(OOC)The scene set/room mood is now set to: The highest point in the Golden Hart has been neatly set and arranged for a laissez faire breakfast with a table set in the centre containing the foods, several bottles of wine along with water jugs. Across the railings, new velvet drapes have been across and each embellished with a highly detailed and exquisite hawk in rampant position. Wings spread and outlined in a fine golden thread with the rest painstakingly sewn through with an off-yellow.

The circular table in the centre has the menu upon it with a stack of plates beside, along with the appropriate tools to gather the food, and cutlery. In brief, a spread of cured meats and cheeses along with small nibbles of fruit and freshly baked bread all are set upon this table. Tiny pastries, and a salad as well for the appearance of any Ashfords.

The fragrance of fresh bread and roaring fire from the Golden Hart's brazier coats the room in a lush sent of warm welcome, relaxation and home cooking.

(OOC)The scene set/room mood is now set to: The highest point in the Golden Hart has been neatly set and arranged for a laissez faire breakfast with a table set in the centre containing the foods, several bottles of wine along with water jugs. Across the railings, new velvet drapes have been across and each embellished with a highly detailed and exquisite hawk in rampant position. Wings spread and outlined in a fine golden thread with the rest painstakingly sewn through with an off-yellow.

The circular table in the centre has the menu upon it with a stack of plates beside, along with the appropriate tools to gather the food, and cutlery. In brief, a spread of cured meats and cheeses along with small nibbles of fruit and freshly baked bread all are set upon this table. Tiny pastries, and a salad as well for the appearance of any Ashfords.

The fragrance of fresh bread and roaring fire from the Golden Hart's brazier coats the room in a lush sent of warm welcome, relaxation and home cooking.

Alena Sparks, unamused first mate, Silk, the Seafaring Spider arrive, following Evaristo.

Brenlin, Aide-de-Camp have been dismissed.

2 Rubino and Zaffria guards have been dismissed.

Jewel, a Maelstrom Forest Cat have been dismissed.

"Oh thank you for coming! Truly... thank you... please... do take some of our small pastries or the warm breads along with the cured meats. A glass of the red, do not worry if you are working later there is watered red as well." The Lord Martino Malvici, party host, is stood beside the doorway greeting guests with a both of his head, a crease of his eyes. Each one, special. For now...

Finn the youthful northern puppy arrives, following Thea.

Thea arrives, following Domonico.

Miranda arrives atop the roof to hear Martino blaspheme the wine. "Watered red?!" she exclaims in horror. "Lord Martino, say it isn't so! It's hardly worthy of a Lycene Lord, let alone a Malvici Voice to declare the -red- watered down. Are we starting this party on the wrong foot then? Next, you'll excuse the birds pooping on all the food as part of the party favors!" Yes. A bit over-the-top, but she heads to Martino to kiss his cheek none the less. "Hello, Cousin," she says to him fondly.

"Wait, what, bird poop?" asks Lord Quintin Asford as he arrives at the terrace. A quick glance around, and a smile for Martino. "Thank you for having us, Lord Martino. Always good to see you." And then the young Ashford lord is drifting toward the food, because he kind of always does.

Miranda is overheard praising Martino: Fabulous party, of course!

Looking curious, Helena emerges from the stairs up and up and up to the roof, glancing over the table full of food and smiling at Martino's warm welcome. "It looks lovely," says the Redrain princess. "And hardly dangerous, as I thought it might be. So many Lycene parties are," she says lightly, blue eyes sparkling. "It's lovely to see you all," she says to those present.

Domonico enters with his sister Thea. While she is dressed in fine Southportian style toga, he is attired, as always, as if he is about to go into battle. His armour does seem rather well polished though so that's something. Both are armed... but what else can be expected of Malvicis? The stern Admiral sweeps his gaze around before he hmmms softly, "I've never been up here... It looks... stunning..." He then spies his brother and approaches him, arm extended for a warrior's forearm grip in greeting. "Well done brother for this."

Sombra, the subtle arrives, following Edward.

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

Evaristo looks like he's been up all night as he enters, closely after Helena. "Good morning, Lord Martino, what an amazing idea and I've been up ALL night just to be able to come here for breakfast," he says cheerfully. He bows deeply to him and to the other lords and ladies. "Your highness, lords and ladies," he says gallantly.

Martino exhales for a moment to Miranda before returning the peck upon her opposite cheek, "As well as. There is purest red as well. Purest red. Some people may return to their duties and a staggering Lord before lunch is not a scene I hope to be the cause of." A crease of his eyes follow after to Lord Quintin Ashford, "Ah, Lord Quintin. Quite alright and thank you for coming - I ensured that the cooks here in the Golden Hart would see to something for your particulars." Martino murmurs about the salad having extra carrots! Extra! The returned handshake to Domonico, a pleased smile down to his sister as he says, "Oh Thea, dear sister. Lovely to see you in the fine toga for a change. Took effort to see that here. And, brother. Truly I was here a while ago with Princess Valenica. Beautiful view to drink wine and gaze over."

Now-and-then greetings guests, the corners of his eyes creasing as he waves people in to mingle.

"This is usually where someone makes a poison joke," Quintin asides to Helena with a quick, amiable grin that makes him seem far less stern. "Lady Miranda, Lord Domonico, Lady Thea, hello. Ooh, carrots." The Ashford is loading a plate with bread presently. A nod to Evaristo. "Captain. I've joined the disciplehood."

Thea steps in with her brother Domonico, a slight smirk at Martino,"I have been known, brother dear, to wear something other than my leathers. This I assure you, took no effort on my part--simply change today,"her eyes however still show coyness mixed with mischief."It does look nice in here and I -am- hungry." She bows her head in greeting to everyone, polite as always,"Hello."

Mabelle travels into the roof accommpanied by Edward. She has a huge smile as she sees so many of her friends gathered around and intially greets the host and family, "Lord Martino, Lord Domonico, Lady Thea, Good afternoon" She spies her other friends and grins, "Princess Helena, been so long", she winks to her "Lady Alessia, Lady Rubino, Lord Ashford". She's not familiar of Evaristo but smiles to him anyway, "Such lovely gathering!"

2 House Mazetti Aspirants have been dismissed.

Miranda smiles at Quintin, "My lord, it's good to see you." She spies Quintin's interest in the extra carrots and the salad, apparently, and inquires, "Do you prefer salads and... carrots, then, to meat, my lord? I didn't know that about the Ashfords, if that's a Familial thing, or is it just a personal preference?" A look to Evaristo, "Oh, I think we've met some time ago.. perhaps. I'm Lady Miranda Rubino." And to Quintin, "Congratulations."

Helena grins at Quintin. "Usually. I came in second at the Taste of Arx poison spotting contest, though, so hopefully I'll be fine," she asides, a grin for the Malvicis, a little at their expense, but it's all in good humor. "Captain Mockingbird," she says lightly to Evaristo, a small nod at her bow, smile bright. "Did you? Congratulations. I have much respect for the Harlequins," she tells her fellow scholar. To Mabelle she grins as well. "So very long." Like ten minutes long.

Evaristo gives Helena a very distracted look for some reason and walks straight into one of the plants, almost knocking it over in his distraction. "Oops," he says and looks around to see if anyone noticed - not that he'd be awfully ashamed if someone did. "Captain Evaristo Arterius, Harlequin and Voice of the bard's college," he introduces himself loudly, bowing once more. "Lord Quintin, you did?!" He looks quite chuffed, grinning widely at his now fellow Harlequin. "That deserves a proper party at some time in the near future, don't you think?"

"Ah Captain Evaristo. Been quite some time seeing you. Please... if you have been starving yourself I insist you load upon three slices of the sliced, smoked sausage and an extra glass of the red afterwards." Martino pours attention upon Evaristo before flaking aside to Mabelle as she enters with Edward, "Ah Lady Mabelle and Baron Edward! Such goodness to see you. Truly. Have you been out to the balcony to see the view?"

Still attentive, still greeting, bowing his head and shaking hands now-and-then. Martino's eyes crease without a hint of exhaustion.

Domonico moves towards to wines, greeting people on route. "Lady Mabelle, Princess Helena. How strange to see you so soon after we parted." He then notes Miranda and approaches her, "Dearest cousin. How are you this fine day?"

Well in typical Thrax manner, Edward is not dressed as lovely as the Lady Laurent he is escorting is. Instead dressed either for something rather informal or just this is the nicest clothing sailors have. He smiles to those that Mabelle greets and inclines his head, specifically though he says to Martino, "Lord Martino, a pleasure to meet you. It is nice to visit among you and your esteemed House once again."

Oh look! A party where she knows people! That, or she's getting better about faking it! Miranda is momentarily distracted by all the people waving and greeting her and she returns all the greetings with warmth. Domonico is greeted with a warm smile, kiss to his cheek, "Cousin. Your brother's outdone himself! Of course, any party where you start with watering the red is surely to go downhill from there..." She teases, glancing towards the elder Malvici brother, then back to Domonico, mischief in her eyes, "... but I'm sure Thea and I can help steer this party into a proper celebration, hmm?" A glance towards Thea, "Yes?"

Mabelle winks afar to both Helena and Domonico, "Must be faith". Overhearing Evaristo, she asks him, "The Bard college? You have a poetry event tonight, do you not?", She hears Martino and wonders, "View?" as she steps closer to the edge of the roof.

"Oh, no," Quintin tells Miranda. "I quite like meat as well. Hello, Lady Mabelle!" So many people. So hard to keep track of conversation. He tries, nonetheless. A quick smile for Helena. "Thank you. And stick by me, if you're good at spotting poison." Evaristo earns a quick thumbs-up of approval. Party! Maybe with salad, depending on how far this rumour spreads.

Mabelle has joined the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Alessia Mazetti arrives a little later than most, casting her eyes to gaze at the view, before offering her fellow guests, as well as the host, a warm smile. "Good morning, all." She rests a hand on Martino's arm in greeting. "Thank you for hosting this. I'm keen to try the wares."

"I am absolutely starved," Evaristo agrees with Martino, rubbing his hands and near drooling at the talk of that food. He wanders around and nods amicably at familiar and unfamiliar people, but stops and talks to Mabelle with a vigorous nod. "Mockingbird of the Bard's College. Current LARGE project is the Festival of Death - but I shall not spoil things too much, the events will start coming up over summer," he promises. "I can not, unfortunately, attend the poetry event tonight," he says apologetically and a bit wistfully. "Besides, I'm not much of a poet. I'm much better at singing other people's work," he admits with a grin.

3 Tyde Houseguard, 2 Redwood Initiates arrive, following Lethe.

Thea steps over to grab some -not- watered down wine because--no. She was raised better than that! Hearing Miranda she dips her chin just so, the gold flecks in her green eyes bright,"Of course. I hear Martino likes paint theses days." Thea notices there are more people that have come in and bows her head, helping her brother greet them,"Good morning."

There is a pleased exclamation from Domonico as he finds a bottle that he was looking for, "Ah... you brought Southport Spiced Red! It's like you knew that it would draw me to this event brother." He begins pouring out a few goblets of it, "Anyone else want some of the finest drink from the City of Swords?"

Evaristo has joined the dance floor.

Evaristo has left the dance floor.

Evaristo has joined the cozy vine-covered pergola.

"Oh good morning Lady Alessia Mazetti... my! Not since Lady Mabelle's party, was it?" Martino utters hushed with the Lady Mazetti as he comments, "Truly pleasure to have you here." Fingertips of his, resting on fingertips of hers. After Martino begins to turn from the entrance as it seems most guests have entered, a smooth step follows as he tisks to Quintin, "What is this of poisons? Lord Ashford, I assure you, when it comes to House Malvici we would not leave it to the chance of you being able to detect it... or it succeeding." A jovial tone, still in Martino's voice, as he jokes. Mostly.

Helena has joined the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Edward has joined the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Mabelle wiggles her fingers to Miranda and Thea, she calls out to Quintin, "Hello Lord Ashform. Did I mention I recently met your uncle?". She laments to Evaristo, "I cannot attend either albeit it is held by a friend". She gesture to a couple stewards and some trays are brought over to the Pergola and she collects a wine glass

Leaving Martino to greet the others Edward stays with Mabelle. He smiles and for now just remains the quiet escort while she takes her glass of wine. He stares at the glasses for a moment, given the talk of poison, and then he shrugs and takes one of his own to sip.

Helena lifts her brows at the mention of a poetry event. "Oh? That's lovely to hear! The next reading I host will be actually be a part of the Festival, I think," she says with a fond smile over at Evaristo. "And you are quite capable of writing poetry yourself, Captain. It's not like you to be modest," she says with a smile. To Quintin she grins. "Surely. I'll tell you all the signs... it's just a matter of being perceptive... but I think you are that, Lord Quintin."

Miranda chuckles at Thea, "Paint, is it?" She eyes Martino, "Suppose Lady Kaia wouldn't mind a few changes in color, hmm?" Oh Gods above, what're they chatting on about now?? Miranda accepts a glass from Domonico before looking over the food. A quick grin to Mabelle, "You're one who likes to play, isn't that so, Lady Mabelle? Perhaps, Thea, yourself, and I ought to put our heads together and find something to entertain us." She selects some bread and meats and things, considers the salad rather... lengthily. But she moves on.

Lethe arrives to the party with a curious expression. She looks around with a smile for those she knows and goes to grab a glass of wine.

Quintin has filled his place with bread, cured meats, cheeses, fruit, pastries, and a small amount of salad. A little of everything, really. He opts for a glass of red wine while he's at it. A sidelong look at Martino, accompanied by a bit of a smile. "I'm sure I'd be dead on the floor if you really wanted me to be, yes!" And to Mabelle, "Do you mean Pharamond? I'm not sure he counts as my actual uncle. I'm something of a more distant relation to the other Ashfords in Arx. Was he charming?" Another quick smile to Helena when she compliments him. He brings his plate toward the pergola, tipping his chin in a greeting to Lethe as he goes.

Quintin has joined the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Alessia raises a brow in thought, shaking her head, giving Martino an apologetic smile. "Has it been that long? I'm terribly sorry." Her eyes drift the lady Mabelle. "I thank you again for that memorable event, my lady."

Mabelle smiles appreciatively to Edward, thanking him quietly as he tastes her wine. She eyes Miranda with a grin and notes to her "Challenge accepted! I'm game!", with a wink for Thea, "Get ready though, there is another contest in a few weeks, you better come ready!". To Quintin she notes, "As charming as a man can be when stabbed with a needle. He's a nice man", she grins at him. Her gaze land on Alessia, "Oh Lady Mazetti! Brace yourself. The next one is in two weeks!"

"Thea. Lady... Thea." A click of Martino's tongue, sharp to his sister Lady Thea once again as she teases afar, "Must you always." A faint sigh before he brings himself to the table, "Yes, let us start on the first red here. So this has been wine mixed with sugar and spices, a lot of cinnamon, and steeped for twenty-four hours. Before being drained through a cloth bag and heated through."

Martino lifts the decantered wine, a warm air escapes from the top as he asks, "A pour for anyone?"

Miranda has joined the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Alessia has joined the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Miranda takes her food, her spiced red, and herself to the pergola and joins the throng mingling there. She settles her plate on her lap and sips at her wine. She seems... amused, really, at the moment. Perhaps she's a morning person!

Domonico moves towards Martino and smiles, "I will this one then brother. Whatever I may say about your martial skills... I am always impressed by your choices of wines."

Lethe has joined the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Mabelle bets, "We are all going to topple off the roof together, if anything"

"Of course," says Helena at the offering of the special house wine. "That sounds lovely." She gestures to the food. "Is this typical for a morning, or is it a special occasion sort of breakfast? I'm just curious, not knowing much of your house," the Redrain says. "I love to learn about the different foods and traditions of each part of the Compact. We are so lucky to be able to share with one another here in the city without having to travel -- not that traveling to your lovely holdings would be too hard to bear."

"Probably the least objectionable thing he's been stabbed with," Quintin tells Mabelle, right before biting into some bread and chewing enthusiastically. Spying an unfamiliar face, his stern countenance is dispelled with a quick smile in Alessia's direction.

Thea shows her glass of spiced red to Domonico, a bit smug for once this once,"I already beat you I'm afraid,"while lifting her eyebrow at Martino, coy in her response,"Why brother--I do not know what you mean--"We all know who kept the boys on their toes...Helena smiles a bit at Helena,"Just a bit of something Martino set up for people to gather and know eachother, I believe..."She thinks that's the right answer anyway.

Evaristo is overheard praising Martino: Wonderful breakfast!

"Ah, but if you're correct my lady, none of us will be alive to pay up." Alessia interjects with an amused smile.

Helena is overheard praising Martino: Charming get together!

Mabelle laugh at Quintin's words, "Likely, though I honestly think I managed to leave him unscarred. I'm not sure if he was happy with it or not, men tend to be proud of their scars", she slants a knowingly look toward Edward. Peering at Miranda she wonders, "Does it sound utterly ominous or is it just me?"

Miranda just grins at Mabelle, then winks at her for good measure.

"Perfect to go with the red is this cured sausage from Southport as well. Yes, it is salty and fatty, but the garlic within meshes well with the red." Martino says this as he works his way through the pergola to pour a glassful for each who did take an offer, right hand offering out a tray of this very meat (salami) with napkins on it also, "Oh, Princess Helena, it was so we could be together as these hours. Truly nothing more... but a delight to be in each other's fine company." Sharp green eyes of the Malvici Lord crease as he dips his chin to Lethe, "Oh Lady Lethe! It has been some time... have you met everyone here? And the same to you Baron Edward. Met everyone?"

Mabelle is overheard praising Martino: Beautiful get together.

Domonico half smiles once at all the banter and gives his sister a nudge on the way past her before he moves towards the pergola, "I'm only proud of the scars with a story. I don't have too many of them... most are from training."

Returning Quintin's smile, Alessia offers the man a greeting. "Lady Alessia Mazetti." She offers an introduction before turning to Martino. "I'd love to try some, my lord." She beams up at the man.

Lethe smiles politely. "Hello Lord Martino." She shakes her head once she looks around. "I haven't met everyone."

Mabelle turns her attention to Lethe as she still listens to the others, sipping her wine, "Hello Lady Lethe. I am lady Mabelle Laurent, well met!"

"Lord Quintin Ashford at your service," Quintin returns to Alessia. "Your dress is quite lovely, by the way."

Martino lowers himself beside Alessia a moment to pour her a glass of the red wine, a hushed chuckle escapes as he does so and straightens smooth, "Oh you have not Lady Lethe Tyde! Well..." Martino pivots on his toes, handing off the tray and decanter for poor Johannes (his assistant) to deal with instead, "Good guests, this is Lady Lethe Tyde. A wonderful, youthful artist from the Tyde family who..." Martino is stood beside her at this point, left hand presented forth to help her to feet and meet the others, "I would say, personally, quite untraditional from the rest?"

Mabelle asks the women generally, "Did any of your manage to get one of those special rings Mistress Josephine was selling? I swear I ran to the shop but a moment of the notice and it was all sold out, so I got that shawl instead", she gently touches the piece around her neck

"What special rings?" Miranda inquires. "What have I missed? Some shiny that's been denied me?" She chuckles, "Alas, I've been somewhat out of town the last few days, so I may have missed such an occassion." A nod to Edward then, "Just so. As it should be."

The Redrain nods at the explanations for the breakfast. "It's lovely, and I quite thank you for the invitation," she says to Martino, a smile for Thea as well. Realizing she's a little remiss in introducing herself, and not being one of the most iconic nobles in the city, she adds her own introduction to the mix. "Helena Redrain," she says, not quite as booming as Evaristo's introductions of himself, and she leaves off her title. She nods to those she hasn't met, catching their names as they are bandied about.

Domonico has joined the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Lethe looks to Mabelle with a smile. "Hello Lady Mabelle. I do think we met before. I admired your outfit." She grins as she looks to Martino. "I am more an admirer of art than an artist, but it is nice to meet everyone."

"That is very kind of you to say. Thank you, my lord." Alessia returns to Quintin, her tone conveying earnest flattery. Taking the glass from Martino, she takes a sip, eyes brightening at the taste. Giving him a curious look, she tilts her head, though a wry smile appears on her lips.

Domonico joins the people at the pergola and considers Edward for a few moments, "I don't believe we've met. Lord Domonico Malvici, Admiral of Southport." He extends his hand, not for a handshake if it is taken, but a warriors forearm grip.

Thea just glances at Domonico,"I don't know--I've done some things to you over the years I'm rather proud of--,"then flicking her eyes to Mabelle and Miranda,"I am certain there a few things we can come up with. I am open to ideas." Listening to Martino, she nods to Alessia and Lethe,"I'm Lady Thea Malvic. It's a pleasure to meet you." this probably also applies to Helena as well.

A nod is offered to Lethe. "I believe we've met. Lady Alessia Mazetti, in case you've forgotten." A warm smile appears on her lips.

Mabelle squints assessingly at Lethe, "We did? Oh forgive me, I'm so bad with first time meetings!". To Miranda she confirms, "Something along the lines of rare materials from the boat collision? I missed it too and I was right there!". Grinning to Thea she winks, "How's Finn?"

Martino creases his eyes to Helena as he shares with her, "Yes... I believe you were one of the first I met in our city? Princess Reese and, perhaps soon after, your? My!" Laughing Martino shakes his head as he lifts his own glass of spiced red to mouth to sip and a step back to return comfortably beside Alessia in the garden, "So, who is performing at the poetry event later?"

Edward takes Domonico's forearm in a firm grip and gives a nod, "Baron Stormbreak, Edward." he replies to the other, "A pleasure Admiral." he smiles, "It is nice to meet a fellow naval commander. How are things down in Southport?"

"Ah, was I! I feel so special," Helena says with a bright smile for Martino. "I'm glad you found it to your liking, well enough to stay. This is the longest I've lived in the city -- now a year and a half or so," she says. "I'm a little homesick for Farhaven at times, but the people here make up for much of that."

Mabelle mentions to Marino, "I believe it is held by Goodman Vincenzo. Something about.. improvations and topics out of a hat".

Domonico smiles at the forearm handshake before nodding, "A busy couple of weeks. I was participating in a military exercise that the Academy of War had organised staging a mock attack on our docks." He gestures to Thea, "My sister and our Duchess General both took part. I belive though I may have shocked them with quite how effective our tactics can be. we'd only just finished the exercise when I god word that my wife Lady Aahana was given birth. Both Thea and myself got to attend my daughter Palania being brought into this world."

Lethe nods to Mabelle. "I am too at times." She looks to Thea with a smile. "It is nice to meet you too Lady Thea and to see you Lady Alessia."

Martino listens curious to Mabelle and turns his eyes to Helena as he asks, "Will you be attending Princess? If I do recall you are a poet." Martino's right hand rests upon his chest as he adds, "But yes, truly. It has been quite wonderful here, when I can be here and not pulled away with Lady Mabelle to the our border to with Lady Miranda to hers." A faint sigh, but quickly instead, wine is taken and a glance across to Alessia.

"I do some extemporaneous writing at my poetry readings as well -- I find it's rather enlightening. Some wonderful wisdom comes out of those quills in naught but a few minutes time," says Helena on the topic of the poetry event. "I may stop by to support another poet's endeavors, if I can." She smiles over at Evaristo, before adding, "my next reading's topic will be on the Queen of Endings and Beginnings, for those of you who like to write... should you want to get started a little early. It'll be in a couple of weeks. I didn't know and apparently my foresight knew before I did, for I wrote about her for the last theme, which was the Thirteen in general." Helena eyes Evaristo playfully. "If only someone had told me about an upcoming festival before that..." It's clearly the mockingbird's fault.

Mabelle tisks jokingly at Martino as she lifts her wine glass, "Oh but borders are fun!", are they, really? She actually looks concerned. "What is this festival of death?" she asks Evaristo and notes, "It sounds ominous"

Brahm, a large iridescent plumed raven arrives, delivering a message to Mabelle before departing.

There is a lot of conversation going on and for a brief time, Miranda's honey-brown eyes travel from person to person to person before... she seems to settle where she is, eating slowly, drinking her wine and staring off into space. It could be that she's listening to all the conversations going on or she's listening to none of them. Hard to say.

Quintin has found his way to the selection of wines and helped himself to a splash of the first red - the one mixed with sugar and spices, including cinnamon. He has a taste and seems to find it suitable, for he fills his glass and returns to his seat with it.

Edward smiles, "Well congratulations are in order, Admira." he nods his head, "The Duchess General. I have not talked with her in a long time. I am glad to hear she is doing well and as usual doing her thing." he chuckles softly before he sips some of the wine he's been holding, "Maybe another time we can get together sometime and talk strategy and warfare."

Evaristo looks quite innocent, blinking at Helena around a mouthful of the lovely breakfast foods. He swallows and makes an apologetic seated bow at her. "I'm very sorry, Princess. I'll think of a suitable penance for it - truly a grave oversight," he says and he sounds like he means it. Even if his eyes glitter in return, mischievously. "Ah, I'm glad you ask. The Festival of Death is a celebration to the Queen of Endings and Beginnings, the Harlequins spreading her word via events. Not SAD events. They will celebrate our human lives, a precious gift from the Queen, each turn on the wheel," he says, speaking passionately about it. He smiles that charming smile and it twists into a humble, lopsided one. "I'll be so bold as to suggest - we accept donations towards the festival. We want every person in ARx be able to attend without paying for it. Events will be held in the Lowers and Uppers as well. Death cares for every human, after all."

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

Quintin perks up a bit at the mention of strategy talks, though he doesn't interrupt. Instead, he tells Evaristo, "That sounds great!"

At the mention of his name, Finn heads directly toward Mabelle. Full throttle. He excitedly bounces near Mabelle's legs, his puppy yap loud and boisterous. Bacon?!

Thea smirks as he goes darting at the Lady Laurent,"Well, there is your answer but he really is a good dog. He's getting better at commands, I promise. Domonico may have lost a few boots however."Is she apologetic? Not at all. She lifts her wine to her lips and also is curious,"That sounds somewhat--interesting."She glances at Domonico a moment,"I don't know--I learned a lot from everyone that day but I'm not sure about the Duchess. She's pretty smart in a lot of warfare."

Martino tilts his head as he listens and agrees with Mabelle, "Mmm it does sound ominous. It reminds me of what Lady Kaia told me about when she attended the Shrine of the Thirteenth to pray with others." Another sip of the red before Martino nods aside to Johannes to bring another local Malvici dish.

"So here is a flat oven-baked Malvici bread with quite a doughy texture to it. Drizzled in oil and, this one..." Martino describes the bread (OOC - Focaccia) and lifts on his toes to inspect the top, "Has garlic along with rosemary upon it. Please, do try a slice if you have room." As Martino finishes this, Johannes works around the room to offer out the warm bread on a silver platter.

Mabelle gazes between Evaristo and Quintin, "Yes, great. Not at all disturbing", she almost lifts an eyebrow but she is distracted by Finn. A ruffle to his ears as she murmurs, "Who's the best student? Who's the fluffiest one?", she murmurs aside with an eyeroll to Toffee, "YEs you". She turns to Finn and murmurs, "Did you pee on a Malvici yet?"

Domonico half smiles at Thea's comment, "The Duchess General is an outstanding tactician. She inspired me to excel at the study of warfare. I would like to think I am of her equal now in such matters." He then nods to Edward and Quintin for the congratulations, "I'd be more than happy to discussed strategy and tactics.. especially that of the naval variaty. Last yeah I organised a massive naval training exercise which involved ships from... at least a dozen different Houses."

"This is the reason of the Festival, I think," Helena says with a smile at the word ominous. "I'm not a Harlequin, but I do appreciate the roll the Queen has played in our lives... in giving us new lives, often, and in making us appreciate the ones we lead. That's truly what I think is important to understand about her, and not to fear. She doesn't take our lives, so we should not fear her for that, but appreciate her for her gifts instead," she says softly. "I've recently learned I'm a reincarnate, myself... so I have a new interest in praising her." Her cheeks flush a little with the theological talk, and she dips her head to take a sip of wine. Also likely to make her flush.

Miranda blinks a moment and turns her attention a moment back to the world here. She glances over to Evaristo as he speaks, regarding him a moment before she offers a polite, "Excuse me" to those at the Pergola and stands, moving towards the food once more.

Miranda has left the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Edward glances for a moment to Helena and then he is drawn back to the conversation with Domonico, "Yes she is. During lead up to the war with the Gyre, I spent many hours with her and Duke Harald Grimhall in the war room. Seeing them two together was something to behold." he gives a nod and another sip from his wine, "Reach out to me sometime though and we can have a small get together. I would not mind exchanging some of the different combat methods that are used. Things change so it is always good to see where we overlap."

Martino curiously tilts his head as he listens to the conversation flow from Princess Helena and Evaristo on both faith and poetry. A faint hum as he nods, "Mmm, something perhaps I did not cover all too much in my education. Matters of the Faith." Martino considers on this before offering Miranda a crease of his eyes, an assuringly look. Chin turning to Lethe and Alessia as he asks them both, "Poetry something you are both interested in? Or just the appreciation of art for you Lady Lethe?"

Mabelle peers upwardly at Helena, "An reincarnate?" a look of puzzle covers her face, spying on the side the dull army conversation between Edward and Domonico.

Evaristo glances curiously back at Miranda and nods at her after a sip of his drink, squinting at her with a faintly baffled expression. He shrugs and looks at the others with that 'What did I say?' sort of look - but then smiles brightly and seem to forget all about it. "Well, I hear that a FEstival of Death is a very good idea here - a chance for everyone to learn more about one of the Thirteen divine beings," he notes with some amusement. "I admit, I did not know ANYTHING about her, until a... well, about half a year ago. I'd be happy to answer questions at the Shrine - I spend much time there."

Miranda just smiles at Martino a moment, perhaps catching his assuring look. She then busies herself with looking over the pastries, selecting one, examining it before it makes it to her plate. She then finds herself a place to sit, once more, and settling her plate on her lap. Her eyes flit back to Evaristo a moment, then around the room before back to her food. Apparently, that has stolen her interest.

Miranda has joined the lush garden seating.

Domonico nods at Edward's comment and agrees, "I concur. It'd be good to see how the naval forces of Stormbreak operate. Have you contacted Prince Jasher Thrax? He is organising some navalk training off the Mourning Isles. I'll be attending it with a squadron but it would be outstanding to have you attend as well if you can/"

Lethe looks to Martino. "I like poetry and stories especially if the topic is one I am interested in."

Martino checked perception + empathy at difficulty 20, rolling 29 higher. Martino rolled a critical!

Helena glances at Miranda with a little worry as well, and maybe a look of some contrition. She glances down, and nods at Evaristo's words. "A good idea. I should let a Harlequin speak more eloquently than I can on it," she says. "It's perhaps a heavy topic for a light breakfast." She laughs a little at the words, since the breakfast is quite formidable, with pastries and meats and wine. To Mabelle, she smiles and leans to murmur something, then takes another sip of the sweet, spicy wine.

"Oh... please, Lady Lethe." Martino's left hand rolls out to her as he glances across to Miranda, noting the conversation about and her distance away from the room. A faint sigh escapes the Malvici Lord before smoothly rolling his accented voice, "And Lady Alessia. Shall we see what other wines I have there with the Lady Miranda?" Martino turns, not without showing off the new shoes in passing to Mabelle, "Whisper Selene." And continues from the main gathering.

Mabelle listens to the words of Helena as she widens her eyes, curious. She swoons aloud as Martino brandishes her shoes, "Pretty!".

Miranda glances up at Martino, "If you're planning to get me drunk, Cousin, I should warn you I was raised with a bottle of wine in one hand and a bottle of milk in the other." She gives him a decent sort of tease in that one, though her brow lifts a bit in challenge.

Rising, Alessia follows Martino to browse the rest of the wines he has available. "With pleasure." She grins.

Miranda gets Kindling, an alaricite curved sword from A useful wide bag with gold trim and an amethyst clasp.

Domonico laughs, "It's true Martino. You are highly unlikely to win that challenge with Miranda. She had Lord Salvatore as a drinking companion and he can really drink.

Miranda puts Kindling, an alaricite curved sword in A useful wide bag with gold trim and an amethyst clasp.

Miranda gets Razz, a diamondplate scimitar from A useful wide bag with gold trim and an amethyst clasp.

Miranda wields Razz, a diamondplate scimitar.

Miranda offers to Domonico, "I would not begin to claim that I can drink Lord Salvatore underneath the table, Cousin. Only, I agree he has been my companion in doing so. And I have strived to be at least... somewhat less drunk than he."

Evaristo finishes the food, he sure wiped that plate clean. He gives high praise to the host, bows deeply to everyone there and then leaves, happy as a clam.

Evaristo has left the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Alena Sparks, unamused first mate, Silk, the Seafaring Spider leave, following Evaristo.

"Mmm... oh I am not Lady Miranda. Too early for that after all... we have business to attend to as well." Martino says this as he steps with the Lady Alessia to arm across to Miranda to converse on something other than death, "Oh Miranda, now... did -you- enter the Tournament of Thorns?"

Mabelle drinks the remains of her glass as she listens to the men talk war and the women talk Art. She steps toward the edge of the roof, peering at the view of the city.

Thea lifts her eyebrow as she listens. Art is really her thing. War? Well--she has fought in battles. Sipping her wine, she is content as is at the moment, but offers,"I can keep up with drinking, but that is about it..."

Domonico frowns as he thinks of something he heard earlier and sweeps his gaze around for Lethe before coughing, "Lady Lethe... Tyde was it?" he asks quizzically.

"So what does that tournament consist of?" Alessia appraoches Miranda beside Martino with a curious smile. She refills her glass with another wine, she hadn't tried.

"I can hold my whiskey fine, but wine makes me ... warm." Helena grins a little, nibbling a bit of bread. "So I think if I had even a second glass I'd be sleeping here soon," and it's not even noon yet."

Mabelle interjects to Alessia and Miranda, "Did you manage to get more than one? I can never find a judge!"

Quintin swallows his current mouthful of food and says, "When I first came to the city, I took part in a drinking contest. I very much regretted it. I've stayed away from heavy drinking since."

Miranda shakes her head, "I did not, Cousin. Strangely, I find it rather hard to join these large Tournaments." She shrugs lightly, "I suppose I have not the motivation or desire to do so." She offers a warm smile, though it lacks the ease with which she was smiling earlier. She smiles at Mabelle, but answers Alessia, "I'm not entirely sure, honestly. I think there was some running about and tasks to perform."

Lethe nods to Domonico. "That's right. I'm Lady Lethe Tyde. Hello. "

Mabelle takes Tournament of Thorns silver thorn from a small berry and silver leather side bag.

"I can imagine," Helena says to Quintin with a grin. "I don't drink that heavily or often myself, but whiskey is what I cut my teeth on so to speak, so it's kinder to me than the others, I find." She glances at the talk of the tournament. "I haven't tried, due to some pressing issues myself, but Lady Monique does throw an excellent party. I'm sure it will be quite entertaining."

Mabelle turns her thorn left and right, "Yes, its a brain social kind of affair. I got mine through a game of two truths and one lie", she lowers her voice and mumbles, "Thank you late husband".

Martino flashes a moment of laughter across to Quintin as he hears about the contest, "That was... yes. Wow. Masked contest at least. Our shame was safe." Quick Martino turns his chin back to converse with Alessia, Mabelle and Miranda on the tournament, "Oh it is a social contest... one that I just saw the rules for and so-very-very distraught I could not ever collect a single one before to enter." Exhaling, dramatic and overly so, Martino lifts his chin.

Edward's fallen into a quiet after the conversation turns away and he sips his wine. He steps from where he is to drift a little closer to his date while he listens to the conversations.

Domonico thinks carefully on Lethe's answer before he quietly murmurs something to her, brow furrowed in thought.

Quintin calls over to Martino with a grin, "Except I didn't wear a mask! I haven't suffered too much shame, at least." He has a quick sip of wine and notes, "I've managed to procure two thorns. I might have another try at the sermon one, but I suspect I've accomplished the tasks I have any kind of a chance at."

Mabelle agrees entirely with Martino, "I wish I could join the wooing part, but alas, I cannot attend it to actually participate". She smiles quietly to Edward as he approaches her, murmuring something private

Thea just shakes her head,"I'm not one to join large social anything..."sipping her wine.

"Now, I know you are excellent with a polearm Lady Mazetti... and also quite graceful as well. So, this may be quite the contest for you." Martino murmurs hushed with Alessia as he leads her by the table, holding a new bottle of red. Port this time. And pouring a neat glass for her and offering it to the others around the table, "Wrong day, Lady Mabelle?"

Miranda seems a bit... uncomfortable in her seat so rises and sips at her wine, then says, "Cousin." To Martino, "This was was a delightful party. I should get going. I've some work I need to do." She finishes off her wine, setting cup and plate aside. "Thank you for breakfast.." And then addresses those on the roof top with her, "And to all of you for your company and conversation." She leans to kiss Martino's cheek. "I do appreciate the invitation."

Mabelle confirms to Martino, "Yes, unfortunately. If you will pardon us though, thank you for holding this beautiful event!" She showers all her friends with smiles, "Do enjoy your afternoon!"

Miranda has left the lush garden seating.

"Until next time, my lady." Alessia smiles to Miranda as she bids them farewell. "Well, I don't like to brag." She says with another teasing smile to Martino. "I think I may have said that last time." She chuckles, turning to Mabelle. "Me too, unfortunately."

Brenlin, Aide-de-Camp, 2 Rubino and Zaffria guards, Jewel, a Maelstrom Forest Cat leave, following Miranda.

Alessia offers Mabelle a farewell, as well.

"Oh my thanks for coming... truly. My good thanks and I hope you enjoyed a few of our wonderful southern treats. You will be visiting Southport soon. Mm?" Martino begins to giving parting remarks to some as he murmurs to Alessia his apologies for once again being beside the door, "Truly, my thanks... a pleasure to see you."

With his arm held out for the Lady Laurent, Edward smiles to everyone, "A pleasure to meet most of you. A good get together, Lord Martino, thank you." he inclines his head politely and then he glances to Mabelle, "My Lady...," turning to her to see her out.

Helena likewise rises, cheeks still a little rosy from the wine. "Thank you for a lovely gathering. It was so good to meet those I haven't, and see those I already have," she says warmly, moving to the host to take his hand and give it a quick squeeze of gratitude.

Mabelle has left the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Edward has left the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Sombra, the subtle leaves, following Edward.

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

Thea bow her head to Mabelle, Edward, and Miranda as they all leave,"I'm sure I will see you all again soon,"her words sincere.

Domonico nods as he finishes his quiet conversation with Lethe, "Excellent. I would very much appreciate that." He looks to those leaving and offers a quick bow, "Until next time/"

Helena has left the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Things seem to be coming to an end, and so Quintin finishes off his plate and rises to leave, too. "Thank you, everyone. I had a lovely time."

Quintin has left the cozy vine-covered pergola.

Lethe has left the cozy vine-covered pergola.

3 Tyde Houseguard, 2 Redwood Initiates leave, following Lethe.