Miranda gets a medium sized platter of mouthwatering roasted duck embellished with fresh green salad and fruits.

Dariel makes his way into the great all to find it already quite busy. "Doesn't anyone know how to be fashionably late? Not too late though, we do still expect you to actually come." He dips his head to those he recognises

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon, Ursa, 2 Redrain Guards arrive, following Marian.

Miranda is just inside the building herself! Having just entered and looking about like she is a lost lamb in a sea of wolves. As Dariel greets everyone, she smiles to him and says, "Ahh, Darling, there you are." She leans in to kiss his cheek and murmurs to him, then leans back a moment.

1 Grayson House Guards arrives, following Liara.

Sabella gets a small portion of honey roasted suckling pig with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits from a massive center plate of honey roasted suckling pig embellished with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits.

Dame Rosario Nevarre of the Oathlands, Anouk Ardennes, Anais Ardennes arrive, following Sophie.

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

Kaia rolls her eyes at Thea, "I promise you look amazing!~" then she lifts from her seat by the cozy bonfire to begin greeting guests.

Kaia has left the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Sabella gets a small portion of seared fish with fresh green salad and oysters from a humongous seared fish dish embellished with a side of fresh green salad and oysters.

Merek's come about to celebrate with the others. He has on his black dress attire with his vest on also.

Stepping in smooth from the main house, crossing the floor in his calf-high boots, the Lord Martino Malvici enters the party. With a tuck of his right arm beneath his torso, he bows low first to the host Lady Kaia, "Oh a good morning to you, my sweet Lady Kaia. A good morning." He crosses further in to then bow his head low in deference to the other Bisland Lord, Dariel, "And a good morning as well Lord Dariel along with my congratulations."

Maple, a brown golden retriever arrives, following Mabelle.

Walking in, feathers framing everything, though with her two blades peacebound at her hips, Bliss Whisper enters the Valardin Manor with Sophie on her arm. The Radiant pauses at the entrance, smiling as she looks around and nods once, before leaning in to whisper to Sophie, "There's duck," and beginning to walk over immediately in that direction.

Marian has shed the armor and is actually wearing a dress tonight. She has dressed warmer for the autumn chill that's about. Her red hair is braided and held back. She waits for the servant to guide her to the great hall and then takes a moment to get her bearings.

The guards bow respectfully to the arriving member of House Bisland.

Merril, an Assistant Page, 3 Bisland pride guards arrive, following Lailah.

Showing up to the hall, Liara first pauses to flash Kaia a quick smile. "I'm looking forwards to this, Lady Kaia. Thank you for holding it." Then she carries further on inside, snagging a glass of wine from the tray of a passing servant on her way.

Kaia says, "Lord Martino, good morning. Princess Liara, I'm glad you could make it! Welcome!"

Dariel spies Miranda and makes his way round towards her only to get a kiss. He raises his eyebrows when she whispers in his ear only for him to whisper something back. He greets Martino. "Ah, Lord Martino! It's good to see you and thank you. I hear you will be coming to see a performance!"

It is with little fanfare that the sober and scowl producing Prince Ahriman Grayson has come to pay his respects to the long-standing vassal and ally of the Crown. The royal pauses a moment and he is arm-in-arm with his daughter, Sabella -- the Voice of the family. Ahriman looks around for a moment and then slides his arm from his company. He wears a waistcoat that buttons all the way up to his chin. The admiral of the Grayson naval empire (womp womp) looks to Sabella and her Harry Potter themed (kidding maybe) tiara. A critical look is provided before the man clears his throat, "May I present the arrival of Princess Sabella Grayson. Voice and Minister of Loyalty to the her family of the same name. My daughter." And here Prince Ahriman actually smiles to the woman at his side. He bows and then allows her to proceed. He gestures towards Kaia and will follow a half-step behind. To his children the glory of this vassal party.

Thea eventually steps away from the fireplace. She's not dressed in her armour for once, she's in well--a dress. A nice dress no less. Thea hears Kaia greet her brother, but she's still a bit annoyed with that one, so she ventures about the room, greeting those she knows with a polite nod and a slight smile.

Martino drifts his presence to Kaia's side, rolling out his left hand to her own hand as he bows his head down, "My sweet Lady. Truly my thanks for the invite." He glimpses aside to Dariel, a faint grin to Dariel as he says, "Oh of course. I would not dare to miss it."

The guards bow respectfully to the arriving member of House Bisland.

Merril, an Assistant Page, 3 Bisland pride guards arrive, following Lailah.

Miranda looks as if she might suddenly laugh at whatever is murmured to her. She draws a hand up to cup Dariel's face, then moves away so he can continue to greet folks. She looks behind her at those arriving, then moves further in to get out of the way.

Maple, a brown golden retriever leaves, following Mabelle.

After having greeted some close friends as soon as they approached her Kaia gives her welcomes in return. However, now she stands in the middle of the dance floor to give a more general welcome. "Good day, your highnesses, my lords and ladies, friends, family. I thank you for being here today to celebrate Bisland's most recent achievements. There's music, there's food and plenty of drink! Do make yourselves at home and enjoy!~"

Liara has joined the a large banquet table dressed in gold linens.

Dariel laughs at Martino's comment. "I imagine a certain someone is insisting you escort her to see it." He stops for a moment to heckle. "If only Michael would actually dare to turn up!"

Marian glances at the dance floor, and it's clear by her expression that dancing is not on this warchief's priorities for the evening. She instead moves over to view the spread and make some selections for herself. She of course makes a point of passing by Kaia to greet the hostess after gathering her plate, "Thank you for inviting me." She then finds herself a seat so she can taste some of the Bisland delights.

Marian has joined the a large banquet table dressed in gold linens.

Sophie enters on the arm of Bliss, and she seems rather cheerful today. She smiles and nods her head at anyone who happens to catch her attention, and she is undeniably drawn toward the food, in particular the pie. Sophie's a sucker for pie. She even waves her hand toward it, and says to Bliss, "Look! Pie!"

Lailah arrives from the atrium, wearing her bisland coloured silks beneath some down to earth scholarly robes, she looks at the crowd that has gathered. "You're going to make a girl feel important, if you show up with crowds like these." She jokes, glancing at the people gathered.

The now announced Princess, Sabella, had been busily greeting people as she passed with her brightest smiles, making idle conversation as she meandered by with Ahriman. But, then he's introducing her, and her brows lift, a sidelong glance offered his way, smile still bright on her features. "Oh, please continue. Everything looks simply lovely." She moves her hand to pat her father's arm gently, leaning to speak under her breath to him before straightening up again. "I look forward to participating in Evonleigh's upcoming play. I do hope you'll all come to show your support when the time comes." Shameless plug, shameless plug. Her head then turns toward the food, "Oh, excuse me... I'm just going to..." She makes an airy gesture toward the food as though it should explain everything, and then she's toddling off in that direction. How she keeps such a slender figure is anyone's guess.

white-tailed eagle, 2 House Riven Soldiers arrive, following Thesarin.

white-tailed eagle have been dismissed.

Martino straights himself anew before Kaia, only after pecking her knuckles against his lips, "You are looking as beautiful as always. Truly, I adore that dress of yours." After such, he turns and crosses the floor to join with Miranda and Dariel, "Well! Would that certain someone be the Malvici-to-be? Mm?" Upon the arrival of Lailah, he applauds her presence to also appreciate, "Oh congratulations to the Lady Lailah." Finally, he settles down beside Miranda and Dariel.

Kaia, the guard, Krissa, the golden, long-haired cat arrive, following Radhilde.

Kaia smiles to Martino and nods, "Why, of course my lord, I'm glad to have you here." she says, before her attention is shifted to her other guests, "You are most welcome, Princess Marian." then her attention is set on the Grayson nobles, "Ah, Prince Ahriman, Princess Sabella, I'm honored you could make it. Welcome.~"

Having found herself a seat at one of the banquet tables, Liara looks up at the entry of Ahriman and Sabella and offers a flutter of her gloved fingers in a wave towards them.

Miranda has joined the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Martino has joined the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

"Yes, darling, there's pie there," Bliss says to Sophie with an amused roll of her eyes as she gathers up a plate of the duck, turning now to look over the others. "We should probably be mingling with the company and congratulating the Bislands," she notes. She looks over to Sabella at the mention of Evonleigh's play, a slight quirk of her mouth coming at that, before saying, "Rather a lot of opportunity for whoever wants to grab it these days. It's a good thing," toward Sophie.

Miranda settles into a seat with Thea, after having partaken of a plate of scrumptious duck! When one does not know what to do with oneself, one takes a plate of food so that one has something to occupy oneself with. And when oneself doesn't know what to do, it's also handy to speak of oneself in the third person. Ahem. Miranda lifts a brow a bit at Martino, however, speaking softly to him as he sits nearby and to Thea, a nod.

Dariel has joined the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Thesarin makes his way into the Hall, looking... well, exactly like a shav warlord out from the Grey Forest, but one that's been given a bash and a set of Grayson nobleman's clothes, at least. Big, imposing, and grim, but he looks over and around the attendants, and gives short lifts of his chin toward Kaia and Sabella.

Rogue, a black falcon arrives, delivering a message to Liara before departing.

Kaia says, "Count Thesarin, I'm glad you could make it! Please, make yourself at home. There's plenty of food and drink."

Martino lowers himself down beside Miranda in the seatting around the fireplace. The warmth licking his shoulders as he inhales to murmur low to Miranda, "Well... perhaps soon. Negotiations have begin, I believe."

Kaia has joined the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Kaia has left the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Kaia has joined the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Having made her way into the Great Hall, Radhilde takes a moment to look around. Eyeing the decor in all its splendor before she makes her way over to Lady Kaia seated before the fireplace with a smile to greet her, "Lady Kaia. Another wonderful looking party, I love the theme."

"Ah, it is our great honor to celebrate the successes of our greatest and most loyal of vassals." Prince Ahriman states in his cold tone that has the warmth of a glacier mingled into his often critical voice. Pitch eyes settle on the hostess and his head bows just slightly in recognition of her status in her own Great Hall. "I'm pleased to be here. I do wish to know of all the great and recent feats? Perhaps was the insurrection put down on the Great Road? Or has the esteemed army set off to clear the way of foreign intruders. I hope you will forgive my ignorance of the celebration. I was off seeing to our naval defenses and fortifications installations going up ahead of some of our Kingdom's concerns. And I have not been updated by the general, my daughter -- of our recent successes." Here Ahriman smiles almost all too sweetly. And as his ebon eyes cast judgement and malice at trivial slights he does find the food appealing, "I am anxious to try the feast as well. Not so anxious perhaps.." His eyes follow his daughter's direction to the food, "Eager nonetheless."

Sophie smiles warmly and rolls her eyes just as much toward Bliss as Bliss does toward her pie. She murmurs, "Fine fine, duck. THEN pie, hmm?" She even dutifully gets a plate and retrieves a few pieces of duck for herself, along with a few other non-sweets. Just as she places the first small bite in her mouth she follow's Bliss' eyes and she swallows before answering, "Indeed it is. It's heartening to see so many people doing things they love."

Martino is heard applauding and chuckling to Thea as he praises his sister but mostly Kaia, "Oh, sweet sister. Kaia has done - incredibly - well with designing that dress of yours. Truly, Lyceum of you."

Sebastian, an adorable gray and white tabby, Jacinthe, Arindais, a dour-looking Scholar, 3 Templar Knight guards arrive, following Sina.

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

Sabella is sure to afford the direct and toothy-grinned counter to all Ahriman's decided gloom, cheerfully conversing with others that greet her, any that have come to gather food the same as she. She gives dainty waves and warm welcomes to those that arrive, her head shallowly nodding toward Thesarin as he lifts a chin her way. She looks toward Sophie, "You know, you could try the duck with the pie -- tastes that don't seem like they'd compliment each other can surprise you, and tender fowl with a little fruit?" Her brows lift, "Exquisite." She offers some helpful tips.

As Ahriman speaks of the recent feats and asks for more information on the military endeavors, there's a bit of a wrinkle to the skin above her nose, but she says nothing. She looks toward Bliss, "Hopefully those opportunities will only grow. I hope to extend an invitation to the less fortunate that might wish to learn of the craft... those that have seen true suffering to lend truth to the pain of an upcoming project." She beams.

Miranda is overheard praising Bisland: Great party! Congratulations to them all!

Lailah turns towards Ahriman and answers the question, "Well first my brother achieved second place in the grand melee, only losing to the woman he mentored in the leadup to it." She answers, "Second, apparently being named both Magistrate of the Court and Magister of the Academy is apparently something we need to celebrate before I've had a chance to prove I'm ready for such authority."

Radhilde gets a massive center plate of honey roasted suckling pig embellished with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits.

Radhilde drops a massive center plate of honey roasted suckling pig embellished with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits.

Radhilde gets a small portion of honey roasted suckling pig with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits from a massive center plate of honey roasted suckling pig embellished with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits.

"Ah nothing too grand, your highness. We are celebration smaller things, but notable nonetheless. Lord Michael came second place at the Tournament of Roses; Lord Dariel is to be the male lead at Lady Evonleigh's play; Lady Lailah has been appointed Magister of the Academy and Magistrate of the District of the Lower Burroughs; and, I have recently joined the Society of Explorers, under princess Lou's command." she explains, to Ahriman with a kind smile, then nods. "Do help yourself your highness, there's plenty to eat and drink." she notes.

Then, having made the formal greeting, and letting the party proceed, Kaia makes her way back to the fireplace seats to perhaps relax. Taking a sit naturally next to her beloved, Martino. However, that does not mean she's ignoring her guests. When Radhilde approaches to offer her greetings she smiles, "Lady Radhilde, thank you! I'm glad you could make it!"

"Lady Kaia." Thesarin speaks in a low rumble, giving the Princess another nod. He moves toward the offered food, taking for himself a cut of the pig. He gives a low rumble at the back of his throat, and glances over toward Ahriman and gives another grunt, vaguely amused, at the older man. "Times for greator victories ahead, I reckon."

Thea twitches her lips Martino, still not very forgiving of him, however he is right in the design of the gown. She nods, as Kaia did very well. She turns toward her cousin, lower her lips to Miranda's ear, as she too noticed something is off. Thea whispers to Miranda,"Are you alright, Miranda?"

Miranda has left the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Miranda stands from where she was sitting, speaking to those about the fireplace before she stands and then hurried begins to make her way out.

Martino takes a small portion of seared fish with fresh green salad and oysters from a humongous seared fish dish embellished with a side of fresh green salad and oysters.

Lailah has joined the a grey and yellow table set upon a raised dais.

Brenlin, Aide-de-Camp, 2 Rubino and Zaffria guards leave, following Miranda.

Marian is engaged with a quiet conversation with Liara at the banquet table. She does seem to be enjoying the generous fare that's provided by Bisland. She looks thoughtful as they chat, looking as if she's enjoying the exchange.

Radhilde dips her head gently to Kaia and then withdraws a bit to go get herself a bit to eat, eyes still looking around as she makes her way over to sit.

"If you wish to work with the less fortunate," Bliss says to Sabella with an easy smile, "May I suggest contacting the Black Rose Theater and seeing what you can do with their space, and if Mae Culler has some ideas in that regard? She has done excellent works there in the past, and I highly recommend her," Bliss says to Sabella warmly. "Once things calm down, I'm hoping to do some work in the Lowers as well, there are a lot of places where we could be doing much more for those living in the city itself."

Running a little late, Archscholar Sina arrives, accompanied by her three Templars. She's wearing a lovely dress of blue-green linen with her Archscholar's robes, her hair done up in an intricate array of coils and braids, held in place by a pair of serpentine hairpins. She leaves the Templars in a place where they can see her, and glances around at the celebration with a slight smile touching her lips.

Radhilde has joined the a grey and yellow table set upon a raised dais.

Martino welcomes the Lady Radhilde as she approaches to the seats where he and Kaia are sat, "Oh it is good to see you again Lady Radhilde... please do join us." After he glances to the doorway as the Lady Miranda leaves, bringing his sharp green eyes back to Thea and Dariel as he scrunches his forehead concerned.

Radhilde has left the a grey and yellow table set upon a raised dais.

Radhilde has joined the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Sabella checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 9 higher.

Thea bows her head politely to Radhilde,"Hello Lady Radhilde,"meeting Martino's eyes briefly. She shakes her head marginally. She has no idea what's wrong but knows something is amise. Thea plasters a smile on her face, one that doesn't reach her eyes. She sips the drink that was presented to her a few moments back, taking in those around her.

Liara gets a small portion of honey roasted suckling pig with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits from a massive center plate of honey roasted suckling pig embellished with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits.

Prince Ahriman listens to the feats with an attentive look to the hostess and her companion that offers lists some of the accomplishments. His lips part and little 'ah' sounds escape with each descriptive accomplishment. And here a thin hand promptly flags down a server, "Lycene wine please." He informs them, "And be generous with it I believe. Please make sure my glass is suitably clean and not thrown out upon the general buffet line of consumption." Dark eyes shift back as he mulls over what he has heard. "Well, to be appointed to be Magistrate is a great thing. Did I hear you correctly, the Upper Burroughs?" Ahriman asks again, "It must be my age getting to me and all the order shouting upon the sea." And the Prince smiles to Thesarin, "Soon, one would hope no doubt." And he continues, "-- as I was saying. The Upper Burroughs, how splendid. Such a privilege and honor to see over the district where the greatest among our number are born and live. To see to their matters and address the continued success of the Compact as a whole. Your family must be so very proud."

Martino sinks a silver fork into his food, carefully cutting through the ideally cooked fish, and bringing it to his lips. After he touches his lips twice with his napkin before settling it over his left knee, "How have you been, Radhilde?" After asking, the Lord Martino dips his fork anew into the fish upon his plate.

Radhilde returns with her meal at Martino's invite to sit and she dips her head to him, "And you, Lord Martino. Thank you." Her eyes unable to help follow the departing Lady before she lowers to sit with the others, "Lady Thea." She smiles warmly to all seated and then responds to Martino, "I've been very well and yourself?"

Radhilde has left the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Radhilde has joined the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

"Ah no, your highness. They saw fit to give me the much more challenging but no less important task of helping keep order in the lower Burroughs." Lailah answers politely, "After all, if we let that place go out of control, the Upper Buroughs and the Wards of the great houses would soon look like the lower Burroughs."

Sebastian, an adorable gray and white tabby, Jacinthe, Arindais, a dour-looking Scholar, 3 Templar Knight guards leave, following Sina.

At the mentions from Bliss of Mae and the Black Rose Theatre, there is a momentary pause from Sabella -- a failing in that ever-present smile that dims and returns in less time than it takes for her breath to do the same. "I'll do that, thank you." The Princess allows in even tone, and though her expression seems bright and friendly, there's something that lingers in the background. She clears her throat politely, and goes about finishing gathering her food for the evening before finding herself a place to enjoy the sociality of the event at large.
She's mid-drink when Ahriman begins speaking, and as though in anticipation of all that is about to be said, her eyes slide ever so lightly shut. Maybe she thinks it'll help if she can't actually see him. Her head tilts downward ever so slightly, as much as she'll allow her embarassment to show in public. The corners of her mouth are still quirked in a vague smile, her head finally lifting as she takes in a breath through her nose before she makes her way back toward him, a light laugh escaping. "The Lower Boroughs, where there is struggle that should and must be addressed, what an honour to be able to serve in this capacity, to bring relief to those less fortunate than ourselves. Please," She nods toward the new Magistrate, "If I can be of aid, do not be afraid to reach out."

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

Lily, an aloof lady-in-waiting have been dismissed.

2 Grayson House Guards have been dismissed.

Clark, an exasperated guard have been dismissed.

Thesarin is quiet for the time being, just taking a hearty swig of the mead from the wandering servers. For now, he just drinks, and tries to confront one of the eternal questions of the human condition--what to do with a party plate, a drink, and only two hands.

Merek notes Marian is about and offers a polite incline for her, "Hey, good to see you again, Your Highness," he offers, while he looks to some of the others. He doesn't bother people a lot as he finds a drink and some food.

Ahriman receives the wine from the nervous server. He turns the glass slowly and just 'tsks'. There of course was nothing wrong with the wine he was brought. But one cannot let the help see weakness and acceptance short of anything but perfection of course. And when Lailah answers him the Prince blinks a few times. "Oh." He answers with a single two letter response that communicates that he does not perhaps agree with that assessment. "I suppose the guards do need help with coordination of the regular vulgar round-ups. And I hear there was a man relieving himself on building down there with serial like fashion." He drinks his wine. He makes a face. And then he lifts his glass, "Congratulations all the same." He motions, "I'm sure my daughter has great insight about such things and their value to the Compact. She will be of great service to such positions of importance. If you will excuse me. I need to check on the duck. I do love it when things go foul at a party." Surely he meant fowl.

Sophie's nose wrinkles at the thought of mixing pie and duck, but she easily enough brushes it off, and at the conversation between Bliss and Sabella she settles in quietly to watch them, before Sabella departs. Ahriman's words garner an amused little smile and when Sophie leans in to speak to Bliss she does so with an amused little smile. Of course, then she spies Kaia and she nods her head toward her. Sophie crosses the room, still holding her plate of duck (not pie, darnit) and a hand stretches from the sleeves of her white robes and rests lightly on Kaia's shoulder. Her voice is pleasant and warm as she says, "Lady Kaia, what a delight to see you again!"

Whatever the reason for Sabella's smile dimming, Bliss doesn't seem to be aware of it, her own warmth continuing to exude out as she gives the woman a nod before turning to look at Sophie. "Mae has been organizing some plays for a while now. I'm really looking forward to when they get off the ground, I've auditioned for some and they should be a lot of fun. Next time there are open auditions, I'm going to nudge you into going, too," she decides. A fork is lifted, a piece of duck is speared, and the poultry is brought to her mouth and held there in a slow bite, her eyes closing happily. Opening again, she leans in and asks Sophie, "Anyone you want to mingle with?" before she leans in to whatever has been spoken more quietly to her.

Thea glances at Martino,"If that's what you want to call it." She sips her wine, a bit amused. Thea's green scan the room, her eyebrow high.

Kaia says, "Ah, Princess Sophie!~ Likewise! I do hope you are enjoying yourself?~"

Marian gives a nod in greeting to Merek as he happens by her table, "Oh yes, I'm doing well. How are matters in the Iron Guard?" She motions to herself, "I've been rather consumed on border skirmishes so I haven't been as focused on the city but I am glad to hear that crime rate is going down."

Martino smirks a moment to Thea, a brief laugh to her as he creases the very corners of his eyes, "Well, next time. Our bout will be - much - closer." He sighs as he complains aside to Dariel, "Do you have this, Dariel, from your family? A riding for being the lovely face? Well, for you, second most lovely... Kaia being most in the family." Oh Martino. Do you - have - to really?.

Merek seems to think about the question, "It's doing well, as Admiral I am focused mostly on the matters of ships," he says, while he nods a bit to Marian, taking drink from the mead which he finds. "I am glad it's settling too."

Thesarin has joined the a large banquet table dressed in gold linens.

Sophie smiles warmly to Kaia and to Martino as she does, "Of course. There's pie." She hasn't tasted the pie yet, and she looks rather polite with her plate full of duck. She takes another bite with a very polite smile on her face and she says to Kaia, "You've heard the news? Only a few more days, and I'll take vows to the gods. I'm afraid I can think of little else at the moment, but...I thought a party would be a good diversion." Then she waves her hand toward Bliss and she says, "You've met Radiant Bliss Whisper, haven't you? I can't quite remember." Then to Bliss, "This is Lady Kaia, a dear friend."

Marian nods as Merek mentions his role as Admiral, "I'm afraid my view on sea matters tends to be handled by my commanders because I'm not as well versed in such things." She gives a light joke, "I keep teasing my liege that he should be looking to alliances to bring in an admiral for Redrain."

Merek blinks a bit, and nods then to Marian as he takes a drink from the mead. "Well, it's always useful if you have sea in your lands... Was nice talking, though I find I'm likely not as attentive as I would like to be. If you ever wish seeking knowledge about the seas, feel free to visit us, or Thrax, also!"

Thea smiles a touch at Merek, speak to Marian as well,"My brother Domonico was named Admiral earlier this morning," pride to her voice. She casts a glance at Martino,"Mmmm..I wouldn't know either, I'm not usually second faced to anyone amongst us three."

Martino dabs around his lips twice more with the napkin as he finishes the plate of fish dinner. Pinching his fingers through it, to have them cleaned, before presenting both finished plate and napkin to a passing sever. Cleared of his dinner, Martino raises to his feet beside Kaia to bow his head low at the arrival of Sophie, "Oh Princess Sophie Valardin, it is a pleasure to meet you... and to meet a dear friend of Lady Kaia's as well." He bows his head low to her in deference before taking anew to his seat beside Kaia.

Kaia eyes lift to Sophie once more, and she beams a smile, "Ah, yes! Congratulations, dear!" she then glances over to Bliss, "Hmm, I don't believe we have been formally acquainted, no; but surely, we have seen one another in passing. Of that I am sure." she explains. "A pleasure to meet you, and have you here Radiant.~" she finally says.

Marian offers her congratulations on Domonico's appointment, "An excellent choice m'lady. I fought against him in the Grand Melee and found him a fierce opponent. I am sure he brings such ferocity on the water." She does mention to Merek, "We do have water, more river than ocean but still. Such matters need to be overseen."

"Now that ducks is fair." Ahriman murmurs about the quality of the duck. He wanders off somewhere with his plate. He finds a server and corners them to lecture them about the difference between wine and the necessary leverage one must pull and execute to meet the high standards of Lyceum disposition when it comes to the fruit of the vine. Lecture is probably the nice version of what he is doing. It's a verbal massacre on a high society level. (Work idle pose for background noise)

"There will be no better servant to the Gods, I suspect," Bliss says to Sophie as she moves to join Sophie and Kaia in their conversation, dipping her head to the latter and saying, "Lady Bisland, wonderful party you have going here." The mention of the Grand Melee has Bliss turning her head toward Marian, a small smile on her face, before she refocuses on Kaia.

Kaia says, "Thank you Radiant.~"

Thesarin takes a small portion of honey roasted suckling pig with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits from a massive center plate of honey roasted suckling pig embellished with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits.

Thea twinkles her eyes at Marian,"I will be sure to let him know." She turns toward Dariel, a faint bit of amusement to her face,"I'm keeping to my promise, working on seeing what the fuss is about." Thea crosses her legs, draping her dress nicely,"It will be your fault if I end up disliking plays."

Merek gets a small portion of seared fish with fresh green salad and oysters from a humongous seared fish dish embellished with a side of fresh green salad and oysters.

Sophie smiles brightly and leans into Bliss slightly and she says, "You're prejudice, I think." Then she returns her attention to Kaia and she says, "Quite a mark the Bisland family has been making in Arx lately. Congratulations! Please do extend my congratulations to the remainder of your family as you're able. It's heartening to see a family work so hard to earn their places in this world." Then to Martino she says, "It's indeed a pleasure to meet you as well."

Zelda, the royal messenger arrives, delivering a message to Liara before departing.

Dariel chuckles as Thea tries to lay some pressure on him. "Well if you don't like a play I'm in, Lady Thea, there really is no hope for your artistic interests at all and you really should stick with your fighting!"

Kaia says, "Of course, your highness.~ I shall!" she says to Sophie, before the conversation in the couches brings her to a laugh. "Is that so?!" she queries to Martino."

Martino pulls his robe over his shoulders a moment, adjusting it against his torso as he creases the corners of his sharp green eyes to the Princess Sophie, "We truly should, as you are a dear friend of Kaia's, have a tea or other beverage as the dearly beloved Lady's friends." Still stood, he laughs as his fingertips touches the wrists of Kaia, "Truly, Kaia. Your determination is boundless. You shall have me fallen at at your sword point in no time. Not least as Thea will ensure of it."

Thea actually chuckles at Dariel,"And there is at that ego." She sips her wine, content at her seat and watching the people. Thea assures Lady Radhidle,"He really didn't stand a chance. Lady Kaia had him beaten."

"I'm a Whisper, darling, we are neutral on these sorts of things." Bliss waits as Sophie passes her congratulations along to Kaia, continuing to nibble on her duck as she does so. The talk of fighting seems to amuse her, a brow lifting as a smile creeps across her face, before she leans in and murmurs something lowly.

Kaia chuckles, "We shall see.~" she says, before raising to her feet and placing a kiss on Martino's cheek. "Would you care to dance, my beloved?"

Sophie just smiles and says, "Yes, I say the same thing. Mercies must remain neutral.. but secretly.." Sophie laughs as she teases Bliss, "Secretly I always have a favorite." She steps out of the way as Kaia and Martino prepare to dance, and she takes another bite of the fingerfood on her plate."

Martino turns his fingertips to Kaia's own hand, "My dearest, treasured, Kaia. It would be an honour." After, fingertips bound within each others, he steps with her to the dancefloor, "The waltz, is it, today?" His left hand lifted out to Kaia's shoulder as his right settles on her side.

Tescelina moves in through the great hall with a quiet and well-mannered gait. Her longcoat is removed and handed off toward a servant as her gown spills forth about the ankles of booted feet. A tall young woman of fair complexion and demeanor she angles her chin slightly, observing the distance spread, and stands for a moment with fingers knit to breath in the scope of the space. The guests. The celebratory spirit. At odds with her gentler features, she wears a swordbelt adorned with a silvery rapier and gilded dagger. Both peacebound, of course.

Kaia smiles back to Martino and nods. "Of course, my dear.~" and so, she positions herself for the dance.

Martino has left the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Martino has joined the the dance floor.

"The difference between Whispers and Mercies, darling," Bliss says to Sophie with a little amusement in her voice, waving her off at that and looking around as the dancing starts, stepping back to make sure that the dance floor is clear.

Kaia has left the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Kaia has joined the the dance floor.

Kaia checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 19 higher.

Sabella keeps herself clear of the dance floor, as well. "If only Niklas were here," She laments quietly to herself, though the smile never fades. She's situated herself somewhere near enough that she can watch the festivities, but seems more than content to let others shine. After all, this is their celebration.

Brenlin, Aide-de-Camp, 2 Rubino and Zaffria guards arrive, following Miranda.

Miranda drops a medium sized platter of mouthwatering roasted duck embellished with fresh green salad and fruits.

Bliss gets a small portion of mouthwatering roasted duck with fresh green salad and fruits from a medium sized platter of mouthwatering roasted duck embellished with fresh green salad and fruits.

Brenlin, Aide-de-Camp, 2 Rubino and Zaffria guards leave, following Miranda.

Brenlin, Aide-de-Camp, 2 Rubino and Zaffria guards arrive, following Miranda.

Sophie laughs at Bliss' ribbing and she adds, "Now... who that favorite is.. they'll never know. I mean, I might cheer for you just so nobody realizes I actually favor your opponent." Sophie glances toward Bliss with a smile and she says, "Dance with me?"

Sabella gets a small portion of mouthwatering roasted duck with fresh green salad and fruits from a medium sized platter of mouthwatering roasted duck embellished with fresh green salad and fruits.

Martino has rolled a critical success!
Martino checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 40 higher.

Radhilde makes way to stand, dipping her head as she sounds regretful, "I must depart for now but I enjoyed being here."

Sophie gets a small portion of mouthwatering roasted duck with fresh green salad and fruits from a medium sized platter of mouthwatering roasted duck embellished with fresh green salad and fruits.

Entering the party, Miranda points to the table and her very abashed aide puts the entire platter BACK on the table. Ahem.

Radhilde smirks a bit at Miranda's aide on her way out.

Radhilde has left the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Kaia, the guard, Krissa, the golden, long-haired cat leave, following Radhilde.

She takes a breath as if its been held and moves toward the beverage table to examine the drinks. Tescelina reaches out her hand, stirring a finger along the rim of a wine glass. Listening to the pitch of its note. Her attention aimless in that time before she finds herself observing the dancers with a quiet smile. "No, nothing. Thank you," she replies to the servant in regards to a drink.

Sabella notices Miranda's aide sneaking back into the party, replacing the duck so shamelessly stolen. She says nothing, not wishing to embarass them, but secretly she shall judge them both for the rest of their days.

Kaia takes a small portion of mouthwatering roasted duck with fresh green salad and fruits from a medium sized platter of mouthwatering roasted duck embellished with fresh green salad and fruits.

Almost instantly the Lord Martino bursts on his toes with Kaia, skipping brisk and merry over the dancefloor. His feet, perfectly stepping over hers as he leads her over the wooden floor with his left hand. His fingertips, resting tight on her side, as they pivot refined over the floor. With a broad smile upon his lips to Kaia, he lifts her fingertips to the top of her hair and twirls her once... twice... thrice. Before gathering her presence anew with his hooked right arm to bounce across to the other side of the ballroom. Truly, a briskly paced waltz rather than the classic slow.

"Have I ever said no to dancing with you?" Bliss asks as she takes Sophie's hand with a little smile on her face, beginning to walk out onto the floor in her extremely feathered and silvery gown and slippers she wears, those peacebound swords on her side not seeming to dim her confidence in how she might move.

Bliss has joined the the dance floor.

Kaia takes a small portion of seared fish with fresh green salad and oysters from a humongous seared fish dish embellished with a side of fresh green salad and oysters.

Dariel sees Miranda come back with an aide carrying quite the platter. He slips out from the seating by the fireplace and makes his way over to her and leans in to whisper something to her.

Kaia takes a small portion of honey roasted suckling pig with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits from a massive center plate of honey roasted suckling pig embellished with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits.

Sophie smiles warmly and says, "Have we ever danced? I don't remember...." and then she's following Bliss onto the dance floor, handing the picked at plate to a servant as she passes. When she slides an arm around Bliss' waist and starts to dance with her she leans in to whisper something in her ear.

Marian finishes her meal and then quietly starts to slip out of the dinner, choosing to avoid the dancing. She quietly says goodbye to her dinner companions, gives the hostess her goodbyes and then heads out.

Marian has left the a large banquet table dressed in gold linens.

Marian is overheard praising Kaia: For a wonderful dinner.

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon, Ursa, 2 Redrain Guards leave, following Marian.

Miranda looks considerably put out. Imagine the poor noble-woman's discovery of a thief under her command! And a brazen one at that! Not just a slice or three, but the WHOLE PLATTER! She glares at Brenlin as he abashedly returns to the door and awaits her wrath. She points him OUT of the House and leans towards Dariel, to listen. Brenlin escapes with his life... for now! She nods to Dariel, linking her arm through his and looks very embarrassed now.

Dariel is overheard praising Kaia: Kaia organises the best parties

Sophie checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 18 higher.

Dariel has left the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Bliss has rolled a critical success!
Bliss checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 63 higher.

Dariel chuckles at Miranda's reaction to her aide. He turns to node to his cousins and those he knows befor guiding Miranda out

Brenlin, Aide-de-Camp, 2 Rubino and Zaffria guards leave, following Miranda.

Miranda leaves, following Dariel.

Hearing the whispered words in her ear, Bliss smiles at Sophie before murmuring something back, and then they begin to move across the room in the waltz. It likely isn't a surprise that the Radiant of Whisper House knows what she is doing on the dance floor, and she takes the lead, guiding Sophie through every step with a fluidity that makes it look more natural than even her standing or walking. Careful footsteps done with effortless grace - flowing motions and avoiding all the other dancers as she does so, this is clearly a place where she shines.

Kaia's eyes are lit with excitement as the evidently more skilled lord Martino guides her across the dance floor with graceful twirls and spins for that briskly paced waltz. "I thought you would start more slowly.~" she admits with a chuckle, while they dance, somehow managing to keep up with the steps.

1 Grayson House Guards, Peaches, a lovely white war filly with a peach saddle, Deliverance, an albino falcon, Stormy, a silvery gray hunting hound, Rascal, a hyper terrier, Rosalie, a lady in waiting arrive, following Reese.

Martino checked strength + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 12 higher.

Kaia checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 20 higher.

Reese gets a small portion of honey roasted suckling pig with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits from a massive center plate of honey roasted suckling pig embellished with fresh green salad, almonds, and fruits.

Thea sips her wine, content and comfortable. She shakes her head,"Seriously, I swear I've told him quick is not always the way to be.."

Reese arrives at the party while adorned in her pink and toting along her blades. She peeks over the gathering trying to get a feel for things here.

Sophie allows Bliss to lead, and actually manages to dance passably well, considering who her partner is. Her cheeks flush as Bliss returns the whisper and she can't help but grin as she pulls away again. "Oh really now?" is all she says, but then she's much too focused on not looking incompetent next to Bliss' far superior dancing.

Martino effortlessly pivots once more with Kaia over the dancefloor, before his right hand slides beneath her lower back and brushes against her bared back at the sultury opening, "Well... it is to be a brief performance, merely one today, so I could not have it be one of our best." As he supports Kaia's lower back, he dips and arches her back. Stepping closer into her presence to hold her there in a swanlike pose before guiding her up anew to finish.

Departing the table she was at, Liara offers over towards Kaia - once she's through with the most vigorous bit of the dancing, anyway - "A lovely party, my lady. Thank you. Bisland does indeed win glory." The Grayson offers a quick smile and goes to head on out.

Kaia says, "Thank you for coming, Princess Liara!~"

Liara is overheard praising Kaia: A lovely party.

Liara has left the a large banquet table dressed in gold linens.

Martino is overheard praising Bisland: Bisland does win glory. What a wonderful celebration

Sophie checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 30 higher.

Lailah has left the a grey and yellow table set upon a raised dais.

"Oh, really now," Bliss replies back to Sophie as she continues the movement, incorporating turns and twists as they move along. The flush from Sophie has her flutter her lashes briefly, her head turning to look at some of the other dancers for a while before looking back to Sophie, eyes sweeping the woman's work over with a grin. "You've been practicing, haven't you?" she asks her afterward, that gown sweeping away from her body just right as she moves.

Sabella is overheard praising Kaia: What a wonderful party with such exquisite food!

Martino finally steps from Kaia's presence as he stops their boisterous waltz. He bows his head low to his beloved, as he presents out his hand to her, "Oh truly so... I must part now but, before so, must let you know that this was a wonderful event and you are a superb host."

Kaia smiles to Martino and nods, before making a proper courtesy. "Thank you for the dance, my lord." she says, "Be safe and well on your journey home. Thank you for being here."

Thea stands, straightening herself without much thought. She smiles at Reese briefly,"Hello Princess Reese." Thea nods to Martino as well, hearing of his departure.

Thesarin lifts his head toward Reese, and lifts a cup of mead in her direction.

Martino in parting, creases his eyes to his sister Thea. A sheepish smile to her, perhaps struck with /some/ guilt but not much. With a sweeping bow to the room, he turns to take his leave.

Martino has left the the dance floor.

Kaia then catches sight of princess Reese's arrival, "Ah, Princess Reese! I'm glad you could make it, welcome!~" she chimes, after having departed from the dance floor.

Kaia has left the the dance floor.

Kaia has joined the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Reese looks over to Thea, having a gentle smile for her. "Greetings, Lady Thea." She softly says. The girl then smiles over to Thesarin as well. She looks over to Kaia. "Oh, I did, I just made it .The food is wonderful, Lady Kaia."

Sophie gives a sheepish little smile and she says, "Maybe I have. When you're dancing with the Radiant it doesn't do to look like you have two left feet, you know." Sophie pulls closer to Bliss and she says, "Maybe we should go home? It looks like the party is winding down. I'll take my pie with me?"

"Thank you all so much for coming to celebrate this joyous ocassion with our family! I do hope you've enjoyed the festivities, my lords and ladies. I'm afraid I must take my leave, however, you are most welcome to stay for as long as you'd like." says the host, all the while the servants begin to clear up the empty plates, and once all are done dancing the band begins to pick up their things.

Kaia says, "I'm glad it is to your enjoyment your highness.~"

"Probably about that time, yes," Bliss says to Sophie as she rests an arm around her waist, her smile gentle as she nods, then looks over to Kaia and says, "Thank you for hosting us, Lady Bisland. This has been a wonderful party."

Kaia says, "Thank you Radiant, Princess Sophie, for gracing us with your presence."