12 Thrax Elite Guards have been dismissed.

At this point the food is laid out and there is alcohol present, for all that the guests are just starting to filter in. Belladonna is over on the expanse of lawn, barefoot but otherwise plenty dressed up. She's chatting with several of her staff as the food is adjusted on the table, generally keeping an eye on things. The music that's playing is light and upbeat, enough to fill the spaces between words without interrupting them.

Abbas arrives, following Nicia.

Not flanked by his retinue, the High Lord of Thrax arrives with a rather meager entourage. Most importantly being the fat feline that trailed behind him every step of the way. Victus arrives not clad in armor but in blood-black silks that carry decorations of serpents from head to toe. There is a glower held on the scarred visage of the man, though not directed at anyone in kind. It was just the way his face looked most of the time.

Alis arrives on the heels of several others, looking around for the birthday girl. She did, alas, show up in her armor. But she's /here/, for as long as time will allow. What does capture her attention? FAT CAT!! "Awwww, kitty!!" she exclaims, completely uncharacteristic. But you know she's going to go try and pick that poor cat up.

Samantha makes her way inside, a few moments after Victus. She appears to be on her own, and having sent her gift directly to the Valardin princess, doesn't come bearing one. But Samantha looks around with some satisfaction, and proceeds further in.

Charlemagne the Unicorn arrives, following Larissa.

Oh, there are people. Belladonna says a few last words to the group she's talking to and turns, putting on a smile. There's a brief lift of her eyebrows when the woman spots the Thraxian High Lord, but she is quick enough to smooth her expression over and start for Victus. Servants are quite prompt to start to attempt to ply the arriving guests with drinks, as such things make these parties so much more bearable. "HIghlord Victus," Bella greets as she closes the distance. "Thank you, for coming. It has been some time."


Turning up for a party while clad wholly in black is perhaps typical behaviour for Sudara Pravus - but she looks cheerfully curious as she arrives, peering around with evident interest. The fat cat and its enthusiastic greeting by Alis prompt a broad smile and half-stifled laughter, before she snares a drink and murmurs her thanks to the servant providing it.


The Warlord of Thrax arrives in his special birthday suit (not that one) which happens to be cold steel armor. Often this was also his stroll around town suit. His party attendance suit; the Bastard's Butcher had some great friends. And then there was everyone else. It is friends that bring Abbas here today and he arrives with Nicia. The Pravus Lady is given his arm as he escorts her to the party. They did not have to travel very far though. The long dangerous journey from the front door to the walled gardens was ripe with perils at every turn. They made it through safe and sound in no small part to Abbas' heroics.

Sasha is carefully lead into the walled garden and guided to a seat by Sir Rodrick. Once he knows she is comfortable, Sir Rodrick wanders off to play the wallflower. Her gaze is then looking all about to who all has come thus far as a warm, welcoming smile curls her lips

There was a sudden instinctual glance cast in Alis' direction, followed by a quick mewl of disapproval from the female maine coon that meandered around Victus' ankles. Its stubby legs didn't betray its size but it did make it look very unthreatening. Victus would move immediately for the closest bottle of alcohol in sight. Rum, Whiskey, Mead, it didn't matter. It wouldn't be a party until he had something in his bloodstream. Soot-colored eyes instead find themselves falling upon Belladonna, the Pravus Duchess. She would be greeted by Victus' stony expression. "Duchess." He'd murmur. "Long time. Good to see you cater well to the simpler needs around here."

Charlemagne the Unicorn have been dismissed.

The door is a very far away place, and dangerous territory between it and the safety of the garden. Nicia's got her hand tucked into the crook of Abbas' elbow, "You think she'll have a bottle of it tucked away somewhere at the party?" She wonders, the question pitched low as they make their way out into the garden, glancing around at those that have already arrived, brows inching upwards a bit when she spots Victus there. "Well, this...should be an interesting party."

Samantha has apparently refrained fom bringing any of her pets with her today. Possibly because both of her birds would eye half of the creatures here as lunch possibilities. She defers from the alcohol, choosing instead to sip at a chilled juice. She seems content for now to be quiet and observant, perhaps wishing to avoid potential arguments with certain others present.

Larissa arrives just as the party begins, it seems and smiles brightly at everyone gathered. She looks around for Katarina, but not seeing her yet the Courtesan makes her way to those she does. "Highlord Victus, Prince Abbas I'm so pleased to see you again. Duchess you are radiant as ever" she inclines her head to Belladonna curteously before moving around to introduce herself to those she didn't know, or didn't know well enough.

Alis thinks that sounded like a challenge from the cat. So she blinks owlishly at the feline, as if she's plotting how best to sneak up and grab her for torturous hugs. But, there is also alcohol to keep herself from going a little crazy at too many social events. And, she secures herself a glass of wine before sitting nearby Sasha.

While Belladonna does dip into a curtsey for Victus, she doesn't hold it for any length of time, rising right back up promptly. She dips her head for his words, offering up a warm smile. "It is something that took a great deal of pratice to master," she answers Victus with all apparent seriousness. "Please; let someone know if you need anything. Welcome." He's gestured further into the partry before she turns to drift away, circling around towards where Samantha stands.

Belladonna also returns the nod of Larissa's head, flashing a quick smile that way. It's even friendly.

"Hello, my lady." Samantha greets on the duchess' approach. "What a splendid party you've arranged. I don't know if I can stay very long, but I'm hoping to see the princess before I'm called away.

Abbas turns to look at Nicia and he offers her a slight grin. He guides them towards the Thraxian High Lord and her own sister. Abbas breaks from escort duty to smile first to the hostess. "Duchess Pravus." A smile that is friendly and pleased to see her emerges from the mouth of the Reaver Prince. It is a brief thing in the shallows of his dark beard. "Always a pleasure to be here in your home with your family." He asserts.

Abbas is less cordial with Victus. The hard slap of forearms in a soldier's shake. The steel gaze of brothers in battle. "High Lord." He begins, "Cousin... good to see you." He offers with a grin.

Felix comes wandering in to the walled-off garden with the usual jaunt to his step. He flashes a quick smile to the other arriving party-goers, but his intent seems to be on that table holding the booze. He sweeps through, carefully avoiding the paths of the servants and others moving through. The moments spent on pouring himself a tumbler of whiskey are well spent in observing the crowd with casual interest, though he does offer up a smile as well as a respectful dip of his head in greeting to Belladonna.

Alrec makes his way into the gardens with little delay at the entry to take stock of the decor. His eyes flit across those gathered, taking note of this person and that. Certainly all the nobility will be nodded toward, an inclination of his head, but he appears to be avoiding coming too close. No, he has a mission. That mission? Moving toward the refreshment tables to see what has been set out.

Malik arrives into the garden with Nisaa on his arm, the dusky-skinned Whispers chatting lively in a foreign-sounding language with one another. Malik carries a painted box tucked under one arm, ad he glances about the gardens as they enter. "I am not seeing the Princess," he comments to Nisaa, this time in the common tongue, though his deep voice is richly accented. "But I think I am spotting Princess Sasha. Have I introduced you?" and off they go in Sasha's direction, where Malik dips into a flourishing bow, managing to keep the box tucked uner his arm in place. "Princess Sasha, I am pleased to see you. Have you met my friend, Nisaa?"

Victus dips his chin in a nod of respect to Belladonna, bowing properly was difficult for a man of his size without looking the part of a fool. "Thanks." His voice was gruffer than usual. From his awkward posture, he was hardly in his element here. Less so the more people were funneling in. Luckily, the High Lord does find his stride with those he knows. Abbas is greeted with a hard thwack right back, a meager grin soon passing over his bearded face. "Butcher." There's a flash of teeth as he extends the greeting to his favorite Warlord.

Moving deeper into the party, Victus would give more small greetings to those he recognizes. A nod to Larissa, a faint smirk to Sasha and a suspicious glance back at Alis. The High Lord and his feline companion find their way to the table with the most alcohol present. He doesn't bother with a glass, he'd be through a few bottles before the night was done. May as well start early!

Sasha offers a warm smile to Malik as she says "It is wonderful to meet you Malik and I can not say that I have met Miss Nisaa, did you two wish to sit with me. I find with the heat that my ailment has grown a bit more in its frequency." Her eyes then look to Victus, offering a soft warm smile before she looks to Alis asking "Do you know when Kat is suppose to be arriving?"

"A pleasure to see you again, High Lord." Nicia offers Victus a smile of greeting, then she turns her attention to her sister, "Everything looks wonderful." She doesn't take up more of her sister's time than that, aware that guests are a lot more important to greet than herself. Instead she spots a passing servant with drinks, and aquires a few, one is rather promptly emptied and the empty glass passed off. The familiar faces milling around get smiles, but she's wallflowering it up for the most part for now, just watching everyone else.

Larissa catches the smile from Belladonna and actually turns around to see if it might have been directed at someone behind her, but no one was there. Curious, but a little stiffness eased out of her shoulders and she hummed happily as she made her rounds - lighting up when she notices Malik and Nisaa enter the room "My darlings! Hello!" she croons to the pair as they move to speak to Sasha "Princess, hello" she smiles at the sweet woman and dips into a curtsy.

"Abbas, Nicia," Belladonna greets them warmly, pausing on her trek towards Samantha. "I'm happy to see you. Thank you for coming." She doesn't pause long though, slipping on again and once more aiming herself towards the Marquessa of Deepwood.

Alis smiles cheerfully, and waves to Victus. "Hello, Your Grace!" What? She is innocence itself. Hahahahaha. "I'm afraid I'm not sure, Sasha. I hope soon though, since I have to leave to be available for the Throne Hours that Edain is holding." she admits. "I did make sure she would receive her gift though, already." When Malik and Nisaa approach, a polite smile is proferred.

Nisaa has her arm linked with Malik's, her dainty hand resting upon his forearm as they enter the gardens. She has the look of pure awe in her verdigris eyes as she looks around, first at the garden itself, and then the people in attendance. Her voice is almost musical in tone, her accent thick and foreign as she speaks to Malik in quiet tones of the Eurusi language before switching to Arvani. She shakes her head and says, "I am not thinking that we have been introduced, no." She follows Malik over towards the Princess and dips her head in greeting when he introduces them. Along the way, she spots Larissa and gives her a finger wiggling wave and a bright smile. To Sasha, she says, "it is a pleasure to be meeting you, Princess Sasha."

"We'd be happy to be sitting with you, yes. Thank you," Malik responds to Sasha with a bright smile, which turns brighter still when he spies Larissa. He lifts a hand and waves it to her, beckoning her over. "Larissa, you are looking very pretty today. Do you want to be seeing the jewelry box I made for the Princess?" he removes the plum-coloured box from under his arm to show it to Larissa, a prideful grin overtaking his feature. "I heard she is wanting clothes but I'm not much of a tailor," he shrugs. When Alis flashes a smile to him, he turns to flourish into a bow for her. "Malik Whisper, pleased to be meeting with you," he offers by way of introduction.

Samantha seems surprised, but not displeased, when it appears Belladonna seems to be veering specifically for her. And realizing Belladonna may not have heard her upon greeting, amicably repeats herself. "It is a splendid party, my lady. You do Princess Katarina a marvel for this. I hope I'll be able to see her, I may yet be called away. But I hope you are well?"

Sasha nods softly and explains to Alis "I am working on a perfume for her but I need to become better trained in it. Or I could ask another apothercary to make it for me. I think it is something she will like a lot. And I wanted to make it for her myself. Quite silly isn't it? Oh and Alis have you meet Master Malik, he is who has been making my lovely furniture for my room. He did the bookcase and all my little boxes so I can have everything organized the way I like." Her attention is then upon Nisaa as she says "Please do take a seat Miss Nisaa. And tell me what talents you offer as a Whisper."

With drink in hand and wallflowering in mind, Felix decides he's better off with likeminded company. He carries his tumbler on over towards Nicia until he's at the edge of personal space. "Lady Nicia. I trust you've been settling in well." The smith's brows lift in query while he lifts the glass tumbler of amber liquid to his lips for a sip.

The sound of Eurusi draws the attention of the half-Eurusi Warlord. Abbas leans in to whisper to his 'date' for the evening. Soft words rumbled from his permanently strained vocal chords. His eyes affixed to the pair that speak the language of his royal father. The metal clad fist of Abbas gestures towards the Gazebo (he does not attack it) and he takes her in that direction. The Prince does not try to keep Belladonna nor the High Lord. He moves to find a place where they can do their own entertaining and socializing.

Abbas has joined the the gazebo.

Alrec stops at the first refreshment table that he comes across, the one with fresh friends and vegetables cut so daintily. This lovely spread is given something of a wary eye, his brow quirking and his sights lifting soon enough so that he can search the crowd for the Duchess Belladonna. Once he spies her, he watches and waits until she is not otherwise engaged. He might be there for a while, but he's a patient fellow at the moment.

"I am. And I do hope you will be able to see her, as well," Belladonna agrees, sending a puzzled glance towards the doors before she puts on another smile and looks back to Samantha. "Thank you for coming; we haven't had much of a chance to speak, but I did want to make certain I said that you are welcome. Thank you, for taking time to be here."


Cradling her drink in one hand, Sudara momentarily arches a brow at the two Thraxians before looking away, casting her gaze around the other party-goers as if in search of distraction... or perhaps as if she's trying to take stock of quite how many glitteringly prominent personages are present.


"Katarina has become a friend." Samantha says with cheer. I wouldn't miss it. I'd be happy to engage with you further on another occasion, but for now I'd be remiss to take to much of your time." Samantha totally gets it. Anyone who's done the hostessing thing should.

It was impossible not to grin at Malik and Nisaa when they were in a room together. "Oh I would!" she murmurs and takes a moment to ooh and ahh over the craftmanship and obvious the man put into his work. "It's beautiful Malik, you did an exceptional job" she murmurs as she hands it back. "And I'm so pleased to see you both out together." she enthuses of the pair and then her attention moves to Sasha "Oh no, that isn't silly at all. That's beautiful and something Princess Katarina would treasure all the more as it is designed and made by a friend. Those are the gifts that I find are often cherished the most." she affirms. "And I have no doubt that it will be well worth the wait."

"Oh, I think she'll adore that." Alis reaches over to squeeze Sasha's arm lightly. "Really. Things with a personal touch are just perfect." To Malik another nod is offered. "Pleased to meet you. I'm Alis Valardin." she introduces herself, taking another sip of her drink before unfortunately having to stand again. "When Kat arrives, please give her a hug for me, would you? I need to be at the manor to assist Edain." As she spirits out. Whups gone!

"I have been, thank you." Nicia replies to Felix, offering him a smile in greeting when he comes over to join her wallflowering, "I've been doing my very best to introduce myself to people, although I haven't gotten to everyone yet." She starts to make the introduction between Abbas and Felix when she is being steered away, an apologetic smile offered to Felix before she glances at Abbas, shaking her head a fraction before offering something back to him equally as quiet.

Sir Rhys, a Valardin Knight leaves, following Alis.

Sasha has joined the among the trees.

Malik has joined the among the trees.

Nicia has joined the the gazebo.

Victus having acquired his desired drink for the night finds himself settling in along the Valardin's quite well. His gaze is cast back to Nicia and Abbas, the pair earning the High Lord's smile. It wasn't a pretty thing, but he was happy the two of them had found common ground. He would need to indulge in their company when they were free, but for the time being, his presence is right as rain next to the catering table. He holds on uncorked bottle of Rum in one hand and two more clutched between the fingers of his free hand. His dance around each person present as they come by, never quite speaking up, but remaining vigilant all the same.

"She is very good at that," Belladonna answers Samantha. "Becoming a friend, I mean. I am glad you are here. And thank you, for your understanding." A little tilt of her head is given in appreciation before she turns to send another look around, taking a quick detour before ambushing someone else to get herself a drink.

Nisaa has joined the among the trees.

Sasha's cheeks flush at the compliments as she says "Thank you both for the praises upon the gift idea. I just need to save up for the materials and the training. I doubt it shall take too long though."

"Oh," Felix says when Abbas steers Nicia away, smiling at the woman. "Take it easy." A respectful bow of his head is also given towards Abbas then. "Highness. Glad to see you could make it." Slipping on over towards the gazebo himself, he takes lean against the side and continues to survey the crowd.

Katarina rushes out into the gardens, a cascade of golden brown curls and elegantly wrapped seasilks fluttering behind her. "I'm so sorry," she calls out toward her guests, cheeks pinkened in embarrassment. "My handmaidens wouldn't let me out of my rooms until she'd gotten everything perfectly done." Her gaze searches over the crowd, taken slightly aback by the amount of guests before she notices Belladonna amongst them. "Oh, Gods. This is ... lovely.'

Jynx, a falcon arrives, delivering a message to Katarina before departing.

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

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

Before Abbas escorts Nicia to the gazebo. "A pleasure to meet you, Abbas Thrax." he does not bother with his titles or station. His reputation was ever present The armored thraxian then takes his perch at the gazebo. He moves over to a rail and reaches down and from a bush produces a bottle of questionable contents. The color of it looks absolutely revolting. The grin and eager expression on his face suggest a triumphant well-planned smile. "A reaver and his horde are always well thought out." He explains to the Lady Pravus that accompanies him." And he tilts the bottle back and takes a long pull from the fiery and spicy liquor. He then offers the bottle over to Nicia. "Please join us." Abbas calls to Felix. When Abbas can he catches Victus' attention and points directly to the bottle of liquor he holds. He holds it aloft in a ray of sunlight as if he were presenting Simba to the tibe. It's that fucking /good/.

"Malik does beautiful works," Nisaa gushes to Larissa as the box is oohed and aahed over. She smiles with a pride, moving with him to sit amongst tthe trees. Her words roll off the tongue with a bit of an exotic flair as she speaks, turning to Sasha to do so. "I am a dancer," she explains. "I dance the courtesan dance of Eurusi." She seems to be dressed for it currently, though her veil is pinned in place to simply cover the drape of her hair and nothing else.

Felix has joined the the gazebo.


Still moderately near the entryway, Sudara turns to survey Katarina's seasilks, sinking into a curtsey and raising her goblet in salute. "Felicitations on the day, and many happy returns of such celebrations, your Highness," the black-clad Pravus calls out.


"Nisaa is not giving herself enough credit. She is the most beautiful dancer," Malik says to Sasha with a fond smile to his friend. "She is dancing like something out of a dream." And then to Larissa he turns, beaming with pride when she looks over the jewelry box he crafted. "I am hoping she likes it. Have you been seeing her yet?" And just as that question is asked, Katarina comes rushing in, and Malik's hazel eyes are turned to her entrance. "Oh, look. There she is being. Happy birthday, Princess Katarina!" he exclaims happily to her.

"I was starting to become a little bit concerned," Belladonna answers, slipping over with her glass in hand and moving to enfold Katarina in a one-armed hug. "I'm glad you are here." She gestures around with her glass. "Everyone came to say happy birthday. People I've never seen in my home before, even. You've made many friends." She releases the birthday girl promptly though, attention already shifting to scan the crowd again.

Alrec continues to stand his ground, his eyes tracking Belladonna though occasionally there is a look down to the fine selection of fruits and veggies set up before him. Does he make any sort of move to start picking through them? No. He just waits for Bella's attention to fall on him, right foot tapping idly upon the ground.

"Now that is a handy talent. You have to teach me that trick." Nicia tells Abbas when he produces the bottle from one of the bushes, emptying the glass that she had in her hand with a quick swallow before setting it down on the rail. She accepts the bottle when offered to her, takes a quick sip, then passes it back before smiling at Felix again, "Prefer hanging around on the fringes of the parties like a shadow, too?"

3 Rough and tumble sailors arrives, following Merida.

A vibrant laugh spills from Katarina as she nestles into Belladonna's side briefly, her own gaze drifting over the crowd before her free hand rises in exuberant wave toward Malik, and then Sudara as her well wishes reaches her ears. "Thank you, thank you! I hope I haven't missed all the fun?" A faint tilt of her head accentuates the hopeful moue of her mouth affected as her golden eyes tilt upward to Belladonna anew. "Where should I start first? A drink?"

Slipping into the gardens is the silk clad figure of Juliana. She pauses at the entry, scanning the area, a bright smile upon her face as she looks to those gathered. She lifts a hand to the feathered necklace resting against her collarbones, ensuring it is laid flat before she makes her way towards the assembled beverages, clearly on the hunt for something in particular. She spies her brother and cousin, and the bottle he has deftly retreived from within some foliage and her eyes alight and she makes her way in that direction. "I see you've stashed away the good stuff!" This directed at Abbas, though she offers her warm smile to the both of them.

Blooms of rose hues blossom upon Nisaa's cheeks at the compliments Malik gives her and she smiles, tucking her chin down and to the side with a slightly bashful look. She looks up though when he calls out Birthday wishes to Katarina. She lifts her hand in a friendly wave and smiles. "Happy Day of Birth, Princess Katarina!"

"It's not so much of a trick as a life philosophy." Abbas chuckles softly, "Always keep a spare axe in the places you frequent regularly along with a bottle of booze." The man grins, "In either case you never come out of a situation that arrives empty-handed. Everything that cannot be solved with an axe or bottle of liquor is not a problem worthy of burdening yourself with." And yes if she looks in the bush there is an axe somewhere down in there too. The Warlord keeps looking over to those who speak Eurusi. It is a curious stalking from his pitch gaze and nothing hostile or devious. The bottle is offered over to his half-sister. The Reaver Prince moves to give her a one armed hug against the cold steel of his armor. Something Felix states though then gets Abbas' utter attention. His volume lowers and he talks quietly to him at the Gazebo.

Larissa glances up as Katarina comes rushing in and she offers the Princess a round of applause and a happy cheer "When it is your birthday it isn't called being late, highness. It's called making an entrance, and you did so beautifully! Happy Birthday Princess Katarina, I wish you nothing but happiness" she calls over to the Princess as she stands near Malik and Nisaa and her attention moves back to the pair. "You are both tremendously talented." she exclaims of the pair. "Though I've not had a chance to see you dance in all of your glory. Perhaps you might consider putting on a ballet one day. Our newest whisper is gifted at set and stage design, I'm sure between the pair of you something extraordinary may be created."

The Grimhall steps out i to the garden in her black gown, throwing a glance around at all assembled. The pirate captain heads for the burthday princess, and she curtsies to her, offering her a grin, "Your highness, after our run in the other day I figured I would pay a visit to your party. Happy birthday to you, and I can assure you your gift is being tailor made for you." She straightens, golden eyes shifting throughout the garden.

As she glances around the party, Bella's eyes catch briefly on Alrec, but only that -- soon enough Katarina is drawing her attention right back. She smiles fondly and curls her fingers through the other woman's, giving a light squeeze. She leans in and speaks a few quiet words, her smile warm and reassuring.

Blackened eyes do indeed spy Abbas' gesture, Victus himself suddenly lighting up brightly, happier than he'd looked since he ever stepped in. If there was anyway to turn around his opinion, it would be the booze. This party was stocked with it and so would he. There was still an ounce of etiquette in his bones, enough so that his eyes fell upon the birthday girl Katarina herself. Lifting his opened bottle aloft to her, he catches her attention with a single nod, mouthing something under his breath. After the fact he downed half of that rum in one quick go. The rest of the party seemed to be going smoothly, between people shifting in and out and the life of the party finally arriving. Victus was content to meander in his corner, his grumpy feline friend looking much less enthusiastic as he. Though to be fair, the two of them still were shockingly similar in excitement even still.

"Hello, cousin." Nicia greets Juliana when she turns up, tilting her head towards the bottle, "Apparently we should begin stashing bottles around. It is a philosophy that I think I'm in favor of." At something said more quietly, she turns her attention towards those in the gazebo area, adding her own quiet words to it.

Evidently Alrec's got enough of a hint that Belladonna might have noticed him, for thereafter he gives a grand gesture to the exquisite layout before him. His brow spikes, there is a questioning look, and he wiggles his hand in a manner that appears to be somewhat dismayed. This is punctuated by a rather intense look and, thereafter, he goes on to find the next refreshment table and take stock of it.

Malik inclines his head to Larissa at her words, chuckling lightly. "Thank you for your kind words, Larissa. Who is our newest Whisper?" he asks curiously, looking between Larissa and Nisaa. "It would be very helping, I think. I have built a stage for Nisaa in the gardens outside of my gallery. Oh, you should be coming to visit, Larissa. We could have a picnic," he beams a smile, before looking over to Katarina again, dipping his head a touch. "Please be excusing me just a moment, I would like to be giving her Highness her gift." He gives Nisaa's hand a small pat before he extracts himself to approach Katarina, flourishing into a quick bow for the Eurusi Princess. "I was hearing you are wanting gifts, and so I made you this. I hope it is to your liking," he offers, as he extends a plum-coloured jewelry box to her without delay.

Nisaa shakes her head to Larissa and says, "oh, I am not a dancer of the ballet. Is a toe dance, yes? I dance the dance of hips, not toes." She gives a soft giggle, lifting her hand to cover her mouth as she does, though her eyes shine with a bit of mischief. She turns her smile to Malik, giving him a nod as he rises to go speak to the Princess herself.

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon arrives, following Marian.

Leaning into that one-armed hug, Juliana smiles up at Abbas and murmurs her thanks for the drink, taking a sip before she looks around the party once more. She turns her gaze to Katarina and asks, "That is the birthday girl?" This seems directed to Nicia, seeking confirmation. She looks back to Belladonna and Katarina, only to follow the glance from Duchess to Alrec. There is a speculative look before she turns back to Nicia and flashes a grin. "I heartily approve of this plan. I should offer my own felicitations to the Princess. If you'll both pardon me?" She gives Abbas a light squeeze and then makes to approach Belladonna and Katarina, offering a curtsey to them both. "My Lady," To Bella, "Your highness, many good wishes to you on this day of your birth."

A subtle gesture sees a glass of champagne pressed into Katarina's hand, in which is immediately sipped upon as a hidden smile curls faintly at her lips with Belladonna's murmured words. "Thank you," she expresses earnestly toward Malik, her small hands rising to collect the jewelry box the Eurusi Whisper sets into her hands. And then, she is leaning in to deliver a quiet word with the artist in hushed Eurusi briefly while her golden gaze alights with genuinely surprised pleasure at the appearance of Merida in the crowd. "I'm just pleased that you even showed, my lady. Thank you!" And then, there is Juliana approaching and her dimpled smile blooms fully into its infectious warmth. "Thank you, my lady, for your family going out of your way to host such a wonderful party for me." A gentle squeeze of Bella's hand, afterward made, before she relaims her glass.

Marian is late to the party, her duty keeping her away until this time. She arrives at the birthday party in her armor, twin shortswords and Oathbinder peace-tied. She looks annoyed, perhaps from the lateness of her arrival. Her green eyes sweep the floor to see where the birthday girl is standing. Once target is acquired, she starts to make her way through the crush, giving polite nods to those that greet her. However, she does not stop to chat because there is a birthday girl and hostess, Belladonna, to offer her apologies for arriving late.

The gestures that Alrec makes have Belladonna laughing outright, and she sends him an entirely smug sort of smile before she turns her attention back to Katarina and those wishing her well. Once her hand is her own again she slips back a few paces, staying right there. She does smile towards Juliana, dipping her head to her cousin. She has alcohol in hand, and she drinks it.

Merida offers the Princess a wry grin, "My lady, I don't miss parties." She looks around again, getting lost in the amount of people. She notices Alrec quickly, blinking hard. Another pirate? Now that is interesting. She wanders over to the drinks table where he has retreated to, finding herself a glass of wine. It's not as strong as she'd like, but it will have to do. She extends a hand to the man,

Malik leans to hear Katarina's murmured words, and he seems to nod at whatever she says to him. He, too, returns her whisper in a flowing exotic language, before he steps back and flashes her a broader smile. "I am hoping you will put all your pretty things in there. And you can be coming to my gallery if you would like more furnishings to match. I can do most things with wood now," he offers, before he steps away to allow her to socialize with her other guests, coming back to Nisaa's side once more.

"My cousin is as thoughtful as she is beautiful." Juliana replies, dipping her head to Katarina and returning Bella's smile. "I am glad to see so many here to celebrate their friendship with you. I do hope you have a wonderful day." She bobs another curtsey before retreating to allow other well wishers their time with the Princess. She slips back towards the refreshment table, plucking up a piece of fruit.

Victus seeing Merida and Alrec both join his blackened domain at the refreshment table, the High Lord of Thrax approaches them each from behind. His full imposing stature casts a shadow wide enough to get his point across, the need for a worded greeting entirely lost on him. "Grimhall." He murmurs in Merida's direction, placing his hands upon his hip now that he's filtered through enough bottles to have one hand free. "Alrec." He greets in kind, leaning forward. "Didn't expect to see more piracy turn up at a Dragon's nest."

"I will drag my cousin, Princess Sasha, along with me for the visit," comes the soft-spoken promise from Katarina to Malik before they separate, and she's turning her eyes soon upon her own metaphorical flesh and blood as Marian comes into her line of view. "Marian," she squeals softly, flinging herself toward the Sword of Sanctum with little care of armors that may pinch and grind uncomfortably between them. "I'm glad you came! No Fergus with you this time?" A disappointed peek over the shoulder, but hers is a most infectious and teasing smile up at her ssiter.

Larissa follows suit behind Malik and smiles when she arrives in front of Katarina "This is a lovely party, Highness. A token for you on your special day." she murmurs as she hands over a silk bag. "You look absolutely beautiful today as well." her smile was easy and genuine and she offers a light curtsy to the Princess as she moves to stand near Victus. "You aren't spiking everything with rum are you?" she murmurs at the Thrax Highlord as she winks to Merida "Captain Alrec, it's been quite a while."

Sasha carefully raises form her seat and makes her way to Katarina as she says "Happy Birthday Katarina. I am still making your present but you will have it once I have finished making it. I promise. Now where is it I will be coming along to a visit?"

Nisaa tilts her head in a manner to listen to quiet words murmured into her ear by Malik as he joins her. A dimpled smile slips onto her lips and she turns to whisper in turn to him.

"No, no Fergus this time," Marian tells Katarina as she catches the birthday girl and gives her a squeeze, "And no gift...because I am terrible at gifts." She gives her adopted sister a wink, "But I did come and I plan to celebrate the day with you so I hope that's present enough..." At least until Marian has a chance to get her a gift, "Now who is this hostess that's thrown this amazing party in your honor?"

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

Merida looks over her shoulder to her Highlord, and she curtsies with a wry smile, "Your highness, I'm delighted to see you here. At the drinks table, of course. I trust you have been well?" She looks to all the woman and mumbles to herself, "Perhaps I should have gone for my seasilk dress..."

Alrec is eyeing the rum, and then there are the more exotic choices available as well. He is most certainly speculating on the cost of some of those, in fact, when Merida approaches him. His attention shifts and, with a spike of both brows, he steps closer to her so that they might converse quietly. Which leaves a grand opening for Victus, of course, and his spine straightens instantly. In fact, it takes a solid two seconds before he is taking a step back and spinning about. He bows, low, and says in a grand manner, "Your Highness."

As Larissa appears next in the wake of Malik, she is well-received with an infectious smile so easily won from Katarina. "Mistress Larissa, thank you for coming," she gushes, the silken bag collected with a mote of surprise mingled with curiosity as the Softest Whisper is taken into a brief embrace. "Thank you, thank you. I hope you're enjoying the party? Isn't Duchess Belladonna such a phenomenal hostess?" It's with those words that Marian gets her answer, and Belladonna whom is pointed out with an exuberant fondness. "She is one of my dearest, if not most, friends, Marian. She's been exceedingly good to me."

When she is pointed out, Belladonna lifts her glass to Marian. There's a quick smile offered. She doesn't slip back up to Katarina's side though, content where she is for the moment. She's recharging. With alcohol. The glass in her hand is almost empty.


With Belladonna seeming at least momentarily free, Sudara moves through the throng towards her cousin, offering a warm smile as she closes the distance - reaching out with the intent of lightly touching the younger Pravus's arm. "You have done well again," she says, voice soft but sincere - before she offers a swift, impish look. "It's almost as if you were born to this sort of thing."


Fashionably late--Or maybe just late--Thistle heads into the party. Her pace is brisk, though her expression is one of cheery warmth, as she walks towards Victus. "You summoned me, your grace?" She gives a flourishing bow and an apologetic smile. "I ran all the way here as soon as I got your message."

Slinking in the press of people in the garden of PRavus, one of Belladonna's household is making his way around the periphery. Flourished bows to those who are of rank to recieve then and with a drink in his hand, Duarte Amadeo in his black, with trimmed beard and dark eyes just flashes smiles as he goes and watches everyone. It's a good day to be in the garden after all. Lots of food. Lots of great food.

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

Victus's eyes dart between the trio who quite quickly gathered around him. He'd enjoy himself to the point that he hadn't developed a scowl for the night, but that didn't do much to change the glowering gaze that fell over each of them. His first act was raising a hand to Alrec and none-too-gently patting him on the back. His heavy hand making a strong 'thwap' as it did. "Bend your knees, Captain. You'll get stuck like that if you don't." The humor in his voice was evident as a vague smirk slowly spread across his face. He then turns over to Merida. "Grimhall, you, in a silk dress? Laughable." His smirk spreads a bit wider and then it's onto Larissa. "If I was, this party would be getting much more fun by the minute. Don't worry, I'm pretty fuckin' clean." Finally, he finds Thistle as well. "Ah, late again. Habit of yours? I struggle with that myself, luckily my station allows me to give significantly less of a fuck."

Marian eyes Belladonna after Katarina points her out, "Well then, let me give her thanks and do a little mingling and then I'll circle back to you." She looks around for a moment, "Is Lord Rook here?" She looks around for a moment and then not seeing him starts to make her way over to the Duchess to offer her greetings, "Your Grace." She waits till the woman has her alcohol before continuing, "Thank you for being so generous and throwing this party for Katarina."

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

Malik shares a few quiet words with Nisaa in an exotic sort of language, before he finds himself a seat to stretch and settle into. "Princess Sasha, are much of a fan of parties?" he asks curiously, looking about at all the other people that are approaching Katarina for well wishes. "I am still not knowing so many, though I've seen some in passing."

Larissa turns as Thistle arrives and claps her hands "Oh hello! I was just speaking about you to Malik and Nisaa. See them over there, they are also Whispers of the House if you've not met them yet." and then she would waive to get Malik's attention and gesture to him that this was the new Whisper she was talking about! Lots of articulate waving and exagerated facial expressions. Then she winks to Victus and snorts a little "Not everyone classifies fun as swinging from chandeliers." she explains kindly and then offers him a wink and a grin as she steps from the table.

"Almost," Belladonna agrees with Sudara, following the words with a little laugh. "As I was telling Highlord Victus earlier -- I have had lots of practice." She doesn't lean away from the touch, though she does glance to Sudara's hand when it makes contact with her bare arm. It's just a glance, her eyes coming right back up. "I enjoy it, and that helps." As Marian approaches, Bella sends a warm smile her way, bowing her head for the words offered. "You are most welcome," she answers. "It is my pleasure to be able to do it. Princess Katarina has been a very good friend."

Sasha smiles to Malik as she says "Oh I love them, but I am not trying to over-exert myself. I would hate to faint when it is Katarina's birthday." Her attention is then upon Larissa as she asks "And who is it that you are introducing around? I am quite fond of meeting new people."

Thistle quirks her eyebrow at the High Lord's comment towards Larissa. What had she walked into? "I'm sorry, your grace." She gives him a sheepish shrug. "Your messenger only reached me a good twenty minutes or so." Her blue eyes turn back towards Larissa then and she gives her a warm smile. "I haven't had a chance to have that pleasure, Larissa." Malik and Nissa get curious glances from the blonde.

Katarina gives a misfortunate shake of her head at Marian's askance after her fiance. "He's been rather preoccupied with, ah, business as of late," she surmises about his absence, soon breaking away to finally begin making her own rounds through the party. When she passes by Alrec, the young Eurusi stips to bump her hip against his own and slip him something on the low with a wriggle of brows - a small flask of the rum she'd shared with him previous nights before. "I thought you might like something extra," she explains through a bubbly laugh, soon pushing onward to explain belatedly to Sasha. "I am taking you to see Malik's gallery, so we can look upon his famed gardens and bask in its beauty once we have free time."

Thunk. Alrec, well, evidently he's got a talent for certain things and he's also quite limber. When such a request comes from Victus, the man is moving to a low kneel without even a hint of hesitation, a swoop really so that he might make a grand gesture. There's even a flourish, with his arm extended, and please ignore the mild twitch of his lips when he is down low. He's up not even three seconds later, sending a flash of a quicksilver smile to Merida and snaring a glass from the table before downing it in one go.

Nisaa looks to Malik with widened eyes and a smile, giggling softly as she leans her shoulder against his. There is a definite look of happiness about her, and she seems to beenjoying herself. She looks up and around the crowd, agreeing with him as he speaks to Sasha. "I am not knowing, well, hardly anyone, if I am to be true honest." She sees Larissa waving exuberantly, and Thistle's eyes on her and Malik, and so smiles charmingly.

"Oh, it would not be a good thing if you are fainting. Perhaps you should have a cool drink?" Malik suggests to Sasha, before his attention is captured by Larissa's exhuberent waving. He flashes a grin, and rises as he spies Thistle, inclining his head in a polite manner. "It is nice to be meeting you, Thistle. Larissa was saying you have a way of setting up stages and making designs. I was saying that it could be helpful when Nisaa starts dancing again. We have a stage, but no one to be decorating it."


Sudara kept her contact with Belladonna brief, only presuming so much on the familial bond. The Sword of Sanctum receives a curious look as she approaches, but with Marian's words directed solely to the Duchess, Sudara stays quiet for the time being - though she does offer a polite smile, and a slight raising of her goblet in greeting.


Sasha ohs softly as a bright smile curls her lips while saying to Katarina, "I would love to go and look at the gallery. I am sure we will get free time soon enough." Her attention then looks to Malik as she explains "It is from my ailment, the fainting. I just have to take it easy is all. It is another reason I stay away from alcohol."

"Katarina is one of a kind," Marian tells Belladonna with a smile, it's clear that she has a deep fondness for her adopted sister, "And I am glad that she has good friends to keep her company." She makes a motion to the grandeur around them, "This is not my typical setting but I've been making more of an effort these days for her." She glances between Sudara and Belladonna, noting the contact but leaves it alone. She turns to Sudara, "And how are you enjoying the evening Lady Sudara?

She arches her brows and turns on the spot, showing off her sheer silk dress, "Your Grace, my dress is very much silky. But that's alright. I think I am rather flattering." She chuckles and grins at Alrec before she too downs her wine. She takes up a glass of rum (ah yes, thank the gods for rum), leaning in to speak quietly to Alrec again.

"Captain, not what I me-" Victus was already too late to stop the man as he dropped down to one knee. The High Lord rolled his eyes as a grimace took residence on his face. Looking the Captain up and down, Victus' expression finally lightens after a moment. "Loosen up, Alrec. It's a party. We enjoy eat, drink and fuck as we like." There's another, *harder* pat on his back as Victus turns back to Larissa. Her words elicit a further smile from him. An oddity that only lasts for a brief moment before he looks back to Thistle. "Thrall messengers." He'd roll his eyes far enough back that they almost spun in his head. "I'll whip better help into shape next time. Thanks for showing up anyway." The High Lord's head turns to regard Merida again. "Hm... It's alright. Put a bit more work into your hips and you might catch a noble's attention around here." That shit-eating grin came on strong and proud.

"Painting sets and arranging scenery is a special talent of mine. I help with the local theater in my spare time." Thistle says with a faint smile towards Malik. "I'd love to create a backdrop for Nissa." Her smile drops for just a fraction of a second when Victus mentions whipping the thrall that sent her the message. But, a polite smile is quickly back on her face. "I would never miss a party, your grace. Besides, I quite enjoy your company."

"She is," Belladonna agrees, eyes seeking out the woman in question. She watches Katarina for a moment once she spies her, then turns her attention back to Marian and Sudara. "I am sure that she appreciates it," she says, for the effort being made. "It...well, it is good to be able to have a party like this again." She smiles, then is looking to Sudara for her answer to Marian.

Katarina checked dexterity + stealth at difficulty 15, rolling 18 higher.

"Oh, you are a painter?" Malik arches his brows to Thistle, looking pleased. "I am being a painter too," he explains, his voice carrying an exotic sort of accent. "You should come and see my gallery sometime. It is near the city center." And then, to Sasha, he frowns a little. "I was not knowing you are sick, Princess Sasha. I do hope that you start feeling better.

At the dread Gazebo the armored Warlord does not notice a Nicia steals the bottle from him when he is not paying attention. The broody Warlord lost in thought returns to the realm of the living only to lift an empty hand to his mouth. "Well fuck." Dark eyes catch sight of the bottle. Murder eyes scan and then find it in the hands of the filching Pravus date of his. He grunts. And he concludes, "Drinking Game." His voice then lowers as they begin to decide and debate what sort of drinking game is to be played. Pin the tail on the thrall unfortunately was not an option.

Victus checked perception + stealth at difficulty 15, rolling 2 lower.

Marian has rolled a critical success!
Marian checked perception + stealth at difficulty 15, rolling 49 higher.

Larissa smiles at everyone talking and the other Whispers making their introductions. She bobs a curtsy at Victus as she moves from the table and makes ready to leave. "Princess Katarina, Duchess Pravus - thank you for a beautiful party. Everything is lovely... My Lady" the last a nod of hello and goodbye to Marian! "If you'll excuse me I have a bit of work and planning to finish by this evening. I hope you all enjoy the rest of the party."

Merida resists an eyeroll thankfully , leaning towards Victus as she exaggerately sways her already ample hips from side to side, "Like this, your grace? I think I can manage just fine without me doing this your Grace". She straightens, running her hands down her dress before taking a deep drink of rum, turning back to Alrec.

"You are welcome," Belladonna says in Larissa's direction. "We should perhaps speak, sometime soon." She turns towards the Whisper, offers another smile. "I hope the rest of your evening goes well." She glances over towards the little cluster near Victus only briefly, her attention returning to those nearby promptly.


"I find gatherings on this scale to be a little overwhelming, these days," Sudara somewhat sheepishly admits to Marian and Belladonna. "I have become rather accustomed to spending my time with books and scrolls. And I fear that whatever dances I can still remember are likely to be a little out of date, should I seek to indulge in more active revel-making. But the guest of honour's reaction to it seems to be one of sincere delight, which suggests that it is very well-judged indeed."


Larissa checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

    It's with a casual sort of grace that Katarina disappears from the main crowds of the party for a time, silent steps leading her toward the pool where a servant has been coaxed into filling it full of water. Golden eyes glimmer with mischief with a murmured token of gratitude is offered before she's creeping upon Victus from behind. With a glorious wriggle of brows, and an efforted thrust of her arms, he finds himself being drenched in chilling waters from behind. "Surprise!"

Larissa inclines her head to Belladonna graciously "Certainly Duchess, I will make myself available at your convenience." she insists and then a last wave around she slips out.

Thistle checked dexterity + dodge at difficulty 15, rolling 10 higher.

Victus checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

There is, of course, just a tip of Alrec's head back toward Victus before Alrec is flashing a grin at that hard pat on his back. The antics from Merida though cause him to snort softly, amusement most certainly manifesting before he is reaching to snare yet another glass. After a moment or two, well, he is grabbing yet another. This appears to be a double-rum sort of party.

Marian offers a smile to Larissa and a look of regret when she mentions that she can't stay, "I'm sorry to hear you can't stay." She turns back to Sudara with a nod, "Yes, they can be a bit overwhelming at times, but I find that I can concentrate on a few people, turn the rest out and then it makes the evening go by much better." She gives a wink to Belladonna because that probably wasn't the best thing to say but Marian is only being honest. She does catch Katarina doing something out of the corner of her eye but she doesn't do anything to interfere or interrupt.

"I would love to see your gallery!" There is a genuine light in Thistle's blue eyes when she speaks on art. "I'm a bit of an amateur myself but perhaps seeing your work will do me good." And then all of the sudden, the birthday girl is dumping water all over the high lord. Being so close to Victus, Thistle has to quickly sidestep away. No water on her dress today! "Your grace." She bites her lip, waiting for his reaction.

The High Lord was prepared to answer them, the High Lord was prepared for a lot of things. The High Lord, was not, prepared to be drenched at a birthday party that was not his own. This was something Victus usually needed to pay for. With all conversation halting, the soaking Thraxian giant slowly turned on his heel. His face was neutral as water cascaded down his face, slow and steady. Looking down at Katarina, his gaze leveled with her own... He is silent for several seconds. Then, raising a single hand, he places it upon her shoulder. There is but another brief pause as the High Lord lifts his head up, shouting to all in attendance. "The Birthday girl wants some watery fun?" He's suddenly clutch her waist as well, a grin spreading ear to ear as his free hand pointed at the pools of sparkling water in the gardens.

"TO THE POOLS!"

Victus checked command + leadership at difficulty 15, rolling 13 higher.

There's a pleasant smile for Sudara's sheepish words, and Belladonna dips her head to the woman. She smiles again for Marian's reply to the woman, and then she shifts a step back. "Thank you both for coming; I'm glad you could be here," she says, before she turns and..freezes. Because Victus has been splashed, and there is that moment of tension before he does react. She laughs for his response, shaking her head and slipping away from the people she'd eben speaking to to go collect herself another drink.

Malik looks a little wide-eyed when he spots Katarina approaching Victus with a bucket full of water, hiding a gasp behind his hand as she dumps it over his head. And while there is an undeniable twinkle of amusement? For a second there, he's actually concerend for the Eurusi Princess. Until, of course, Victus starts grinning and ordering people to the pools. Then, he just laughs, saying to Sasha, "That was very entertaining." To Thistle, he calls over, "Were you getting wet there, Thistle? That was some good footwork I saw!"

There is a girlish squeal of laughter as Victus ensnares her by the waist as he gives a heralding shout to advance upon the pools in the sparkling gardens. "If you dump me in the pools, I swear by the Gods I will d---" Katarina was never good at making threats, cheeks burning bright with embarrassment even through her vibrant peal of laughter as she's lofted toward the pools. She does, however, attempt to finagle a hand at Merida to get her to be dragged along. "I won't be taken alone!"

Alrec with two glasses in hand, downs one quite simply as that. Now, previously, there was a flask that was quite expertly slipped to him. Since one of the offerings has been consumed, he lifts the flask and, eyes sparkling with mirth, toasts the birthday girl even as she is carted off. There it is, a boisterous laugh from the pirate and a tug on that most exquisite liquor. It's stashed away however as he offers forth a few brief words to Merida and thereafter, offer her his arm.


Sudara is rather distracted from the departure of her Duchess as she boggles at the drenching of Victus and the ensuing grabbing of the birthday girl. She blinks several times, then takes a slightly unsteady sip of her wine, before darting a sidelong glance to Marian as if to check that she is seeing the same thing that Sudara thinks she is.


Victus gets a quirked eyebrow at his reaction. It seems that the High Lord is more good humored than Thistle had originally thought. The blonde turns to Malik with a small shrug and a laugh. "I guess I'm going to get wet regardless. It seems as though we're off to the pools!" Thistle is quick to wander off after Victus. He is her patron after all.

The Grimhall takes Alrec's arm, and with a smile she steers him inside, a small chuckle bubbling in her throat.

3 Rough and tumble sailors leaves, following Merida.

Abbas checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

Victus checked strength + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

Victus's eyes burn brightly as he stares back at Katarina. "You have forfeited your right to the word 'no'. Pray you do not lose more." He would pay for whatever damages there was, but vengeance took all authority over any silly dresses and gowns for the moment. The High Lord was strong, dragging Katarina along was no issue and she'd just lost her hope for a Grimhall savior at that. "Ladies first." There wasn't an ounce of hesitation in the High Lord's tone as he let her go off the edge. She wouldn't go alone, Victus was following suit in a grand dive as well. It wasn't anything like jumping into the open sea, but damn if it wasn't as fun. The splash he made was like a boulder sinking to the edge.

Katarina has joined the large pool.

Victus has joined the large pool.

Thistle has joined the large pool.

Sasha has left the among the trees.

Sasha has joined the large pool.

Nisaa was rather enthralled with the party activities going on all around her. her eyes go wide as Victus has water dumped on him, and she waits for a volatile reaction. What follows though, seems to be good natured fun, so she allows herself a laugh at the group heading to the pools. When the large man jumps in, following the smaller woman, Nisaa leans back, as if prepearing for a splash. Turning to Malik and Sasha, she says, "is this a common thing in this city?"

Sasha giggles as she is splashed by some of the water. She takes her feet out of the boots before she says to Nisaa and Malik "Why not join everyone in the pool?" Her steps leading her there though she only dips her feet into the pools, keeping her seasilks gathered away from the water. Her hand trying to splash water on Victus.

Marian gets a closed look on her face as she watches Victus manhandle her naughty adopted sister for dumping him with water. It's perhaps that fact is the reason why Marian doesn't step in and interfere when he takes her and throws into the pool. But there was a moment when her eyes narrowed and there was a dangerous air around the Sword of Sanctum. Of course, it leaves as quickly as it happened and she grabs a drink from a tray that is being brought around, takes a sip and then takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly.

The High Lord of the Thrax declared it was time for the pool. And so the Warlord (who had just suggested a drinking game centered on the water) gets about stripping off his armor. He enlists Nicia to assist with the hard to unbuckle pieces and soon a stack of austere Thraxian steal is set aside in the gazebo. Abbas stretches a moment and cranks his neck back and forth until he earns a satisfying series of /pops/. Once his metal is piled up he peels off the layers of heavy cloth Abbas steps out from the Gazebo. He is a veritable cacophony of scars, ink, and a big bold 'SALT LIFE' tat is scrawled across his abdomen in big black letters. The Thraxian ties his hair back in leather cords and soon he looks to the pool. The man makes his way towards the water without a care in the world. Flapping in the breeze until he gets a clear line to the water and then he is sprinting full speed and he leaps from the shore in a glorious dive that ends in the terrible cruelty of a belly flop. This was a Thraxian thing; King of the Flop. And with a /SPLASH/ that sends water over the people in the pool he disappears in the water to no doubt scream in agony beneath. "OWOWOWOOWOWOWOW. OWwwwwww!!!!" When Abbas surfaces he is all grins like that didn't hurt at all. He is red as can be all over his stomach, thighs, and face.

Sudara has joined the admiring the view.

Nodding her approval when the staff begin to light the torches around the garden, Belladonna does a quick meander through the garden, stepping behind one of the tables to snag a bottle of something to take it with her. She finds herself a tree to lean against, drinking (from the glass, which is being refilled by the bottle in hand) and watching from a safe distance with a smile.

Marian has joined the a shadowy corner.


Sudara leans a little closer to Marian, murmuring something - though her gaze remains on the uproar in the pool.


Abbas has left the the gazebo.

Abbas has joined the among the trees.

Abbas has left the among the trees.

Abbas has joined the large pool.

When the High Lord speakeths her fate, and then bodily throws her into the pools, Katarina at least has the grace to kick off her sandals before she's flying through the air to crash into the waters with a girlish squeal. With a sputtering breath upon breaking the surface, her laughter resumes breathlessly as two more bodies, and then a third, joins in on the fun. "I think that was the most graceful--" She just bursts into laughter at Abbas' painful collide with the waters, shielding her face from the churning wave of waters cresting over her.

"Are you sure? You can just put your feet in." Nicia asks Felix, speaking up a little when part of her attention gets pulled into helping with armor. When Abbas starts off, she pauses, a brow lifting a moment before she shrugs. "If you change your mind..." This is spoken to Felix, tilting her at the pool before she starts off in that direction at a far less breakneck pace.

Nisaa places a hand on Malik's arm, softly saying, "I wish to mingle a little. Do you mind, Mal?" She looks around and says, "you can join the pool if you wish, I would like to meet the hostess."

Lagging a little behind Victus and his captured princess, Thistle thankfully misses getting splashed by the pair of them. She'd just taken a seat on the edge near Sasha and placed her delicate feet in the water when Abbas appeared. All dreams of not getting soaked are crushed by the Prince's bellyflop. Thistle's dress is wet, her everything is wet, and her blonde hair is starting to curl at the ends. But there is a smile on her face. "And you claimed that parties were boring, your grace." Thistle says to Victus with a small, amused shake of her head.

Marian has left the a shadowy corner.

Marian has joined the admiring the view.

Belladonna has joined the a shadowy corner.

Sasha happily shrieks as she is covered in the water, though she still doesn't get in. She is wiping the watter from her face however as she continues to watch people play about in the water.

Malik looks down to Nisaa and grins at her, shaking his head. "I don't mind," he murmurs to her, and upon seeing Abbas belly flopping into the water, he turns to set his hand on the small of Nisaa's back and laugh a little. "Come on, we'll meet her together," he offers, escorting her over to where Belladonna was lounging. Malik, for his own part, dips into a flourishing bow for Belladonna, offering by way of introduction, "I am pleased to be meeting you, this is quite the party. I am called Malik Whisper."

Victus knew all too well the horrors that Abbas was about to unleash upon him. You don't become High Lord of Thrax without knowing your way around a belly flop and the pain and torment such a dangerous maneuver can pose. Watching the Warlord soar through the skies was almost a moment lost in the slowness of time. Braided hair flapping in the wind, droplets running down the variable art museum of scars across his chest, the extra bits hanging in tandem. "SALT LIFE" was all too accurate as the vicious impact overtook the waters. It was almost as if a tsunami of meager proportions slammed into them.

"Oh you fuckin' IDIOT!" Victus was bellowing with laughter, spewing water from his lips like a fountain and crashing his arms across the waves. He splashed everyone, *everyone* who dared meet his eyes. None would know the wraith of a kiddie pool Thraxian like the scorn Victus could impart. Katarina, Thistle, Sasha, all of them would be victims. "Now we have something to fuckin' talk about!"

Malik has left the among the trees.

Malik has joined the a shadowy corner.

Nisaa has left the among the trees.

Nisaa has joined the a shadowy corner.

Nisaa smiles as she rises up with Malik and walks with him over to a quieter spot. She gives the woman a graceful curtsy and says, "I am called Nisaa Whisper." Her voice is thickly accented as she speaks. "I am wanting to be thanking you for allowing us entry into your home for such a lovely party."

All grin. Abbas flexes triumphantly and strikes a pose. "I delcare myself the Lord of the Pravus Flop." He grunts, "Until I am unseated. My place here is legend. My subjects..." He begins, "The Flop King is here. Where is the liquor because I think I bruised my niblets." Dark eyes search out the slower approaching Nicia. An upnod to Victus and a "Happy birthday." To Katarina.

Marian quietly stands there, watching the activities, keeping a careful eye on the fun to make sure it doesn't get out of hand but otherwise keeps off to the side with Sudara, quietly chatting.

"Oh, I'll go in the water," Felix tells Nicia with a laugh. "I just ought to be careful about where I flop." Again he sips from his whiskey and starts moving in the direction of the pool. If it isn't empty by the time he gets there, of course. When Abbas launches himself towards the water, his face alights with laughter and he just shakes his head. His own pace is far more leisurely in transit towards the water.

Oh, people approaching. Belladonna watches Malik and Nissa as they approach, and by the time they reach her she does at least straighten out of her lean. "Duchess Belladonna Pravus," she notes. "It is a pleasure to meet both of you," she greets, offering a pleasant smile. "I am glad that you could both make it to help celebrate Princess Katarina's day."

Felix has left the the gazebo.

"Wonderful!" She calls over her shoulder when Felix agrees that he can go into the water, just shouldn't flop into it. Since she is joining the pool by choice, Nicia doesn't ruin her clothes by getting thrown into the pool. She pauses outside the usual splash radius to set aside her silks. No flop, but she does move a little more quickly towards the water, jumping into it.

Nicia has left the the gazebo.

Slendar arms rise to shield her face from the onslaught of waves sent her way from Victus' splashing attacks, her lips twisting in brief contemplation. "This is one great birthday gift, Your Grace," she laughs at the High Lord, before she bursts into laughter at Abbas even harder at his words. "I'm happy to declare you King of the Pravus Pool! I don't think I'd want to be feeling the torment of sting niblets." Soon, she's disappearning beneath the waters with a kick of feet to try and dislodge Victus and pull him nuder with her.

After getting splashed with water from Victus, Thistle just splashes him back. She makes a point to meet his eyes every time too. She wasn't his protege for nothing! "Your grace, you aren't going to try and challenge him?" She jerks her head in Abbas' direction, mischief in her blue eyes.

Victus would not have anyone missing out on the fun. Dresses? Fuck. Dresses. This was just claimed as a Thraxian sea and ALL would see it for its splendor. He would make just such clear. "None of you are getting out of here without a dunk." A flash of white teeth and a predatory gaze was given around at each person keeping on the fringes of the pool. This would not stand. Throwing his hand forward he grabbed one slender ankle of Thistle and the other of Sasha's and with a mighty heave, he would do all in his power to ensure they too would meet the blue depths surrounding him. He was about to raise his voice again to call to Abbas and his self-proclaimed kingdom, but found the words caught in his throat as he was pulled from below. Certainly not hard, but seeing whom was doing the pulling... It was her birthday after all. Shrugging his shoulders, he falls back and lets his head sink under the depths, the rest of his body following suit.

Sasha checked strength at difficulty 7, rolling 1 higher.

Thistle checked dexterity + dodge at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Abbas grunts and looks for the next game. He goes under the water for a time to let the burn cool down. When Abbas emerges he does so and then goes to greet Nicia where she jumped in the water, "Have you ever played chicken?" He inquires, "I think the birthday girl and the High Lord should pair off." He offers. "And you two should battle it out upon our shoulders while we keep you there." He then asks Nicia, "What say you? Game? Will you unseat the Eurusi birthday girl with me from his shoulders?"

Sasha screams as she is pulled into the pool. In that corsetted seasilk and everything else. She begins to flail around in the water and she cries out "I! I can't swim! Help!" She is at least able to keep herself above the water but she is quickly beginning to look weak.

Marian is enjoying her chat with Sudara but then she notices the almost tussle out of the corner of her eye. She calls out from where she's standing, "Sasha! If you don't want to get dunked, move away from the pool!" She watches and to her relief, Sasha evades Victus but it's clear she's not comfortable with Sasha rough housing in the pool.

Thistle checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 2 higher.

Marian checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.


Sudara is also keeping one eye on the shenanigans in the pool, while conversing quietly with Marian.

Felix strips down to his skivvies before slipping into the pool himself. The puncture scars just beneath his clavicle on each side still do look pretty nasty - as well as the scars from the exit wounds on his opposite side. It's no wonder he didn't want to launch himself into the water. Wading into the pool, the smith glances around at the others, but seems more intent to stay to the side and out of the way. The tumbler of whiskey is taken with him and spared the contamination of pool water carefully.

Thistle manages to get out of the way of Victus's grip and when Sasha is tugged in, she's quick to reach out for Sasha and attempt to haul her up out of the pool. The lithe girl is surprisingly quick and strong.

Marian jumps up from where she's sitting talking and moves quickly into action. Wow! No one outside of being on the battlefield has seen the Sword of Sanctum move so fast as she leaves where she's standing to go run to the edge of the pool to help Thistle hall Sasha out of it.

Marian has left the admiring the view.

"Can't say that I have, no." Nicia replies, shaking her head at Abbas, hands lifting up to swipe her hair back from her face, "I'm willing if everyone else is willing." She replies, although anything else she was about to say is cut off when she hear Sasha's declaration that she can't swim, and her eyes widen a fraction.

Sasha grasps for Thistle's hand with both of her in a tight grip. The little Princess is pulls from the water, coughing a little bit. She softly says "Thank you... I... I didn't think I... I would... get yanked in.." She begins to slowly roll onto her back as she rests on the side.

Marian checked strength + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 10 higher.

Nisaa dips her head to Belladonna with a smooth grace. "Of course. Pardon us for intruding, Duchess." She turns then to look to Malik and says, "well, it would mean ruining my silks, or going as the tattooed gentleman did..."

Belladonna has left the a shadowy corner.

When Katarina resurfaces it, it's with an alarmed breath that she's lurching away from Victus and kicking her way toward Sasha. Slender arms wrap around her cousin's waist to steady her as Thistle and Marian are there to do all the pulling. "Sasha, darling -- " A stunted breath, relieved, "Are you alright?" Golden eyes flicker back toward Abbas and Victus, lips setting themselves into an apologetic moue. "... So, ah, games, was it?"

Taking her bottle and her glass, Belladonna slips away from the stand of trees she'd taken refuge in, leaving Nissa and Malik there. She watches the stir at the pool for a long moment, but seems satisfied with what she sees. There's another long look around before she starts to circle the party again, drifting towards the doors back into the house.

Abbas does not seem entirely concerned about the drowning situation. In Thrax he learned to swim by being tossed into the ocean. He either made it to shore or he did not. In fact Abbas goes to recall that moment of his life and he vaguely recollects that it was Victus who pushed him over the side of the longship to swim or drown. "You get on my shoulders." Abbas begins and he then calls to the High Lord. "Chicken." Abbas gets down on his knees and sinks under water to allow Nicia access to mouth herself. Of course this was a rather Lyceum affair in the state of fress some people were in. Thankfully these were not cold Thraxian frigid waters otherwise the men would have a lot of 'its the cold' excuses to make.

Thistle lets out a small sigh of relief as her and Marian manage to pull Sasha to safety. "Are you okay, your highness? Did you breathe any of the water in?" Thistle's voice is calm and soothing as she looks the princess carefully over.

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

Sasha nods to Katarina as she says "I am fine yes. I needed mean to cause worry. Please enjoy your birthday Katarina. I am just going to rest somewhere away from the pool is all."

Malik purses his lips, looking over Nisaa before he wrinkles his nose. "I do not want you to be ruining your costume," he decides, slipping his arm around her waist as he leads her over to the pool to observe, while being far away from the potential of getting pulled in. "Although that game they are going to be playing seems pretty fun. Chicken, they are calling it?" he shrugs his shoulders, interested.

With a quick gasp for breath, Victus comes up as well. He's all smiles until his eyes notice he's joined by significantly less people. Peering over to the edge of the pool with his pitch-black eyes, his brow furrows as he sees the damage that was done. Immediately his face falls back into that glowering expression he'd arrived with. Moving himself toward the edge, Victus does not raise from the pool but he does allow one arm to rest across the surface. He is watching Sasha closely as well as the concerned parties gathered around. He doesn't offer a response to Katarina, his attention entirely focused forward.

"Sir Roderick!" Marian shouts out for Sasha's retainer, not too happy at the man for letting his charge get pulled into the pool, "Come here and take Sasha somewhere so she can get out of those wet clothes before she catches a chill." Marian knows that Sasha has a delicate constitution and won't fare well staying in wet clothes.

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

Aida, 2 Pravus Honor Guard leave, following Belladonna.

"Oh, right...games." Nicia agrees, offering Katarina a smile, "By the way, happy birthday." Then Abbas is giving the instructions on how the game is done, and she moves over to start climbing onto his shoulders. Her attention turns and focuses on those in the pool, and the game that is being set up to place, "Alright, so now, what do we do....?"


Sudara takes a step or two after Marian, looking quite openly concerned... but thereafter hangs back, not wanting to come within Thraxian reach herself. But when Sasha is rescued, she risks moving closer again. "I can ensure that she finds a warm fire and a change of attire, if you wish," she offers to the Sword of Sanctum.


When Marian has taken to task of seeing Sasha taken care of, it's only then that the tension ebbs away from Katarina's form. "You gave us all a fright there," she murmurs softly toward her cousin, smile faint, before her gaze is drawn inevitably toward Victus. Hesitantly, it's a small hand at his shoulder to draw his attention back to the pool. "My cousin will be fine, now. You didn't know, and ... It looks as though we have a game to play?"

Now that poor Sasha seems to be in good hands, Thistle turns her attention back to the pool. She looks carefully at Victus, moving to sit at the edge of the pool near to where his arm is resting. Leaning over, she whisper quietly to the High Lord.

Sasha is lifted up by Sir Rodrick and carried out as he says to her "Your cousin is right, your wet clothes will make you get sick. And You look exhausted." Sasha just nods softly, not wanting to agrue with her guard as she is already being carries out as she says "Happy Birthday Katarina! Thank you all for a lovely party!" And then she is gone

Marian turns to Sudara and gives her a grateful look, "Yes...please. That would be helpful. Sasha's health isn't the best and I would hate for her little adventure to lead to her being sick." But then Sir Roderick tries to take Sasha away, "Wait...Sir Roderick, bring her back and have her change. There's no reason for her to miss the rest of the party." She then lowers her voice and tells her cousin, "You look tired...stay if you feel up for it but if you don't there's no shame in leaving."

Marian turns and looks at Katarina after that exchange to let her know it's fine and that she should continue with her games and enjoying her party. Marian will see to things.

Thistle just shakes her head and gives Victus a small splash in response. "Go enjoy your game, your grace."


Sudara inclines her head to Marian, then sets about escorting Sir Roderick and mothering Sasha, ushering the pair of them out of sight so that the lady can dry off and acquire a change of clothing.


Sir Roderick nods, bringing Sasha back to be set down by the entrance to the manor. Sasha then slides within so that she can go change out of her wet clothing, dry out and put on something clean and dry. She may be gone for a little while.

"Well, once things get settled we get someone to heft Katarina up on their shoulders." Abbas answers. "Then we wade through the water and you wrestle until someone falls." Abbas waits to see if the High Lord will rise to the challenge. Because if not then Thistle is going to have to hoist up Katarina. And that would be a sight to see.

Victus turns his head toward Abbas and Katarina both, his back resting against the edge of the pool just next to where Thistle sits. Clearing his throat, the High Lord regards both of them with neutrality painted across his face. The drops of water running down his face framing each of his scars quite well. "Games? Right." He snaps back to reality pretty fast, craning his neck back and dipping his arms beneath the waves. That drenched blood-black robe of his come up and over his head, leaving his body barred. Parts of him were a canvas of ink, images of waves and blue blades running up and down his arms and his sides. He is about to speak again when his protege snaps back at him. His eyes dart back over to her, a steely glare in her direction... Until he hears Abbas.

"Abbas, that is a sound idea." Victus' grin spreads ear to ear. "Thistle, come in and hoist the birthday girl up. If you both win, I'll even pay for your gowns." He crosses his arms over his chest, a single brow quirked up.

A single finger is raised to gently crook Felix in soft summons. "Master Felix, is it?" Katarina's lips upturn themselves into an easy smile, motioning toward Thistle, "Why don't you let Messere Thistle mount you, so you both can join in the games? Three for all is much more fun than two, I think. You know, so we can give Prince Abbas a real run for his money." She bobs her way toward Victus, the high lord not so easily finagling his way out of this one.

Thistle kind of just blinks. Did she hear that right? Her lifting up a princess? This is going to be interesting, to say the least. She offers Katerina an apologetic smile. "Princess, would you like to try? I promise I'll do my best not to drop you." Her arms brace against the side of the pool, ready to jump in if needed.

"Wrestle?" Nicia's brows lift upwards, "Oh, sure...just wrestle each other until one falls." She laughs faintly, shaking her head as she gets herself settled, settling her arms on the top of Abbas' head while she waits. When they come up with the idea of having Thistle lift Katarina she glances between them, but she doesn't try to argue about who carries who and what not. Nope. Any advantage is in her favor, and she needs all the help she can get.

The Warlord gets Nicia used to the balance of being on his shoulders. The Reaver Prince uses his time as a sailor to navigate the waters and to move here and there. He bends and bows this way and that. A step forward... a quick movement back; as if he were navigating a longship that was going under in its last moments. Naturally the view is likely pretty nice too. The lovely Pravus woman perched on the bronze butcher's shoulders. A grin flashes the blunt whites in the direction of those who will rise to the challenge. He continues to take her through the movement and paces as if she were on a teetering ship.

Abbas checked dexterity + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 35 higher.

Thistle kind of just blinks. Did she hear that right? Her lifting up a princess? This is going to be interesting, to say the least. She offers Katerina an apologetic smile. "Princess, would you like to try? I promise I'll do my best not to drop you." Her arms brace against the side of the pool, ready to jump in if needed. But then the Princess offers a different alternative. Felix gets a curious look. "As you wish, Princess! Master Felix, would you like to join in?"

Once Marian is done seeing to her cousin, she makes her way over to the side of the pool where Victus is sitting, watching the games. She doesn't jump into the pool but she dones crouch down so she can get low enough to have a quiet conversation with Prince Victus Thrax.

Sasha eventually returns in a borroweed lovely halter gown with a shawl wrapped around her shoulders to assist with keeping her modesty. This time she decides to sit on the chairs nearby and merely observe.

Felix is just finishing up his whiskey and doing a fair amount of people watching while festivities carry on. When Katarina speaks up his way, he sets the empty glass aside and smiles her way. "Certainly," he speaks up with a smile. His attention moves to Thistle then and he gives a quick wag of his brows. "Just go easy on me, hm? I'm supposed to be recovering." Chuckling despite himself, the smith wades his way towards where the others are gathered and Thistle in particular.

Victus opens his mouth to speak up toward Katarina as she approaches, but, whatever he's about to say is cut off by Marian. Canting his head to the size, his grin slowly fades as he listens to the words in his ear. Not bearing her a look, Victus instead grabs the edge of the pool and hoists himself up. "Continue without me for the moment." He nods his head toward Katarina apologetically, standing up at full height. The definition of his physique was bared in full, every little movement enunciating the High Lord's strength excellently. He dips his head closely to Marian, speaking to her in quiet murmurs just the same.

Oh! Whoa...moving. Nicia wasn't quite ready for Abbas to start moving around the pool, so she tips a little dangerously to one side before she gets herself back up right. Overhearing Victus say to continue without him she frowns, then smiles, "What about if the winner of the first game plays the next? That way everyone is able to get involved, right..."

Raising an eyebrow, she gives Felix a smirk. "You can't unseat the king of the pool if I go easy on you." Thistle slips into the pool and swims over to the weaponsmith. "Try not to drop me." She chuckles. In an easy motion, she'll climb onto Felix's shoulder and seat herself there. Luckily, the silk of her dress is light enough not to weigh them down even when wet.

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

Katarina pulls herself from the waters to perch on the edge of the pools. Golden eyes flit briefly between Marian and Victus before her gaze is decidedly upon Thistle, Felix, Nicia, and Abbas. "Why don't the two of you get us started?" she calls out in soft suggestion, her smile bright. "I'll referee and keep tally until we're ready."


Emerging from the interior of the house shortly after Sasha, Sudara pauses to suvey the scene... brows arching as she takes in the unexpected sight of Marian and Victus in quiet conversation.


A bit of laughter and Abbas watches Thistle takes a message while seated on Felix. The Warlord never fought fair. (plague blankets right?) And so while she is distracted he moves forward like a Thraxian pool shark. The man moves in and tries to approach from the side to get the upper hand. As he gets Nicia close enought to attack he stomps down under the water at Felix's foot to try and get him off balance to make it more difficult for Thistle.

Nisaa nods as she walks towards the pool with Malik, standing on the outside of it, but closer. "What is chicken? Is food, animal. Game too?" She seems confused by this, watching the group curiously as people begin to climb on the shoulders of others.

Abbas checked dexterity + brawl at difficulty 15, rolling 21 higher.

Nisaa has left the a shadowy corner.

Nisaa has joined the large pool.

Felix has rolled a critical success!
Felix checked dexterity + dodge at difficulty 15, rolling 18 higher.

Malik shrugs his shoulders over to Nisaa, his attention somewhat focused on the pairs that are climbing aboard one anothers' shoulders. "I am not sure. Why would you be calling a game like this chicken? All chickens do are peck at grains and wait for death. And make sounds during the morning time. Oh, wait, that is roosters." He squints at the group.

Nicia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Thistle checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Marian gives a light laugh at something that Victus tells her and shakes her head, continuing the conversation. Whatever tension there was when the matter started, it's passed as the two continue to talk in a more friendly manner.

Did we mention that Nicia spends most of her time reading things and not battling for supremacy in the pool. When Abbas moves in to start the battle she flails, which doesn't really do much except she grabs in Thistle's direction as she tips to the side. This shouldn't be a very long fight at this rate.

Despite the fact that she's got a messenger, Thistle still manages to react to Abbas and Nicia's attack. A life in the Lower prepares you for a lot of things! To try and unbalance Nicia, she feints. It seems as though she's aiming to grapple the lady's hands but instead she shoves at her shoulder. There is a devious little grin on her face. "That's cheating!" She laughs.

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

Felix smirks back at Thistle, but takes it all in good humor. When Thistle moves to perch upon his shoulders, he lowers hismelf down into the water more to make it easy. Once he's sure she's in place, he stands back up to hoist her up on his shoulders. "Don't worry. I won't drop you." Laughing then, he starts wading in towards Abbas and Nicia as well, grinning at the both of them. The sudden change in Victus' stance alerts Felix at just the right moment. He may have fool's luck, but he slides his foot back just far enough to not get stomped on while keeping his upper body perfectly steady. He's pretty graceful for a guy of his stature, apparently! This new stance has him leading with his right legs, perhaps even giving Thistle a slight advantage in the battle. "Nice try, Highness, but you ought not endeavor to out-scoundrel a scoundrel!"

Sasha continues to curiously watch the chicken fight, they her attention is mostly upon Victus and Marian

Felix checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 9 lower.

Abbas checked dexterity + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 72 higher.

Malik murmurs something to Nisaa with a grin before he moves to start out of the garden with the others, giving Katarina a friendly wave in parting as he goes.

Katarina raises her hand in soft wave back to Malik and Nisaa, mouthing thanks for their attendance.

Thistle checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 9 higher.

Nicia has rolled a critical success!
Nicia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 5, rolling 1 higher.

Nisaa shrugs her shoulders as well and says to Malik, "I am not being sure. It does not seem like any chicken I have known." She looks to the men in the pool then and grins, erupting in some quiet giggles. "Rooster. Perhaps that is why, and they just use the more generic chicken?" She leans in towards Malik when he murmurs to her, then nods, lifting a hand to wiggle fingers goodbye to Katarina and anyone else who may glance her way.

Malik has left the a shadowy corner.

Nisaa has left the large pool.

Nisaa leaves, following Malik.

Abbas is legendary for his skills in water. The Warlord uses tricks of the trade to give Nicia as much advantage as possible. He spreads his feet wide as he guides her into closing the distance between the parties. The Warlord laughs heartily at Felix's comments. And as he nears the Thraxian Warlord treats it like he is battling on a longship. An ankle shoots forward and puts itself in the best position to encourage a spill. The man is grinning broadly and he gets a good view by looking up at the mounted warriors. The sacred battle of 'chicken' in the Pravus pool; the fate of Arx and Arvum in the balance. Leeeeeroy Jenkins.


With her temporary charge seemingly now safe as well as dry, and the few individuals she has spoken to either distracted or departed, Sudara opts to offer a curtsey in Katarina's direction before quietly withdrawing into the house once more - not wanting to find out quite what happens when the drenched Thraxians finish their horseplay.


Sudara has left the admiring the view.

Marian takes a step back from Victus and raises her hand, "No...thank you your highness." Their conversation is concluded, "I still have matters to attend to this evening and it would not be comfortable to do it in wet leather armor." She is of course still in her armor rather than wearing a dress for the event, "But thank you for your offer. Perhaps another time." Then she moves quickly in the direction of her cousin, Sasha, to have a discreet chat.

"Sorry!" Nicia exclaims, and it is a bit unclear who she is telling sorry to, the man whose shoulders she is sitting on, or the woman who she is wrestling. But someone gets a sorry. Although, never let it be said that she isn't willing to continue the fight, even when it's clear that she's probably outclassed on all sides. She then leans forward, making another grab for Thistle, this time she is a little more direct in her grab, since she's not as off guard as she was the first time.

Felix's previous injuries apparently still have him a little less than at his best. Although strong enough, his movements are still a bit stiff and ponderous in comparison to Abbas. Although he winces as he does everything he can to stay upright, he still manages to do it without toppling over in the water. If he were less sturdy, it'd likely be quite a different story, but Felix soldiers on. "You've got it, Thistle! Try to get her at an angle!" His hands hold on to the woman's knees so he can try to assist in giving her some leverage.

Abbas checked dexterity + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 32 higher.

Felix checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 3 lower.

Although Felix has some balance issues, Thistle does her best to stay seated. This wasn't the worst shaky surface she'd sat on. Wait. Take that back. "I'm trying!" She calls down to Felix as she locks arms with Nicia. She does her best to try and push the girl off but no budging.

"Suit yourself." The High Lord cranes his neck and cracks his knuckles as he turns back to the battlefield the pool has become. It was a marvelous sight to see, his Warlord was making him proud each time he took a glance over. Moving to stand back just behind the birthday girl, he placed a hand upon Katarina's shoulder. "Precarious place to be in case you weren't watchin' the clusterfuck we just went through." He gave her a nudge as his smirk spread wider.

Thistle checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

Nicia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 5, rolling 5 higher.

Barbara, the stalwart Stormward secretary arrives, delivering a message to Katarina before departing.

The Warlord does his best to guide Nicia to victory; his strong calloused hands grip tightly as he keeps her on his muscular shoulders. The movements of Abbas are masterful. The nimble figure of the Warlord in water was a thing to marvel. The muscles rippled and the Prince of Thrax takes his naked rider and he goes full tilt forward to go crashing into Felix to try and give her some leverage to drive home the glory of victory amidst the gruesome splash of defeat. "Now! Give it all you can!"

Katarina rises from the edge of the pool and sheds her sodden outer silks, leaving her a shy away from naked in artfully twisted under layers as she prepares to mount Victus' shoulders. "Thank you," she issues down to the high lord, and her sister, before she's entirely out of earshot.

Annnnd, in a glorious moment of surprise! Thistle is pushed off of Felix's shoulders and into the water. An experienced swimmer, she quickly surfaces with a laugh. "Clearly the key to victory is not wearing any clothes." The blonde picks at her wet silk gown. Then she gives the winners a flourishing bow. "Good luck!"

"I'm trying!" Nicia assures him, continuing to lean forward, pushing at Thistle as much as she can, then when Thistle goes down she actually stops cold, "Ha!" She exclaims, lifting her arms up in triumph, "We won!"

Victus drops down into the wavy waters again. His silk britches were drenched, but the High Lord had just enough, just *barely* enough know how of politics to not be showing his privates in a public pool. Abbas was brave, he admired that. But it was time for him to show his mettle as well. Placing his calloused hands on the hips of Katarina, he effortlessly lifted the Valardin birthday girl up and onto his heavy shoulders. Muscles flexed and veins bulged as he dug his heels into the bottom of the pool, his eyes casting a competitive glare at the Warlord and the lady who used him as her steed.

"Ready or not, fucker." Victus called as his grin sharpened. "Here we fuckin' come!" The High Lord didn't wait for a call to end the conflict or a bell. He knew the Butcher didn't fight clean. He was no exception!

Victus checked strength + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 34 higher.

Abbas does a victor's circle and runs around the pool after gettting out of it with Nicia on his shoulders. The victory lap is utterly naked for the both of them and he grins ear to ear. "Ahahahahahahahaha!" He growls in delight and then looks to the next challengers. Victus gets a grunt and a grin and the Bastard's Butcher enters the water to prepare to engage in battle with the man he kills for and brutally aided in securing his place in Thrax. There is a serious look upon his face. He looks up to Nicia, "Cheat if you can." He grunts with a laugh.

Sasha continues to watch the rough housing in the pool with a smile. Her eyes eagerly studying the movements of those within the water.

As Abbas crashes into Felix, he starts to tilt, completely off-balance. This doesn't help the falling Thistle in the least either. She isn't alone in hitting the water though, as he finally goes under himself. He resurfaces just a moment later, not needing superior swimming ability when he can still easily enough stand up in the pool. While laughing, he wipes water and his own wet hair from his face and looks over towards the victors. "We'll get you next time," he rumbles out towards Nicia, though his tone is still warm and pleasant. He winces and palms one of the rather ugly scars under each clavicle while rolling one shoulder. Looking back towards Thistle then, he grins. "Well played, anyways."

Marian makes her way to her cousin and leans in to say a few quiet words to Sasha before heading out.

Abbas checked dexterity + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 30 higher.

Thistle gives Felix a small grin as she pulls herself agility up onto the edge of the pool again. "We claim a match against the victor!" She calls out towards Victus, Katerina, Abbas, and Nicia. A playful splash is directed at Felix. "Perhaps I should go naked for luck." A barely repressed laugh follows her words.

Katarina checked dexterity + brawl at difficulty 15, rolling 11 higher.

Nicia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 9 lower.

Sasha's cheeks flush at the whispered words from Marian before she whispers back

"You should." Abbas answers Thistle. "If not for luck then for the glory of everyone around you."

Cheat? Well...Nicia shrugs a bit at that, and turns her attention towards the newest battle. However, just like the first time her first grab is a not very good one. She overcompensates for the reach a little too far and nearly rocks backwards instead of reaching solidly for Katarina.

    With her supple thighs firmly lnocked within the thick calloused digits of Victus' hands, Katarina readjusts herself with grace over the high lord's broad shoulders as they're brought charging forward toward Abbas and Nicia whether they're ready for them or not. "Have I mentioned how lovely you look atop your cheating Thraxian steed?" comes her girlish quip at Nicia before lean arms dart out to try and attempt to tickle the lady to keep her from locking firmly on her.

Sasha's eyes go wide at the response back with her mouth slightly agape as she looks at Marian. She then produces a fan and begins to waft upon herself as she gives a soft nod in turn.

Felix coughs once and then grins Thistle's way, one brow lifting as if in brief consideration. "Aye. That wouldn't be the least bit distracting." He wrinkles his nose up at her and then laughs before nodding towards the current contenders. "We will challenge the winner, though!" As he makes this declaration, he wades over in Thistle's direction to join her in spectating.

Victus rushes forward like a tidal wave. As if the waves were at his beck and call, they followed at his back as the large pool was turned into his own liquid running of the hounds. Planting his boot firmly on the pool's grounding, he forced himself forward. If he'd taken a step more he would have bowled over his trusted Warlord and his companion, the ferocity of his onslaught seeming to be just the edged Katarina needed to get in her blow. Victus gnashed his teeth in a valiant cry, his grip tightening on Katarina. He had to resist every bit of willpower he had not to use her was a battering ram, luckily he had just enough on his side to do so!

Marian gives a nod at Sasha's reaction, imparts a few more words before taking her leave from the party. Her manner is stiff as she makes her way out, being polite to those that nod to her as she leaves.

Grim determination sets upon the face of the Warlord. Abbas is smaller than the massive Victus and he knows the man's tactics from years of violence together. As they close the distance and Victus charges he backsteps rapidly until finally his feet sprawl and he comes to a halt teetering on falling over. He digs his head down and lets out a growl. This was a little different than the first match for the men below. They were competitive. They were fierce. Abbas grips Nicia's thighs tightly; nails digging in. Small bruise points would emerge form where he gripped. One High Lord and former Warlord of Thrax against the man that follows in his footsteps.

Abbas checked dexterity + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 32 higher.

Victus checked strength + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 29 higher.

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

Katarina checked dexterity + brawl at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Sasha nods softly at Marian's words though she remains seated near the pool just not where she can get yanked in. she can still be picked up and carried in her borrowed dress however.

Nicia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 12, rolling 6 lower.

The Walord adjusts to Victus and he leans forward and then starts ramming his shoulder into the chest of the massive beast. Corded muscles tense and he starts to make progress. A few steps forward driving the beat of a High Lord back and getting Nicia the best possible advantage he could. He growls and just meats the man face-to-face in a hard slam. Violent. Abbas howls.

Ender, a Silver Gyrfalcon leaves, following Marian.

There was always times where Victus imagined how another conflict between himself and the infamous Butcher would go. He did it with all of his vassals, it was only natural. When surrounded by competitors as the man who took the throne by force, everyone always looked at you for a challenge. Like meat. He was no stranger to it. But he had to admit, a game of chicken in the pool was not how he predicted their next meeting. Victus could not best the counter-onslaught that hurdled his way, but he certainly didn't let it go without a fight. Howling and tensing his muscles, Victus shoved forward back again and again even as he was being pushed back on his heels. They were like wolves thrashing about the pool, yowling and snarling as they each continuously rammed each other again and again for dominance.

Tickling?! That must be a weakness of Nicia's because the reaction to that tickle is immediate, visceral and her hands are off Katarina like a flash, pinwheeling wildly for a moment. The whole thing just seems to throw her entire thing off, "What? Oh...Yes." She replies, taking another grab for Katarina before this time it is her turn to end up in the water. Not a belly flop, but a face flop right into the surface of the water as she loses her balance entirely.

Sasha watches in amazement at the rough housing between Abbas and Victus. Her hands coming up to shield her from the water that comes up for Nicia's face flop into the water.

"You even make falling into the water look graceful, my lady," comes Katarina's sweet appraise after Nicia has been dismounted from Abbas' shoulders. Her fingerse latch lightly onto Victus' shoulders, her balance briefly threatened while he and the Butcher's Bastard thrash about against one another below. "Alright, Your Grace. It looks like we make a fine team!"

Thistle lets out a little cheer for Victus and Katerina. At this point, more water doesn't even phase her. "You two up for one last match?" She calls out to the birthday girl and the High Lord whose shoulder she's riding on. Felix gets another splash in his direction. Just so he's paying attention!

The snarling and growls grow. And Abbas does not quite notice that Nicia was there. The man forgot in that moment their game of chicken. Flared nostrils puff out air like a dragon might. His mind goes back to the game when there is a splash and he watches the nude Pravus fall into the water. It's a shame because getting a naked woman tickled off from your shoulders should really be a bucket list item. The man turns though once he realizes Nicia went under and he goes under to give her a coaching opportunity beneath.

Felix splashes Thistle back this time, showing he is indeed paying attention. He wades on over towards her and settles against the side of the pool nearby. "I could do one more match," he agrees with the woman while looking over in the direction of Katarina and Victus. "Probably should call it after that, though. Getting run through by a Bringer has its downsides. A lot of them."

Nicia eventually sputters back to the surface, looking more drowned rat-like than noble lady-like for the moment. There is a little moment of coughing before she gets hair and water from her face, "Good fight, Your Highness." She smiles at Katarina, giving a silly half-underwater curtsey to her and Victus before she bumps into Abbas on her way to the edge, "Next match!"

Sasha notices Lillybelle rubbing against her legs and picks up the cat, scritching over the fur as she continues to watch the horseplay in the pool.

It takes sometime before Victus adjusts his bearings. He'd lost his attention span somewhere in the midst of all of that fiery battle. Thrashing and clashing with Abbas put his adrenaline to high. It was only a few seconds after the birthday girl had whispered to him and Abbas vanished beneath the waves that Victus recalled where exactly he was. He was sporting a new set of bruises across his chest and even a trickle of blood that ran from his shoulder. But he wasn't perturbed, in fact, he was smiling. Wider and more fearsome than he had in all the time he'd been at this affair. The grip on Katarina's slender thighs grows tighter as he whirls the two of them around to stare down his next opponents. His protege would amuse him today after all. "Come at us if you dare, boy." He barked with a grin. "We'll take you down all the same."

Abbas makes his way to the edge of the pool. Abbas drips there and takes the spectator's seat. He looks to the Lady and looks down to the place next to him. A hand offers to help guide Nicia down to join him.

In the spirit of the event, Thistle grins and strips off her very wet dress. Abbas and Nicia were already naked, what's one more right? The silks fall to the side as she slips back into the pool. "Thank you, Felix." She smiles, giving his shoulder a little pat once she's swum over to him. Katerina and Victus get a mischievous look as she graceful hoists herself up onto Felix's shoulders. "Ready when you two are!"

Victus checked strength + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 42 higher.

    "It looks like it's us versus you two now," Katarina chirps to Thistle and Felix with a warm smile cresting her lips, far more congenial than her adrenalin-pumped mount between her thighs. "Best of luck to you too," she calls, before shifting atop Victus once more to reaffirm the lock of her legs beneath this calloused grip.

Katarina checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 13 higher.

Thistle checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 17 higher.

You would think that slew of competition from the Butcher would have slowed Victus down. Unfortunately, that was not the case. The taste of blood in his mouth only reaffirmed his desire to charge deeper into the fray. Naked or not, his protege was meeting the depths if he had anything to say about it. "FELIX!" Victus roared, charging through the pool. Each heavy stomp of his boots beneath the waves send a mini typhoon through it, heralding his charge as he roars with confidence.

Felix checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 2 lower.

"Why thank you, Your Highness." Nicia inclines her head to Abbas when he offers her a hand out of the pool, accepting it and climbing up to twist some of the water out of her hair. As soon as she gets some water twisted out she lifts her arms up, cheering for the two pairs that are heading in to do battle, "You can do it!"

Sasha continues to sit on the sidelines. Now she is watching Felix and Victus be on the bottom of the two women chicken fighting. Laughs escape her lips as the Maine Coon remains in her lap for the donated upon affections.

Felix once again dips down into the water so that he can hoist the now nude Thistle up on his shoulders once again. While it does provide a bit of color to the man's cheeks, he's a professional and this is serious business. Right? Right. "Anytime," he utters, though its partially drown out by the roar of his name erupting from Victus. "Son of a..." Indeed. Not distracting at all. Turning just in time to meet Victus' charge towards him, he quickly moves his feet under him to try to brace himself against the oncoming barrage. He does tip off balance a bit, but manages to stay upright...for the moment at least. "...swear when I'm fully recovered..." He grumbles through gritted teeth.

The furious look in the High Lord's eyes has her a little surprised. Thistle isn't deterred though and though Felix is a bit of an unsteady mount, she still tries. Her hands reach out to shove at Katarina, one ducking low to try and pull the same tickle trick that Katarina pulled! It's a little less effective when she's struggling to not fall off poor Felix.

The Warlord watches and grunts a bit as he takes in the stuggle. Dark eyes move to have a long look across the body of the Whisper. "Nothing better than naked chicken." He comments to Nicia and has a look over at the Lay next to him. He slides an arm around her waistline and leans into the woman. His mouth moves close to her ear and he whispers to her.

Victus checked strength + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 12 higher.

Katarina checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Felix checked strength + brawl at difficulty 15, rolling 20 higher.

"I can think of a few things better, but I have to admit that this has been a whole lot of fun." Nicia admits to Abbas, leaning into him when he slides an arm around her waist, tilting her head to hear the whisper. There is a slight laugh at whatever was said, then she turns her head to give him a whisper in return.

Victus's eyes are a flurry of passion as he drives himself forward into Felix. The giant of a man in all of his physique comes bearing down on him again and again, head bashing into his shoulders while his chest knocked him forward again and again. There was no relief, there was no backing down, just a pure flurry of rage and displays of strength again and again. The High Lord of Thrax was determined to live up to the title as he braced for Felix's next attack.

That initial collision nearly disbalanced Katarina, and to find herself squirming around trying not to be tickled into falling off her beefcake steed makes it all the harder for her to keep a solid hold on Thistle's slippery form. Girlish squeals resound to counter the grunting and puffed breaths going on beneath the ladies as they attempt to dislodge and push one another into the waters.

Thistle checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.

Felix growls under his breath and winces, but sets his stance wider and shoves his shoulder hard into Victus', using his own power to try to push the High Lord off balance. This isn't without its pain, however, as his recovering shoulder bears the brunt of Victus' assault this time. Still, he puts up a good showing using his own stature and weight to his advantage. "Keep it up, Thistle!" he bellows up to her.

"Trying to!" Thistle says, voice a bit higher as she continues to grapple with Katarina. The tickling seems to work but it is the Princess' birthday after all. So Thistle switches to plain ol' grappling, trying to catch both of Katarina's hands and shove her back towards the water.

Nicia isn't neglecting her cheering, even for whispering. No, she seems to be cheering equally for both sides, tossing out helpful suggestions that are increasingly silly as far as suggestions go.

Victus had left himself a bit more than exposed after his onslaught, the force of the battle giving him more than a few licks. Each one he wore with pride and each one sure as hell made it all the more fun. Skidding back on his heels as Felix takes to a new strategy, the High Lord growled as he's caught off guard by the sudden barrage of shoulder-and-shove. His grip tightened on Katarina as he tried to propel her forward all the more, aiding her as much as she can.

Victus checked strength + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

Felix checked strength + brawl at difficulty 15, rolling 7 higher.

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

Thistle checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 20 higher.

The same tactic is used and Felix continues to use his power to lead a charge with his shoulder. The same tactic isn't nearly as effective this time. Victus' superior experience in the water quickly adapts to his bull-rush tactic. Although not nearly bowled over this time, he loses ground against Victu's barrage while Thistle continues to grapple with Katarina above him. "Damn it all," he growls, his balance faltering against the oncoming barrage.

Katarina checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 5, rolling 11 higher.

Despite all of Victus' aid, Thistle proves to be just too damned slippery for Katarina to properly knock off. Teeth sink deep into her lower lip as air is sucked in - she's going to fall and she knows it. Her fingers latch onto Victus' shoulders in an attempt to at least lessen her flailing descent into the waters with a solid splash.

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

Abbas on the other hand is biased. "FUCK HIM UP!" He growls to Felix good naturedly. A slew of obscenties and suggestiosn to Thistle about how best to tweak niblets and other things come our of the Warlord's mouth. Sore loser? You beter fucking believe it.

Even with his added efforts, none of Victus' strength could keep Katarina from slipping out of his fingers. He tried to turn and catch her, but it was simply impossible. With a fiery scream of "NO!" He can only watch as his partner finds herself into the depths. He doesn't hesitate to dive after her, looping his arms around her waist and heaving her back to the surface. His chest rumbled in a growl at the defeat, but his face was marred in vague hints of concern. "... You tried." That was about as much praise as he could muster at the moment, his blackened eyes looking back to Felix, and then back up to Thistle. He nods in respect of the victors. "I owe someone a gown..."

Abbas grins ear-to-ear as the rest of the party has pretty much given up the ghost. The only Pravus who did not take shelter surrounded by the Warlord's arm. Dark eyes move to settle on Sasha a brief moment as he waits for the splash. The sweet taste of victory. Everyone won this evening it seems. And Abbas looks at a bottle of someone's liquor nearby. He picks it up and shakes it to see if there is something in it. A sniff test. Two. And he finishes it and then sets it back down. The Warlord grins a bit and turns to Nicia. Abbas may be a bit drunk. The man sits on the side of the pool. Naked. All glory, scars, and ink. Bruises from his match with Victus on his chest. A bit of blood dripping out of an ear where it was cut. And he could not be happier. "That's a fucking good end to a proper birthday party." He announces. The Salt barbarian grunts, "You can afford it. We should do this more often. Next weekend, High Lord. We are having small longships made for four man crews. Five in total. Imagine the fun you and I shall have flying our Serpent Banner amongst..." His hands spread out, "It will be a drunken night of pleasant debauchery."

"Sorry, your highness!" Thistle calls out with a laugh as Katarina falls into the pool. She reaches down to ruffle Felix's hair in approval. "A seasilk gown, perhaps?" It's a cheeky statement, clearly a joke! But if he says yes, she won't complain.

Sasha recieves a missive or two, responding them them before she begins to stand up saying "I should take my leave. It was quite a wonderful party though. I need to check to see if my dress is dry yet." And into the manor she goes to hopefully change back into her previous corset and seasilk skirts.

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

"I hate to say it, but I will have to cheer against you both that night." Nicia gives both Abbas and Victus a bit of a sad smile that is entirely not sad at all, a hand lifting over her heart, "But I must cheer for my own family during this." She then glances at Sasha, a hand lifting, "Have a nice evening! Thank you for coming!"

Katarina is easily plucked from the waters in the loop of Victus' arms, her own settling loosely across his shoulders to keep herself a float. Aureate-hued eyes flicker over towards Thistle and Felix, her smile bright despite her loss, "Thank you all for this wonderful party! Enjoy your seasilk gown, Thistle." When she looks up to Abbas from over the High Lord's shoulders, the young Eurusian Valardin keeps her game firmly on the Reaver's face. "Four man crewed longships? Is this a night of debauchery and drinking I can sneak into?" A heavy bat of water-slicked lashes, and a devastating pout affected with a moue of full lips toward both warlord and high lord.

Felix whoops oout excitedly as he sees Katarina start to topple, though he's wincing again just a moment later. He'd been warned about overdoing it and yet here he is overdoing it. He gives Thistle a triumphant pat on the knees before lowering back to the water with a grunt. "Oookay. That is enough of that," he says with an exhausted laugh. He deposits the nude woman into the water before rising up again. Each shoulder gets a clutch-and-roll before he nods once to Victus. "You had me outplayed, anyways," he says with a chuckle and a wince. "Victory goes to Thistle on this one." He gestures to the woman with a smile.

Sasha has left the large pool.

Sir Rodrick, a Valardin Knight, Spirit, the Tiny Honey Brown Fox Kit leave, following Sasha.

Felix turns to grin at Katarina as well, dipping his head in a nod to the woman. "Happy birthday, Highness."

The Warlord grins to Katarina, "Of course. You are welcome to attend and crew one of the ships if you are so bold." He answers. "We will be hosting it here next weekend. The Duchess Pravus and I are the hosts and the benefits and donations will go to children impacted by the war." He asserts, "I assure you the Thraxian contingent will be here, drunk, and ready to war for the glory of a drunken good time. Likely without clothes on." The man looks to Nicia with a mock hurt expression. Black eyes staring at her and he grunts, "You'll bet on the losing side then." He states with a grumpy disposition.

Victus wades through the waters with Katarina in tow to the other end of the pool, his heavy hands clamping down on the edge of the pool and lifting the two of them up. Katarina could dangle across his shoulder as he took care to set her down carefully. His eyes move back to Thistle as he sits on the edge of the pool, his legs in the water. The scars of battle were glinting in full now that he was out of the water. Bruises across his chest, a cut her and there across his neck and shoulders. There was little smatterings of blood on his face, some of it not even his. "You'll get your reward, protege." He says to her, his eyes turning back to Abbas with a smug grin. "I'll gladly fly the best fuckin' sailors colors on that one. Hopefully it goes better for you this time." He raises his arm to clap him on the forearm.

Back down in the water, she looks at Katarina with a little smile. Thistle gives her a good humored bow. "I certainly will! I've always had a weakness for seasilk." At Abbas' words, her interest peeks. Another pool party? That's something she can't miss. The blonde pulls herself out of the pool with no regard for her state of undress. "Thank you, your grace!" Grinning, she gives Victus a salute.

The laugh of Abbas is finally good natured. And he reaches down to take the forearm. There is a tightening of muscles as he hefts his brother in blood up out of the pool. "Of course, my friend." Not formal in that moment, "We will both be on the same ship. I would not be suprised if none of the others will get in the water to face us. They might demand we break apart and go to different corners to make it fair."

"Then I'll see you all there," Katarina grins up at Abbas and Victus as she rises to her feet, a hand tossed up in gentle wave toward the remaining guests. "Thank you all for making today one I'll remember fondly." Such sweetness, from head to toe, as she turns to be swathed in something warm to dry off in while her clothes and birthday presents are amassed and carted off by Pravus servants behind her.

Katarina has left the large pool.

"We may yet win!" Nicia insists, laughing at Abbas at his mock hurt, a hand reaching over to give his knee a light pat, "The battle has yet to be fought." She leans towards Abbas, mock-whispering, "I'll cheer for you, too. Shh." She glances at those that remain, smiling, "So! Now that everyone has been dunked, what is next?"

2 Pravus Honor Guard, Aida arrive, following Belladonna.