you fail to mention it here again."

Valdemar shakes his head slightly. "I tire of those who would claim friendship of this house thinking that friendship can continue when they disaparage us. She needs to educate herself on what what an Oathbreaker is, what that status means, before she goes throwing the word around. Especially if she is going to throw it at my wife, and in our own home at that. Repeating something over and over again does not make it any more true," he responds to his wife gently, before turning to Turo and telling him, "Thank you for that, Count Navegant, and for coming here tonight."

Carita sighs softly, her thick lashes shadowing her cheeks as she clears her throat. "I ..." but whatever else she was going to say, she stops herself, color staining her cheeks as she leans back in her seat.

"Such tender temperaments would not serve well in Iasu; we prefer our wit sharp, not softened, and save our true rages for those who would bring harm or insult to kith and kin. But." And so, Ilinca simply shrugs. After a moment or so of silence, she slips her free hand -- now free no longer -- from her pocket, seeking Giulio's. "Iasu is not Arx, or so it is I am discovering. Slowly."

A gesture has the servants clearing the last of the dessert trays and drinks away, and Vanora rises from her chair again, Darion at her hip. "Thank you again, kith and kin, friends and family, for joining us both in shared fellowship and friendship and in considering our future. I hope it was a wonderful and enjoyable evening, and promise our next one shall be even more so. Consider the Grim Hall your own hall, and let us begin building the future we want to see over meals at this very table. To the glory of your ancestors, and the glory yet to come." For that she hoists Darion up a little higher on her hip. "Goodnight."