Cecilli has joined the a nice patch of grass, perfect for a picnic.

Salena has joined the a nice patch of grass, perfect for a picnic.

Rowenova has joined the a nice patch of grass, perfect for a picnic.

Jared, an overworked-looking, nervous Apprentice Whisper arrives, following Bliss.

Ramona - A Farshaw House Guard arrives, following Lisebet.

Bliss has joined the a modest picnic table.

3 Thrax Guards, 2 Thrax Elite Guards, Teonia Redreef, Aryka Wyrmfang, Marquessa Pudding, a pudgy puppy arrive, following Sorrel.

Summer is here, still not too warm, so it's the perfect time to make a picnic!
A small table has been set near the stall, with a basket full of sweets and a bottle of whiskey, and a few teapots have been set ready on the stall, surrounded by a bunch of simple cups.

Rowenova fell asleep under the willow tree but soon rose to move over toward where the picnic people are, settling down into the plush grass below.

Lethe has joined the a nice patch of grass, perfect for a picnic.

Valery has joined the a modest picnic table.

Elgana has joined the a modest picnic table.

Lethe takes a look around and finds a good spot to enjoy the picnic.

Entering the gardens, her sable hair loose and flitting in the summer breeze, Bliss Whisper arrives in aeterna decorated with umbra in a spiderweb pattern, a silver chain with amethysts hanging from it around her neck and a few other, smaller adornments. She approaches the picnic table, settling onto the bench and running her fingers along the grain, admiring it before she looks up toward Valery and Elgana, a faint smile on her face.

Elizabetta, a disapproving lady-in-waiting, Lily, an aloof lady-in-waiting, 2 Grayson House Guards, Clark, an exasperated guard arrive, following Sabella.

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

Cecilli looks to Salena, and then to her surroundings in the garden. A moment of contemplation takes her before she turns her gaze to Rowenova. "Hello," she says.

Elgana is milling about fussing with a few things on the table but otherwise the Redrain princess is all radiant smiles. "Everything looks so lovely Valery, you've done an excellent job," she says to the other woman before she makes to take a seat at the table, smoothing down her skirts as she goes. "I'm looking forward to the tea." Her dark gaze shifts from Valery out to the garden proper as people start to filter in. Rowenova gets a wave and then she glances over toward Bliss as she says, "Glad you could make it, Bliss. Have you been well since we last spoke?"

Rowenova has left the a nice patch of grass, perfect for a picnic.

Sir Floppington, the soulful hound have been dismissed.

"Good day..." Valery starts murmuring, but she raises her voice as she notices that she's not going to be heard in the garden with so many people around. "Good day." The small apothecary is wearing a cotton and lace dress, maybe a tad too warm for this weather. She smiles lightly to Elgana before starting to explain. "There are sweets and whiskey on the table, feel free to help yourselves... And I have the teas for the contest ready, so once we are all settled, I can explain to you what is in what and... well, that."

Vercyn is not so much one for tea, per se, but he did hear word of whiskey. Or maybe it's just stopping through and paying a visit and respects to the women that have put on the picnic in question. He's just in -- relatively -- simple leathers rather than anything resembling full armor. It's just too hot for that. Plus, well, it might be a bit much for a picnic, right? Right. The Duke does not rush in to find a place to sit among the others, but rather takes his time upon approach.

"Since we last spoke?" Bliss wonders to Elgana, a light shrug of her shoulders. "... Steep downs and ups both," she admits, her contralto carrying easily, the Champion Whisper sitting with an easy grace and her voice always projecting at just the right volume to be heard. Her face lights up as she sees Vercyn, and she gives him a wave with a wiggle of her fingers, before she looks over at the drinks on the table, going for a bottle of whiskey and a glass both, helping herself to the first pour. "How have you been, Elgana?"

Rowenova shoulder pats Lethe a few times, "Good to see you again!" says she with a bright smile to the Lady before she lifts up that same hand into a greeting wave to Cecilli, "Hello there!" then Elgana, too, and just about everybody else she might possibly know!

Rowenova has joined the a nice patch of grass, perfect for a picnic.

Lisebet meanders in, relaxed and smiling. "Good day everyone," she greets, the Farshaw lady by now getting to be reasonably known at least. She pauses to look around, having not been here before. Either at the picnic or the Redrain gardens.

Salena sighed when looking over to Cecilli. She shrugged, pushing the straps of her backpack further up her shoulders with a scrunch from the strain pecking at the bridge of her nose. "G'day," she managed to huff out, glancing sidelong to the Shaman whom she had followed.

Sorrel has come to check out this picnic, dressed for once not in armor. She looks quite tall and stately in Thrax red, and she offers a warm and friendly smile to those already here. Spotting Lisebet, she heads over to hook an arm in her sister-in-law's in a fond sort of way. "I got a new dress," she says enthusiastically.

Jasher heads into the garden, long strides slowing as he steps into the crowd proper. Similarly to the Farshaw lady who came in before him, the prince looks around, his blue gaze alert as he regards the unfamiliar gardens. He passes by the refreshment table to get himself something for politeness' sake before making his way to the bench beneath the willow tree.

Jasher has joined the a wooden bench beneath the willow tree.

Valery waits for a few moments, waving here and there with a small smile at those who arrive. Once she thinks they may be all the people coming, she clears her throat and looks around with a small frown. She shrugs and starts explaining. "These are the teas for the contest... None of the people participating are here today, but, well, you can try them and decide which do you think it's best." She pours some of the first cup. "This is Mistress Meriah's Nocturne. It has black tea, raspberry leaves, lavender, orange, and cranberries, among other things." If anyone has a very good sense of smell or taste, will know that the other things are blackberries, bergamot and vanilla. "She says it's nicer with a splash of creme. You can get some from those small jars there..." And she gestures to the small jars she has at a side of the stall. Milk and honey and sugar and creme.

Cecilli held and leaned onto her staff lazily, as she stared up to the clear sky, her tired eyes scanning for something to look at in the firmament above. "Salena, the skies are noticeably clearer today. Isn't that funny?" she asks her compatriot.

Lisebet flashes a grin as Sorrel hooks her am in arm. "Sorrel! Good to see you," she returns. "A new dress is always cause for celebration. You look lovely today." She tilts her head slightly, and then adds, "The dress you are wearing today or another one?" She turnsa s Valery speaks up, listening to the information about the tea. "That sounds tasty," is her remark to the hostess.

3 Tyde Houseguard arrives, following Amari.

Elgana listens to Valery explain before she nods. "Sweets and whiskey, definitely a good pairing with or without tea," she quips with a wink. "And it is a lovely day for a picnic." Before she can respond to Bliss, that waggle of fingers the Champion gives someone snags her attention, her gaze following and when she spots Vercyn she smiles brightly. "Ah, he's back it seems," she says to Bliss before she gives a louder call to the Duke, "Did you have a good trip up North, Duke Vercyn? It is good to see you've returned!" Her smile stays warm as she looks back to Bliss and her tone goes quieter for the woman, contained to the table.

"The second tea..." Valery starts preparing the second tea, so those who want can try it. "It's Princess Kace's tea. It has black tea, blackberry and sage. Also nice with milk and honey... This one is a strong tea." And then she moves to the third. "Mistress Lorna Redvale's garden tea. It has rose, chamomile, lemongrass and lavender... It's really aromatic..." And she finally moves to the fourth teacup. "And this is Lord Fecundo's tea. It has white tea, bergamot and currant. Mild and sweet with a bit of a bite, that's how he described it..." She takes another deep breath, clearly struggling to talk so much in public! "Feel free to try them all and say what do you think about them..." She steps back and stays near the stall and the table, ready to serve some tea for those who want to try them.

The shaman's companion was practically breaking at the seams compared to her normal solitude. With a snerk, Salena gave the remark, "yeah. Like the skies don't want to thubderbolt a tree just from our hindquarters.

Niklas comes sweeping in with Sabella on his arm, followed close behind by their retinue of assorted assistants and attendants. "...not sure if food will be provided, so I figured it was best to come prepared. With some good brandy, at least." He looks around, offers a raised hand toward those he recognizes, before heading over to sprawl out on a handy bench.

"Yes, this one. And another one, too. Beautifully styled things," Sorrel says cheerfully to Lisebet. "I feel like this one makes me look very tall, what with the way it's cut and the embroidery just so. I mean, I am very tall, comparatively, but you know. Oh, I wonder if Princess Kace will be here. She and I have struck up a friendship. I thought I'd come in and see who I could meet. It's good to meet new people after all."

There is a nod for Bliss when he's waved to and Vercyn begins his stride towards the table because if someone is going to break into the whiskey, well! He won't be far behind. The man's expression does tilt into a bit of a smile at Elgana's greeting and he closes the distance further so that he can pour a drink and respond. "I did, yes," he answers. "Thank you." There is a look over to Valery and the teas introduced. "...and here I thought tea was tea."

Lisebet inclines her head to Sorrel. "True that. I always like to meet new people. And I don't know about the dress making you look tall. I think it accents your beauty." She nods with that, a brief cheeky smile on her face. "Those teas sound interesting, don't they? Perhaps we should wander around, chat with people and sample all four? And then we can have some of the very delicious whiskey." A pause, and then, Lisebet adds, "If there is any left."

Taking a sip from the glass she had poured herself, Bliss slides the rest over to Vercyn, then reaches for another glass and begins to fill it herself, amusement in her eyes. Her head tilts as she listens to Elgana's quieter voice, offering something in response to it, keeping most of that conversation to the table before she wonders to Vercyn, "You didn't bring back any more of your niblings this time, did you? I do not know how many more Halfshavs this city can take, to be quite honest." It's clear she's teasing as she offers her own glass up in a toast.

Valery gets a bottle of northern whiskey from a lovely walnut tea cart.

Valery gets Tormaigh, a fine Crovane Whiskey from a lovely walnut tea cart.

Valery drops a bottle of northern whiskey.

Valery drops Tormaigh, a fine Crovane Whiskey.

Rowenova rises up from the picnic grass and heads over to the tea table where she picks up her first cup. She briefly bows to Valery then moves aside.

Cecilli looks back to Salena, shrugging as the others say their part. "What say you?"

Valery smiles softly to Rowenova, serving a few more cups of each tea for them to try.

Jasher looks blankly at Valery as she goes to describe the composition and flavour complements of various kinds of tea. However, his uncomprehending attention's diverted at the arrival of a courier who whispers something into the prince's ear. Whatever it was, it has him alert, as he's then rising to his feet, setting whatever refreshments he brought onto the bench (and telling the courier to eat before leaving, too) before striding out.

Jasher has left the a wooden bench beneath the willow tree.

Lethe walks up with Rowenova and goes to try some of the tea. She looks to Valery with a friendly smile.

Salena shook her head with a smirk lining her lips. "We're not getting younger and I'm only staying sober."

Amari strolls in just a little bit late, wearing all black with her hair swept up into a high twisted bun with free wavy ends. Some of Valery's breakdown of Princess Kace's tea is heard, so she glides her way to more easily listen to the descriptions of the remaining kinds in competition. Since she's at the table, she decides to try some, after she's taken a moment to look around and see who's at this picnic. Lisebet and Sorrel get a dip of her head and quick, cheerful wave, Vercyn a playfully arched brow as if she suspects him of something devious, Niklas and Sabella a polite bow. Valery herself is given a warm smile first, then Rowenova and Lethe a brighter version, "Hello! They all sound quite good don't they?"

Rowenova swigs down the delicious contents from each cup served her way (with a little bit of refreshing water between doing so). After she has tried all, Rowenova pipes up, "Definitely Surgeon Meriah's, then Lord Fecundo's, then Princess Kace's, then Mistress Lorna's." She turns back to Amari, "All good, yes! It was hard to pick between the first two I just mentioned, though!"

"I do like whiskey," Sorrel agrees with a measure of amusement as she moves to wander where Lisebet leads. Amari gets a cheerful nod of her head in greeting, but her attention is more on the Farshaw lady.

Sabella has herself a seat, beaming a smile at those she knows and even those she doesn't, "Mistress Valery, this garden looks delightful as always! And Bliss! I got your message and would be happy to speak with you! Oh, are there going to be different teas to sample or just vote? Or did voting already happen? Honestly, I've been sleeping so much these past few days I feel very behind on things!"

Lisebet flashes a trin in return to Sorrel. She leads the way to the tea tasting, intent on trying all four. "Hello, lady Amari," she replies. "And Scout Rowenova, I shall have to see if I am in agreement." She starts in on the delicious teas, one at a time, with some serious concentrating on the aromas and flavours happening. "Princess Sorrel, did I tell you I have the starting pieces to my own armour?" she asks after a moment. "And thanks to having borrowed some from you, I even know how to put it on!"

Lethe looks to Amari and nods. "They really do." She tries each of the teas. "It's really hard to decide which I like the best. They really are all good."

Valery smiles softly in answer of those greetings, to Rowenova, and Amari and the others. To Sabella, she murmurs. "I sort of have chosen a winner, but I want to know what the people thinks. In any case, all of them have gotten a small bag with a pouch of each of the teas and a present..." She bites her lower lip and then she adds. "And, well, if you want to take home any of the teas, they are all for sale in the shop, and I'll have more pouches soon..."

Vercyn is probably up to something devious. It's a safe bet. Whether or not that something is -now- however, well... He moves closer to the table itself, accepting the whiskey from Bliss with a murmur of appreciation. What follows before he takes a sip is a laugh, however. "No new family, but surely the city can handle more of us. More fun, right?" There's a bit of a grin before he moves to join the women at the table. "Now someone tell me more about this tea with... bite, did you say?"

Vercyn has joined the a modest picnic table.

Niklas has joined the a modest picnic table.

Cecilli has left the a nice patch of grass, perfect for a picnic.

Cecilli has joined the a modest picnic table.

Salena has left the a nice patch of grass, perfect for a picnic.

Salena has joined the a modest picnic table.

Cecilli walks over to the picnic table, bowing deeply, still holding her staff as support. "Hello," is all she manages, along with a humble smile.

Niklas looks over the various teas on parade. "So no need for brandy, then?" Not that this stops him. Once he's seated his assistant Sam, so much more helpful than his other assistant, steps forward and sets down a glass into which he pours some Ostrian cherry. He sets the bottle down in case others might want some, then looks down to the others at the table. "Your highness. My lord. Softest."

Amari follows Rowenova's lead and tries each of the teas in turn, taking her time, but not dawdling. "I'd have a difficult time choosing a winner. They are really good, all." She admits to Valery and the others at the table, after the first three. Apparently she finds them all good. "Should I buy some for Archeron, Lethe?" Is her question for her future sister-in-law, before she grins at Lisebet and Sorrel on their approach, "That does help. Bracers don't go on legs, apparently, and greaves never on arms. I tried. Are you learning a weapon as well?"

"Lovely!" Bliss speaks up from the table she's sitting at to Sabella when she's addressed, smiling warmly at her. "Thank you, your highness, and I'll let Mercy Estelle know. Hopefully something we can do soon, I do always enjoy your company." She then smirks at Vercyn, her brow lofting up. "Well, a certain kind of fun. Two of three seem to bring out the troublesome side of me, and then the Twin Radiants get headaches, and I go off to my other things." She dips her head to Niklas, then just decides to straight up finish her whiskey and hold the glass out for brandy. "Thank you, your highness," she says to him. "You used to being called that yet?"

Salena cringed as she was pulled almost instinctively along with the Shaman. Eh," she cleared her throat and bowed as best she could with a travel pack hauling her down. "Your Highness, my lord."

"Oh, I'm so glad, Lady Lisebet. You'll need protection if you're going to be participating in the protection of the Lodge. I'm very glad the Crown took it over and not the Faith, truth be told. I think we'll need shamans to make up for our lack of druids," Sorrel remarks brightly. She sips her own teas delicately. "And congratulations on being named Voice. It's a very good thing for House Farshaw, I think!"

Lethe nods to Amari. "I think you should. He did say something about us wanting to all have tea together. Although it's up to you to decide which he'll like the best." She grins.

Rowenova puts a pouch of the warming -Mistress Meriah's Nocturne- tea, a pouch of the warming -Mistress Meriah's Nocturne- tea, a pouch of the -Lord Fecundo- aromatic tea, a pouch of the -Lord Fecundo- aromatic tea in Messenger Bag.

Rowenova dips her head to Lisebet and Amari before buying up a couple pouches from the Meriah tea and Fecundo tea, both. "Thank you, Alchemist Valery... please, will you let me know: do you have any more of your firestarter kits?"

Rowenova gets Firestarter Set from a weapons belt of dark leather with knife sheathes as well as a sword scabbard.

Rowenova drops Firestarter Set.

Cecilli bows her head again to Niklas and Sabella, smiling warmly at them in their greetings. "Your highness," she says.

Salena shied her gaze in a glance to the well maintained greenery. "I'm Dame Salena Dumund. This here is my ward and Shaman Cecilli," she strained in saying as she readjusted her travel pack and motioned to the woman at her side.

Lisebet laughs softly, grinning at Amari. "I tried too, honestly. The first time I tried to put on armour, I think I had everything upside down," she admits. "As for a weapon, I am not, at least not yet. It - I honestly think i'd be better off ducking and running. Only I'm not so good at ducking yet." She takes a breath and then tries the next tea in line, again testing the taste on her tongue, and the aroma in the air. "I think these are all very lovely," she says. "But I do have a favourite. Mistress Lorna's, and then Mistress Meriah's, followed by Princess Kace's and then the tea with the bit of a bite. What do you think?" The question directed to Sorrel, since Amari has said already. She then nods to Sorrel, going back to the armour conversation. "I think that is quite true. Well, I think we will need all we can get, and I just hope I am not so much a liability but rather a help."

Rowenova picks up Firestarter Set.

Valery tits her head, looking at Rowenova, and nods. "I don't think I have any ready right now, but I can prepare some for tomorrow, or the day after, if that's okay for you... I try to have them always in the shop because a lot of people likes them..." She nods to Lisebet when she offers her winners. And then she frowns a little bit, thinking, and moves to get a piece of paper and starts taking notes of the preferences of the people.

"Lady Amari, Lady Lisebet, I also received your generous offers and will get back to you with dates shortly. Just trying to get dates settled! And if anyone else would like to put together a basket of goods to be raffled off to help raise funds for the Lodge defense, please let me know!" Sabella says brightly, before nodding to Cecilli, "Hello! I'm Princess Sabella Grayson. Has my husband introduced us yet?" she gestures at Niklas, "Prince Niklas Grayson, though many know him as famous playwright Niklas Kennex!"

"Ah, it's all tea. I don't even know which one I prefer," Sorrel admits with a little shake of her head. "But we'll need archers to come stand on the tower and snipe the enemy from afair. Caspian is going to try to get a seige engine up on top of there, too."

"I find in trouble we get the best entertainment and learn the most of ourselves all at once," Vercyn answers Bliss. He now has tea in hand and doesn't look entirely certain about it, but at least prepared to try it. There's whiskey on hand in case it goes terribly for him. He lifts it to take a gauging sip. There is, at least, no violent reaction and he laughs for Elgana's words. "Room there is, patience... well. If Redrain can manage its own, surely there is room enough for Halfshav. Perhaps I should invite a few of the Princes out for a long night of drinking and see what trouble we can stir up." He might be joking. MIGHT.

Lisebet nods to Sorrel. "I fear that even were I to start learning now, I might not be quite of use in time for any archery from the towers, but I am certainly willing to learn." She turns, hearing her name and offers a polite nod of her head to Sabella and Niklas. "Your highness. You are most welcome," she says. "I am enjoying starting to put together a basket." Then a messenger arrives for Lisebet, who excuses herself to fade off into the background.

Gianna walks into the gardens, the skirt of her seasilk gown flowing around her legs as she goes. She carries a gittern in her hand. She makes some last-minute adjustments to her hair.

Cecilli nods to Sabella, adjusting her grip on her walking staff to take some weight off of it, in an attempt to stop her leaning in their presence. "Yes, it is a providential event to meet your acquaintances."

Laughter leaves Elgana at Vercyn's words, offering a side-long look to the Duke then. "Manage is a good word for it," she says teasingly still. "I would like to see what a night of drinking with some of them gets you! Surely there would be some excitement to be had. Somewhere in between all the talks of beards and whiskey." Bliss gets a curious look for a moment before the princess turns back to her tea cup, sips. Gianna's entrance doesn't go unnoticed as she lifts a hand in wave to the woman.

Sorrel's suggestion causes Amari to nod a few times in agreement, "You should definitely consider archery. That's what I'm learning. You should come by Keaton Hall and watch Lady Jael demonstrate. She's an amazing archer." And there's Sabella, she nods and waves after her, "Excellent, please let me know when they are, Your Highness!" Dates, settled, she seems to mean. Sorrel's other comment earns her a sly grin, once she's finished her last tea sample, "There's some differences. I think, I'd make my top three the blends by Mistress Meriah, Lord Fecundo and Mistress Lorna." Setting her cup down with a smile of gratitude to Valery, she straightens and catches some motion in the corner of her eye, Gianna. She waves over to her, "Gianna Whisper!"

Niklas has left the a modest picnic table.

Rowenova quietly thanks Valery, "Sounds good. Thank you." She sets aside her emptied cups where they should go then meanders around the garden party with keen interest in the various people.

Sabella has joined the a modest picnic table.

Valery has left the a modest picnic table.

Valery moves away from the table she was leaning on, leaving space for Niklas.

Gianna raises her free hand to wave back to Elgana and Amari, her lips curving up in one of her almost-smiles. She inclines her head in Niklas and Sabella's direction as well.

Niklas has joined the a modest picnic table.

Meeting Elgana's look, Bliss shrugs before she turns back to Vercyn and gives him a warm smile. "This is true, somehow, the rest of the Compact does survive despite how many northerners there are in this part of the city," she tells Vercyn with a little laugh. "Then again, I find some of my best company, and I'm certainly known to be a troublemaker myself!" As Niklas stands, she gives him a wink and says, "See, he knows," with a shake of her head. "Sharpest Whisper has been suggested a few times, but Jhond is in contention for that one."

Lethe looks at the group nearby. "I should probably learn to use a weapon, but I've just never had the time."

"I'm barely allowed a butter knife at dinner," Sabella laughs, "So I think fundraising for fighting efforts is the closest I get to anything. But I do enjoy all sorts of trouble that don't lead to fisticuffs or anything of that nature."

Triage, a blue smoke devon rex arrives, following Meriah.

Meriah puts Black Leather Gloves in Oak-Handled Physician Bag.

"Yes, but Princess Sabella, you do quite a job of fundraising that the military efforts just wouldn't survive without you," Sorrel points out to Sabella with a grin, putting her hands on her hips. "We need support people! I say this as a military asset."

Salena The uncouth Dame flicked her gaze from person to person. Salena was also up and out of her seat to motion to Valery after swaying to gain balance with a groan of metal from her pack. "I was only quick to the table for the spirits the Shaman could not offer. Come, sit back down and enjoy the company."

Salena has left the a modest picnic table.

Meriah arrives in the Garden, fashionably late. Or, rather, hustled from the clinic and forced into a 'day off'--whatever that means. She pulls off her work gloves and tosses them in the physician bag. Triage slinks along, following at her heels. She isn't even wearing her physician robe, looking very casual in a slim shirt with vest and a skirt. Bracelets dancing on her wrists. She takes a look around, resigned to a toothy grin.

Rowenova awws softly concerning Princess Sabella and her knifely limitations, "What if you practiced? Do you think they would let you do even more?"

After that one cup of tea, it would seem Vercyn is not in a rush to try the others. Instead, he returns to his whiskey. It would seem he may not be inclined to provide his opinion on which teas are best. Though it would likely come down to some rather strange opinions if he did! The man settles back with whiskey in hand and rubs at his beard in the wake of Elgana's words. "You know, I bet there is some wisdom to be had for the younger men in Redrain on the topic of beards." He might be joking. Might. The deadpan delivery doesn't help. He might be about to rise to offer a seat himself, but a few people are departing, so he's able to keep his; old man that he is! "Nothing wrong with troublemakers," the Duke tells Bliss. "Some of the best people around are troublemakers."

"Duke Vercyn, will you be entering the beard competition?" Amari calls over brightly, adding, "It's looking fuller, I think you may be in contention this time." Lethe for her comment is given a surprised lift of her brow, "I'm a little shocked you're not an archer."

Cecilli chuckles at this, stopping herself from hovering over the seat any longer-- she had never sat, just leaned on her staff.

Cecilli has left the a modest picnic table.

Valery shakes her head to Salena. "It's fine..." She raises a shoulder. There is a basket with sweets on the table, and on the stalls there are four tea pots with four different teas to try, surrounded by simple cups and a couple of jars of cream, milk and honey. Valery waves to Meriah when she sees her, a soft smile for her protege. "You came."

Rowenova burst laughs after Amari's questions. She ahems softly afterwards, "The next one is coming up rather soon!" She waves over toward Triage!

Meriah gives a wiggle of her fingers to Valery and approaches. That bag held between her bony hands. "They made me!" She says. "Somethin about me needing a day off

- day off."

Before Elgana can reply to Vercyn, Amari has asked her question of the man so all the Redrain does is look expectant of the Duke's answer to that. "Are you going to enter the competition?" she finally voices as her smile turns into a playful grin once more. "And it is rather soon just as Rowenova says it is. You could win this time." A beat. "Maybe." She chuckles softly as those dark eyes wander then toward Sabella and she offers, "You do quite a lot for this city, highness. So even without butter knives you are a force to be reckoned with."

Gianna makes her way over to the teas and selects one to try; it seems to be down to Lorna's or Fecundo's. Still holding her gittern in one hand - that might be awkward to pour with - she looks a titch indecisive.

The travel pack was digging through the leather of the Dame's shoulder and finally she had enough, slinging the large pouch off her back and blemishing an otherwise pristine garden. In straightening herself out Salena almost gasped out of her own surprise. She shuffled to Cecilli and went gain her notice by trying to tap on her staff, and motioned her towards Elgana. The knight herself was already on the way to the Northern Princess. "Ah, Your Highness?"

Rowenova grins to Elgana but moves to Gianna, "Would you like help there?" says she as she offers out her gloved hands.

"That we are," Bliss agrees with Vercyn, casually including herself in the group of the best people around. She smirks as she tilts her own chin up, lifting her fingers to stroke three along it, then down her throat. "I was thinking of entering the beard contest myself. I think mine is growing in wonderfully thickly, don't you? It's been so long since I've trimmed it at all! Maybe I should shape it right before the contest, though."

Salena drops Large Leather Travel Pack.

Lethe shakes her head as she looks to Amari. "Archeron is the archer. I didn't learn to fight. I was learning to be stealthy and a healer. The Duchess wanted me to learn to use a dagger, but I never actually have. I do think archery does look fun, and I like watching competitions."

Vercyn looks to Amari and gives his beard an experimental tug. "You think I should? Winter will be upon us before we know it and a good beard will be quite the envy of the masses, I'm sure." Then Elgana is weighing in and he finishes off his glass of whiskey. "Well, if a Princess of Redrain thinks I have a chance, then perhaps I ought to give it a go!" He does snort at Bliss' weighing in on the topic, leaning to grab at the whiskey to pour himself more. "Perhaps. Maybe if you do I will join in on one of those gown modeling soirees I hear about. I think I might have the legs for it these days."

Cecilli looks up to her staff as it's tapped, noticing Salena's signing. She follows her, smiling in kind.

Valery looks at Meriah for a moment and nods, wrinkling a bit her nose. "Oh... How come? Have you been okay?" She gestures to the other teas. "You can try the others if you want... that has clack tea, blackberry and sage, that one has rose, chamomile, lemongrass and lavender, and that one is white tea with bergamot and currant..."

"Scout Rowenova did give me a wonderful gift that I have used on the most sturdy of sausages," Sabella smiles over her way, "But I don't think it is in anyone's best interest for me to take up on the front lines. And you are both too kind, Princess Elgana and Princess Sorrel. Don't tell anyone, but I just like parties and more people come if you offer gifts. Speaking of..." she glances towards the baskets of sweets!

Rowenova gets a delicious cinnamon roll from a willow woven basket lined with blue wool.

Gianna looks over at Rowenova and inclines her head. "I'd appreciate that, Scout, thank you." She beckons the young woman closer, looking back to her choices for tea. Finally, she points to Fecundo's mix. "That one, please."

Sabella gets a wild berry Shav pie with a flakey crust from a willow woven basket lined with blue wool.

"You should," Elgana quips to Vercyn before she turns those dark, humor filled gaze onto Salena. Her grin shifts to a warm smile then, expectant perhaps before she says, "Hello there! My, a new face no less. Princess Elgana Redrain and you are...?"

Rowenova perks up after having Sabella's words. "So you did get to see it? Wonderful!" she bounces up and down with the cinnabun in a cardboard boat.

Niklas gets herbed virgin olive oil with a plate of toast and cheese cubes from a willow woven basket lined with blue wool.

Valery pours some tea for Gianna and offers her the cup with a soft smile.

Amari gets an icicle shaped stick of hard candy from a willow woven basket lined with blue wool.

Meriah moves to the tea table and surveys the options with a finger to her chin. She smirks at Valery. "I told them I wanted to come but I had to work and suddenly the nurses were very nice in covering my shift. Pushed me right out the door." She cackles. She selects the white tea!

"I mean, I know plenty of men who wear dresses," Bliss says to Vercyn, canting her head. "The whole concept of the skirt and gown night really does confuse me in that regard. Maybe it's a Thrax thing, though, the Mourning Isles are probably where I've spent the least time in my life - I really did not get on well there." She glances idly over to Salena as she approaches the northern Princess, clearly some curiosity in her own gaze.

Salena was quick to glance back to Cecilli, then her awkward smirk ratcheted back to the Elgana. "I am Dame Salena Dumund. I do not mean to disturb you from your entertaining company but in my travels I have come to be the protector of a Shaman, Cecilli. Coming from the estate of Blackwood, she has requested a personal introduction. Unfortunately that is coming from my chopped words."

"Thank you," Gianna tells Valery, taking the teacup carefully. "I'm Gianna Whisper, by the way. Nightingale of the Bard's College." She introduces herself very much as though she expects Valery to know who she is.

Rowenova stops bouncing around and goes over to pick up the tea pot with her free hand while her other hand supports the cinnabun setup. "You got it!" says she to Gianna as she pours out the lovely tea for the other woman.

Salena pose stepped aside to give Cecillie room to step to the Princess.

"Don't let that bother you, Softest. I spent most of my life in the Mourning Isles and still didn't get along there." Niklas turns and offers a wave to Gianna. "Nightingale! Always good to see you."

Valery serves another cup for Meriah. Fecundo's tea! She looks at GIanna with wide eyes. "Oh! You sing? I wanted to reach to the bard college to try to get someone to play or sing in the picnic, but I got busy and forgot and when I remembered it was too late.." She raises a shoulder and introduces herself. "I'm Valery."

Cecilli stood next to Salena, smiling to her and then Elgana, bowing as deep as she can while leaning on her staff. "Your Highness," she says. "I thought it necessary to meet those that I serve as I arrive in this city. What a blessing to have found you so quickly."

It figures he would be late to the picnic. Jophiel's arrival is probably well too late to get involved, but he knew he had to make at least a token appearance as he arrives at the gardens to mingle with the groups there. The empath puts on a warm smile as he starts to wander about, getting a feel for the area and just enjoying some of the residual emotions.

Gianna has tea! More tea than she's quite sure what to do with, since both Valery and Rowenova were quite helpful. She sets the tea Rowenova gave her aside. "Thank you, I'll try this one next." There's a little laugh and Gianna tells Valery, "Well, I can always play us something now, if you like. If it wouldn't be too distracting."

"It is a pleasure to meet you Dame Salena Dumund and you have no reason to apologize. It is lovely to meet a new face or two," Elgana says warmly as she sets her tea cup back down on the table so she can give the knight her full attention. "I'm glad you made it safely from Blackwood to the city, then." Her eyes then slant toward Cecilli, that warm smile growing just a touch brighter. "It is lovely to meet you as well," she says to Cecilli. "I am truly glad to have you both here in the city. Have you been able to get settled in? I hope the answer is yes and if not do let me know if there is anything I can do to make the process any easier or swifter for you both."

Rowenova sets down the tea pot with a little giggle. "ok!" says she before bouncing slightly in one place because she is just so giddy now. Some how. Some way... she never spills the cinnabun boat!

"You still have my vote." Amari grins over to Vercyn, but she doesn't interupt the conversation more than that. Her eyes are shining with amusement, even after she's turned to look back to Lethe, "I suppose either would be a good choice, if you ever had to defend yourself. How about I show you some basics some time?" She offers. "That was one of my favorites as well." She quietly notes to Gianna, for her latest tea choices. When Valery introduces herself to the Nightingale she realizes she politely sneaks her own introduction in there, "I'm Lady Amari Keaton."

"Some people like their... exclusivity," Vercyn finally says, carefully, to Bliss. There is a small shrug. "But there is also fun, perhaps, in wearing things meant for others. Like a child putting on their parents' armor. We do not often get that sort of make-believe as adults. But I do think the skirt and gown night has caused a small measure of... Resentment may be too strong a word, perhaps? I mean, were I to organize a night out with Prince Darren and others from Redrain and Halfshav, I would not refuse women from joining. I might hope they would not overrun us." There's a grin there, "But if they wanted to drink whiskey and listen to us grouse on, well! So be it." He takes a drink of his whiskey. "But I find people alwyas want in on that which is barred to them while at the same time always wanting to be part of something exclusive." He does overhear Amari as well, glancing to her with a grin. "Perhaps," he notes as an aside to the young woman, "I should begin a campaign. My beard has quite the enigmatic personality, you know. More than I do, to say the least."

Serenade, a lovely nightingale arrives, following Calandra.

Sorrel moves to sit down, joining the picnic table which seems to have the most interesting people. "I have to agree with you, Duke. It would not go over well if the roles were reversed, and thus I think it's the sort of thing that ought to be done inclusively or not at all," she says to the Halfshav cheerfully, smiling and nodding to those she is joining.

Sorrel has joined the a modest picnic table.

Cecilli nods to the Princess, picking herself up from her staff for a moment, readjusting her stance for a more respectful posture. "Oh, we've only just arrived today, previous to now we have been among the wilds. I may miss the serenity of nature, but it may be good for us to find a place to lay our heads," she says in a wistful tone.

Catching sight of Sabella and Niklas, Jophiel gives a bow of his head to the pair. "Highnesses, I heard that you had a new play in the works? Let me know if there's anything I may do to assist. I appreciate the arts greatly." he offers to them as he continues to work his way about to make introductions.

Singing? That catches Bliss's attention as she turns her head toward Valery, and then to Gianna, smiling brightly as she (finally) notices her fellow Whisper and lifting her hand to wave to her. Though it seems that it's Cecilli and Salena that currently have the bulk of her attention, the woman canting her head a little as she studies them, humor in her eyes. "You seem to be quite in demand indeed," she notes to Elgana with a warm voice, apparently approving. "It's always interesting to have more shamans in the city. There is a perspective which they bring which is - well, otherwise lacking, and it's a field I have so little experience in," she says to Cecilli. Her eyes briefly flick toward Amari on hearing the introduction, taking the woman in, before she looks back to Vercyn. "Oh, it is not exclusivity that is the issue - it's that they seem to be tying the exclusivity to clothing, you know? It just doesn't make sense to me. Radiant Saedrus is rather fond of his gowns and I would be happy to fight anyone who says he shouldn't be wearing them," she says as she pats at the rapier at her hip.

"I did and I love it!" Sabella tells Rowenova, "And I am working on a surprise for you in return, though it might take awhile." She then waves brightly to Jophiel, "Come, sit! There's plenty people newer to Arx than you now, Lord Jophiel! And to those of you that haven't met him, this is Lord Jophiel Bisland!" She turns her attention to Vercyn at his latest comment, "I find it funny that people only look to the negative sides of things. There are so many parties and events when we are all together, I know the original intent of the Skirts nights was to try to forge stronger bonds between the women of different houses in a more intimate setting so as to make people more comfortable. I don't think anyone would look down on a grousing group that worked for the same goal!"

Meriah slips away with her tea and takes a little sip of the tea. "Mm." She mutters, then goes to sit someplace.

Meriah has joined the a walnut wooden swing with a steel chain.

Lethe nods to Amari. "I would like it if you showed me the basics. Anyway as much fun as this has been I really need to be going. It was so good to see everyone."

Jophiel has joined the a modest picnic table.

"Hello, Lord Jophiel Bisland," Sorrel offers cheerfully as he sits down, smiling at him in a friendly sort of way. "I'm Princess Sorrel Thrax, Bladesong. Although I don't tend to do a lot of singing when members of the Bard's College are around. Best to let other people shine."

Valery opens wide her eyes at Gianna's offer. "Oh, would you?" She looks around and shakes her head. "I don't think music is distracting. Well, it is, but a good distracting, I really love when people sing... Oh, but I don't want you to feel like you need to..." Jophiel may be late, but he is offered to try the teas too.

Cecilli turns her weary gaze to Bliss, smiling warmly to her as well. "It brings joy to my heart to know that my perspective, if not the perspective of my people, is readily sought. Thank you," she says, travelling her hands up higher onto her staff as she leaned again.

"I can understand the transition is difficult when one moves from the open space of nature to the far more cluttered and cloistered walls of a city," Elgana says, sympathy coloring her words gently. "But we are glad to have you both with us nonetheless. And my offer of course still stands, if you have any need feel free to write and we'll see what we can do to make sure you are both settled and comfortable." She nods at Bliss' words. "I agree, we need more shaman. You should seek out Vala Khanne, Cecilli, if you haven't. She is an amazing and talented woman, and shaman. A font of wisdom too."

"I think it may be a small point of confusion. I thought Skirt and Gown was merely a more poetic way of saying ladies only? Attendees do wear pants on occasion, sometimes full armor. It's not about the clothing, explicitly." She turns a hand over to indicate Sabella, who gives the original intent of the small events a proper airing, "Exactly as Princess Sabella has explained. It would be different with men in attendance. It would change the atmosphere completely. Not to imply they're terrible company, by any means."

Niklas grins at Jophiel's question. "One or two! We have a series of free plays we will be putting on for children in the lowers. We're always looking for volunteers on that. And then the Nightingale and I are putting our finishing touches on my musical adaption of The Good Duke of Gemecitta, if you can sing and dance as well as act!" He pauses, considering, "Maybe Lumen Whisper would like to make a repeat performance."

Calandra arrives late to the party, but no less excited at being there. More so, even, when the Whisper hears the conversation revolving around singing. "This is just the best timing I think I've ever had," the woman remarks to the general populace, sliding over to where the tea is being served.

Lethe has left the a nice patch of grass, perfect for a picnic.

3 Tyde Houseguard leaves, following Lethe.

Cecilli looks to Elgana, her eyes widening slightly in a mix of curiosity and happiness. "It would be absolutely lovely to meet someone such as her, then, there are so many things to learn from such individuals..."

"Perhaps, then, the name is a bit of a misnomer," Vercyn offers to Bliss. "Calling it an outright..." And he nods as someone makes that exact point. "I doubt many truly care if a man wears a dress if it is what he prefers. I personally don't quite care for them. The... excess of fabric isn't to my favor." There's a bit of a grin. "I feel it would just get in the way! But I am more warrior than diplomat. I view my attire in regard to what I could comfortably fight in."

Rowenova almost melts after Sabella's words. "Aww, you do not have to, but thank you if you must!" Glancing back to the Skirt and Gown talk, "Huh! Well, at the Spirits, we had a great beard on a great gal last time. Why not... a great gown on a great guy this time?"

"A pleasure to meet you, Your Highness." Jophiel offers to Sorrel, a smile touching upon his features. "Though I am sure that the children at Prince Niklas' series of plays would love to see a Bladesong in person. Perhaps even a play on a battle ballad so that they may get a feel for the emotions that you can invoke." he offers to her, as the young man turns his attention to Niklas. "I am not as well trained as my cousin," admits the diplomat with a chuckle. "But I can assist with telling stories and also to making sure that the word gets out socially to help drive donations to such a worthy cause."

"I'd be happy to," Gianna tells Valery with another inclination of her head and a hint of a smile. She sets her first cup of tea down and takes up her gittern, nodding in Bliss' direction when she's waved to. Gianna checks the tuning of the gittern's pegbox as she walks a little ways away from the teas and such. She begins strumming the gittern, setting up a sweet, slow tune that she matches with sultry lyrics.

I feel the breath of the summer night,
Aromatic fire:
The trees, the vines, the flowers are astir
With tender desire.

The white moths flutter about the lamp,
Enamoured with light;
And a thousand creates softly sing
A song to the night!

But I am alone, and how can I sing
Praises to thee?
Come, Night! unveil the beautiful soul
That waiteth for me.


Cecilli turns to face Valery, nodding to her. "That is what many call me, yes. I am open to anything you have in mind... what is it, may I ask?" she murmurs back to her.

Gianna checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 53 higher.

Rowenova phases out from all talk during Gianna's song and smiles dreamily.

"I'm not - trying to turn this into a thing," Bliss says, lifting a hand up, palm out. "Just saying that skirts and gowns aren't exclusive to women, and it's an odd thing to call a night that's meant to be exclusive to women. That's it. The purpose of the night and why it exists I understand entirely." She shrugs her shoulders, then waves it off. "Not important, more of a headache than it's worth debating this at this point." She smiles warmly at Amari and Vercyn. "In any case, I'll still try to grow my beard out." She glances at Gianna, nodding in approval as she hears the song, then turns her head back toward Cecilli. "It's a careful line you must walk. I respect being able to balance that, even if I am not shamanistic myself." She lets her eyes glance around the room, beginning to shift a little.

Cecilli nods to Valery, slowly and surely. "Of course, it is of no issue."

"I wrote a battle hymn for the war against the Pirate King," Sorrel admits to Jophiel with a broad grin, then glances to Niklas. "But if the playwright wrote me something, I'd certainly consider singing it for him."

"She is wonderful," Elgana assures Cecilli. "Busy, but wonderful. I'm certain she will be happy to have yet another shaman in the city. Especially during these times." Her smile fades a touch before it brightens back up and she makes a gesture. "Please enjoy yourselves, the both of you. Drink and have some sweets if there are any left and just relax. And welcome to the city." She smiles at Salena then. "The both of you."

Valery also stops talking and just smiles, listening to the Gianna as she sings, a grateful, happy smile.

Salena looked back in admiration to the lyricist as she was shuffling back to her travel pack, to sling back over her shoulder with a small, "oof," coming from the knight as the weight of her equipment bore down on her.

Salena picks up Large Leather Travel Pack.

Sabella smiles at Calandra and gives her a wave, before settling back to listen to Gianna sing, teacup perched on her ever growing stomach. When she finishes she claps loudly, beaming over at Gianna, "Amazing! Did you know you'd be asked to sing?"

Cecilli bows her head to Elgana. "Thank you, your Highness," she says in response.

Salena bowed her head in thanks to Elgana's generosity for their first acquaintance. "I must thank you, your Highness, and I promise to only seek the aid of spirits in refreshment," she admitted as she rounded on the table in search of the Northern liquor.

Salena picks up a bottle of northern whiskey.

Gianna finishes up her song, looking pleased with herself. She executes a shallow bow in Valery's direction, her sapphire necklace swinging gently forward. She smiles then at Sabella, a warm one. "I try to come prepared, just in case," she tells the Princess.

Rowenova sets aside the cinnabun boat and standing ovation repeatedly claps!

Cecilli laughs softly as she watches Salena find the whiskey. "Always one to commune with spirits, yes? Just a different type."

"I'll be sure to head straight to the journals and tell everyone how wrong and petty you are for taking issue with the name of a casual social event of no great importance." Amari tells Bliss with a severity that borders on the dramatic. That she straight faces that entire statement is a small feat in itself, clearly the advantage of being a lawyer. The small quirk of a smile at the very end, as she turns away to listen intently to Gianna's song, should indicate her being less than sincere about running to the whites with her supposed grievance. When the song is ended, she applauds appreciatively. "Wonderful!"

Sorrel's admission causes Jophiel to smile widely, "A play of the battle, one that could be geared for children to understand what happened at the battle and why it was important." suggests the young man as he gives a bow of his head towards the royalty at the table.

Salena pose could only mutter, "my journal shall be filled with the name of this fine brew," before pouring herself a small offering to down only moments later.

There's a little bit of a rueful smile given to Amari from Bliss as she hears that and nods her head once. "Well," she says, "I suppose it's been a few days since I've been mired in anything there, so sure, why not," she says as she shrugs her shoulders, her tone light and playful at it. Very much not a lawyer. She does lean her head in to Elgana, murmuring something to her, before smoothing out the skirt of her dress.

Meriah finishes her tea and slips away a little early.

Salena drops a bottle of northern whiskey.

Meriah has left the a walnut wooden swing with a steel chain.

Triage, a blue smoke devon rex have been dismissed.

Calandra moves to take up a spot near by Sabella, listening to the music being sung with obvious relish. "I've been so impressed with the quality of events being held nigh daily since my return," she remarks warmly by way of greeting. "It seems like there's something entertaining no matter which way I turn."

Rowenova continually claps for some time then she picks up her cinnabun boat, waves goodbye to Triage, then mostly meanders and listens in to everyone else for the time being, doing so with an amiable smile.

Calandra is overheard praising Valery: What a wonderful event!

Amari is overheard praising Valery.

Amari is overheard praising Elgana.

Calandra is overheard praising Elgana: What a wonderful event!

Gianna goes back to her teacups and selects the first one before sauntering toward the picnic table. "Did I overhear something about a play?" she inquires.

Jophiel is overheard praising Valery.

Jophiel is overheard praising Elgana.

Valery tilts her head and murmurs. "Well.. if anyone doesn't have anything else to say about what is their favorite tea... I think it's sort of tied between Mistress Meriah and Mistress Lorna..." She takes a deep breath again and continues. "If you liked any of them and you want to take it home, they are for sale in the stall. And thank you for coming." She looks at Giana and smiles softly. "And really really thank you for singing... It was amazing..."

Rowenova merrily chimes, "I better get back to work!" She suddenly flees!

Rowenova has left the a nice patch of grass, perfect for a picnic.

Sir Floppington, the soulful hound leaves, following Rowenova.

Elgana leans toward Bliss at the murmur, a nod given before she leans back to murmur a reply to the Whisper. Once that is done she offers a warm smile to the other woman. "It is always good to see you, Bliss. Hopefully the rest of your day is enjoyable." The tea cup gets drained, a content little sigh leaving the princess. "This has been a very lovely picnic, Valery. You should be proud of the turn out! Not that I'm surprised at all. Such a lovely day with such lovely people, what isn't to like about it?"

Gianna earns a smile as Jophiel responds, "Yes, the Prince and Princess were planning on putting on some. Would you be interested in participating?"

Amari is overheard praising Gianna.