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

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

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

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

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

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

Aiden gets Sponsor Levels from a simple velvet bag.

Standing at the dais at the head of the Vow is Prince Edain Valardin, and flanked by Princess Alis, Champion of the West, and Princess Marian, the Sword of Sanctum. He is dressed in his armor that has been given bright sheen, as it glistens into the last rays of the setting sun that flow into the Vow through stained glass. An honor guard lines the hall, as Herald Steve, an a young boy no more than 13, in a crisp Valardin tunic help people find their seats as they come for the cermony.

Edain looks out over the crowd quietly for a few moments, his left hand rests on the hilt of his sword, Truth, meanwhile he holds his spear, Valor in hand. After letting people take a moment to settle he lifts the spear and strikes it's redsteel shod but against the ground causing it to ring out through the great hall, "Were are here today to honor heroes that fought so hard in the battle against Tolamar Brand. While I will hand out medals to a few today, Never doubt that I think of all of you that stood with me to be heroes, and I could not be more proud of the character you have shown the Compact that the people of the Oathlands have. You have all honored me, and have lived up to being called Dragons of the West. But let us take time to reconize those that were the exemplars that show everyone just what we are capable of."

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

Marian stands there at Edain's side, a solemn look on her face as she views her friends and family that have gathered to celebrate the deeds of the knights that stood firm for House Valardin. Pride shines in her green eyes as she looks at her people. There can be no doubt that Marian loves this House that she serves.

Prince Aiden Grayson makes an appearance, for House Grayson, or merely for the fact that he wishes to honor the Heroes of Valardin as every other sole in the place does. He's wearing a crisp silk shirt with long sleeves over which a forest green tunic rests, as well as matching pants and calf high boots. He'll nod politely to the young boy who sees that he's escorted to a seat proper, attending the ceremony, evidently only with the retinue of guard ... and bird? Oh yes, bird. Falcon. It's actually passed back to the guard who will remain off to the side, tending to the falcon.

Aiden has joined the Cavalier Table.

Alis is looking especially pleased today; up there beside her brother, and decked out in her finest finery for the occasion too. When people filter in, she is obviously making a mental tally, giving each a nod or smile depending.

Katarina occupies the great hall as many Valardins do, her elaborately painted hands enfolded neatly within her skirted lap as golden eyes pan briefly over the myriad faces of Valardin and visiting guests all the same. The corners of her mouth tilt upward when she spots Aiden amongst the crowd, cheeks dimpling briefly before her attentions are fast upon Edain, Alis, and Marian poised upon the dais with a small glimmer of excitement in her gaze.

Desiree walks in wearing a pink dress with her hair in an updo. She looks around with smile at the others gathered. She looks near her to Alexis and speaks softly to her. "This is already quite the occasion."

Valerion arrives a bit earlier than most, finding his way to the Vow and thanking Herald Steve when he finds his seat. A few had been here sooner than him, but the young prince seemed distracted today. He tucked the book he had under his seat when other people started to filter in. Giving a nod to those he recognized and a warm smile to those that were close family and friends, Valerion otherwise awaits quietly. He was wearing his armor as per usual for some dragons. Though he had simply come from rampart duty and did not look as shiny as the others. His hair was pulled back out of his face and his fingers were steepled together in his lap as he gave a slow nod in agreement to his Liege's words.

Alexis wears her simple blue tunic and pants, with the Wyrmguard dragon emblazoned across the chest. Wearing a white undertunic, sleeves visible, and pale calfskin boots. She gives Desiree a quick nod, and looks around with wide eyes, choosing to follow her Voice's lead. "I'm glad we can come together to honour everyone," She murmurs, as she steps with, though almost after, the Lady Wyrmguard.

While Fiachra walked in at his wife's side, he breaks from Alis quickly enough after offering a kiss to her cheek. Of the non-Valardin guests present, Aiden in particular gets a small incline of the head and a smile of welcome. Others he recognizes are acknowledged as he makes his way around to an alcove and settles in there. Unlike many of the other Valardin, he's not wearing his armour, though he has his bow, as always.

Fiachra has joined the Quiet Alcove.

Valerion has joined the Cavalier Table.

Eirlys has joined the Quiet Alcove.

Rymarr pauses before he seats himself following escort by Herald Steve. Devoid of both helmet and gauntlets, Rymarr's leather gloved hands come to rest atop the curve of his armored knees, though he spares a sidelong glance to Steve. Dour as ever, the grimace which the Marquis of Deepwood casts the boy is considerable, though short-lived. Rymarr ultimately nods his thanks toward the youngster before he settles into his seat and, straight-backed as usual, his chin inclines while he watches on and listens. He doesn't fidget or shift about while he takes in what the Prince of Sanctum has to speak. Instead the grim man who was from west Oathlandelphia born and raised listens attentively with his customary grim stoicism. Idly his glove fingers do tap across his armored right knee while his left hand rises up to casually grip atop the pommel of the blade slung high at his left side. He shifts and nudges at the pommel, as well as wiggling his hips minutely in order to adjust and reorient the angle of his sheathed sword for optimum seating comfort.

Katarina has joined the Cavalier Table.

Estaban walks into looking around he is in his armor coming in from the barracks, one hand on the hilt of his sword and under the other arm is his helmet. Spotting Aiden he heads in his direction, passing near Valerion he reaches out a hand to touch the young prince on the shoulder and nod to him moving to take a seat near the Grayson prince.

Estaban has joined the Cavalier Table.

Aiden notes a few looks in his direction, his expression strained though he undoubtedly tries to manage a smile to those who greet him with look or smile, to do the same in return, from Katarina to Fiachra. The Grayson Prince didn't look nervous, more, as if struck by melancholy - if one could tell the difference and knew him otherwise. He settles at the one table and folds his hands neatly in his lap, looking ahead at the presentation until he's aware of who else is joining him at the table. His eyes brighten upon seeing friends and familiar faces, "Prince Valerion, Princess Katarina, Lord Estaban. Hello." It's a laconic greeting, more to keep his voice lowered as the presentation gets under way.

Eirlys slips in, looking around and waving at a few people before seeing her brother and moving to sit next to him. She smiles at the young boy that is showing people around. She leans in and whispers something to her brother before grinning widely at him. When Edain speaks of course her attention turns to the dais.

Edain waves a couple of pages forward. They hold pillows on which medals have been lain lightly. Looking out to the crowd Edain announces "Every single one of our soldiers and knights are brave, loyal, and skilled. The charge into battle on command, and fight with all of their being to achieve the goals we set out, and bring honor to Gloria and the Sentinel. Those who have shown exceptional skill on the battlefield deserve to be recognized. It is not easy in the midst of chaos to make that perfect shot with your arrow, or deliver a decisive blow with your weapon at just the right moment. Such skill is an inspiration. And to reward it, we honor those so capable with a symbol reminiscent of our heroic ancestress. The Sword of Sugan."

"The High Lord of the Oathlands and his voices, Honor the following people with the Sword of Sugan:

Duke Cristoph Laurent
Marqueesa Demura Lyonesse
Lady Eirlys Greenmarch
Prince Fiachra Valardin
Count Frederick Steelhart
Princess Katarina Valardin
Sir Roland Bergere
Lady The Niamh Greenmarch
Prince Tristram Valardin"

Sir Rodrick is helping Sasha walk over to one of the tables as she is holding her sleepy baby fox in her other arm. Once she is seated she offers a warm smile to those present as Sir Rodrick goes to stand against the wall somewhere.

As one of the Voices of House Valardin, it's likely that Princess Isabeau is standing and/or seated somewhere near the front of the assembly, even if she isn't part of the medal ceremony proper. She wears a mild, but seemingly proud smile and looks to try and recognize each individual awarded with the Sword of Sugan with a nod or, at the least, a slightly wider smile.

Sasha has joined the Cavalier Table.

Alis steps forward alongside Marian to begin handing out the medals to each of the recipients that are there. For those that aren't, the medals will be held aside and sent to them later via courier. For each, Alis gives a few quiet words and of course for family she also gives them an uncharacteristic hug and kiss on the cheek. Her pride in their accomplishments is obvious.

Desiree nods to Alexis after looking around once more. "I am too. They do so deserve the honor." She leads them to a good place to watch and turns her attention to Edain as he speaks. As the names are mentioned she nods with approval.

Desiree has joined the Main Floor.

Alexis has joined the Main Floor.

Alexis has left the Main Floor.

Alexis has joined the Main Floor.

Alexis beams brightly as the recipients are named, looking about to identify them, as they step forward - and she looks upon Princess Alis with a particularly bright smile pride. "I look forward to hearing the stories," She adds, as an aside, to Desiree, giving a nod of thanks to Herald Steve before she settles with her lady.

Giving his sister a sidelong look as they're talking quietly to each other, he nevertheless doesn't fail to hear their names being called. So he rises to his feet, offering his hand to Eirlys, so that they might go up together to receive their medals. And if Alis receives a kiss to her forehead in return? Well, it's only fair, that the former Greenmarcher doesn't stick entirely to the ordered affair's unspoken rules, right?

Marian is there at Alis' side, her green eyes proud and a hint of a smile as she does her duty by honoring the heroes. She works with Alis to hand out the medals, personally thank each knight present. There is no hug or kiss from this hardened warrior, but she does shake their hands and claps them on the shoulder to show her appreciation.

As Princess Marian and Princess Alis help distribute the Medals, or hand them to pages that will deliver them to those that could not make it today. He is quiet for a time, allowing for applause to die down for the heroes being honored. The honor guard wraps their fists against their shields as a form of applaus.

As the racket starts to die down Edain waves forward another group of pages, bearing another set of medals. "It is often the efforts of our civilian family that shield a soldier or knight from the more mundane aspects of preparedness. These are the people who bring water, food, and supplies to the front lines even when they are not fighting. They interpret and deliver messages, sometimes of critical importance. They keep us alive, and heal us when an otherwise deadly wound would kill us. Without them, we would be lost. And for them, we honor their service with the Shield of Valor."

"The High Lord of the Oathlands and his Voices award the Shield of Valor to:

Lady Annabelle Lyonesse
Princess Sophie Valardin
Lady Teagan Blackram
Lord Percephon Telmar
Lady Charlaine Blanchard"

Rymarr certainly puts his leather gloved hands together on behalf of those who are announced. The announcement of a particular Marquessa, Demura Lyonesse, receives just a little more effort in Rymarr's clapping. He doesn't shout out or otherwise cause a ruckus, he simply claps just a little more fervently on behalf of his sister. Gradually Rymarr delves again into his usual stoic manner, though he does at least lift his cold blue eyes up and throughout the gathering. Taking note of familiar faces present, Rymarr nods along to nothing in particular before his attention returns full-ahead once again. Rigidly straight, broad shouldered, and his chin held imperiously high he watches on with stern features which denote the sincerity which he takes the medaling ceremony. Full attention, again, turns to be paid to those being honored so. Though Rymarr's stoic features are soon interrupted by Alis' gesture, the uncharacteristic hug and cheek kiss. Amused it would seem, the furthest reaches of Rymarr's mouth begin to touch into a smile, before being summarily beaten into submission and replaced by his usual stern countenance.

At the table, Aiden lifts his shoulders up toward Valerion, "I... haven't heard of anything quite like this. I'm happy enough to attend today's ceremony and later on, the Iron Guard ceremony. It's... more important to me to show up and support those who lost their lives." He tries to keep his voiec down in among the reception and announcement of the medals.

Eirlys looks shocked, she really wasn't expecting her name to get called. She looks at Fia and asks. "Did you know?" As she takes Fia's hand. It takes a minute but she stands up to walk to the dais. She has to lift her skirt as she does. When she gets up there she gives Marian and Alis a hug whispering something to her sister-in-law. Edain will get a clasp of a hand or a hug if she can sneak one before she slips back off where she and Fia were sitting.

Katarina rises from her seat for the receipt of her award, teeth scoring lightly against her bottom lip as golden eyes collide with Alis' own, and then Marian's. Her chin tucks in a humbled gratitude before she withdraws to find purchase at Rymarr's side to engage him in a quieted word, while Eirlys' handsiness with Edain earns her, yet again, a long look.

Estaban just sits quietly listening to people speak around him and them when Edain speaks he gives the man his attention. He placed his helm on the table and his hands in his lap as he watches.

Is part of being awarded the Shield of Valor a pass on napping in one of the alcoves? The war may be over for most but not some, and Arx's Mother Mercy is in the proverbial trenches every day and every night tending to the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being of the wounded. That she's even sleeping at all is a small victory for those who know her best.

Alis has to choke back a laugh at the way Katarina eyes Eirlys. But she does whisper back at her sister-in-law before the Greenmarch woman has a chance to slip away. And she is, of course, all innocence when she's faced with Fiachra. Look at her innocent expression. Isn't it very well done? She murmurs something to him as well, followed by a cheeky smile. And then of course the Shield of Valor award is being handed out and she looks just about giddy to be able to present, along with Marian, a medal to her cousin Sophie. The fact that she's /napping/ makes the princess lips twitch. But, she tiptoes over and puts a finger to her lips so that nobody says anything while the medal on it's little pillow, is placed beside her.

Rymarr remains silence as a tomb, even after Princess Katarina settles in at his side to speak quietly to him. The features of the former Lord Commander, former Dragon of the Oathlands, and now Marquis in a Crownland's House remains neutral, yet stern. He does however, perhaps to ease the burden of trying to stretch up to speak quietly to him, lean down and aside in order to tilt his unarmored head to one side so that he may listen to Katarina. The hands at his knees remain secured in place, though his gloves fingers to stop tapping and drumming across the armored curve of the knees of his cuisses.

Marian waits till Alis is done with her greeting before stepping forward. She grips Eirlys hand harder, gives her a firm pump before bringing a heavy hand on her shoulder. It seems the more that Marian likes you, the more enthusiasm that she gives her greeting. She leans forward, says a few words in Eirlys' ear before letting her go. Then the Shield of Valor is given to sweet Sophie who is taking advantage of all the pomp and circumstance by sleeping through it. Her lips curl in a bigger smile and she shakes her head, leaving the healer to rest.

Edain smiles as he watches the next group of medals be distributed. And as round of applaus rises up and lingers with enthusiasm before finally dying down, Edain waves two more pages forward. This time a lone two medals are presented. "Steel Bends, Honor Holds. In every battle there are heroes. People who, at great risk to themselves, come to the rescue of others time and again. People who step up to take command and do an exemplary job. And people who land that decisive, final victory during a vital battle. But they do it with honor, and display the tenets that we strive for as Oathlanders. Honor, duty, chivalry. Whether they bear the family name or not, they have most definitely earned the right to call themselves a dragon of the highest caliber and receive the Order of the White Dragon."

Edain steps forward his baritone voice echoing throughout the hall, "As I said, before I consider you all heroes, but at the Battle of Pridehall there were two great feats that stand out as two that truly diserved to be honored with the Order of the White Dragon. The first was Lord Ansel Telmar. He stepped in an took comand of Telmarch forces with great precision and audacity, and most importantly, when facing an enemy that tried to target and kill our Healers and the Mercies, he came to their rescue and fought back the enemy."

Edain looks back over his shoulder then and says, "And in that same battle, when we were heavily engaged with a terrifying foe, one person broke through the lines and brought low the Enemy General. A powerful beast given unholy strength by the Silence that Tolamar Brand served. Princess Marian taught him that there is no dark power than can protect you from the fury of the Dragon. The Highlord of the Oathlands and his Voices award Lord Ansel Telmar, and Princess Marian Valardin the Order of the White Dragon!"

When Sophie's name is announced, Princess Isabeau shamelessly claps for her sweet sister. The favoritism is clear, but not particularly surprising or even off-putting, really. The beautiful blonde princess beams at the new Mother of Mercies and even goes so far as to wing a kiss blown from the tips of her fingers over Sophie's way.

Alis dumps a soft, blue garment bag embroidered with the letters MG and spills its contents all over the floor.

Once he's seated again, Fiachra listens quietly to the rest of the ceremony, smiling here and there for this or that name being raised in recognition. Though when the final medals are brought out and one is awarded to his cousin. He rises to his feet and executes a neat - and rarely seen from the man - bow in Marian's direction. Of course, that's followed up with a cheeky wink as he straightens from the sign of honour and respect he offers to her.

Aiden lends the sound of his hands coming together to applaud the recognition that two specific people receive, the Order of the White Dragon something that has his curiosity rising. His expression watches those attending to receive the medals and rewards, turning to note Marian as she is called along with a Lord Ansel. "The Order of the White Dragon, a rare merit to achieve," he looks to Valerion, "I really didn't hear all told what happened this side of the battle. You'll have to fill me in, cousin." He considers the Princess, "That or I'll ask Marian when she has a moment." He stands up from the table to applaud a little louder and to also showcase the Grayson pride for the heroes of House Valardin, whistling with emphasis.

Aiden is overheard praising Marian for: Recognized for her Heroism in the Siege of Arx

Aiden is overheard praising Ansel for: Recognized for his Heroism in the Siege of Arx

Rymarr does finally seem to offer a response to Katarina as he turns his head just enough to utter a quietly spoken rumble back to her while his attention remains fixed on the activities of the ceremony. He does clap when appropriate, though he doesn't smile - which isn't really out of the ordinary at all. Then again he doesn't really blink, which really, isn't too far out of the ordinary. Blue eyes continue to watch and stare, scrutinizing even the Valardin within their own home with his usual grimace. Though it all begins to fade away, rather abruptly while his attention turns to regard Katarina. For a moment Rymarr's features soften, his mouth forms into a full-fledged smile, and he nods along with the conversation before he replies once more. His attention now fully invested in Katarina, it would seem.

Alis takes it upon herself to give Marian her medal; I mean, it would be quite awkward for the woman to do it herself. Rather then a hug and kiss though, she clasps Marian's arms in a more traditional Oathlands warrior greeting. And, with the hero worshipping kind of expression that she has had for years when it comes to her older sister by marriage. "I am so proud to be able to call you family."

Eirlys stands and mirrors Fia's movements giving a bow to Marian when her name is called as she is given her medal.

Marian is surprised, when Prince Edain calls out her name. She was up there presenting with Princess Alis so she assumed that this ceremony was for others, not herself. She turns to Prince Edain and gives him a deep bow to let him know that she appreciates the honor that has been bestowed on her. Then she takes the medal from Alis with a rare smile and hug to her sister of the heart. Once she has the Order of the White Dragon, she raises it to Ansel to recognize the other member of the House named with her. Those that bow to Marian receive the same courtesy, and she speaks in a low voice, "It is my honor to serve this great house."

Alexis claps enthusiastically for the recipients of the White Dragon, her eyes wide and her smile big enough that it threatens to split her face.

Between the naming of her sweet sister Sophie as a recipient of the Shield of Valor and then said sister's beau, Ansel, receiving the Order of the White Dragon-- well, Princess Isabeau is terribly chuffed. Let's just go with that.

Valerion will stand up when he hears his cousin Marian's name. He smiles brightly and claps loudly, he wanted to say so much more but he was happy to hear she had earned the distinction. He quickly takes his seat and looks over to Aiden,"Ah. Well I will regale you with a tale or two." The young prince has a subtle smirk on his lips as he turns to look at Estaban, pointing at his arm and giving him a thumbs up before he leans in to say something quietly to the man.

Marian is overheard praising Eirlys for: For being a fine hero. A great warrior.

Valerion is overheard praising Eirlys for: being a champion of House Valardin!

Valerion is overheard praising Sophie for: for being a valiant heroine in the battle of the Siege.

Valerion is overheard praising Percephon for: for his expertise and mind for strategy during the battle.

Katarina is overheard praising Marian for: Yay!

Katarina is overheard praising Fiachra.

Katarina is overheard praising Sophie.

Katarina is overheard praising Ansel.

Isabeau is overheard praising Sophie.

Isabeau is overheard praising Ansel.

Sasha is overheard praising Sophie.

Katarina is overheard praising Cristoph.

Alis is overheard praising Marian for: For being the finest example of Valardin.

Sasha is overheard praising Eirlys.

Sasha is overheard praising Marian.

Alis is overheard praising Ansel for: For saving all the princesses of course.

Sasha is overheard praising Ansel.

Sasha is overheard praising Percephon.

Ansel, although deeply honored, as denoted by the way he bows his head, does not rise. No, he's busy serving another important duty: being a pillow to the now softly snoring Sophie.

Estaban nods his head to Valerion giving him a small thumbs up, he leans back in his seat watching everyone.

Also, for the sake of Vellichor's record, Ansel's face is flushed as red as Telmarch crimson.

As people cheer for those that have been honored here today, Edain smiles and steps back, letting his spear fall into the crook of his arm. "Thank you all for coming to honor our heroes, I look forward to the day I call out the name of every person in this hall to reconize you as the heroes you are. Please stay and enjoy yourselves as long as you like. There is food and refreshments. May the gods always walk with you!"