The tower is all set up for a party. There is a tale ladened with treats like rabbit pie, chocolate chip cookies and honey bunt cake. There is also plenty of ale, mead and water. A pot of warm cider is hanging over the fireplace. There are lots of places to sit too. Reese is just making her way into the main room and tugging along a large chest.

Quintin shows up for books. It's a thing. An avid reader, he was very curious when he heard about this. The bit where there's food and drink, too, that's even better! The Ashford lord offers a quick smile to Reese. "Good afternoon, Princess. Thank you for having us." And then he's distracted by cider.

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

Rysen arrives to the Ivy Covered Watchtower with Lygeia, who is carrying a blackwood lyre. Rysen looks a little tired, but he smiles warmly when he notices Reese. He says something quietly to Lygeia, which is no doubt a request for ale, and makes his way over to Reese and Quintin. He bows, and says, "Good to see you, Your Highness, Lord Quintin."

Azolla enters the tower at a slow and steady pace she offers Reese a bow of her head and gently says, "Thank you for inviting me. Lord Rysen and I have prepared that song for you, whenever it suits you." She offers a warm smile to Rysen as she lifts up her head. Pleasant and polite greetings offered to anyone else present

Mikani follows behind Rysen and gets some warm cider. "Reese," she smiles at the woman before nodding to Quintin. Her eyes look slightly worried as she eyes Rysen. "Not sleeping well?" Mika grins at Azolla. "I look forward to a song from you both."

Braden slips in as quietly as is quietly as is possible for him. He finds a nice wall to lean against.

Reese looks over to Quintin, having a smile for him. "Greetings. It is nice to see you again, Lord Quint in and you a well Lord Rysen." The girl says. "So I have lots of books. Some are by m and some are by other folks as well." She s waves over to Azolla and then to Mikani as well. "I do very much love your songs as well." She then smiles warmly to Braden.

Reese drops oak bookcase.

Mikani takes The Battle of Farhaven from oak bookcase.

1 Crimson Blades Sergeant, 1 Crimson Blades Lieutenant, 1 Crimson Blades Private arrive, following Cillian.

Evander arrives a little early, in fact, though he takes the time, after getting out of the carriage and shaking snow off his coat, to take a moment to rest near the doorway, having stepped to one side to stop blocking the way through first. Once he's gathered his breath, he continues on into the room, looking about with an avid interest. "Countess Mikani," the Kennex greets, as he spots Mikani, following her towards Reese. "Princess Reese," is added to her with a bow. "Thank you for hosting such a party. I don't get out too often in the winter, but if anything can draw me out, it's books," with a tiny smile.

Quintin nods politely to pretty much everyone as they arrive - Rysen, Azolla, Mikani, Braden - while fetching himself some hot cider. He offers to pour some for others, too, if they draw near.

Evander takes The Battle of Farhaven from oak bookcase.

Azolla gets The Battle of Farhaven from oak bookcase.

Quintin gets The Battle of Farhaven from oak bookcase.

Reese has the first bookcase brought up, a nice oak case. "This about the battle of Farhaven when we ran into the Slaver." She says. The girl then smiles over to Evander. "Thank you for coming. It is my joy to share these books. My true passion lately is recording things."

2 Novice Keaton Huntsmen, Barf, the Bog Dog arrive, following Amari.

With a soulful hound (Sir Floppington) laying down before the blue sofa with the ivory pillows at her booted feet, Scout Rowenova sprawls diagonally in her leather armor with one arm up upon the couch back and one arm upon the adjacent armrest, too. Right now, her wolf pelt is drawn down over her concealed visage with the cobalt-blue eyes peering out of the eye sockets, people watching.

Rowenova gets The Battle of Farhaven from oak bookcase.

Rysen grins at Azolla, and says, "I'm ready to play when you're ready to sing, My Lady." When he notices Mikani and hears her question, he smiles and shakes his head. "Nothing serious, Countess. Just research keeping me up." Lygeia returns to Rysen's side with some ale, and he gratefully accepts the mug and takes a long drink. His grey eyes slide to the oak bookcase, and says with a grin to Reese, "This is my kind of party."

Rysen gets The Battle of Farhaven from oak bookcase.

Isabetta comes into the tower and heads for snacks, there are always snacks and she seems to think thety are on the bar. She does pass Reese and tries to give her a little kiss atop the head along the way.

Cillian comes walking into the tower looking around he knows he saw Nova come up here and ahs when he spots Sir Floppington and heads in that direction.

Cillian takes The Battle of Farhaven from oak bookcase.

Reese leans into Isabetta', accepting the kiss to her head. She gives her a smile. "Issy, I am glad to see you." She softly says.

Reese drops Ornate Wooden Box.

Evander's lips twitch at Reese's response, as he replies quickly: "And my passion is reading things, so I cannot help but to encourage you in your own pursuits, Your Highness." Naturally, his gaze is drawn by the bookcase, or rather the books, especially when Reese mentions what the story is about. "I look forward to reading it," he murmurs, looking to claim a book for himself.

Sir Floppington gets up from his lazy laying and pads forth to where Cil is, happily wagging his hound-dog tail.

Mikani murmurs to Rysen before sipping some cider. "Evander it is good to see you, have you been practicing your Isles Shav?"

Evander takes The Redeemed Sword of Grayson from Ornate Wooden Box.

Rowenova gets The Redeemed Sword of Grayson from Ornate Wooden Box.

Mikani takes The Redeemed Sword of Grayson from Ornate Wooden Box.

Quintin nods politely to Rowenova, and to Evander as well. He collects a copy of the report on Farhaven and peruses it, sipping his hot cider.

Reese seems encouraged by Evander's and Rysen's words. She gives them both a smile. "Oh, this book is about Prince Barric, the deceased Sword of Grayson. He was my cousin and beloved by me, but not all agreed with his ways. He was also Princess Alarissa's brother and beloved by her as well."

Quintin gets The Redeemed Sword of Grayson from Ornate Wooden Box.

Cillian takes The Redeemed Sword of Grayson from Ornate Wooden Box.

Maple, a brown golden retriever, Toffee, a fluffy pomeranian, 2 Laurent trained guards arrive, following Mabelle.

Cillian smiles at the hound and pats his head, "Hey there." he looks over at Nova, "Hey you." he says in his thick northern shav accent.

Cillian has joined the a comfortable blue sofa with ivory pillows.

Amari pops in off the street with her giantnormous dog of indeterminate breed in tow. As she enters, she pushes her hood back and smoothes her hair down as she stands on the threshold looking about the room. Spying just the Grayson princess she was looking for, she gives a smile and curtsy to Reese. "Your Highness. It's certainly cozy in here."

Mikani looks at the book. "Wasn't he betrothed at one time to Princess Coraline Thrax?"

Reverently, Evander brushes fingers over the book, before reluctantly handing it towards his assistant, mostly so that he can claim a hot cider for himself, taking a grateful drink. He gives a tiny smile to Mikani, "It doesn't come up too often in conversation for me, but I've had cause to use it lately, indeed. I always welcome the practice, however, if you wish to speak it, Countess."

Rysen smiles at Mikani, and when he notices Isabetta, he laughs and says, "Good to see you, Lady Isabetta. Am I going to be challenged to a pillow fight?" A mischievous grin passes over his face, but when Reese speaks of the late Sword of Grayson, his expression becomes more solemn. "I'm glad you write these accounts, Your Highness," Rysen says to Reese. "You keep the memories of our heroes alive, and I will return the favor."

With her visage concealed behind her wolf pelt, Nova lifts up one hand from off the couch backing after Quintin's nod her way, giving a little wave to the Ashford lord before she looks up through the eye sockets of the wolf pelt and quietly rumbles in her own Northern accent which is less shavvy, "Greetings, Sword Cillian. How are you doing?" Sir Floppers sits down nearby, somewhere equadistant between the Halfshav servant and Blackwood sword.

Mabelle travels into the terrace carrying a cake as promised. She scans those present, knowing half of them and having never seen the other half she merely exclaims, "Good evening all!". Eyes finding Reese and offering a curtsy to the host as she steps to the table and lowers the pie.

Mabelle drops Peppermint Brownie Pie.

Reese looks over to Amari, nodding in response to her words. "He was betrothed to her. It didn't work out, but I think that she never stopped loving him." She says. "I do try keep memories going." She says, before smiling over to Cillian and Mabelle. "Hi, Lady Mabelle and thanks for bringing the pie."

Braden smiles at Mabelle and continues eating his candy quietly

Quintin collects this second book; good thing he brought his backpack, which he plunks down on a table and slides the books in. There's a bit of resistance, and so the Ashford lord digs around and produces an apple, which he sets down beside his backpack. Then another. He flashes a quick smile at Amari and nods to Cillian and Mabelle. The pie, he is curious about. Would it go well with cider?

Reese drops a backpack adorned with delicate roses.

"Whenever the Princess asks for the song Lord Rysen, I shall be ready," Azolla says gently, watching the people and the event unfold

Cillian nods to everyone before taking a seat next to Nova and lowers his voice to speak with her.

Azolla gets The Redeemed Sword of Grayson from Ornate Wooden Box.

Amari gets clear of the door so Mabelle doesn't have to climb over her and dog, giving the Laurent a smile as she does. "Good evening." There's a curious look at the pie, but before she can focus too much on that, she notices other people to greet. Rowenova gets a gleeful little smile and wave, Quintin the same, then Rysen is given a polite nod, "Lord Rysen. Wonderful to see you again. Apologies again for being unable to attend dinner."

Reese drops a bag filled with books. "I ran out of chest, but this is a poem by a certain Knight of Charm and Honey. I won't reveal his name, but most of you know him or well many of you do."

Azolla gets Poem by the Knight of Honey and Charm from a backpack adorned with delicate roses.

Amari gets Poem by the Knight of Honey and Charm from a backpack adorned with delicate roses.

"Don't give it a second thought," replies Rysen to Amari warmly, as he takes another sip of ale. "I hope you and trusty Barf have been doing well," he says kneeling beside the huge dog, and offering his hand, and then some affectionate pets.

Mabelle takes Poem by the Knight of Honey and Charm from a backpack adorned with delicate roses.

Evander takes Poem by the Knight of Honey and Charm from a backpack adorned with delicate roses.

Willen arrives, following Lou.

Mikani takes Poem by the Knight of Honey and Charm from a backpack adorned with delicate roses.

Rysen gets Poem by the Knight of Honey and Charm from a backpack adorned with delicate roses.

Cillian takes Poem by the Knight of Honey and Charm from a backpack adorned with delicate roses.

Reese peeks over to Rysen and Azolla with a smile, seemingly in response to the words about a song.

Mabelle takes The Battle of Farhaven from oak bookcase.

Much like her greeting to Quintin a bit ago, Nova lifts up another wave from the couch back toward Amari before dropping that arm once more. "Lady Amari. Always wonderful to see you." The wolf scout is less animated and more subdued than she generally is, but her quiet words are sentimentally genuine.

Rowenova gets Poem by the Knight of Honey and Charm from a backpack adorned with delicate roses.

"Sir Jason Simon, isn't it?" Quintin asks, leaning over to examine a copy of the poem.

Reese drops driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Rowenova gets Maelstorm's Tempestuous Shores from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Lou makes her way up the stairs, having heard her sister was having some sort of party. Her blue eyes are filled with curiosity as she comes around the corner and enters the room.

Mabelle stands predictably toward Braden and murmurs lowly to him, "More teasing material, lovely", she flashes a wicked smile to him. She commences to scan the faces in the room she might know and greets Amari, Isabetta and Quinting respectively, "Lady Keaton, Lady Gilden, Lord Ashford, pleasure to see all of you again".

Quintin gets Poem by the Knight of Honey and Charm from a backpack adorned with delicate roses.

Quintin gets Maelstorm's Tempestuous Shores from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Reese has yet another chest dragged in. She is keeping her Grayson guards busy! "This is an account a battle that took place on the shores of Maelstorm before the battle against the Gyre when darkwater forces were coming up on the shore there. It is a sadly one sided account, but I only know what I was there for."

Cillian takes Maelstorm's Tempestuous Shores from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Evander takes Maelstorm's Tempestuous Shores from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Azolla gets Maelstorm's Tempestuous Shores from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Rysen gets Maelstorm's Tempestuous Shores from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Braden grunts at Mabelle

Lou gets The Redeemed Sword of Grayson from Ornate Wooden Box.

Reese peeks over to Braden with a smile. "Greetings Knight of Honey and Charm!" She says, despite saying she wouldn't reveal the name.

Evander seems particularly interested when Reese mentions Maelstrom, gesturing for his assistant to claim a copy for himself, murmuring something quietly to Mikani as he does so.

Lou gets Maelstorm's Tempestuous Shores from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Lou gets Poem by the Knight of Honey and Charm from a backpack adorned with delicate roses.

"Well enough. I think this big guy is fretting over me more than usual." Amari replies, bringing a hand up as if she doesn't want Barf to know she's talking about him. It's hard to tell if he's especially worried about anything though. He's his usual Barfy self, and makes no fuss over being patted. He's fairly chill. "I hope you're doing well - and you too Rowenova."

Mikani murmurs back and forth with Evander in Isles Shav. "Lord Evander Kennex ... this is Lord Rysen Corvane. Lover of Adventures and seeker of True Love. Lord Rysen this is Lord Evander. Seeker of Knowledge and Truth." Mika smiles between the both of them before she motions to Azolla. "Lord Evander Kennex ... this is Lady Azolla Nightgold. She is a wonderful singer and is working on a play with Lord Rysen about a Knight falling in love with Death. She soon will be marrying Lord Erik Grimhall. Lady Azolla this is Lord Evander. Kennex is a vassel house to Grimhall. I'm sure you will be seeing him around more once you make the move to the Mourning Isles."

Mabelle directs Braden grunting to Reese as the worse of two evils.

Amari gets Maelstorm's Tempestuous Shores from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Mikani takes Maelstorm's Tempestuous Shores from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

"I believe Legate Ailith has been to the Maelstrom a few times, and worked with the Marin'alfar directly." Lou interjects as she moves further into the room and starts to go through the books her sister is giving away. "If you feel inclined to write more about the topic, perhaps you could interview her?" she suggests to Reese, then makes her way over to her sister to offer her a hug if she'll accept it.

Quintin keeps collecting paper and books. When Reese addresses Braden as the Knight of Honey and Charm, he looks down at the poem in his hand, then Braden, and raises an eyebrow. At least he's distracted by the arrival of Lou, whom he nods to.

Reese returns to Lou's hug and gives her a smile. "That is a good idea, Lou." She says, leaving off her title. 'I will have to speak with her."

Reese drops small iron-banded chest.

Reese says as another chest is brought. "This is a test to see how much of an Oathlander one is. I hear it is very accurate."

Quintin gets Are You a True Oathlander? from small iron-banded chest.

Evander's lift of brow speaks of surprise: not at Mikani's introduction but the description she gives him. He doesn't seem unpleased about it, though, giving a bow to Rysen. "Lord Crovane," he greets Rysen. "I haven't met one of your family yet but have been hoping to." A second bow is given to Azolla. "Lady Nightgold. A pleasure to meet you. The Mourning Isles will welcome you, I am sure," he murmurs.

Mikani takes Are You a True Oathlander? from small iron-banded chest.

Amari gets Are You a True Oathlander? from small iron-banded chest.

Rising from beside Barf the dog, Rysen laughs softly at Mikani's introduction, and bows to Evander. "Well met, My Lord. I apologize for not having a chance to introduce myself sooner," he says. "It is always good to meet another seeker of truth."

Evander takes Are You a True Oathlander? from small iron-banded chest.

Rowenova gets Are You a True Oathlander? from small iron-banded chest.

Mabelle gets Are You a True Oathlander? from small iron-banded chest.

Cillian takes Are You a True Oathlander? from small iron-banded chest.

The wolf-clad Nova speaks up, "Thank you, Lady Amari." Sir Floppington sets his greying chin upon Nova's lap and the young scout applies both hands upon his floppy ears, slow petting those.

Reese drops Driftwood Bookcase.

Lou gets Are You a True Oathlander? from small iron-banded chest.

Reese says as yet another case is brought in. "These are books by Kaya Rose. You can take of each if you want. They are poems. Kind of sad, just to warn."

Quintin gets The Musings of Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Mikani takes The Musings of Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Quintin gets The Cards - Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Mikani takes The Cards - Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Cillian takes The Musings of Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Evander takes The Musings of Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Cillian takes The Cards - Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Azolla gets The Musings of Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Evander takes The Cards - Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Rysen gets The Musings of Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Azolla gets The Musings of Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Rysen gets The Cards - Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Rowenova gets The Cards - Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Rowenova gets The Musings of Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Azolla gets The Cards - Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Lou gets The Musings of Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Lou gets The Cards - Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Azolla puts The Musings of Kaya Rose in Driftwood Bookcase.

Reese drops flimsy driftwood bookcase.

Azolla gets Are You a True Oathlander? from small iron-banded chest.

Rowenova gets A Duel of Broken Courting from flimsy driftwood bookcase.

Mikani looks at Evander, "Ready to meet more?"

Quintin offers a smile Evander's way. "Lord Quintin Ashford," he introduces himself. "I'm familiar with your cousins, Lord Ian and Lord Aethan."

Evander takes A Duel of Broken Courting from flimsy driftwood bookcase.

Azolla gets A Duel of Broken Courting from flimsy driftwood bookcase.

Lou gets A Duel of Broken Courting from flimsy driftwood bookcase.

Isabetta is very belatedly giving Rysen a wave and informing him that in fact, "Yes you will be challenged to a pillow fight, to the death-! of probably a pillow.. or two." She sniffs,.

Quintin gets A Duel of Broken Courting from flimsy driftwood bookcase.

Amari gets A Duel of Broken Courting from flimsy driftwood bookcase.

Mikani takes A Duel of Broken Courting from flimsy driftwood bookcase.

Cillian takes A Duel of Broken Courting from flimsy driftwood bookcase.

Amari gets The Musings of Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

Amari gets The Cards - Kaya Rose from Driftwood Bookcase.

"This one is a self indulgent story of my first duel against Prince Niccolo for my cousin Natalie. Lou might remember this, but to many I think it is old drama." Reese says and her cheeks are a bit pink at that. "I like to record as much as I can. I got so much more to write too." She says, before having another smile for Isabetta.

Braden gets A Duel of Broken Courting from flimsy driftwood bookcase.

"I agree, my lord," Evander says to Rysen with a tiny smile. "And though I am no playwright, I can certainly enjoy one. I look forward to yours and the lady's work." Quintin's introduction earns a similar bow, habitual in his etiquette. "Lord Ashford. Yes, Ian mentioned he'd been working with you on... sorting out a problem," he says, carefully. "I assume you know the Countess?" he glances at Mikani questioningly.

Reese drops an old traveling chest of gifts.

Rowenova gets What to Bring on Forest Adventure! from an old traveling chest of gifts.

Quintin gets What to Bring on Forest Adventure! from an old traveling chest of gifts.

Mikani takes What to Bring on Forest Adventure! from an old traveling chest of gifts.

Lou gets What to Bring on Forest Adventure! from an old traveling chest of gifts.

Azolla gets What to Bring on Forest Adventure! from an old traveling chest of gifts.

Evander takes What to Bring on Forest Adventure! from an old traveling chest of gifts.

Reese keeps talking, she can talk alot. "This is well sort of self evident. A packing guide for Forest adventures."

Cillian takes What to Bring on Forest Adventure! from an old traveling chest of gifts.

Mikani laughs, "I think I will need this coming up." She grins at Lou Grayson her Patron and head of the Explorers. "No I don't think I have the pleasure of knowing Lord Ashford." She smiles warmly at Quintin. "Pleasure to meet you." Mikani's voice is warm and calm like a summer breeze over the ocean.

Amari finds herself fully absorbed and amused by the questionnaire she ends up with, going down through the questions as she drifts on to stand closer to Rowenova. Barf parks himself alongside, heavily enough to sound a thud and vibrate the floor a little. "You didn't even say hello to Sir Flop." She scolds him softly.

Amari gets What to Bring on Forest Adventure! from an old traveling chest of gifts.

Reese drops low-budget wooden crate.

Rysen laughs, and nods to Isabetta. "Ready when you are," he says, smiling, and he cracks his knuckles.

When Evander speaks of the play Rysen smiles and glances at Azolla. "Lady Azolla has a fantastic story. I only hope my muse and I can do well by the material."

Mikani takes Bringers of the Forest from low-budget wooden crate.

Rysen gets What to Bring on Forest Adventure! from an old traveling chest of gifts.

Quintin gets Bringers of the Forest from low-budget wooden crate.

Evander takes Bringers of the Forest from low-budget wooden crate.

Amari gets Bringers of the Forest from low-budget wooden crate.

Azolla gets Bringers of the Forest from low-budget wooden crate.

Rowenova gets Bringers of the Forest from low-budget wooden crate.

Cillian takes Bringers of the Forest from low-budget wooden crate.

Reese gestures to the low-budget crate filled with books that is brought in. "This is the first real battle I was in before the siege of Silence. I got pretty hurt and was very frightened and well I wasn't such a great warrior back then. I came with Duke Cassius my cousin and then commander of Solace."

Rysen gets A Duel of Broken Courting from flimsy driftwood bookcase.

Azolla smiles warmly and say, "Any help or creative minds are welcome. I will be happy to meet with anyone interested in discussing my musical at a later date."

Rysen gets Bringers of the Forest from low-budget wooden crate.

Mikani sips more of her cider as she listens to all the conversations around her.

Reese smiles over to Azolla. "A musical sounds like a great idea. I hope you do such and I hope that I am able to see and well hear it." She says, looking joyful at the idea of such.

Reese drops a homely wooden chest.

Nova lifts her hands from those floppy ears on Sir Flop and lets him lift up, so that he and Barf might be able to socialize. Touching noses, of course. Meanwhile, Nova looks up through the eye sockets on the wolf pelt to Amari, "Would you like to sit with Cil and I?" She smoothly shifts, taking up some less space on the blue couch than she has been by facing forward rather than sprawling diagonal.

Mikani takes How to be Hoarder from a homely wooden chest.

Quintin gets How to be Hoarder from a homely wooden chest.

Reese has another chest brought in. "This is advice for anyone who wants to be a hoarder, which is a path I very much recommend."

Azolla gets How to be Hoarder from a homely wooden chest.

"I'm afraid I'm more of a watcher than a contributor. Unless you want some help researching some point of history or fable, my lady," Evander murmurs to Azolla with a tiny smile. Mikani's comment has him glancing at her curiously. "Are you planning a trip into the woods, Countess?"

Reese drops The Couch of One Hundred Squirrels.

Evander takes How to be Hoarder from a homely wooden chest.

Rowenova gets How to be Hoarder from a homely wooden chest.

Amari gets How to be Hoarder from a homely wooden chest.

Reese drops chained oak bookcase.

Rowenova gets Sir Blorange! from chained oak bookcase.

Rysen frowns a little when he picks up A Duel of Broken Courting. "A little too close to home," he mutters softly, but when Reese mention Duke Cassius, Rysen smiles. "I read an excellent book by Duke Cassius recently," he says, and then laughs when Reese advocates for hording.

Quintin seems amused by the title of the latest offering, skimming the instructions for how to be a hoarder quickly.

"Actually Lord Rysen and I could possibly use your help with that. I would love to discuss such research with you at another time," Azolla says to Evander

Quintin gets Sir Blorange! from chained oak bookcase.

Mikani smiles at Evander. "I'm part of the Society of Explorers and I just became Countess of Cedar Vale. I have some expeditions I need to do around the area to see what I am working with. As you know it's hard to do a thing without knowledge."

Cillian takes How to be Hoarder from a homely wooden chest.

Azolla gets Sir Blorange! from chained oak bookcase.

Amari gets Sir Blorange! from chained oak bookcase.

Evander takes Sir Blorange! from chained oak bookcase.

Cillian takes Sir Blorange! from chained oak bookcase.

Mikani takes Sir Blorange! from chained oak bookcase.

Reese looks over to chained bookcase that her poor overworked guard drags in. Another guard brings in a couch, proving that Reese really is a hoarder. "I tried to get that couch a long time for the Grayson mansion, but the voices wouldn't let it inside." She says, before adding. "This is silly poem I wrote a contest. I am not much of a poet, so be warned."

Reese looks over to Mikani. "Congrats Countess, Grayson is blessed to have you in our fealty and Marquis Malesh is very blessed too."

Mikani actually blushes. "Thank you. I try my hardest." Mika says before taking a sip of cider. "I'm actually looking to build a theater there. I was informed Cedar Vale is the wedding capital of Arvum. To me that speaks of needing entertainment options."

"Of course. I'd be happy to help you out, my lady," Evander murmurs to Azolla without hesitation, giving her a half-bow. Mikani's explanation earns a thoughtful nod. "Of course. I am not one for travel, but if I can assist, please do let me know. It must be quite overwhelming."

"Those are the last of my new books, for I got some of my older books and some extra copies of books that I didn't write, if people want those too. So just if you want some of them take them and well you might already have some. The first chest has books that I wrote about Lady Aislin, Lord Killian and the Gray Forest Missions."

"Just like a dragon." Amari says as she collects the instructional text on hoarding, but then there's Sir Blorange! to look over and she's soon smiling over that. "It is cute." She'll say in defense of Reese's work before she accepts Rowenova's invitation and settles in on the open couch cushion. She offers a polite nod to Cillian as she does, offering also a murmured, "Hello."

Amari has joined the a comfortable blue sofa with ivory pillows.

Reese drops a chest of books by Reese.

Rowenova gets a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - L-Z from a chest of books by Reese.

Evander takes The Final Moments of Lord Killian Ashford from a chest of books by Reese.

Quintin gets When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a chest of books by Reese.

Quintin gets The Final Moments of Lord Killian Ashford from a chest of books by Reese.

Rowenova gets When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a chest of books by Reese.

Azolla gets a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - A-K from a chest of books by Reese.

Evander takes When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a chest of books by Reese.

Quintin gets Paladin of Concepts Tales Bringers at the Badger from a chest of books by Reese.

Amari gets When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a chest of books by Reese.

Rowenova gets Paladin of Concepts Tales Bringers at the Badger from a chest of books by Reese.

Evander takes a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - A-K from a chest of books by Reese.

Quintin gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Silence at a Wedding from a chest of books by Reese.

Rowenova gets Paladin of Concepts Tales Bringers at the Badger from a chest of books by Reese.

Evander takes Paladin of Concepts Tales - Silence at a Wedding from a chest of books by Reese.

Amari gets Paladin of Concepts Tales Bringers at the Badger from a chest of books by Reese.

Azolla gets a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - A-K from a chest of books by Reese.

Rowenova gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Silence at a Wedding from a chest of books by Reese.

Evander takes Paladin of Concepts Tales Bringers at the Badger from a chest of books by Reese.

Amari gets a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - A-K from a chest of books by Reese.

Rowenova gets The Final Moments of Lord Killian Ashford from a chest of books by Reese.

Evander takes a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - L-Z from a chest of books by Reese.

Rysen nods to Azolla. "I'll help any way I can, My Lady." Laughs when Amari mentions hording like a dragon. "That makes the practice sound far more interesting. Dame Judyth always called me a pack rat when I held on to too many things." Rysen takes another sip of ale and makes his way over to Braden and smiles. "I missed you come in, My Lord. Do you keep a collection of books yourself, if I may ask?"

Evander takes Gray Mission Awards Ceremony Program from a chest of books by Reese.

Cillian takes The Final Moments of Lord Killian Ashford from a chest of books by Reese.

Amari gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Silence at a Wedding from a chest of books by Reese.

Rysen gets Paladin of Concepts Tales Bringers at the Badger from a chest of books by Reese.

Rysen gets The Final Moments of Lord Killian Ashford from a chest of books by Reese.

Cillian takes a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - A-K from a chest of books by Reese.

Rysen gets When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a chest of books by Reese.

Rowenova gets a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - A-K from a chest of books by Reese.

Cillian takes Paladin of Concepts Tales Bringers at the Badger from a chest of books by Reese.

Reese drops a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Cillian takes When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a chest of books by Reese.

Quintin gets IG and the Periwinkle Blue Caravan from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Quintin gets The Wolves of Alexandri from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Amari gets The Final Moments of Lord Killian Ashford from a chest of books by Reese.

Quintin gets Scouting Caves - Lodge Battle 1010 from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Mikani takes a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - L-Z from a chest of books by Reese.

Reese adds a moment later. "And this has some various older books that I wrote and have." She says, watching as many take books on Aislin and Killian. "They will be missed, the Ashfords." Reese says softly, glancing over to Lou for a moment at that.

Evander gets The Wolves of Alexandri from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Cillian takes Scouting Caves - Lodge Battle 1010 from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Evander gets IG and the Periwinkle Blue Caravan from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Rowenova gets The Wolves of Alexandri from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Amari gets IG and the Periwinkle Blue Caravan from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Azolla drops a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - A-K.

Rowenova gets Scouting Caves - Lodge Battle 1010 from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Evander gets Scouting Caves - Lodge Battle 1010 from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Amari gets The Wolves of Alexandri from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Rowenova gets IG and the Periwinkle Blue Caravan from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Mikani takes a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - A-K.

Amari gets Scouting Caves - Lodge Battle 1010 from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Cillian takes IG and the Periwinkle Blue Caravan from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Evander gets Awards Program - Spring War - 1008 from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Azolla gets Scouting Caves - Lodge Battle 1010 from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Rowenova gets Awards Program - Spring War - 1008 from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Quintin looks up and over at Reese at the mention of Ashfords, tilting his head to the side.

Azolla gets IG and the Periwinkle Blue Caravan from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Azolla gets Awards Program - Spring War - 1008 from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Azolla gets The Wolves of Alexandri from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Reese has a gentle smile for Quintin that touches her blue eyes and is just a bit somber. "Ashfords, amazing family." She says to the Lord of the Ashford.

Mikani takes Gray Mission Awards Ceremony Program from a chest of books by Reese.

Mikani takes Scouting Caves - Lodge Battle 1010 from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Mikani takes IG and the Periwinkle Blue Caravan from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Reese drops a commonplace wood chest.

Braden looks like he forgot something after looking around the room. "Princess Reese, I must run, thank you for inviting me." He bows to Reese before he heads out.

"I have had the pleasure of reading some of Aislin Ashford's work. It is very thorough and exceptionally interesting," which seems to be a form of high praise from Evander.

Azolla gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Silence at a Wedding from a chest of books by Reese.

Rowenova gets Part One Battle for Crovane - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Rowenova gets War of Spring 1008 - Support Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Rowenova gets Those Lost to the Dark Sea - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Azolla gets a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - L-Z from a chest of books by Reese.

Evander takes Part One Battle for Crovane - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Quintin tips his chin in Evander's direction. "I keep a set of her books. I admire my cousin greatly." Current tense, not past.

Rowenova gets The Lost - Spring Battle 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Evander takes Crovane Battle - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Rowenova gets Setarco Naval Battle - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Rysen gets Part One Battle for Crovane - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Evander takes Setarco Naval Battle - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Cillian takes Spring War 1008 - Compact Support from a commonplace wood chest.

Quintin gets War of Spring 1008 - Support Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Evander takes Battle for Setarco - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Rowenova gets United Fleet of Compact - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Azolla gets Gray Mission Awards Ceremony Program from a chest of books by Reese.

Quintin gets Spring War 1008 - Compact Support from a commonplace wood chest.

Rysen gets Setarco Naval Battle - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Cillian takes War of Spring 1008 - Support Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Evander takes Spring War 1008 - Compact Support from a commonplace wood chest.

Rowenova gets Spring War 1008 - Compact Support from a commonplace wood chest.

Reese adds as yet another chest is carried in. "This is the account of the Gyre war that I wrote. There are lots of books that are part of the long and pretty dry account. It is more a record of who was where than anything. It includes stories of all those we lost in the battle as well, including Lord Estaban."

Amari gets Setarco Naval Battle - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Quintin gets Crovane Battle - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Evander takes Those Lost to the Dark Sea - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Amari gets Spring War 1008 - Compact Support from a commonplace wood chest.

Cillian takes Special Strike Forces - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Quintin gets War of Spring 1008 - Support Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Evander takes The Lost - Spring Battle 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Amari gets Crovane Battle - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Azolla gets Those Lost to the Dark Sea - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Quintin gets Special Strike Forces - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Amari gets Special Strike Forces - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Rowenova gets Special Strike Forces - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Quintin gets The Lost - Spring Battle 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Azolla gets Special Strike Forces - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Evander takes United Fleet of Compact - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Cillian takes The Lost - Spring Battle 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Quintin gets United Fleet of Compact - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Amari gets Part One Battle for Crovane - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Quintin gets Those Lost to the Dark Sea - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Amari gets United Fleet of Compact - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Cillian takes Those Lost to the Dark Sea - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Amari gets The Lost - Spring Battle 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Rysen gets Crovane Battle - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Azolla gets War of Spring 1008 - Support Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Cillian takes Setarco Naval Battle - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Quintin gets Battle for Setarco - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Cillian takes Part One Battle for Crovane - Grayson from a commonplace wood chest.

Azolla gets Battle for Setarco - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Azolla gets United Fleet of Compact - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Reese adds. "There is just one more and this one is just random books that are extra that I had laying about. They are not by myself. No books have been copied with permission from authors and the like." She adds, before going to take a seat. She looks over at the squirril couch and then chooses another seat.

Reese has joined the a green sofa by the window.

Reese drops a cheap crate.

Rowenova gets Charity Chain Correspondence from a cheap crate.

Rowenova gets On Glorious Waves of Desire from a cheap crate.

Quintin gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 1 from a cheap crate.

Rowenova gets Basics of Swordspersonship from a cheap crate.

Quintin gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 2 from a cheap crate.

Mikani takes The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 1 from a cheap crate.

Azolla gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 2 from a cheap crate.

Rowenova gets Scholar Oswyn's Guide to Research from a cheap crate.

Mikani takes The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 2 from a cheap crate.

Rowenova gets Illustrated Birds of Arvum from a cheap crate.

Rowenova gets Lady Avrenna's Guide to Manners from a cheap crate.

Evander gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 2 from a cheap crate.

Mikani takes Little Lora The Swimming Fish from a cheap crate.

Evander gets Scholar Oswyn's Guide to Research from a cheap crate.

Azolla gets A Grim Alliance - A Fictional Romance by Savessa Sortelli from a cheap crate.

Rowenova gets Archscholar Jon's Compendium on Leaves from a cheap crate.

Rowenova gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 1 from a cheap crate.

Mikani takes The Lay of Princess Ribbons and the Silent War from a cheap crate.

Evander gets The Lay of Princess Ribbons and the Silent War from a cheap crate.

Rowenova gets The Lay of Princess Ribbons and the Silent War from a cheap crate.

Evander gets Benedetta Fazio's Guide to Economics from a cheap crate.

Rowenova gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 1 from a cheap crate.

Azolla gets The Lay of Princess Ribbons and the Silent War from a cheap crate.

Rysen gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 1 from a cheap crate.

Rysen gets The Lay of Princess Ribbons and the Silent War from a cheap crate.

Mikani moves to a quiet side of the room to get a cookie.

Reese curls up on the green sofa. "So that is all the books and thank you all for coming. If Lady Azolla and Lord Rysen want to sing for us now? That would be wonderful." She says.

Quintin definitely requires a refill on his cider, and goes to fetch one for himself. Mikani's cookie looks good, and so he sidles over to claim one for himself. Okay, two. He takes two.

"Thank you, Princess Reese!" Amari says over the stack of books in her lap. Now she's hoarding like a dragon! "Oh, and please do sing." She encourages, looking to Azolla and Rysen with interest.

Rysen checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 26 higher.

"I was only awaiting your word," Azolla says gently and offers Rysen a nod before making her way to a place all can watch her an Rysen perform the song they prepared

Azolla checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 47 higher.

Rysen nods to Reese and glances at Lygeia who steps to his side and hands him a blackwood lyre, as Rysen hands her his ale. Rysen then walks over to stand beside Azolla, and his fingers begin to glide over the strings of the lyre, producing a wondrous melody to accompany the voice of the Lark of Stonedeep.

Mikani leans back against a wall to listen.

Evander looks far too skinny to be able to carry all those books himself. Fortunely that's why his more stout assistant is here, the Kennex Lord handing him one after another books, looking content. "Very generous of you, Princess Reese. This will keep me covered for... a week. Maybe two," he concedes, with a tiny smile, before his attention turns to the singers.

Amari is overheard praising Reese: So. Many. Books.

Rowenova gets Battle for Setarco - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Rowenova gets Battle for Setarco - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Rowenova gets Crovane Battle - Spring 1008 from a commonplace wood chest.

Evander is overheard praising Reese: All the books.

Quintin settles in on the leather couch with his loot - books, cider, and cookies - and watches Rysen and Azolla attentively.

Rowenova puts Battle for Setarco - Spring 1008 in a commonplace wood chest.

Cillian is overheard praising Reese: All the awesome books!

Reese looks over to Evander. "Well, if it is not enough, I got over five hundred unique titles upstairs in library which I allow people to come and visit if they want. I have some hard to find books too, like Lady Aislin's work on Elves."

For a moment, Evander's silent after Reese's offer, and then he exhales slowly. "I would love that, Princess Reese. I'd been hoping to secure copies of Lady Aislin's work. I shall make sure to come by when I have time." He gives her a deep bow.

At Reese's mention of Lady Aislin's work on Elves, Amari lifts her eyebrows and sends a look to the Ashford on the leather couch not far distant, "Aislin's work on Elves? I'm sure Lord Quintin would be most interested in that, I'd love to read it too. I found one of her books about gryphons once and enjoyed it quite a bit." She could probably go on, but stops herself, so she can listen to the performance and not too rudely talk over the entire thing.

"The History of the Elven War, or others?" Quintin asks. Amari was correct. Eyebrows arching, he glances between Reese and Evander. Then he shuts his pie-hole for the performance.

Mikani has joined the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

Willen leaves, following Lou.

Azolla smiles warmly at Rysen as his fingers begin to glide over the strings of his lyre and is is not long before her hauntingly beautiful voice joins the notes and melody. Azolla sings,

A child wondered sadly,
While sitting by the lake
With her friends there listening
What became of all the stray

Blossoms to the winds there cast
By trees upon the wind,
So bright with lively colors
Of blues and pinks and greens!

Poor tree! The child shouted,
And all her friends agreed,
But sighed the tree then back to her,
My child do not grieve,

For the Rainbowmaker gathers up
These blossoms cast unto the sky,
And no sooner had the tree there spoke,
Than th' Rainbowmaker caught their eye.

Her dress was white as driven snow.
Her hair of palest gold.
A smile flickered 'round her mouth,
But from her eyes warm tears did flow,

And she gathered up the blossoms
Full in her apron white,
But turned her weepy, smiling gaze
Not to the left nor to the right,

And danced she by the children,
To the lake's farthest, farthest side.
She climbed upon the highest hill
To the cloud where she resides.

Then the children gasped in wonder
As the rainbowmaker's tears
Shown among the sunlight
And an arch of color did appear

In all the hues of gathered blossoms,
And flowers near the lake;
The rainbowmaker wept with joy
As colors graced the falling rain,

And the children danced with happiness
That all the blooms and blossoms nigh
Would by the rainbowmaker soon
Give color to the sky!

Reese looks over to Amari. "Oh, I only wish I had her book on gryphons, but I don't. I have her history of elves though." She says. "Then I have the full collection of books by Gisele."

Azolla's voice fades to silence as she finishes the words of the song and she lets them settle over the audience given Rysen a soft smile

Mikani checked composure + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 6 lower.

Reese is overheard praising Azolla: Lovely singing!

Reese is overheard praising Rysen: Lovely music!

Mikani silently stands and slips out of the tower.

Mikani has left the cozy seating by a stone fireplace.

1 Redoubt Buccaneers, Damien Pierce - A Charming Assistant, 1 Redreef Warden, Vagari - Cinder Kitten, 1 Obsidian Order, 4 Byrne Mountain Men leave, following Mikani.

Quintin leans back in his seat, blinking. "Huh," he says softly, kind of amazed. He sets his cider down - the cookies are long gone - and begins to applaud.

Reese seems enchanted by the song. She listens to Azolla and Rysen, seemingly focused. The girl even stopped talking about books for a bit. "That was very lovely, thank you."

Evander is overheard praising Azolla.

Rysen closes his eyes briefly as he plays his lyre, but as Azolla sings, he opens them, and finds himself lost in the beauty of her song as he plays. Rysen's fingers slow, and the melody fades, and he beams at Azolla. "Very well sung, My Lady." Turning to Reese, Rysen says, "Thank you for the opportunity to perform, Your Highness," he says softly.

Evander is overheard praising Rysen.

Evander is exceptionally quiet while the performance goes on, his gaze flickering between Rysen and Azolla in equal measures. When it's finished, it takes a moment for him to stir to movement, though he claps as appreciatively as anyone. "Well done," he murmurs, with a nod to the pair.

Reese is curled-up on the green sofa and she has cider now. There are chests all about the tower too. "Thank you for singing. You made the gathering more real. I am sometimes very much caught up in the past and memories and well you remind that the present is still her too."

"That song is based on a book Lady Azolla and I found here in Princess Reese's library," says Rysen, smiling warmly at the memory of scouring Reese's countless books with Azolla some time before. "It's from the children's section on the second floor, and I believe it's called 'The Rainbowmaker.'" Turning to Reese, Rysen says, "Thanks again for keeping your library open to us, Your Highness. I've learned a lot, and spent many happy hours on the second floor of your tower."

Evander murmurs quietly, "A child's wonder, and way of looking at the world, is uniquely beautiful."

"Lord Rysen is telling the truth he and I used a book from your very library Princess as inspiration," Azolla shares the same sort of smile as Rysen at the memory of the time they spent hunting down inspiration together.

Amari offers a soft round of applause for the singer and lyre player both, looking quite impressed. Barf makes a gruffy sound, more akin to a sneeze than anything.

Vagari - Cinder Kitten arrives, delivering a message to Rysen before departing.

Reese looks to Rysen and Azolla, giving them a smile. "Oh, I am glad that my library was helpful. I didn't realize." She says toward them. "If I held another book party and made more books, what sort of books would you like to see? I am writing more accounts of battles of course. So many battles to write about."

Quintin stretches his right leg out in front of him and collects his cider again for a long sip, pensive. There's no immediate answer to Reese's question.

"I like the personal accounts of people's experiences. So many different views of the same battles," Evander muses, thoughtfully. Reese's question however has him considering for a long moment. "I have a personal interest in the elves, but I don't know how much you know to write a book about it, Your Highness," he says. "There's plenty of things in history that could be useful analogies for today, though."

Quintin nods to Evander and says, "I do enjoy tactical accounts of battles. It's good to know what people have thought of before, or might do again."

Rysen glances at Reese at the mention of books he'd like to see, and he smiles slightly. "I still hold the dream of writing my epic, Your Highness. I came across a book recently detailing the autopsy of a bringer, and it reminded me that I must with you again about your own adventures and deeds whenever you have the time."

Vagari - Cinder Kitten arrives, delivering a message to Rysen before departing.

Reese looks over to Evander, nodding in response to him. "I like to think that by recording my experiences in battle and the like, I am leaving behind a record that might be useful to people in later battles. Even if my viewpoint is just my own, it is better than nothing and it would be a place to start for someone." She sys softly. "I want to write all my allies who have passed to. I started to with Prince Barric, but I want to write about the others too. Not just about their deaths, but the lives too, their over all story. Lord Estaban, Lord Killian, Lady Aislin, Lady Titania and well others who I used to know. I don't know everything or even most about them, but at last it would be something."

"I think Erik would be the one to offer more insight on books but I do so love when he tells me stories," Azolla says gently, moving to find a place to comfortably settle in now the the song is over

"It is comforting. I found a paper detailing one of our former Marquis Ford's explorations. I didn't know my cousin that well, but it gave me some insight into him," Evander replies, nodding towards Quintin and then to Reese's musing. "I don't know half of what he did or said or thought. That seems... a great loss."

Rysen hands his lyre back to Lygeia and accepts his mug of ale. He smiles when Azolla speaks of Erik and finishes his drink, setting it down nearby. "Thank you very much for the books and the hospitality, Your Highness," he says. "I must be on my way." He bows, and with a nod to Lygeia, the pair make their way out of the Ivy Covered Watchtower laden with books.

Reese looks over to Evander. "I knew Marquis Ford, but not well enough to write about him. He was an interesting man and one with a lot of controversy about him. He was pretty much the first one to free thralls though. At one point after his divorce he was gently hinting at marrying me, but I am not really the type to marry." She says and her cheeks are pink that. Reese then looks over to Rysen. "Oh, take care and thanks for coming."

Lygeia, a calligrapher and alchemist leaves, following Rysen.

Cillian gets up, "Your highness, I thank you for this." he says getting up from the sofa with Nova looking to Reese.

Reese looks over to Cillian, giving him a smile. "Oh, no problem and thanks for coming Master Cillian." She says. Reese is curled-up on the green sofa and has a mug of cider cradled in her gloved hands.

Evander gives a brief nod, a tiny smile appearing. "We have only just finished paying off our debts. It was... a long road, from what I understand. Thrax as a whole has an even longer one ahead of it," he murmurs. Reese's confession about her near-marriage earns a lift of brows in surprise. After a moment, he clears his throat, "Your Highness, would you mind if I took another copy of some of the books for a friend? The Lady Peri I'm sure would dearly love to read your works."

Though the eye sockets of the wolf pelt, Nova looks up from a quiet talk which has been going on with Amari and Cillian at the blue couch. She up nods after what Cillian says. "Aye, thank you very much." She definitely has fat stacks built up around her from floor to the armrest level on the blue couch. Then, she reaches over and quickly ruffles Sir Floppers' loose hound dog back.

Quintin finishes his cider and stands, reaching up to stretch his arms over his head. "Woof. Well, that was an excellent song, and thank you so much for the books, Princess. That's very generous of you. My bookcases needed such fortifications. Good evening to you all." The otherwise stern-countenanced Ashford offers a smile and hefts his backpack, which is laden with books, which are heavy. Oof.

Giuliano isn't here one moment, then the next he is. If the Pravosi lord wasn't covered in snow, one might believe he simply spontaneously appeared. However, he's shaking off both cloak and hair from quite the accumulation, stomping off white crystals just inside the door. He smiles at Reese, then takes a seat on an arm of the sofa. "Well, I made it after all. Perhaps not quite on time, but here nonetheless." Looking over a whole bunch of people he doesn't know, the swordsman bows and introduces himself in a deep voice like aural velvet. "Lord Giuliano Pravus."

Reesee looks over to Evander. "Oh, go ahead. I was probably going to give her copies anyways, but feel free to collect them for her." She says, before smiling to Rowenova. 'Thanks for coming." She then turns to Giuliano. "Thanks for coming. I am glad you did come. Do you like books?" She asks of him.

Cillian has left the a comfortable blue sofa with ivory pillows.

Azolla has fallen oddly quiet seeming a bit at a loss of words, maybe she just gets overwhelmed after a while in crowded places. But there is still a gentle warm smile on her face.

"It is the least I can do, after her kindness in doing the same for me," Evander murmurs to Reese with a tiny smile, glancing towards his assistant, who is the one who will actually do the collecting. The Pravus Lord's arrival earns a bow from Evander. "My lord. Lord Evander Kennex," he introduces himself in turn. "Is it still snowing heavily outside?" he asks, gaze flickering over his snow-dusted cloak with a thinning of lips.

1 Crimson Blades Sergeant, 1 Crimson Blades Lieutenant, 1 Crimson Blades Private leave, following Cillian.