A Mirror Masked Woman arrives, delivering a message to Aiden before departing.

Carissa, a Malvici bodyguard arrives, following Eirene.

Aiden gets Cherry Blossom, a sweet scent from a simple velvet bag.

Aiden gets Oseyan - Kennex Brand Crystal Vodka from a simple velvet bag.

The Grayson ball is just beginning. Soft classic harp music is played in the background by a trained musician in a lovely green silk dress. The bar is stocked with all sorts of drinks and treats, including a three layer red velvet cake. It looks suspiciously like the cake that Reese had for her wedding and for her war meetings. She loves the cake and has her servant make the same one over and over again. The dance floor is cleared and is all ready for frolicking.

Reese is here in a pink seasilk gown and is close to Luca. Her cheeks are pink with pleasure as she waits to greet the arriving guests.

Olivia is, for once, not a conspicuous late arrival to a social function. She got here early to support her liege house, which possibly resulted in a little shooing of her out of the way while everything was set up. But once things officially are under way and they're allowed over to disturb all the all-too-pretty food? Game on! She b-lines for cake. Maybe that's the *real* reason she was early. Head of the cake line!

Tikva drifts through the ballroom in a long swirl of lacy blue, looking unusually thoughtful and pensive. Her short red hair is pinned back, its ends curled into twists, and a careful hand has applied understated makeup to her features. She hums absent-mindedly in tune to the harp music as she wanders.

Armel arrives with little fanfare and even less in the way of announcement, striding on leather boot heels to circle about the room as if summoned toward that bar by some magic spell, for he has sighted all the booze upon it, and it's that sort of day, it seems. He is humming lightly to himself, arranged in simple silk clothes, a silver eye, and an absolutely outrageous hat. He ignores the cake, diving straight for a blackberry honey mead he plucks from the bar, a silky red rose in his front pocket.

With well-combed hair and a freshly trimmed beard, Ulfric strides into the Gray Hall clad fully in newly polished armaments. His face is carrying a warm smile ear to ear as he walks inside, his Valardin sword clutched pridefully against his belt. Taking in the sweet aroma from the sweets and the various assorted alcohol, his steely blue eyes settle onto each face in kind. He offers a bow of respect to everyone he sees, before he would approach Reese herself. "Your warrior, brave majesty." He says with a bow, stepping aside to look at the festivities after the fact. She'll be a busy bee all night he'd suppose.

Sasha makes her way into the ballroom, her eyes seeking out some of her cousins. As she sees Reese, a smile curls her lips and begins to make her way in that direction as she says "Cousin Princess Reese, I hope that I am not late."

Orazio arrives, for once not in his formal robes. His affiliation is easily announced by the long, white and gold coat of expensive leather, but beneath that, he is wearing blue and silver silks in a Lycene style. He arrives shortly after Armel, and once announced, he offers a warm smile to Armel, before moving to approach Reese, and bow, elegantly. "Your Highness."

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon arrives, following Marian.

Aiden makes an appearance and that is the best one can hope for from this Grayson Prince. He's wearing his best clothes, which compared to some, were not as well off for a Prince, regular silk instead of something else fancy, not that it wasn't still its own quality of glamour. He'll take up his customary place at these sort of functions held by his cousin, along the wall, somewhere, as a wall flower.

Dominique ventures in with a date in tow. She is wearing her standard fare embroidered pants and shirt. It's wamr out so she has the sleeves rolled up. Presence of any man twice herself, even though she is not tall at all. She waits for her fiancee before she weaves through the party.

Fergus *thought* he was going to the ball with someone. But after arriving, and looking about, his date doesn't seem to be anywhere in sight. The big Redrain, wearing decent clothes for a change waits around the doorway, every now and then, he glances, as if waiting. Doesn't think he got stood up. Not yet anyways. She could be fashionably late or something.

An elegant serving girl green in Grayson greens and grays is at the bar and ready to tend those who wish for treats. She smiles to Olivia and cuts her a generous slice of the red velvet cake. Reese smiles over to those arriving, seeming to know most here. She looks over to Ulfric. "Oh, thank you and thank you for coming." She then murmurs. She then smiles to Sasha. "Not all, Princess Sasha, we only just started." She say sin her gentle voice. Reese then turns her focus on Orazio. "Father Orazio, we are honored by your presence."

Eirene certainly made a stir at the charity auction the night prior, but her entrance this time is far more muted. She still wears the uncharacteristically red and Lycene-slinky gown, but her black leather trenchcoat and swordbelt have gone over it to tone it down. Despite the summer heat, the Southern woman is quite comfortable. She looks around and spies the bar. Her blue eyes widen in appreciation. She mutters something to Fergus before she heads to the bar, finding her 'date' there waiting for her. Armel is met with a grin and a little spin of the outfit, though her coat obscures the back of it.

Atrid enters in with Dominique he smiles to all, hes wearing his standard black garb though a bit nicer than normal his leather cloak with his house sigil on his back. He smiles Dominique allowing her to lead him to whomever it is that shed like to chat with.

"Is that the dear Knight Commander I spy?" Ulfric grins broadly as he takes a spot at the bar, as eager to get his gauntlets around a bottleneck as ever. Striding slowly toward the counter, the ginger giant takes a seat and finds the sweetest tasting rum he's able to. "Good day to ya' Commander Armel. Been too long since I got to see your shininess." He'd give the man a warm nod before turning away as his lady arrives, his eyes falling upon the entrance as he'd spot another familiar face. "Princess Valencia!" He'd say with a hushed tone, his gauntlet outstretching to beckon her toward him.

Tikva has obtained a glass of something by the time she reaches the host and hostess, and she greets Reese and Luca both with a little crinkle to her nose. "Reese-and-Luca," she greets them on one breath with a sunny smile, "looking good as usual!" She leans in close to drop something to them both with a wink in a low murmur, and then turns a bright smile on the Legate. "Father Orazio! It's good to see you again!" she carols.

Marian arrives a few minutes late at the ball, cheeks a little flushed and her breath light. Her hair falls in waves down her shoulders and a small bit of artifice has tinted her lips. But what is truly earth shattering is that Princess Marian Valardin is wearing a dress. Not silk tunic and breeches, which is her common fare. An evening gown of indigo dragons, a nod to House Valardin. She spies Fergus waiting for her at the doorway and calls out, "I'm late...I'm sorry. I know I'm late but this damn dress...it's not easy to get in."

"It is a pleasure and honor to be invited," Orazio says to Reese in return, with a flash of a grin. "Especially on a happy occasion." Then he steps aside, so as not to monopolize the hostess. He looks around, then turns at Tikva's voice. "Lady Tikva. The pleasure is all mine, I assure you. How are you faring?"

Armel has indeed poured two glasses of the mead, for he's pretty certain, unlike poor Fergus, that his 'date' will show. And lo and behold, there she is. He has a smile for his friend the healer, offering the mead in one hand, and the silky, blood-red rose in the other. He watches her spin with a little whistle of appreciation at the outfit. "Well, you look properly Lycene, without blood and booze on your hands," he remarks to her, passing over his 'gifts' with a wink that his false eye actually allows him. He spares a nod and a raised glass and warm smile for Orazio. "Father." Before he turns to Ulfric. "It is the Grandmaster you spy, actually," He corrects Ulfric with a grin, clapping the man on the shoulder and seeming pleased to find a familiar face before sidling back to Eirene, murmuring something to her.

Reese smiles gently over to Aiden, seemingly pleased to see him here. "Lady Eirene, you look so lovely, than you for coming." She says while switching her focus to the healer. She then gets distracted by Tikva. Her blue eyes hold warmth and affection as she looks upon the redhead. "Thank you Lady Ashford and you look very lovely. Maybe we will get a song from you tonight?" She says and then murmurs softly to her.

Valencia arrives in an elegant yet sultry, flowing gown of smoky layered silk, cut daringly low in the back. Her long dark waves are swept up and held stylishly into place with bejeweled pins that off sets deep dark eyes. The gathering seems to make her smile, and as soon as she sees some welcome faces she knows she smiles all the more. Padding lightly on small slippered feet, she makes her ways towards her beloved cousin Luca and the lovey Princess Reese.

You can tell how much Luca loves his wife by how much effort he's actually put into his appearance for this one night for her. His hair is even brushed to glossy black, swept back and tied into an clean tail that leaves it looking shorn tight from the front, but flows down to his shoulders in the back! And his clothes are all not only clean, but new. Gleaming supple black leather of polished boots. Pants of pristine black linen with silver thread up the outer seam, a belted frock coat of elaborate Grayson green brocade silk with silver embroidery and buttons, parted at the chest to show off a flowy white silk Lycene poet shirt with deep oval of dusky-flesh occasionally peaking through where it's gathered at the throat and waist, but left open to the center line. His alaricite sabre rides low at his left hip in duelist stays, the viper headed pommel of it polished gleaming. He's standing near to his wife with a lazy sort of air still about him in the hip-cocked way he drapes hand on the sword and the lopsided smile of greeting he's giving to people approaching them, but for his part he's playing good host-backup while she does the formal hostess thing initially. Tikva's approach and whisper earns her a conspiratorial sort of wicked grin and some mumured words that seem the sort of congratulations or encouragement. When Valencia comes up, he's moving to give her a quick hug and peck on the cheek in turn, along with some murmured words.

Grumpy as usual, Fergus isn't beyond a good joke when he hears one. An amused chuff passes his lips, remarking back something to Eirene when she passes by, giving a wink as a sign of what he said wasn't serious. Head turns a bit as the Valardin Sword finally shows up. "Not a problem, figure it's a long and involved process to get yourself all dolled up. I just had to bathe." A visible look-over of Marian. "Yep, tried imagining you in a dress and I couldn't do it. Look good, Marian. Almost as good as you look in armor. Thought for a moment you went and stood me up. Wouldn't of been the first time happened to me."

Tikva swings her arms wide, /almost/ but not quite losing some of the pale wine in her glass. "Delightfully!" she says. "I'm faring delightfully." She beams up at Orazio and then turns in a slight pivot on one silk-slippered foot. "Especially since I now see Grandmaster Armel's glorious hat again. I love it." She asides a quick thumbs up towards Reese and Luca, her cheeks gone just slightly pink. That probably happens to people around Luca all the time, though.

Eirene snorts at Fergus before she beams back at Reese, smirk broad. "Had I known you had a bar -this well stocked-," she says sincerely. "I may just have to be more fucking social, eh?" Her sword is at least peace-tied for the grand occasion, with pink ribbons in honor of their hostess. She takes the drink and sips before receiving the gifts from Armel in surprise. "These are amazing," she says with a snigger of the earings. "Someone's just plain insane to make these." So of -course- she puts them on.

Aiden has joined the a mahogany grand piano with an ornately carved cabinet.

1 Redrain novice guards arrives, following Kieran.

Dominique weaves in and out of the guests at the party. She is trying to spot someone she knows. She passes Luca once and doesn't reconize him at first and has to do a double take. "Luca, do my eyes decieve me? How are you?" She motions Atrid to follow.

Estaban enters the great hall looking around, his blue eyes spotting so many. He is dressed in green leathers with a white sil shirt (https://www.ravenswoodleather.com/mens_clothing/leather_jerkins_vests/assassin_raptor_jerkin/) his sword hanging from his side and a hand resting on the hilt. He breaths deeply as if being a bit nervous to be at this ball this evening. He moves in further heading in the direction of Resse, "Your Highness, thank you for the invetation." he gives her a bow.

Sasha slips away from Reese and makes her way over to Marian as she says "I am glad you came and you look wonderful, regardless of how long the dress took to get into." Her eyes look over to the bar though soon she is slipping away from her cousin Marian and over to join Aiden at the piano as she asks "Mind if I sit with you Aiden? I never know what to do at these things."

Reese peeks over to Valencia, having a warm smile for her that touches her blue eyes. "Princess Valencia, I am so pleased you are here and you look beautiful, but you always do." She murmurs softly. She then looks over to Armel. "Oh, it is a great hat."

Sasha has joined the a mahogany grand piano with an ornately carved cabinet.

Orazio blinks a couple of times at Tikva's enthusiasm. "Ah, well. I am glad that you are doing well, to be sure." He smiles down at her, and at her exclamation, turns to look towards Armel. And stops. And stares. "..." Yes, that's a sound. Then the Legate coughs. "Ah. It. Yes. It is certainly a...remarkable piece of haberdashery. Quite...remarkable."

Armel spares a thumbs-up toward Tikva at her overheard praise for the hat. "Good to see a fan!" Then it's back to Eirene, standing before her and drinking their mead with a small chuckle at whatever she whispers to him. He bobs his head easily, smiling more brightly than is normal for him, parked at the bar for now.

Atrid follows Dominique still looking over the rest of the party as he stops beside her. "Aye Whats going on?" He asks happily.

Reese smiles over to Marian as she notices her arrival. "So lovely." She says, looking at her indigo dragons for a moment. She then peeks over to Eirene. "We extend the none greater to our supply of booze." She says, speaking of the well stocked bar.

Armel also grins at Orazio, always happy to upset the man, in a mild manner at least.

"Grand master, commander, whatever it needs to be. I understand as much that you're the official authority on both dominating a battlefield and putting the fear of god into youngins." Ulfric laughs boisterously and claps Armel in return, standing up now with a mug of drink in hand. "Have fun with your darling's outing, messieur." Those nights with nobility almost paid off for his pronunciation. Almost. The black-clad man begins to walk the floor of the ball, occasionally spinning on his heel in a mock dance, as graceful as a lumbering man of his size can really be. At the very least, he doesn't manage to spill his precious brew.

Peregrine does not make an entrance so much as command the entryway as she strides through it, thighs bared by the strips of silk and leather which make up the skirt of her gown. She walks as if she were approaching some battle rather than a ball-- and perhaps for the not entirely housebroken Shav'arvani, perhaps that is so. With chin held haughtily high and eyes narrowed against the light and colour and sound, she surveys the hall. And then, then her assault begins, as she marches on the nearest server with a tray.

Reese smiles over to Peregrine when she notices her arrival. She seems to be in a happy mood as she stands close to Luca and greets the arriving guests. "Please make yourself at home and enjoy our treats and drinks. I will be making a short speech soon and then we can dance and party and have fun."

Aiden has quietly moved toward the piano, looking over toward his cousin who joins him there. He nods as he lingers by the piano, not necessarily playing it for the band hired for the ball will make the arrangements to do so. He'll however enjoy the music up close. If there were concerts, the young Prince would always choose to be closest to the musicians. "Neither... I... might slip away soon," he murmurs to Sasha, "I came to.. uhm, make an appearance. I have uhm, things to do for the menagerie."

Luca can't help but laugh and cast a huge grin Eirene's way at the bar comment. "It's certainly one of the bigger perks of having married into Grayson I admit. And here I thought our Velenosan wine cellars were a wonderland!" Dominique's comment his way turns the champion prince's cinnamon eyes to her with a wry twinkle and a wink given her way. "Indeed. See what marriage does to a man, Dom? Makes him dress all respectably and come to balls all proper-like and such!"

Joy, cake! Olivia happily takes her plate, all her hard work (or cake camping) paying off. And now with that secured, she turns back to actually see about socializing, although this is probably a far greater challenge. By the time she's turned and made her way back toward the entry where guests are being greeted, there's a rather large cluster of people around the Princess. So she holds off at some distance, and briefly turns to consider the collection of alcohol, though it seems to have less immediate appeal than the cake.

Armel tips his glass to Ulfric, telling the man firmly, "Always happy when there's booze and good folk around." The praise earns a snerk and a somewhat skeptical look, but hey, he can't really refute it, so he just lets it go with a roll of his eyes, the false, shiny one jerking a bit differently.

Reese has joined the Great Table.

Luca has joined the Great Table.

Tikva turns a wide-eyed look over her shoulder, and then turns in a spinning flare of skirts to listen to what the messenger murmurs to her. She looks at the unrolled page and screws up her nose. "Erk," she says. "Duty calls, I'm afraid. I'd better get out of the ball gown before I start handling _this_ tummy upset, though. Excuse me. I'll try to sneak back in later, Reese!" she says, and then turns to scurry off across the floor, zooming through the party as she weaves through the crowd.

Armel has joined the Emerald Couch.

Sasha nods softly and softly says to Aiden "I can understand that. I am getting better with training animals. If you need help, please do let me know. Even if it is just researching the animals alright?"

The Malvici raises her drink in greeting to the priest, calling out to Orazio. "Razi! I wore a dress. It's the end of the fucking world," she says with a grin. Perhaps out of fairness to her companion, or the designer, or the summer heat, she slips off her coat and hands her sword off to a servant. The red and gold gown is very Lyceni in design but also better suited to a warm room in the summer time, a reminder as well of Malvici's hawk crest. The rose is placed into one of her braids to sit in her salt and pepper hair.

Eirene has joined the Emerald Couch.

Reese has a gentle smile for Dominique. "Lady Wyrmguard, a pleasure." She says warmly. She then peeks after Tikva, looking just a bit concerned for her. "Take care and feel better, Lady Ashford." She says in her direction.

Mariah, a nanny leaves, following Tikva.

Valencia offers Reese a warm hug and kiss upon the cheek, "As do you, my beautiful cousin-in-law. Thank you for hosting this. It is a so very good to do so." Moving off, a sweet smile is sent Armel's way and another to Ulfric and a warm smile and incline of head is offered to Oliva and Eirene. "Exquisite dress, my lady," she offers Eirene with a bright smile before disappearing into the crowd in search of more familiar faces and conversation.

There's an amused shake of the Legate's head at Armel's grin, and then Tikva is making her goodbyes. Orazio bows to her as she goes. "It was pleasant to see you again. Do take care," he murmurs, before beginning to wander about the room. First, to get a drink, but then without any particular aim.

Lady Teldra, a Lycene noblewoman, Buchanan, a Champion, 3 Grayson Guardsmen, 1 Armed Confessors, Steadfast, a guardian dog arrive, following Cara.

Peregrine sweeps some delicate flute of whatever from a tray and sniffs at it but doesn't drink just yet. She flourishes the glass in Reese's direction instead, and spares the princess a broad, eye-sparkling grin. For a moment, it almost makes the woman seem glad to be here. "Huzzah, speeches," she ventures in her thickly accented Arvani, making a go at authenticity. Did that sound native? She is trying so very hard.

Ugarte, Binky, an asshole crow arrive, following Aureth.

Peregrine has joined the Plush Couch.

Dominique flushes to her cheeks, "I am terrible at these events." She mumurs to Atrid. "We may have to leave soon. I get so dreadfully overwhelmed." She smiles to Luca. "It looks good on you, your highness." She tells Luca. "Tell that to my fiancee Lord Atrid Darkwater. I have to et him all socialable." She introduces. "Prince Luca Velenosa." She offers. "Are you still good with a sword?"

Kieran strides into the ballroom wearing his usual casual attire, aside from the silk shirt he wears. The Redrain prince blinks at the crowd that has gathered and grins as he makes his way through the masses , grabbing a glass of something alcoholic as he looks for familiar faces.

Aiden glances over to Sasha, "That's good. I'm afraid I won't be able to help anyone in training their animals until all the sponsors are taken care of. I promised them at least three sessions each. And there's seven of them." He waves to a passing butler, managing to take a drink of wine with a nod. "It's my hope we'll have an educational center for research soon. I am trying to speak with the Lodge or the Society of Explorers to see if they'd be interested in helping the menagerie from time to time, with expansion projects or if there's enough support, expeditions to do that very thing, research."

Marian shakes her head, "No Fergus...I would never stand you up." She motions to the dress she's wearing, "But...next time I will also allow more time to put one of these on." She frowns when he mentions that he's been stood up before and is about to say more but then her cousin passes by. She nods to her cousin Sasha as she passes by, "Oh...thank you." Then Reese approaches and also compliments her on her dress, "It was designed by Mistress Aurora Thornburn." Eventually, the well wishers ebb after a few minutes leaving the couple to themselves. She grabs a drink from a servant passing by and has a quick sip before asking Fergus, "Where should we go first?"

Dominique has joined the Great Table.

Princess Cara Grayson, nee Ashford, nee Rubino, Voice of House Grayson, arrives at the grand ball in glittering finery -- escorted by a big black dog. Which, for some reason, she has tied a festive red ribbon around. Her arrival isn't especially elegant, though, as she essentially enters the ballroom and makes a straight line toward one of the couches at full ponderous speed. Her gown is red silk, beaded for decoration, and with a high waist -- a necessity given the fact she's very definitely and possibly imminently expecting a child.

Cara has joined the Plush Couch.

Atrid has joined the Great Table.

Aureth arrives. Who let him in here?! Actually, he's looking pretty well-dressed these days: pristine aeterna glowing pearlescent by the candles that light the ballroom, glinting silver buttons, gleaming silver jewelry, aggressively well-brushed flowing hair falling loose to his shoulders. He does dawdle at the entry to the room for a moment's uncertainty because his mastery of etiquette has not yet entirely caught up to his new station.

Armel isn't going to complain when Eirene divests herself of her coat and sword, although he seems surprised at the latter. His own warhammer is out of sight, hardly going with the silk outfit and seeming a bit incomplete without it. He makes for a couch near to the bar, within easy reach, so to speak, murmuring aside to Eirene, "So what /is/ it you do at a Grayson Ball? Dance? Make pretty comments about dresses?"

Atrid smiles and laugs to Dominiques reply. "Aye I too am not so good at these events large crowds do tend to get to me from time to time." He says turning to look at Luca. "Its a pleasure Prince Luca. As my lovely Fiancee said Im Lord Atrid Darkwater."

Sasha nods softly and offers to Aiden "I could at least help until you are able to speak with them cousin. If you would like it. I need something to busy myself with when I am not researching or helping in the Archives after all."

Seeing Cara, Orazio moves in that direction, although he certainly doesn't try to stop the pregnant woman from reaching the soft couch. He is not, generally, suicidal. Instead, he waits until she is situated before bowing and offering, with a smile, "It has been too long, Princess Cara. I see you are doing...quite well?"

It's fortunate then that Peregrine has opted to perch on the arm of the couch. That leaves ample room for the about to burst Cara. Tucking her leg up and bracing an elbow upon it, she idly passes the spun-crystal glass back and forth between her hands, restless as a animal caged. "Hello to you, little mother," is rumbled, sotto voce, with a crinkle gathering at the corner of her eyes for the Voice. Not so, for Orazio. The Legate's approach sees her head-cocked and sizing him up.

The medic certainly isn't sure, Eirene taking her drink and pausing to search for passing trays of snacks. "I've never been to one; I am not a big party kind of person," she says to no-ones surprise. "Bonfire with my lads and ladies, drinking until someone passes out, drinking contests with swords involved... I have no idea how these proper things work." She is somewhat out of her element.

"Nah, didn't think you would. Never came across as you were the sort to pull that kind of shit." Fergus remarks. "Besides, I'd say it's worth it, gonna making me feel all kinds of fucking under-dressed standing here next to you. Oh yeah? Getting some armor made by Eithne Thornburn. Darren talked all kinds of high praises an shit, and I need something better than I already got. You proved that point." He points a finger where all the booze is. "Think that looks like a good spot first. And then you can show me how to mingle without making myself look like an asshole."

"Dancing is what one does at most balls," Kieran notes to Armel as he passes. Overhearing Aiden and Sasha, though, he diverts his oath towards them with a grin. "Ahhh, the one working on the menagerie. I have been meaning to get in touch with you." He offers a bow to the two, "Prince Kieran of Redrain, Master of Revels to the Crown."

Estaban looks to Valencia giving her a small smile and a nodd of his head, spotting Aiden he moves in his direction, "YOur Highness Princess Sasha it is goof to see you again." he smiles to her then to Aiden, "Your highness you as well."

The crowd is still terribly intimidating for Olivia, but a partial cure for this social anxiety comes in the form of familiar face. "Cousin!" she calls, very brightly and lacking fancy titles, hurrying over toward the couch where Cara has taken up. And even if a few others seem intent on intercepting her, she won't let this hold her back. She *may* let the dog hold her back, though, as she comes rushing over and then suddenly slows up a bit and... sort of carefully circles around it, as she approaches the couch where the temporarily swollen woman has sensibly settled.

Armel looks around at all the silks-and-better garments, then murmurs, in response to both Eirene and Kieran's comments, "Well...Huh." He shrugs, downing a bit more of his drink and squinting aside to Eirene, as if sizing her up. "Care to dance, or more in the talk-about-skulls sort of mood?" He is very much out of his element as well, really, and visibly so, hat or no hat.

Olivia has joined the Plush Couch.

Downing the bottle of sweetened rum, Ulfric breaks himself from the cavalcade of noble blooded to stand just on the edges of the bustling crowd. His lips pursed as he blew a few times into the empty bottleneck, enjoying the note it played each time. His gauntlets tap against the sides of the empty glass, making a pleasant drumming to go along with his tune. Eventually his quest for involvement begins to drive him toward the most familiar faces in the room. Handshakes and occasional unrequited bear-hugs are soon spread throughout as his eyes spot upon the beautiful visage of one Princess Valencia. "Princess." He calls again, this time in a much more playful tune. "Her highness Valencia? Would a humble housecarl have the fortune of entertaining you?" He'd chuckle to himself as he made his way to Valencia's side.

Sasha looks up to Kieran as he comes over herself and Aiden, offering a warm smile as she says "Well met Prince Kieran, I am Princess Sasha Valardin. Are you going to help my cousin with the menargrie?" Her attention then looks to Estaban as she says "Good to see you as well Lord Estaban." Her eyes then looking to all of those gathered before she softly says "I am far to scared to dance. Worried I will step on feet or worse."

"I am the size of a house in the hottest season of the year, Legate, but in most other respects I am very well, thank you," Cara looks up at Orazio and her smile brings dimples to her cheeks. Peregrine gets a quick wink in greeting, before she scoots a little to make room for Olivia. Or possibly just to strategically relocate for comfort. Her dog, Steadfast, sits politely at her feet, his bulk leaning lightly against Cara's legs. He is a good boy.

Reese has a servant get herself and Luca something to drink. She choose out the watermelon wine. "Welcome everyone and thanks for coming. Tonight we are celebrating as there is much to celebrate. That we all still exist. Our many new marriages. The soon to be arrival of Princess Cara's and Prince Laric's child. That Lady Tikva recovered from being squished. That Prince Aiden was saved in the siege battle by Lord Esteban. Princess Peregrine's arrival into our family and her intense help with the siege battles. The work that Sir Armel is doing in keeping us all safe. Brother Aureth's and Brother's Aleksei's advancement with the faith. Brother's Aureth standing with the Queen. The paladins who all lived and defeated Brand. I am not sure about listing their names, but we know who they are and they deserve much praise. Lady Maude who lead our Grayson troops to victory. Lady Commander Calypso who lead us all to victory. Lady Eirene who kept so many of us alive in the siege. Baron Silas who ran the Iron guard protecting the city through this all. There are so many heroes and so many names I cannot list them all. It would be impossible. We celebrate that all the great houses stood together an fought together. We celebrate Prince Darren, Archduke Niccolo, Prince Edain, Prince Victus and Princess Lark. We also celebrate the faith who helped guide us to victory." She then pauses for a moment and lifts her glass. "Too Compact! To our victory, despite it being bitter sweet. To hope and lives and existence continued."

Orazio returns the sizing-up look from Peregrine with one of his own, although at least he seems enough up on political events not to react beyond another graceful bow, and, "Your Highness. I don't believe we've had the pleasure of meeting. I am Orazio, Legate of Concepts of the Faith of the Pantheon. It's good to make your acquaintance."

Aiden nods, "The Menagerie could always use volunteers, I know it." He gets side tracked from the conversation with Sasha upon the arrival of Prince Kieran and the greeting he offers, "Prince Kieran, it is a pleasure. This is Princess Sasha Valardin, cousin of mine, and I'm Prince Aiden Grayson..." He thinks that might be obvious but then there's formalities that are due, "Is there something on your mind, Prince Kieran?" He offers the man an opening to speak him mind, while he glances to Estaban, smiling for his friend, "Estaban, if I didn't know it, you're becoming a shadow of mine. I'm happy to see you here. Did you get any of the cake yet?" More informal with friends, evidently!

Luca is overheard praising Reese for: Well said thanks and a well done (and well-liquored) ball

Valencia offers Estaban a beautiful smile in return, her dark eyes smiling gently. Turning she comes face to face with Fergus. "Lovely cousin Fergus, it is so very good to see you out ant about," she beams up at the man before offering a welcome to Kierain, "Sweetest of cousins, I am glad to see you here as well. Easy on the apples, yes?" she offers with a little grin. Ulfric's voice raises above the din and she seaches to find him. Smiling as she does she offers him a delicate hand. "You are always welcome in my company, Missere Ulfric. How are you?"

Peregrine cocks her head a bit closer to Cara's, gleaming eyes fixed all sharp-like upon Orazio as he performs his courtesies. The bow makes no particular impression, nor the string of titles, but something murmured to her by the far more cultured Voice leaves her expression relaxing. Her smile is close-lipped but it reaches her eyes. "Hello to you, Orazio. It is true you seem most stern. I am Peregrine. A poor princess but a very good griffin, this is true. Sit, you." The command is accompanied with a gesture at the couch, which would place Orazio directly between Olivia and Cara. Yes, she just talked through the speech. Her husband weeps somewhere, no doubt.

Aureth moseys around the edges of the ballroom, surveying the various lovely people who have assembled to party, notes the early stages emptiness of the dance floor, briefly investigates the bar, obtains himself a glass of rose-hinted mead -- did he really find the only pink drink in the bar -- and then wanders onward. His smile towards Reese is weirdly shy and rueful. He sketches a little bow, balancing his glass in his hand, when she names him on her list.

Kieran grins and winks to Valencia at her statement, before focusing back on Aiden, Sasha, and Esteban. "A pleasure, Your Highness," he offers back to Sasha. His attention moving back to Aiden, the prince nods, "Indeed. The morale of the Compact is my duty and I try to work with the Ministers of Infrastructure and Civil Development. Improving the menagerie fkr the enjoyment of the populace is of keen interest to me."

Marian laughs at Fergus remark and lightly taps him on the shoulder, "You look fine." Then brightens when he mentions that he's using a Thornburn for his armor, "Her sister made my dress...if she's anything like Aurora, then it will be a fine piece indeed." When he points to going to the booze, she gives a nod, "Yes...that's an excellent position." She winks at him as they start to move, "What's going to stop me from being the designated arshole?" She gives a laugh and then moves. When she steps further into the room, those at Marian's back will see that the princess might have worn a dress but she didn't leave her blade at home. The hilt of Oathbinder can be seen on her back in a sheath that is underneath the dress. <<OOC Note: https://lilgripes.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/dress-sword.gif >>

Then Reese steps forward and starts giving a speech. Marian quiets her conversation with Fergus so she can listen to her name a few of the many heroes of the siege. She gives nod when her fellow house members are recognized. She raises her glass to meet Reese's toast.

Kieran also offers a raise of his glass to Reese's speech and downs whatever it is he grabbed.

Olivia happily settles on the couch once Cara makes some room for her, pressing a hand to straighten out her skirts once she's settled. The woman's brave canine companion is recipient of a continually watchful eye, but it seems his presence is tolerable, given his well-disciplined nature and Cara's control over him. All of that said, she seems quite happy just to sit, and almost oblivious of the other more-important folk vying for the woman's attention. Well, not oblivious, she just doesn't seem to mind them or make any effort to interrupt their own introductions. "How are you doing? Well, other than the obvious! It's been too long. I only recently returned to the city, once the siege was listed, and I can see there have been no shortage of developments in the meanwhile!" And yes, she's totally focused on the baby-bump, saying that. So exciting! Though eventually, she does look up at Peregrine and Orazio, and happily shifts if another wishes to sit.

Kieran has joined the a mahogany grand piano with an ornately carved cabinet.

Marian is overheard praising Reese for: For recognizing the heroes of the siege by throwing a fantastic ball.

Ulfric would give the good Princess Valencia a warm smile in kind, one hand upon his hip and the other nursing the hilt of the Valardin blade at his belt, hanging with its brother. "I haven't been privy to your acquaintance since our affairs at the Masquerade ball, miss Valencia. I also hope everything I just said made sense, I found a book of proper speech therapy for socializing with nobles." His smile goes a bit sheepish. "Regardless, being face to face with everyone is a welcome change." As he finishes speaking, his eyes turn toward the Grayson Princess Reese and her toast. He hoists his... empty bottle high with a reply of "Toast!". There is nothing left but drops of rum, but he does his best to sip those down to add to the spirits all the more.

Aiden lifts his glass in toast and smiles to those around him, "This is my hero, Lord Estaban." He winks to his friend, but then drinks down a gulp to not be rude when a toast has been made. Furthering that, he nods to Kieran, "I'm glad to hear that it's of keen interest. The fundraiser for the revitalization project went well. We should see an improvement on the menagerie in a few months time, given we have people to work on the construction projects. It's not going to happen over night, but we've got enough resources to break ground."

"Yeah, finally dragged my sorry fucking ass out of my room." Fergus utters to Valencia. "Did shit for my tan. Never mind getting really tired of Freja harassing me about doing something than 'hide'." He's moving then, taking a look at Oathbinder on her. "Neat way you got your sword strapped to you. Don't think that'd look nearly as good on me. Too much hair." The drinks are scanned, finally deciding on a whiskey, since that's well known. "Nothing, I guess." he continues to Marian. "Though not sure I could see you being. Scratch that, I'd *like* to see it." Like the rest, he quiets down at the proclamation, drinking in a silent toast.

Orazio attends to the speech, raising his glass at the toast. Once it is done, his attention returns to Cara, Peregrine, and Olivia, with another bow to the latter lady. "I can see where that might be some discomfort," Orazio says to Cara, with sympathy. "There are some herbal poultices which can give the impression of lowered temperature, I believe, although I confess I have not the skill to make them." He glances at Peregrine, then grins. "Do I? And here I was trying to be at my /least/ stern. Alas." Yet, he does lower himself carefully to the couch, minding space and the creaking of his knees.

Sasha would have a drink in her hand, if she actually imbibed alcohol. She just falls silent as Kieran, Aiden and Estaban all talk. Her hands beginning to gather her long hair to one side as she begins carefully run her fingers through it.

Orazio has joined the Plush Couch.

Reese lifts her glass in a toast. "To compact and us all!" She says and then pauses. "Please drink, dance, frolic and enjoy yourselves. While there is much work still to be done. We have earned a ourselves this moment of joy."

Gino, a surly sailor arrives, following Antonio.

"It's good to have you home, Olivia -- I know Aislin's terribly relieved that you and Harlan are safe," Cara says warmly, giving the younger lady a light touch on the arm in support. "Even if she doesn't show it terribly well. And I am most glad, too. Peregrine, this is my kinswoman, Olivia. She's Lady Aislin's younger sister, and very clever, especially with plants. Olivia, this is Princess Peregrine. She's wed to Prince Calarian, and is terribly brave. She saved my life. _Our_ life," Cara amends, lightly patting her belly. Which does not explode. Yet.

"It is so good of you to try to learn such. When you do, please teach me, yes?" Valencia smiles up at Ulfric and nods playfully. The little vixen's dark eyes catch the sight of her beloved brother arriving and she waves him over. "Antonio!" she call with a bright smile. "Come meet, Missere Ulfric of Thrax. You two may have much in common, yes?" she invites with a glimmer in her eye.

Eirene raises her glass as she's name checked, giving a grin. "To not fucking dying," she says resolutely. To Armel, she clicks her glass against his and makes a quieter toast before accepting his suggestion. "We can dance; I have to warn you though... I'm a Duke's daughter. I actually had lessons once upon a time in such girly passtimes."

Kieran nods to Aiden, "I heard. That is excellent. I am curious, though, if you have any plans for any events to be held there once construction completes? A ball obviously wouldn't work well there, but perhaps a festival of sorts to show off the new construction and the specimens within." He looks then to Esteban and grins, lifting his glass to the man, "Good work on saving His Highness' life!"

Reese's cheeks are flushed with a warm pink hue. She looks over those at the great table, having a smile for them. She then is distracted by Cara's words and a smile of welcome is given to Olivia. She then peeks over to Luca. "Will you dance with me, Prince Nimble?"

Peregrine belatedly hoists her glass high, a tardy punctuation for Reese's well-wishes albeit one earnestly meant. Then her elbow lowers to tucked up knee again and she resumes her vulture-hunch, rumpling the tattoos sworled over her side and giving herself a very unprincesslike posture. "Hello to you, Olivia," is pleasant enough. "Is good, the Ashfords. Much clever there, yes?" Absently, she puts down a hand in a pat aimed for Cara's own knuckles-- she's not rubbing the baby belly, honest-- and nods shortly at Orazio. "Is is in the shoulders and the back, stern. My father does it well. Owl. His name is Owl," emerges just a touch wistful.

Antonio enters the great hall, looking rather.. irritated about something. which is of course the perfect attitude to have when attending a ball. However, when his sister beckons him, he quickly covers that look with one of doting delight, heading over in her direction. "Do we now?" he asks, looking over the man his Valencia has indicated.

Estaban blinks when he listens to Reese's speech and his sunkissed cheeks turn a pink in color, looking around he looks for a plces to go hide himself now feeling as if maybe everyone might look at him now, he looks to Aiden and Sasha and takes a step back unless stopped.

Armel lifts his glass as Reese makes her toast, his expression a small grin as he echoes, "To those still breathing." He then smiles more warmly to Eirene at her more quiet words, clinking his glass to hers and shooting something back before he remarks, "Oh, I think I may surprise you, you know. I have traveled to just about every court in the land at one time or another." He rises to his feet and extends a hand for his companion, a little almost-cocky grin on his face.

Sasha's cheeks flush as something which causes her to get more shy and leave Aiden, Kieran and Estaban to discuss their business. She makes her way over towards where Valencia and Antonio are as she says "Hello Princess Valencia, you look lovely," then to Antonio she says "And it is good to see you again Prince Antonio."

Sasha has left the a mahogany grand piano with an ornately carved cabinet.

"To the compact and us all!" Marian calls back the toast and has a sip of her wine. She gives a polite smile to Valencia as she chats with Fergus. When he compliments her on strategic placement of the blade, "Well I'm the Sword of Sanctum...I couldn't leave it behind and it didn't look right with my other back sheath." She gives a charming laugh when he teases her about being an arshole, "Oh...I'm sure you would love that but Prince Edain would not be happy." Her liege does expect her to obey the rules of society when she's out in public. Fergus leans over and whispers something in her ear and then she murmurs something back, reaching out to touch his arm and give it a gentle squeeze.

"Oh, yes. My sister, well, she puts on a brave face better than any I know," Olivia agrees. "Or perhaps it is that her face is just naturally that way, and she rarely puts on gentle ones? But I am very happy to see her. We were just all out together, the other night, us three and cousin Killian as well. It is so good to be together with family." And she glances around the ballroom briefly. "And good to be here, in such an exciting time, too." When it comes round to introductions, she dips her head, being unable to properly curtsey at the couch itself. But she vaguely looks like she attempts it. "Highness. If that is the case, then you have my deepest gratitude." And since her love of plants is brought up, she nods at Orazio. "I love them dearly, and am a bit of an apothecary beside." Which does direct things back to Cara: ""Is there anything you need, any herbal conconction or the like, cousin? I would be happy to supply it, though I am sure you are not lacking for people tripping over themselves to care for you."

Aiden considers Kieran, "As a matter of fact, Marquessa Deepwood suggested a masquerade ball to be held there. I do intend there should be spaces enough for holding such functions, after all, it's been a much under-utilized part of the city. With proper organization, there'll be room enough for such facilities to house events of that nature. Your idea, is certainly a good one as well Prince Kieran." He sips at the wine and glances to Sasha, then back to Kieran, "Once construction is complete, I imagine people will merely have to file paperwork to the Crown to host events there. I had hoped to establish a sort of council to undersee various projects but it's been denied, as there's already channels in place for such things." He shrugs his shoulders, "I'll work with various interest groups otherwise to ensure it's upkeep and interest." He looks to Estaban, smiling again, "Where are you going?" He accuses with a hint of mirth.

"Yes, you do," she tells Antonio. Standing on tip toes, she offering him a warm hug and a kiss upon his cheek. "Missere Ulfric, my beloved and brilliant brother, Prince Antonio," she begins introductions all around. The sudden appearance of Sasha makes the chuckle a little. "And this is Princes Sasha," she finishes with a playful smile. "I'm glad you are here. I haven't seen you since your returne," she prompts him.

Luca was caught up in a conversation with Dominique and Atrid at the great table, smiling slyly and goodnaturedly chatting, but still watching his wife for her speech and the like. When she asked for a dance he rose up, offering hand to Atrid to shake and then smiled over to her to offer out his hand as he separated from the other pair. "Shall we then, Princess Ribbons?"

The Grayson musicians in their green and gray livery start up more cheerful and upbeat music, complete with some hyper fiddle playing. It might not to be everyone's taste, but it is well performed and has a pleasant sort of beat that almost begs for movement and frolics.

Ulfric gave a long roll of his eyes at the Princess' words, looking to her skeptically with his brow furrowed. "Oh yes. When one of us can pronounce Missere without choking on a hypothetical hair ball, I'll be right as rain to apprentice you proper." As he speaks, his eyes sweep over to the man joining them, another welcoming smile upon his face. "Good eve, sir. Antonio I presume, as the lady has just said?" He extends a gauntlet. "Nice to make your acquaintance, lass. To what do I owe the pleasure of finding commodity, eh?" His eyes then dance over to the next Princess joining them. "Ah, a trio of lovely royals. Let this housecarl introduce himself as Ulfric Ravenhelm to the both of you. I'd bow, but if I fall I can tell you for a fact I'm not standing up ever again."

Eirene takes the Grandmaster's hand as she stands, finishing her mead in an easy gulp. "You'll probably make me look like a drunk fool then," she replies to Armel. "But then again, I could always blame that hat as a distraction." She tweaks it down over his eye(s) with a smirk.

Reese reaches out for Luca's offered hand and rises to her slippered feet. She smiles over to Dominique and Atrid as they get ready to depart. "It was nice catching up with you both." She murmurs softly. She then gives Luca this happy sort of smile that suggests she is exciting about dancing. Her blue eyes have a brightness.

Armel checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 23 higher.

Estaban stops and looks to Aiden, "may I sit down with you, your highness?" he looks to Kieran, "It is good to see you again Prince Kieran." he sits next to Aiden and leans in to say something to him.

Estaban has joined the a mahogany grand piano with an ornately carved cabinet.

Armel easily corrects his jaunty hat's angle with a bit of a flourish, embracing the mood of the room and the lively music as he guides Eirene to the floor. "Oh, I doubt that very much, but blame away, lovely cheater." Because blaming his hat is totally cheating as he takes one hand in his, the other on her hip, and immediately sets off in a jaunty box-step ballroom dance, actually showing that yes, he does know what he's doing, and he's a bit smug about it, even raising her hand to twirl her at once point.

Valencia a polite more stayed but still warm nod is offered Prince Aiden's way and she turns back to converse with her brother, Ulfric and now Sasha. The buzz of the room seems to move about the little princess who gives her cousin a little playful wink.

Aureth takes a long swallow of his drink, scribbles a note to somebody and banishes his annoying bird with it, and then drifts on through the ball, hunting a seat. He sits down at the claimed seat, and watches the dancing with a particular puzzlement showing across his brow.

Armel has left the Emerald Couch.

Armel has joined the Dance Floor.

Reese has left the Great Table.

Eirene has left the Emerald Couch.

Eirene has joined the Dance Floor.

"A pleasure to meet you, messere," Antonio says to Ulfric, giving the man +a brief nod of his head as he takes the offered hand, shaking it. When Sasha makes her way over, he favors the girl with a bright smile. "It's wonderful to see you again, your highness." As for his sister, before he can respond to Valencia's comment he's interrupted by a rather gruff, irritated looking sailor who beelined his way over to Antonio. what ever that man murmers in his ear causes Antonio to frown.

"Darren lets me get away with it. Maybe should give Edain the benefit of the doubt, eh?" Fergus suggests to Marian lightly. "Suppose it would look a bit off." To his credit, Demonslayer is still strapped to his side as usual, he doesn't have anything fancy with it, beyond being eternally peace-tied. Whatever she said, he just nods, exhaling through his nose is a mild sigh. "Yeah. Probably." Rubbing at his scar, he listens to the music. "I'd offer you a dance but, you've already pointed out how that's not something you were eager to do. But thought to still offer you."

Reese has joined the Dance Floor.

Eirene checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Reese checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Grinning bright and happy to see that look on Reese's face, Luca (aka Prince Nimble) moves with her towards the dance floor to that upbeat music and sets into a vigorous, if inexpert, dancing the round with her, full of spins and laughing and twists perhaps not as dignified as some of the slower melodies, but certainly more suitable to the pair of almost inhumanly smooth warriors dancing together, relying almost entirely on their combat grace to carry them through where proper training isn't found.

Luca has left the Great Table.

Luca has joined the Dance Floor.

Peregrine checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 6 lower.

Sasha kinda comments "I have had the pleasure of meeting Master Ulfric. I watched him spar in fact." Her attention then flitting to Ulfric as she says "I may not spar but I do think you are making wonderful progress." Her attention then looks back to Antonio as her smile brightens though when she notices the frown she asks "I take it, you must take your leave? If so perhaps we can chat about books once more when you have some free time?"

Eirene's either blaming the hat or the slinky dress, the red silk and slippers certainly -not- her usual garment even if they are better suited for dancing than leather pants and knee-high armored boots. She may be trying to ensure the ribboned sleeves are her shoulders don't slip down. But still, the Malvici woman has her own sort of grace though it's clear Armel is the better dancer of the two. She grins over at Reese and Luca as the other couple goes by. "Look at us, we're all fucking fancy here aren't we?"

Marian wrinkles her nose and looks at the folks getting onto the dance floor. Then she motions for one of the servants to bring her a drink so she can down it and get some bravery to face the dreaded dance floor. She then turns to Fergus and tells him, "If I injure you greatly while we dance, just give me the signal and we can leave." She does feel obligate to make at least one pass at the floor, "I am in your hands..." She lets the big man lead her onto the dance floor.

1 Grayson Guardsmen, Philip, an overworked assistant arrive, following Calarian.

Marian has rolled a critical success!
Marian checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 10 higher.

Reese makes her way toward the dance floor along with Luca. She has a smile for Eirene and Armel, seemingly happy that people are dancing. She dances along with Luca, making up for what she lacks in formal training with a warrior's agile grace. She looks over to Eirene. "So fancy." She says, agreeing with her.

With a quiet chuckle, Ulfric's attention turns toward Sasha, looking down at the woman with a raised brow. "Oh? Polite way of sayin' I look good gettin' my backside handed to me on a silver platter?" He holds his expression for but a moment before he topples forward with laughter again. His fingers scratch through the scruff of his chin as he smiles wearily. "A joke, your highness. I've actually finally had the pleasure of winning a battle of my very own. Against a prince, no less." His eyes turn back to Valencia and then Antonio, smiles offered to both. "It's also a pleasure to meet one of the fine lady's family. I was beginning to think she simply let all of her looks and charms stay locked away in the Hart."

Armel outright laughs at Eirene's words, spinning and turning about on the spot. Perhaps he wears plate on the field, but he's still a fighter with all the grace that comes with it. He even claps occasionally to the beat when it spins them apart, telling his partner, "Oh, the fucking fanciest. Turns out, best dancers are fighters, who knew?" Well, he did, from the sound of it. But he does seem happy it's not just him on the dance floor, and not judging his partner slightly for her own very lovely efforts.

Oh, more people dancing! Reese smiles when Marian and Fergus join the floor. "Your hignnesses.." She says toward them and then spins around in a twirl.

Fergus checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 5 lower.

Peregrine's expression doesn't shift. But something in the air grows more charged as she continues her fixed look at Orazio. Her voice lifts beyond the confines of the couch. "You make a face, Orazio. You spit on the spirits? They are not 'interesting tradition'. They are not fire stories to tell children like your gods," she snaps at him, flowing from her perch on the couch's arm. "I find the this city full of very bad people. Very..." She searches for the word. "Ungrateful people," and then she's off, stalking away.

"Utterly fucking fancy indeed, Eir." Luca quips as he's passing the foul-mouthed healer with a fond sort of grin and return of language and a wink.

Peregrine has left the Plush Couch.

Fergus has joined the Dance Floor.

Kieran nods to Aiden and grins, "Good. It sounds like things are already well taken care of." He looks between Estaban and Aiden then and steps back, "Well, thank you for talking with me. I will let you two have some privacy." He then turns and heads off to find someone else to harrass.

Kieran has left the a mahogany grand piano with an ornately carved cabinet.

"Sadly, yes," Antonio says, as shops his sailor companion away. "It be my pleasure, Princess Sasha." An apologetic look is given to both Valencia and Ulfric. "If you'll excuse me... I have something I need to look into." And with that he takes his leave.

Reese looks over to Peregrine and Orazio, seemingly concerned.

Oh good! Calarian arrives late, but just in time to witness his wife apparently having just had a spat with the Legate of Concepts. He pauses in his arrival, considering the others left behind on the couch.

Cara lets out a sigh as Peregrine launches off the couch, before she frowns at Orazio and says mildly, "In days such as these, Legate, I find it usually serves me to try and be open to new ideas. It seems I am educated anew every day in that which is real."

Reese looks over to Antonio. "Take care and thanks for coming, your highness!" She calls out all breathless with her dancing.

Sasha's cheeks flush brightly as she immediately look to Ulfric and says "Oh no. No no no I don't mean. I mean you are far far better than I would ever be with my condition. Please forgive me if I offended you Master Ulfric." Her bashful gaze them looks to Antonio as she softly says "I look forward to it."

Eirene checked perception at difficulty 25, rolling 10 lower.

Valencia's cheeks flush at Ulfric's compliments and she smiles shyly at him, though the smile turns to a diappointed, yet playful pout to her brother as he announces he must go. "Again?! Beloved brother I will insist on audience when you conclude business or I shall be very very hurt," she teases him gently. Another kiss is placed upon Antonio's cheek and a little whisper in his hear before she bids him farewell.

Aiden nods to Kieran, "Perhaps we can speak more of it when we're not celebrating?" He offers, "I'd like to sit down and work with anyone who shares interests in the morale of the city." He lets the other Prince go then mutters something to Estaban, with a cheeky grin sent toward the exit and a sudden burst of energy to grab Estaban's arm and haul him out... not without stopping at the liquor cabinet and filling his arms... with a few bottles.

"Shades an shit." Fergus grunts. She's actually taking him up on the offer. "I should warn you, I haven't actually danced in...a long fucking time. So it might end up you making me look good." He too downs his whiskey, walking out with Marian onto the floor. And like he said, it's going to be her to make him look good. It's her footwork that overshadows his own rustiness with dancing. "'I don't dance'." he mutters at her. "You're full of shit, Marian. Me and two left damn feet."

Aiden gets Crow's Red Rum from a stylish mahogany-framed bar buffet.

Estaban has left the a mahogany grand piano with an ornately carved cabinet.

Aiden has left the a mahogany grand piano with an ornately carved cabinet.

Reese's blue eyes widen as she notices now good a dancer Marian is. "Wow.." She murmurs. "Warrior princesses really are the best dancers." She murmurs.

Estaban looks to Aiden nodding his head and is grabbed and hauled out a smirk coming to his face.

Oh hello, Calarian. Peregrine has a flute of something light and bubbly to push into his hand as she discovers him in her path. It is untouched, just a little sloshy. Something is growled low to the beleagured prince and then she's brushing by him.

Marian manages to cover to Fergus' mistakes on the dance floor, nimbling moving with the other dancers as the move about the dance floor, "I haven't danced...not since the time that Prince Valen would take me to celebrations." She gives a bittersweet smile at the memory of that time, "Since then...I've stuck to the sidelines."

Orazio simply raises his glass to the departing Peregrine, before turning to Cara. "I don't believe /I/ am the one who just called the gods of the Pantheon 'fire stories', Your Highness. Nor, for that matter, did I say anything at all about the spirits," he says, evenly. "If I mean to insult someone, I assure you, there will be no ambiguity about the matter." He then turns to Olivia. "I'm sorry, Lady Olivia, what was the project you were working on? You seem quite enthusiastic about it."

Dominique has left the Great Table.

Marian has joined the Dance Floor.

"Mighty unfortunate your highness." Ulfric places his hand over his chest, bowing respectfully to Prince Antonio. Luckily, he does not fall flat on his face as predicted, though his armor seems to be noisily complaining about the force of will he expends to do so. Looking back to Sasha, Ulfric offers her a pleasant smile. "Jokes, your highness. Believe me, getting lumps is almost as fun as giving them as well. Fightin' is fightin' after all." His eyes glance around the Gray Hall a few times more, eventually settling on all the people dancing. "Don't suppose either of you ladies have much pleasure for dance? I myself tend to become... rather clumsy on my feet when it comes to grace."

Kieran is overheard praising Fergus for: Behold Fergus! Sword of Redrain, Dancer of Two Left Feet!

Dominique stands from the great table and takes Atrid by the elbow as he leads her through the guests again.

Reese is overheard praising Marian for: Warrior dancer princess!

Kieran offers some praise to Fergus from the sideline as he enjoys his glass of whatever it is. "I see now that your combat footwork is not what makes you an effective warrior."

Marian is overheard praising Fergus for: For having big enough balls to get on the dance floor when he's not a dancer.

Valencia gently shoots a little look at Kieran for teasing Fergus. "Tsch, I don't see you dancing, my sweetest cousin Kieran."

Atrid makes his way throug the guests to get to Orazio. When they get close enough. "I beg your Pardon Father Orazion, We had something wed like to say to ye when youve got a moment."

Reese looks over to Orazio and Peregrine, seeming all concerned. It likely takes all her self control to avoid going over and trying to fix things!

Calarian sets a hand at the small of Peregrine's back, listening to her low, sharp words with the slightest of cinches to his brows. He exhales a slow breath, gaze flicking briefly back to Orazio's couch, before he murmurs back to his wife. With drink in hand, at least.

Sasha relaxes and looks relieved as Ulfric explains he was just teasing her and says "I see. Not use to verbal jests in truth. And I could well, try to dance but in truth I am quote atrocious." Her attention then looking back to Kieran as Valencia draws attention to him once more, her cheeks flushing again before she looks away, grabbing a cherry and daintly nibbling upon it to busy herself as she tries to calm her flushed cheeks.

Olivia decidedly does not comment on any religious controversies. Nope! She watches Peregrine's departure and Orazio's reaction from the sidelines, and remains pointedly polite. "Oh. Well, as I am sure you would well know, Legate, when the recent... oddities occured, with the disappearing and reappearing shrine and Skald's new temple, a black rose was found growing where it had vanished. A few more apparently sprouted in the new temple. I was told of some legend, that these were once grown in the past, but it was very difficult... and so I attempted to transplant a cutting. I worried little would come of it, but only just today, I have found it is properly rooting."

"Trying to goad me into dancing with you, Your Highness?" Kieran replies to Valencia. "Well, it is working." He walks over and offer his hand to her with a slight bow, "Would you care to dance, Princess Valencia."

Mischief, 6 Thrax Guards arrive, following Remi.

Orazio smiles at Olivia. "That is delightful. You must tell the Archlector of First Choice, if you haven't already. I'm sure he'd be thrilled to hear it." He pauses, then as Atrid approaches, and rises from the couch. "Ah? Of course, my lord. It would be my pleasure." He turns to offer a bow back to the other two. "Ladies. I hope you have a good evening." Before moving to accompany Atrid, wherever it is the man might lead.

Orazio has left the Plush Couch.

Orazio has joined the Great Table.

Atrid smiles and leads Orazio back to the table along with Dominique.

Calarian exhales another breath of a sigh as he watches Peregrine venture back out of the Great Hall to the hallway. His gaze lingers on her for a moment before she makes his way over to the couch where Cara and Olivia still sit. He offers both of them a warm smile as he offers a few quiet greetings.

Calarian has joined the Plush Couch.

"Me? Goad you? Not in a million years. You are dying to dance with me and you know it," Valencia smiles back up at him. Turning to Ulfric she smiles sweetly, "I would be very happy to claim a dance with you after you and Princess Sasha enjoy yours." Turning back to Kieran she grins playfully again. "Very well, shall we, my sweetest cousin-in-law?" she asks with a little glint in her eye, and a graceful offer of a delicate hand.

Dominique has joined the Great Table.

Eirene sniggers at something Armel says, as the dancers take their moves about the dance floor. She looks over at Fergus and grins at him for -no reason at all- before commenting back to her dance partner. Both of them look very smug and very amused.

"Brother Aleksei? Oh yes, you're right of course. He was there when I took the cutting in fact." So head-in-the-weeds is Olivia that she didn't make this obvious jump, but she seems quite determined of it now. Naturally, she dips her head when Orazio rises, leaving him to his other important business, and then being left with Cara, wonders: "Is there anything you need, cousin? I can go and fetch something if you like." But this, subsequently, is interrupted by another new arrival at the couch!

Well sometimes it was better to arrive late than to arrive not at all, One person holding to such a motto in life comes in the form of Remi. The Thrax Prince coming into the great hall of the Graysons and stopping just short of that entryway as his eyes drift slowly over the place. His eyes seeking out those little beacons of recognition and familiarity within.

Dominique blushes at Atrid and is lead along. "I told you he was busy." She says in a hushed tone.

Kieran checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 12 higher.

Sasha has joined the Dance Floor.

Valencia has joined the Dance Floor.

Sasha checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Ulfric quirks his brow, his eyes sweeping back down to Sasha. He suddenly seems to have a much more awkward stiffness in him, his hands falling to his sides as he taps against the empty bottle still clutched in his palm. "Is that still empty?" He asked himself, staring perplexed down at the empty vessel as if it would actually speak back to him. "Ahem... Well. Princess Sasha?" He looks down a bit nervously. "Apologies in advance for what you're about to see."

Ulfric has joined the Dance Floor.

Reese exclaims "Luca!" and then murmurs something softly to him as she continues to dance.

Ulfric checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 14 higher.

Kieran takes Valencia's hand and leads her out to the dance floor, moving into a simple dance with her at first. He starts adding little creative flourishes and spins into the dance, but nothing too fancy. The keen eye would note most of the flourishes are clever additions to hide his own lack of fine dexterity.

Brigid arrives, following Darren.

Kieran has joined the Dance Floor.

Armel guffaws at something Eirene whispers to him, looking about to swat her for it, although he doesn't stop their spinning about the dance floor, actually switching off who's leading every so often for the amusement of it. "Any man who doesn't appreciate a strong woman? Isn't a man," he remarks to Fergus, seeming pretty certain on that even as he chuckles at the near-collisions going on.

Sasha drops the small part of the cherry that was left in her fingers when Valencia volunteers herself to dance with Kieran. She swallows softly as she looks to Kieran and almost whispers "If you like. We can dance. I warn. I am not good though." Her trembling softly as she gets ready to dance with Kieran. Her soft blue eyes looking up to him as her cheeks are deeply flushed. Though instead she is taken as a partner by Ulfric and seems to follow along well enough.

Finishing off his cake, Aureth abandons the plate cautiously to a servant who seems only too happy to take it from him and doesn't want a tip, no really, doesn't want a tip at all, sir, and then finds himself wandering on amongst the hoi palloi, a silver-and-gold eel slithering around the edges of the dance floor. He pauses and redirects himself to approach Cara's couch for a moment to pay his respects, sketching a fairly elaborate bow as he says, "Good evening, Princess Cara," with a tenuous grip on his seeming sunshine.

"W-Whoa, ha, hey... Actually, this isn't too hard!" The nervous smirch that hung over Ulfric's expression like a dark cloud seemed to clear away nearly immediately. His hands laid carefully on Princess Sasha, careful of himself and proper etiquette while also keeping in step with the music. It was just a hop to the right, and a skip to the left... or was it the other way around? "Heheh... I guess dancin' sea sorts did teach me well." He leans in closer, murmuring something to the princess.

"Archlector Aureth -- it's so nice to see you," Cara brightens immediately upon the Deathblessed's arrival, which might seem odd, but then it's been that sort of day. "I'm glad you could attend our little gathering. I hope you are well?"

Aureth checked charm + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.

Though a touch late to the party, Darren strides into the Grayson Great Hall with even and easy steps. There are a few glances around before he takes a few steps over to the refreshment table to snag himself a drink, offering a light nod of his head to Cara and Calarian as he passes by them.

Kahlana enters wearing a golden and copper gown, she looks amongst the royalty and she for now etches close to the wall. The wall flower combs her fingers through her white hair as she watches those dance and mingle. She had followed Prince Darren through the city and so she shadows his steps though far enough not to be hounding him

Reese is dancing with Luca. She looks flushed and breathless. Still she is trying to be a good host and so Darren is given a warm smile of welcome. "Prince Darren, welcome." She says, lifting her voice to carry.

Eirene pauses to give Ulfric a thumbs up when she sweeps past him in Armel's arms. "Not too hard. Fucking ringer is what you are," she jokes, winking at him and his grace.

Marian is doing her best to lead Fergus through the dance steps on the floor but there have been some almost near collisions that have caused her to bite her tongue and stop herself from swearing. She gives a nudge to Fergus nodding in the direction of where his liege has just entered the building. Of course the momentary distraction causes a bit of foot movement, don't step on the dress action but they manage to keep moving and not falling so it's all good.

After a few moments of watching eventually Remi shrugs and just as he had come in the man is pivocting upon his heel and with a shift of his weight he is turning and heading back for the doors.

Sasha smiles softly at whatever it is the Ulfric softly says to her and continues to move about the dance floor with him, not as well as he is, but she is at least able to keep up and not crush toes!

Armel glances aside to Marian and Fergus as they pass by, remarking, "Oh, those are the sweetest victories, the underdog ones. I don't even mind being knocked on my ass, situation like that. It's a good show and lesson for everyone. Nobody is so good as to be unstoppable." And then he's chiming in to Ulfric as well. "Yep, done cursed yourself now, friend."

Reese smiles over to Kahlana when she arrives as well. She then turns back to Luca and murmurs something softly to him.

Mischief, 6 Thrax Guards leave, following Remi.

Olivia shakes her head in reply to something said at the couch, just as Aureth is approaching them. "I do not think so. I have been away from the city a bit myself, so I am always meeting new people, or people I should probably know and may have met at some point when I was young, but do not quite remember," she answers Calarian, smiling helplessly. "I did just have the pleasure of meeting your wife as well, and hearing of her heroics in regard to my beloved cousin here." She looks up as they're greeted by a new face, but as usual, is more apt to let the others talk unless some focus falls more strictly on her.

Valencia looks a litte confused by Sasha wishing to dance with Kieran first. An expression of emphathy finds her sweet face and she smiles up at Kieran, "Seems the princess wish to dance with you. If it pleases you, we can dance later, yes?" she say softly to Kieran. "You are again a very popular man at parties," she grins playfully, leaning foward to whisper gently.

Ulfric chuckles quietly as he moves in step with Sasha. Placing a hand on her shoulder, he gives them both a twirl. He isn't the most graceful dancer by any means. In fact, that would be such a gross understatement that it's laughable. But what he lacks in a quiet step he makes up for in leaps and bounds with his presence. He is a boundless and exuberant man if nothing else!

"No shit. If I'm gonna be the fucking bar that everyone sets themselves to beat, then have at it." Fergus says over to Armel. "So Marian here taking me to task, just say more about her than anything else. Reminds me that there's always someone more than will to take you out back an tan your ass." He's doing his best, but it's clear the Valardin is in charge when it comes to the dance moves.

"Hello there, Princess Reese," Darren calls over to the Grayson girl as she greets him, flashing her a charming smile and even dipping his head politely to Luca as well. He takes a sip of his drink as his eyes linger to those on the dance floor, a light laugh escaping him when he sees Fergus being carted about by Marian. "Try not to step on the poor Princess' toes, Fergus," he offers helpfully.

Aureth fetches out with a smile and toasts Cara with his glass. "Your Highness," he says, following a delicate sip, "I'm quite well, and I'm glad to be here. It's my first ball as something other than part of the entertainment." His pale gaze skips past Darren as the High Lord passes by, but quickly returns to the people on the plush couch to whom he offers his efforts at charm. "I believe I've seen you before," he says to Olivia, "but I'm afraid I haven't had the honor to make your acquaintance; or yours, Highness." He may or may not have said something dumb to her when the Shrine of the First Choice appeared, but he can't quite remember exactly. He says lots of dumb things to people. This last 'Highness' addressed to Calarian, he nods and adds, "Very nice waistcoat, though."

"It's harder than it fucking looks, Darren!" Fergus calls over to his cousin.

Sasha looks towards Valencia and Kieran, her cheeks immediately flushing brightly once more as she looks away. She giggles as Ulfric spins her and as she comes back, she continues to dance with him. She isn't graceful by any means but she seems quite charming in her moments at least. And she already has a partner so no need for Valencia to postpone dancing with Keiran

Marian chuckles at Armel's comment on them being the underdogs of dance,"Well...I'm much better with the sword than social graces." She smiles as Darren jokes about her carting Fergus around the floor, "He's doing pretty good...all my toes are still intact." She grips Fergus a little tighter cause with all the talking they started to drift apart, "More dancing...less talking." She's such a good little general on the dance floor.

Cara nods amiably to Darren from her seat on the couch -- being _far_ too pregnant to be up and dancing like some of the other guests -- before dimpling with another bright smile for Aureth, "Well, we are very pleased you could join us." She pauses and amends, "_I_ am pleased. I'm not royal enough for a plural pronoun, certainly. Though I suppose, in some sense, I am rather plural at the moment."

Darren shakes his head, laughing a little more at Fergus. "Well if you get tired of carting around the big brute, Princess Marian, I'd be happy to step in for him. I assure you, /some/ of us have grace," he winks, before he looks away and over to Aureth, dipping his head into a light nod for the Archlector.

Reese murmurs softly to Luca and she kisses his cheek. She then pulls away from him. She peeks over the party as if trying to be a good hostest. "Prince Darren." She says, starting over in his direction. "Could I get you a drink or would you prefer a dance instead?" She then turns toward Cara and keeps curiously toward her belly. "Oh, Princess Cara, do you want some cake or pie?" She says, trying to be helpful.

Armel grins evenly, either at Marian, Fergus, or something Eirene has whispered to him. "What the abyss are social graces?" He seems confused on the very concept, really, or perhaps is just joking. He smirks a bit at mention of toe-stepping, pulling Eirene a bit closer as they continue to gracefully sweep across the dance floor.

"Oh, you should dance with Princess Marian. She is amazing." Reese adds to Darren. She heads toward the bar. She looks to Cara and back to the treats. "Hmm..we have cherries?"

Ulfric offers a warm smile which decorates the fiery red scruff of his beard to Sasha, nodding in tandem with hushed words between the two. Pushing his head back, he gives her a reassuring squeeze and a few more steps across the floor. "You've already handed me a happy night, princess. Go and enjoy yourself in private if you so wish."

Eirene says, "Social graces are when I remember to peace-tie my sword and not say 'fuck' quite so much." She nods eagerly. She has them, apparently. "Or knowing when not to insult someone's stupid goat-fucker of an ancestor."

"Archlector Aureth, apparently," Calarian says in warm-humored greeting to the priest. "Prince Calarian Grayson. A pleasure to make your acquaintance. As my cousin-in-law says, we're of course delighted to host you this evening." He offers a slightly tighter smile to Olivia. "I'm glad you were able to make my wife's acquaintance. I hope things didn't get too -- tense."

Kahlana laughs at the Northerners, she watches them Dance, it was all so beautiful, she grabs herself a drink and she slowly moves closer to Kieran and she smiles moving over to the party prince with a little smile on her lips "Save me a fucken Dance, Highness?"

Cara overhears Eirene and glances her way, calling, "Lady Eirene, I give you permission to say 'fuck' as much as you please within the Grayson Mansion. Officially. Have a lovely time."

Luca comes to a laughing, breathless halt with a changeover of song just about the time Reese is calling out greeting to their latest high lord guest. A kiss for his wife and some words and Luca's slipping off away from her. Darren's nod his way is returned in turn, albeit with a touch of surprise from the Velenosa-turned-Grayson duelist prince. Apparently the hostess and her husband agreed to split up to play the minglers at her ball and give her opportunity to dance with others. And in turn, the finely brocade-clad Champion is peering about the room thoughtfully looking for his own victim it seems. Off towards Cara and Aureth he's striding with the smooth swordsman's grace, coming up to the pair to wink to Cara at the end of her words. "We all are certainly. Blessed Brother Hot Lips always makes a party better with his presence. I'd ask you to a spin, Car, but I'd probably get glared at by half the women in the room for stirring you and flinging you about." A pause then, a sly look to Aureth and he's asking of her. "Would you hate me terribly if I stole away your conversation for a few though?" An arched-brow sort of challenging look to Aureth, as if curious whether the man will take him up on the challenge.

"Shit, must've been a lesson I never learned. Darren can't take me anywhere." Fergus grunts over at Eirene. He's in rare form. Might sound grumpy and growly, but it loos like he's actually having fun for a change of pace.

Armel is grinning and chortling at Eirene's response, shaking his head as he declares, "See? You're allowed. Besides, less fun when you aren't mocking everything around you every few minutes. Or seconds."

Aureth widens his gaze very slightly as Darren meets his glance, and his mouth twitches up at one corner. His breath huffs, just a little, past his nose. There is no sign whatsoever of the hissing spitting cat behavior that Darren encountered from him months and months ago at the Commoners' Court. The cat has now been groomed and looks sleek and smug. "The Mother of Beginnings bless you," he says to Cara, and there's something delighted in his grin as he invokes this, "for you do seem to have a great new beginning to be looking forward to quite soon." He sips his drink and then answers Calarian's warmth with his own: "An honor and a pleasure, Your Highness. It's possible that I'm being absconded with, however." He returns the upsweep of his eyebrows to Luca. "Are you suggesting _flinging me about_?" he asks with a laugh buried in his breath.

"Lady Olivia Ashford," the like-named young woman will supply when pressed on the details of her identity by Aureth. Then her face lightens as the man's suggestion of familiarity brings her thoughts to the same place. "Ah, were you there that night, at the new temple?" the young woman wonders, now stumbling through those details in her mind, or as much as she recalls of them, once her focus has been turned to recalling them. "We were, to a degree, just speaking about that. Well, the Legate and I, before he wandered off." To Calarian, she offers a quick shake of her head. "Oh, well, there was something between ehr and the Legate but I didn't pay it much mind. I was just grateful for the service she did my cousin. She seems a most impressive woman, in any case, and the two of you an even more impressive pair by consequence."

"I'm quite all right, Princess Reese. I've got myself a drink already," Darren lofts it up to indicate it, flashing her a wide smile. "And am entertaining myself by watching my brute of a cousin try not to embarrass himself." There's a heartbeat of a pause. "Any further, that is," he winks to Reese and then sips at his drink.

"Fling away, Prince Luca, fling away," Cara laughs and makes a little waving gesture with her hand. "I am quite comfortable here, and with excellent company to keep."

Kieran is in the middle of a dance when Kahlana approaches and he nods with a laugh, "Alright. Will do." He shakes his head a bit as he spins across the dance floor with Valencia, and approaches where Darren is. "Ahhh, brother! Good to see you. Come, steal a dance partner."

Eirene jerks her thumb over to the bar. "Lots of booze, letting me cuss like a sailor for shits and giggles... I may really just start fuckin' hanging around here more then," she says with a ribald little laugh. "Thank you, yer highness," she calls back to Cara.

Sasha smiles to Ulfric as she says "Thank you for your kind words Master Ulfric. You don't dance nearly as badly as you thought." As she is allowed to slip away, she begins to attempt to leave the dance floor.

The little dark haired vixen cannot help but smile as Kieran moves her across the dance floor with expert grace. She seems relaxed in his arms, gracefully following his steps, dark storm silks swirling like thunder clouds about her, "I should have known better than to tease you," Valencia grins and shakes her head. "Leave it to you to show your little cousin-in-law up. No wonder I like you so much."

Marian continues to keep the shit sailing as they move about the dance floor. Her eyes flash as she smiles and quietly jokes with the big beast of a partner that she's leading through the steps. Her form, for all their difficulties isn't half bad. The simple dance steps they're using aren't too difficult. She flashes a smile over at Darren, "Prince Darren, I will of course save you a dance...but later. We still have a few more circles to make around the dance floor."

Ulfric watches quietly as the Princess is on her way, waving a steel black hand in her direction as she departs. "Stay safe, your highness, and good night!" His smile widens from ear to ear, hands at his hips as he now looks about the floor. With his partner newly relinquished, Ulfric proceeds to 'get jiggy with it' all on his own, not allowing the opportunity to cut loose come unopposed.

Armel remarks after a pause or two, "If you let Eirene at the bar without restriction, cellar might be out come the next week's end." He seems to flush a bit more, a moment of self-awareness as he peers down at himself at something Eirene says, murmuring almost nonstop to each other, really, while they dance.

"Prince Luca," Calarian greets his Lycene in-law with a certain wry amusement as he arrives to immediately abscond with one of his conversation partners. He looks back to Olivia, smile widening a touch, and says, "Thank you, my lady. I don't know that I'm often called 'impressive.' I do think my wife is more obviously so."

Kahlana nods her head, getting her promise of a dance, she smiles a little as she gives Valencia a little nod to the Princess before she moves to find a place to sit and watch.

Darren offers a little wave to Kieran and Valencia both, before depositing his empty glass to the side. "It's quite all right, Princess Marian. I don't intend to linger long and I'd hate to one up my cousin with my impressively fancy dance moves," he laughs a little, before looking to Sasha as she starts heading off the dance floor, and offers her a warm smile. "Princess Sasha. It's good to see you again," he notes. "Are you settling into the city well enough?"

"You are truly a prince, my sweetest of Kierans," Valencia says with a sweet smile as he dances her up to Ulfric. The little fox catches sight of Kahlana and beams brightly at her, then turns to look up at the large Thrax man, "I do believe you were offering me a dance, sir?" she askes him withe a mischievious grin. She waits for him to decide and if agreed, offers him a delicate hand.

Sasha pauses as Darren speaks to her, offering a warm smile as her soft blue eyes look to him as she says "I believe so. Just some things are a bit more slow moving than others. Was accepting into the Scholars society just this morning so that is something that indeed makes me quite happy."

People are always coming and going, or being dragged off, so Olivia doesn't seem terribly troubled by it. Heck, it's more convenient than to have to go around physically mingling herself. She can just sit here, use Cara as bait, and let people come by... and then wait for them to get dragged off before you get to those awkward lulls in conversation. Briliant! Of course she speaks no actual objection to Luca's abduction of the last visistor, and remains focused on Calarian. "I am certain you are impressive in many of your own ways." She's sure? Is she guessing?! "Even beyond the obvious. Do not sell yourself short!"

"Yeah, I suppose I can't keep you all to myself, eh? As much as I'd like. Sharing is caring? Think someone told me that awhile back. I mean, if Darren comes over here an sweeps away Marian, might just ask Armel if I can cut in and see if the Malvici here wants to risk her feet with me. And then see who can put away more whiskey." Fergus replies, before focusing back on his dancing with Marian.

Stopping his jazzy one man show, Ulfric dipped his chin to look upon Princess Valencia proper. Taking one step back, he offered a deep bow that was even deeper in its showmanship. "Your highness, Valencia, allow me to accept this dance and uh..." He seems to lose his place in mind, looking back up to her stone-faced for a moment. "And you're lookin' mighty foxy, so let's make fools of the rest." Laughing loudly, he takes Valencia's hand and places another upon her shoulder as he falls into step. "You lead me, my lady. I'm parched to see what you can do."

Luca can't help but grin a lopsided, wry sort of grin to Aureth's blessing of the pregnant woman, a fond sort of expression that only spreads when he's asking about being flung about. He offers back to the Archlector with a mild shrug and a quipped. "Gods know we barely manage to get a chance to see each other it seems of late, so why not take the opportunities we can, eh?" Nope, no denial of flinging him about the dancefloor. And to Calarian then he's offering a wry easy grin and nod. "Sorry to steal away conversation Cal, but couldn't resist. Hope you're enjoying yourself though. And you as well, Lady Oli." He offers the latter a wink in passing as he's trying to drag Aureth off, mangling her name as he's ever prone to. But at least she got a title! So apparently he doesn't know her well enough yet to drop it entirely like usual.

Eirene heard her name. Hmm? She looks away from Armel and tries to place where it was. Because there was also 'whiskey' said in the same breath. Even if she is now enjoying a large brandy that looks as if it was just made to fit in her hand.

Marian laughs and tells Fergus, "I think Prince Darren has left you off the hook. It appears he isn't staying long so I guess you're stuck with me as a partner." She gives him a grin, "I don't know about you...but this dancing..." She makes a face and jokingly starts to pull him off the dance floor, "I'm way too sober to be doing this." She looks to see if Fergus is ready to head towards the bar.

"Prince Calarian follows in the fine Grayson tradition of exploration," Cara explains to Olivia. "He's seen a great deal more than I have of the world, that is certain. I think that's quite admirable!"

Kieran shakes his head at Ulfric's pun and moves away from Valencia and the man towards Sasha and Darren. "Excuse me, brother. I hate to interrupt, but Her Highness asked for a dance earlier." He grins at the young woman and offers his hand to her, "Care to dance, Princess?"

Eirene has left the Dance Floor.

"That is good to hear, your Highness," Darren offers to Sasha, looking up when Kieran comes over. He chuckles and flourishes a hand, "Be my guest, brother. Enjoy yourself." And as Marian and Fergus approach the bar, he smirks a little. "I could stay for a dance, but I figured that would be in poor taste. I'm not one to steal dates," he winks at the two of them.

Eirene has joined the Emerald Couch.

Armel looks up as his and Eirene's name is mentioned, zero-ing in on Fergus. "She's a free woman, she can dance with whoever she likes! In fact, she's technically my superior socially, as are you." A grin to show he doesn't hugely care, considering the two he's talking about, he doesn't figure they will make an issue of it. He looks to Eirene for her opinion.

Armel has left the Dance Floor.

"Oh no, no objection." Aureth, indeed, is so lacking in objection that, as Luca begins to haul him off, he hooks two fingertips into the nimble prince's belt, so as to achieve two pinpoints of a link that will permit him to retain a hold on him that will not allow him to eel away. "What if I don't know your fancy waltzing, Champion?" he asks. "Because I might not know your fancy waltzing. We don't waltz much in the gutter, there's more stomping and occasional ... grinding."

"Sounds good to me." Fergus agrees, finishing out the last bit of the dance. He jerks his head over at Armel and Eirene. "Hey. You two losers. We're gonna go drink our drink on. And we're drinking whiskey, so don't pansy out." Offering his arm to Marian once the dance ends, he looks to angle where the booze is.

Sasha's cheeks flushes brightly at Kieran comes to take her for a dance and softly almost whispers says "Yes." Her attention then is upon Darren as she says "Thank you your highness." Then she is trying to get into position to dance with Kieran. Or at least attempt to dance

Sasha checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 14 higher.

Kieran checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 27 higher.

Eirene motions one way than the other. "Are we dancing or drinking? Because I think that's a non-choice there. Pansy out? You jumped up shitheel, I probably can outdrink you," she sasses to Fergus, hand on her hip and posture cocky. The words are said with friendly barbs to them, the annoyance amused.

"Ah, putting yourself in my hands? You are a brave, brave man, Missere Ulfric," the little vixen beams up at him with a dangerous glint in her eye. "Shall we then?" With that, she draws him into the dance and around the floor, though nothing fancy, just lovely easy movements to show him off to his best advantage.

Valencia claims this

Kieran leads Sasha back to the dance floor and pulls her into a similar dance as the one with Valencia. "Thank you, Your Highness, for accepting my offer." He grins back and manages to perform a bit better than last time. Practice apparently makes perfect.

Armel grins under his drink as he lifts it to slug down a generous mouthful. "Oh shit, now you've done it," he remarks of Fergus' comment to him and Eirene. "I've never missed out on a drinking contest while off-duty. Ever. Might have to have Eirene carry me home though, we'll see." He seems amused by the prospect as he decides, "Guess we're drinking though, sound of it."

"Oh! Yes, that is a most admirable profession," Olivia agrees with Cara's assessment. And this is no mere politeness, for she has a particularly notable explorer as close family, and thus considerable respect for the job. "Have you worked with my sister then, with Lady Aislin? I know she is also involved in that sort of thing. In fact, I envy her it a great deal, for the breadth of things she must see and experience. I do not envy her the danger so much, but I would be fascinated to see the different plants that grow in places far and wide. Your own travels must also be impressive, highness!"

Orazio has left the Great Table.

"Bravery and stupidity have gone hand in hand to lead me to where I am today, my lady." Ulfric grins, taking careful steps all around Valencia to follow her choreography as well as he could. Which is to say, more so than he was expecting but perhaps less than he'd hope! Ever the one to press forward, he does his best not to miss a beat as they glide across the dance floor. "I hope you're not going easy on me, Princess. If I wind up flat on my ass, it's only the better showing for you no?"

"Oh, I don't know that I'd call myself an explorer, but I thank you both for the gracious compliments," Calarian says with clear amusement, offering Cara and Olivia a deep flourish of a bow. "If you'll excuse me, though." With a final smile, he drifts back away from the sofa.

Armel has joined the Emerald Couch.

Marian happily takes Fergus arm and lets out that stiffness that was riding her as she danced, and openly laughs at Eirene's comments as she is led up to the bar. It appears that whiskey is their drink of choice and that suits the Sword of Sanctum just fine. She motions to Armel, "I'll have a few drinks but this is not going to be a drinking contest for me..." She lowers her voice for their group and adds a little quip.

Calarian has left the Plush Couch.

1 Grayson Guardsmen, Philip, an overworked assistant leave, following Calarian.

Orazio rises from the table, offering a bow to the two he was speaking with, then he moves away, seeking a refill of his drink at the bar, by the looks of it.

"Oh, *bitch*. Now you're talking my language." Fergus wags a finger at Eirene, humored. "One, two, three, four." he taps at Armel, Eirene, and Marian. "Just enough for a proper drinking competition. "She talks a big fucking game. Now I just want to see if her walk can back up her talk." He waves a hand at Marian. "Eh, fine. You judge then."

Kahlana laughs a little as she watches the Northerners change hands with partners and she stands from her spot, her bright green eyes move over the non dancers, and finds her Leige lord without a partner, she nods her head his way lifting her glass as the dancing continues. Sipping on her drink, she sits near the others to chat with lightly, a bright smile on her lips.

Sasha moves along well enough as Kieran leads her around the dance floor. Her cheeks still quite flushed as her eyes are looking up to him as she softly says "And thank you for asking, your Highness."

What exactly is the proprieties of a Prince dragging an Archlector off to the dancefloor with talk of grinding? Probably there are some that would indicate it's not the thing to do, but Luca's never been good at the whole proper thing, even by Lycene standards, and by Grayson ones, he's even worse probably, so it's perhaps facepalm worthy when he's declaring back to Aureth before slipping out onto the dancefloor with the other man. "You say that like I have a clue how to waltz either. I just jump out there, fling about vaguely in time to the music and add a bit of grinding where I get the opportunity!" Well _there's_ a grand advertisement for others who might be looking to snag a dance with Luca! Still, he's reaching the floor, sliding hand to Aureth's waist and other into his hand as lead, and then they're off, grinning brightly and spinning about in time to the music, leaning heavily on the duelist's grace for sheer lack of skill on his part.

Marian has left the Dance Floor.

Fergus has left the Dance Floor.

Aureth has joined the Dance Floor.

Eirene strides to the bar with her usual swagger, even in form-fitting red gown. She slaps her hand on it and points at Fergus. "First night in Arx, I outdrank Anze and nearly beat Freja," she says proudly. "Let's do this; this is more my kind of party anyhow."

"Hello Lady Kahlana," Darren remarks to the Crovane as she comes over, offering her a small smile. "Sounds like there's a drinking competition going. You should join," he says to her, before he nods to Fergus and Marian and takes a sideways step. He murmurs something to Kahlana before he starts to take his leave.

Fergus has joined the Emerald Couch.

Marian has joined the Emerald Couch.

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

Aureth is completely, 100% lying about not knowing how to dance. He has spent the last, like, twenty years being the entertainment at parties for rich people. He is so familiar with the steps that he can provide a handy channel to lead Luca in steps that that he might not otherwise make.

Kahlana nods her head to Darren after whispering to him a moment, "Be well Highness." she offers to him politely. The green eyes move to find whom is in on this contest.

Arik enters the room looking around a moment. He is dressed down meaning not wearing more armor than should be allowed. He steps further in before spotting the one he was hoping to see

"Ah, but you see, my dearest missere, a lead's task is to ensure that their partner is always looking at their best and so your failure would reflect so poorly upon me, yes?" Valenica smiles up at him, as he take another turn about the floor. "And as my beloved Luca and sweetest of Kierans is here to show me up, I must not falter, for it is my duty to be of excellent benefit to you as we dance. Just so."

"My sister ain't no fucking pantywaist, that's for sure." Fergus nods, coming over with a bottle whiskey, Nightgold variant and four glasses, laying them down and pouring. "If there's one thing I'm good for, is showing my siblings how to fucking swing with their alcohol, so about damn time somebody gives me a challenge." Armel gets a mildly impressed look. "Yessir, the motto as always is 'the liver is evil and it must be punished'."

Reese has left the Dance Floor.

Reese pours herself some sparking mead and goes to sit on the couch with Cara and Oliva.

Reese has joined the Plush Couch.

Darren dips his head towards Kahlana and offers another wave to Reese before he sees himself out.

Brigid leaves, following Darren.

"How do you managed to be so upstanding and sweet every waking moment?" Ulfric chuckles to himself as he mimics the Princess' movements to the letter, his armor shaking a bit with the added movement but offering just enough dexterity left that he staves off making a fool of himself. "If I hadn't known better I would dare to say you're hardly human to be so nice."

Orazio fills, then carefully, meticulously drains another half-glass of wine, before moving towards the door, stopping along the way here and there to smile and exchange words with a few people.

Orazio is overheard praising Reese for: A lovely ball!

The little southern princess grins at the thought of not being human. "You are so very kind to say so, but if I am not so, then what am I?" she asks Ulfric curiously, as they gracefully sweep around a Kieran and Sasha of dancers to the the other side of the floor.

Dominique takes Atrid by the hand and leads him out of the party. She is blushing terribly, red in the face, like she has a fever.

Kieran watches his brother go with a raised eyebrow the. glances to Kahlana.

Dominique has left the Great Table.

Atrid has left the Great Table.

Atrid leaves, following Dominique.

Sasha continues to dance with Kieran as she softly speaks with him.

Kahlana shrugs to Kieran, "The responsibility's of being High Prince Kieran". She smiles then as she stands drinking her cup before she too moves to the door.

Ulfric haphazardly steps left to right, keeping his ankles apart just enough to not topple him over. "I would take a guess at being the foxy sort. Vixen-like. I've had to drive many foxes away from my Pa's livestock in me youth." His lips purse in thought for a moment as he stares at Valencia's face, making a mental note of every feature as the world around them spun and dazzled. "They were all pretty litte things. But they ate too many hens for his liking. I imagine you're the same way. Nice and beautiful, but, always havin' a set of teeth on ya'." He grins widely. "You're the type I see fendin' for herself expertly one day and then curlin' up in your bushy tail the next."

"I wish I had such fangs. Gods, you have no idea," Valencia laughs, charmed by Ulfric's words. She gives a little sigh, her expression softening as she looks up to him. "No, I am not so I think. And if I am kind, there is aways a good reason for it. It is usually because I see very good things in those I am with. I think people do not understand one can offer earnest compliment without alterior motives. I find this very sad."

Sasha checked strength at difficulty 7, rolling 6 lower.

Sasha is softly saying something to Kieran and just as she finishes saying something. Her legs give out on her as her hands begins to slip out of Keiran's hands and she slumps against him and will continue to the floor if not caught entirely.

"Double-speak is the language of the people in high society, if your humble housecarl could offer his opinion on such." Ulfric squeezes her hand, twirling her across the floor much the same he did his previous partner. "But, that is why we have your highness here." He dips his chin, giving her a nod. "The lower folk like myself appreciate your hospitality, my lady. Always."

Kieran checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 5 lower.

Kieran blinks as Sasha suddenly goes limp as they dance and she falls into him. He tries to catch her but is so surprised he just fumbles attempting to grab her. "Oh no!"

Arik checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 21 higher.

Eirene is chatting with the others about the drinking contest when OOPS. Sasha swoons? Tunbles to the ground? Fortunately, Eirene is well known for being one of the best medics and doctors in Arx. She stands up as she sees the girl start to go down.

Armel snorts as Eirene comments, remarking to them all, "That's why I really do adore the Malvici. Calypso in particular? Fucking amazing general, she was the reason we held the line so well at the Seawatc-" But then recollections of past battles are put to the side as Sasha swoons, and he naturally follows along with Eirene, just part of the Knight of Solace instinct, even if he is weaponless at the moment. Lets Eirene take all the lead on checking the woman, though.

Luca's distracted thoroughly with his talk and dance with Aureth, and missed what happened, but at the hubbub, he's peering over, eyebrows arched and, on seeing the downed woman, declaring loudly. "I thought people only got poisoned at Lycene bashes?" Oh yeah, cause _that_ rumor is going to help things out. Bad Luca! No cookie!

Eirene had just been talking about Lycene poisoning clothing, so....

Valencia's eyes widen as Sasha crashes to the floor and stops the dance immediately. "Princesss?!" she cries out, leaving Ulfric's arms to go and see to the fallen princess.

Ulfric darts his head over in surprise at the gathering scene, following behind Valencia. His head goes to rest upon the hilt of his blade, instinctively.

Aureth looks up from Luca, who has completely captured his attention otherwise as they dance, and looks baffled. "I didn't realize that swooning damsels was actually a thing that happened at these things," he observes, like a tourist among the hoi palloi: "I thought that was like ... an urban legend."

Arik is moving towards Sasha anyways and smiles though it is gone when she falls he rushes forward sliding like hes stealing a base catching her in his lap barely. He'll lift her making sure she is breathing first he'll lift her up standing up

Marian was sitting at the bar, enjoying a few drinks with friends but then her cousin suddenly crashed to the ground. She jumps up from the couch, "Sasha!" She leaves her date with the other couple and starts to move towards where Sasha fainted.

Marian has left the Emerald Couch.

Armel has left the Emerald Couch.

Eirene has left the Emerald Couch.

Fergus shakes his head. "You come with more of the 'I don't give a fuck' that I think a lot of Lycene lack. Too caught up with being as scandalous or risque as possible. An you're dame right. It's not how you show is sexy, it's what you do. What you're confidant with." Downing his next drink, he's about to comment when Eirene stands up, forcing him to see what the hell is going on away from them. "We gonna pause this while Malvici here does her thing?" Then Marian gets up. "Yep. Guess so." And he's hefting himself up as well.

Fergus has left the Emerald Couch.

Armel checked command + leadership at difficulty 15, rolling 11 higher.

Marian has joined the Dance Floor.

Armel turns as the crowd starts to gather and puts a hand up. "Okay okay, everyone just calm down, alright? Give her some space, not going to help her to get crushed by concerned loved ones." Whether they listen to the commoner is hey, up to them, but trying to make Eirene's job easier as she checks on the woman and they try to get her sorted.

Armel has joined the Dance Floor.

Kieran is still blinking as Arik swoops to the rescue. "Oh, hey Arik. Good catch! She was just saying how she occasionally has spells when she stands for a log time, and..." He gestures to her unconscious form. As a crowd forms, he steps back to let healers do their thing.

Eirene is a first responder on the battlefield. Many of the men and women alive in Arx today have sen that. She runs quickly, moreso than usual due to lack of armor and her kit. "Get her to a couch, set her down," she says as Arik settles the limp girl in his arms. "Let me take a look at her." Kieran's comment is met with a scowl and a murmur of curious.

Eirene checked perception + medicine at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Sasha manages to get caught by Arik when Kieran is unable to catch her. Her cheeks flush with embaressment as she comes to and looks around and says "Oh my... now I have caused such a distraction... I promise I am fine. My ailment was just acting up again." Her light blue eyes looking to Kieran as she says "I am sorry for worrying you your Highness." To Arik she asks "When did you arrive Arik?" Then to Valencia, Ulfric and Marian, she repeats "I am fine. I promise, no need to fuss over me."

Reese is in the middle of a serious conversation with Olivia and Cara. She looks up though toward Sasha and seems concerned. Still she doesn't rush over.

A large, muscled hand rests on Marian's shoulder. "Let Malvici do her work, eh? Give'er some air. She'll be alright." Fergus points out gruffly.

Marian moves over to Eirene who's treating her, leaning over to say a few words to the medic to let her know what's going on with Sasha. She's concerned but once she realizes that Sasha is having one of her episodes the warrior calms down quickly.

Cara glances over, concerned, but upon seeing Eirene tending to the lady she relaxes a touch, assuring those with her, "Lady Malvici is of the finest medical ability. I am certain Princess Sasha is being well-tended."

Valencia easily steps back and offers the medics space to do their work. Her face is grim and concerned. She nods to Fergus as he rumbles orders to Marian, "Just so," she replies to the broad-shouldered Redrain and takes another step back.

Kieran shakes his head to Sasha as she comes to and apologizes of all things. "No need to apologize, Your Highness. I am sorry I wasn't better prepared for the suddenness." He looks back to Eirene and shrugs at her scowl.

"You heard the grand-commander-general-master." Ulfric stands at attention, stepping to the front of the pack and acting as a human barrier, his arms outstretched to either side. "Our good lady needs space and support of those trained, please keep an orderly distance so she might receive the finest aid."

Eirene does a quick check. Pulse at the neck and wrist, Sasha's eyes, the girl's breathing. She seems satisfied as she nods up to Marian in agreement. "Just excitement is all. Probably ate too much lovely food," she says with cheerful wink. "Maybe just sit out for a while, catch your breath, Princess."

Armel just follows the group to the couch, sure to give the effort a bit of space himself while Eirene works. He squints at Ulfric, but snorts in a touch of amusement at the adhoc titles. "I like that. Might use it in the future." But then hey, Sasha is FINE, and so it's time to get back to the bar, humming to himself as the crowd hopefully disappates a bit in the wake of such news.

Reese gets a clay jug of Shav wild honey rose mead from a stylish mahogany-framed bar buffet.

Sasha smiles to Eirene as she says "I think it is more I need to eat. I haven't had anything since I arrived and had not say long enough." Her attention then looks to Arik as she asks "Could you grab me something sweet to eat and some tea please Arik?" a soft smile upon her lips as she asks

Sasha has left the Dance Floor.

Sasha has joined the Emerald Couch.

Reese gets a clay jug of Northern Shav blackberry honey mead from a stylish mahogany-framed bar buffet.

Eirene has joined the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Armel has left the Dance Floor.

Armel has joined the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Marian crouches down, out of the way of Eirene who's looking her over, "Sasha...you have to take care of yourself." She gives her cousin a searching look to see if she needs her to take her home. She leans in and murmurs something to Sasha.

Fergus has joined the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Fergus pats Marian's shoulder once more, before backing away, letting the pair of cousins speak to each other. "I'll be at the bar. Come back after she's alright."

Luca, still with a hand gently around Aureth's hip, but the dance paused to watch things, is relaxing when the woman seems alright. Still, with a glance to the couches, he waves to Reese to indicate he'll handle it, then with an apologetic word for Aureth, he's slipping away to the knot of people, asking of Sasha as she's starting to be escorted. "You're sure you're fine, Princess? Just say the word and we'll have something brought if there's need." After being assured of her being fine though, he's looking to the one who caught her, eying the taller Arik up and down with a wry sort of appreciation of martial sort, saying his way with a grin. "Damn fine catch there man. Good moves." The compliment made, he's leaving them be to take care of the woman, waiting a moment to see if anything more is needed, then going back to his dance partner with upraised brows and laughingly quipping. "Never a dull day in Arx, eh?"

Kieran steps to Valencia as he watches the ongoing hubbub surrounding Sasha. "Well, that is the first time I have danced so well that my partner has fainted from it."

Ducking his head and scrubbing his hand at the back of his neck, there's a peculiarly glowerish edge to the look that Aureth slants after Luca's escape as he swans off to be helpful, and when he returns, it is to an answer with a snort. "Really," he says. "Swooning damsels. This party is wild."

Arik nods to them "Yes, she some times over does it" He looks to her and smiles "Just in time for my heart to skip a beat and catch you." he lift her and peck her cheek "We should sit a moment at least he says to her making his way over to the couch "Thank you glad i was close"

Armel can't help it, he laughs out loud at Kieran's jest as he makes his way to the bar and snatches up his whiskey, refilling the other's glasses and waiting for their drinking to continue. "Okay, that was good. Stick to that story, I beg you."

Ulfric seeing the crowd begin to disperse, puts his hands back on his hips. His expression was clear as day, he was swelling with pride at even the briefest moment of being useful. Even if insignificantly and marginally. His eyes move about the floor, coming back to rest upon his dance partner Valencia. He does his best to put on another pleasant smile, but his frown is quite locked in. He stays close by, acting as an impromptu guard to Princess Sasha. His hand still rests upon the hilt of his blade, partway drawn already.

Eirene brushes one of her silver braids back from her face. "Right. Girl is okay. Where were we? DRINKS." She slaps her hand on the bar once more. "We had two in, right?" She looks over at Armel and Fergus.

Marian glances up when Fergus clamps her on the shoulder and nods, "I'll be there in a second." Then she waits by her cousin's side to see how Sasha feels after someone gets the girl food and she has a moment to get her bearings.

A wry grin is sent Kieran's way. "Gods, yes, you are a wonder. I was near fainting myself, but fortunately was held up by Missere Ulfric," Valenica laughs gently. Dark eyes find Sasha and she smiles gently. "I am glad she will be well. Fainting is not a pleasant thing. But she seems to be resiliant as a lady should be." The dancing interrupted, the little princess takes the opportunity to step off the floor for a little and sees to getting herself a drink.

Valencia claims this

Kieran has left the Dance Floor.

Valencia has left the Dance Floor.

Sasha looks to Marian as she says she needs to take care of herself and says "I thought I could handle two dances before my ailment flared up. I should have known better in truth." Then something is said much softer. Her eyes then look to Luca as she says "I am fine. I promise Prince Luca thank you for your concern." A smile curling her lips as she begins to relax once more some and giggles at Kieran's words. Then she looks to Arik a bit bashfully as he kisses upon her cheek and responds "I am glad you were close as well Arik. I didn't mean to cause such a fret." Then she looks to Ulfric as she says "Master Ulfric, you need not stay by, feel free to enjoy yourself please."

"Im glad I was too. Do you need water or anything?" he wonders as they sit

Marian nods as Sasha assures she's fine and wants to stay. She reaches out and lightly squeezes her cousin's arm and then stands up and makes her way back over to her date and friends who are still drinking.

Marian has left the Dance Floor.

Marian has joined the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Sasha smiles to Arik as she says "I would adore some cake and tea if you would get if for my Arik. I would be very greatful."

Kieran grins at Valencia's words, before looking about the room. "Well, it seems that the party is thinning out. I think I am going to head out. Tale care, Your Highness," he offers to Valencia before turning to head for the door.

Reese rises to her slipper adorned feet. "Thank you so much for coming the ball. Please feel free to stay as long as you want, but we are going to officially close the party down now."

Marian has left the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

Marian has joined the a magnificent map table of Arvum made of oak and marquetry inlays.

"Hrrnnnmmm..." There is a deep rumbling in the fiery haired man's chest, but Ulfric nods to the princess all the same. "As you wish, my lady. Don't be a stranger." He thumps his hand against his chest, stomping off back to his dancing partner now that the mood seems to have toned down. Offering a smile to herself and one to Kieran as he moves to lead. "It was lovely to see you tonight your highness. But I feel the evening moves without me."

1 Redrain novice guards leaves, following Kieran.