Dolente, a mourning dove, Dolce, a collared dove arrive, following Cesare.

Standing in the center of the Great hall, in the midst of bustling servants, Isabeau has eschewed her usual blues or pinks for an austere and elegant black gown, trimmed and decorated with white, silver, and pearls. She smiles seraphically sweetly at those who filter in and once a small crowd has arrived, raises her voice to greet, "Hello, hello and welcome to the unveiling of Blackram's new fabrics - Cloudspine cashmere and Cloudspine velvet! It took a lot of people working together to get these made, but most especially the remarkable Lady Ivy Blackram." She turns that smile onto Ivy, who should naturally be here, and continues, "There are snacks, and fabric samples so everyone can take a look, or touch, and you may notice a few people wandering about in either fabric. The models were gracious enough to give their time to help us show the materials and Guildmaster Caprice made everything, though I will admit Lady Ivy and I had a hand in deciding what was to be made!"

A soft chuckle escapes the duchess's lips before she says, "But there is food and drink - not just tea either! So help yourselves and enjoy."

Cecily, a coy secretary, Omero, a hulking bodyguard arrive, following Agostino.

Cesare arrivees as though his little feet are on fire, looking around with great interest as he does. He spots his beloved patron easily - how could one not, she's such a singular figure, and gives her a little wave and a smile, before his dark gaze is roving over the feast for the eyes there is to behold with pleasure and no small amount of knowledge. "Duchess Isabeau...you look ravishing in black. I've never seen you in such a stark shade before. It truly suits."

Ivy can be found in the Great Hall, for once out of her shabby leathers and linen, and instead found in the new Cloudspine Cashmere in the form of a beret and cape in a fetching raspberry color, paired with that lovely rose leather crafted into breeches and boots by the talented Audgrim. She offers a brief smile and dips a nod towardsIsabeau, "Thank you, Duchess, but truly this could not have happened without the support of Telmar, and all those who donated time and resources into seeing the fabric created." Still, she ensures that she steps out from her usual wallflower roled to stand in the light to better show off the new, luxuriously soft wool.

Nina is here to check out the new fabrics on offer, and couldn't be happier when she sees what the models are wearing. She looks so excited to be checking out the new fabrics that she barely even notices the wine, until she's wandered in, and taken a second look at Isabeau's new gown of velvet. "Ah, how wonderful. The colors as well! I love that pink," she says to Ivy. "You don't mind someone touching the fabric, do you?"

Medeia is one such person who offered her time for the evening, standing not too far off from Isabeau while the duchess speaks. A gorgeously soft and warm swath of green cashmere wraps her petite body, with pops of sheer golden seasilk peeking out above the neckline and at slits in the skirt of the dress. Her hazel eyes sparkle, seeming brighter and bolder for the colors of her attire. With a grin, she dips her chin to the crowd when Isabeau mentions the models and gives polite applause when she's done speaking. "Duchess Isabeau, Lady Ivy, this dress feels like I am wearing a hug. And yet? I still look..." The lady grins, "Like a Lycene." A wink, and then she's turning just a little as someone approaches to look over the dress. "Cesare, dear, so good to see you." She waggles her fingers at her protege before allowing her gaze to settle on all the other outfits being shown off, appreciating each one.

Lisebet made sure to be there a little early, so she's wandering around as Isabeau starts greeting people. She stops to raise her goblet of wine to the Telmar Duchess with a smile. There's no doubt that Lisebet is looking particularly purple today, in Cloudspine Velvet. She speaks up when she has an opportunity. "Thank you both for inviting me, I am glad to be here and enjoy the party. Also, these fabrics are wonderful. I love them already."

Agostino only arrives a little on the late side, dressed in black with silver and blue highlights. His entrance is unobtrusive, allowing him to observe those who are already present while he fetches himself something to drink. Anytime that he sees someone wearing either of the featured fabrics, the Arx native smiles somewhat.

Aconite looks downright comfortable and pleased snug against the winter chill in a fiery ensemble complete with a divine red cashmere coat. She's already got herself a glass of wine and is making her way around the party. Cesare is met with a smile and wiggle of her fingers towards the other whisper in passing. Medeia is given a warm smile as well though she seems intent of heading Ivy and Isabeau's direction.

The Duchess is joined by Duke Ansel, although he remains silent at her side wearing an easy smile. Clad in red and black attire, he is clearly not modelling the aforementioned new materials. After some time has been given to model the new clothing he offers, "It has been quite the pleasure to watch this process unfold. Impressive what the combination of ingenuity and appropriately applied resources can achieve." Gently he links his arm with the Duchess, stealing a feel of the fabric in the meantime. "Please eat, drink and be merry. And take the time to get a feel for the new fabrics as well."

Isabeau offers Cesare a sweet smile and a dip of her head in response, "Why thank you," she answers in her warm, soothing voice, "I thought it would serve to show how versatile the new fabrics can be in their color. And my Lord husband," she takes a moment to gesture to Ansel with a small hand, "Needed a striking complement to his new pieces from Audgrim." She gives a soft laugh, as she slides her arm comfortably into her husband's arm, her head moving to tilt onto his shoulder, "Worry not, I will not scold you for not wearing the honeysilk shirt I sent you yet." she teases. Her eyes alight on Aconite, "Oh, yes. I do like that choice, though... perhaps the gown in starlight silk next time. It peeks out so dramatically." She hums in thought, then gives a nod at that.

Shaking her head towards Nina, Ivy lifts an arm to hold the cape out towards her, "Not at all, please. It comes from the golden fainters we raise. Curious, funny little goats, but they have this wonderfully soft and silky wool. Its something that you could easily wear against your skin without worrying about itching or abrading. Or it can be paired with another garment such as a shirt or underdress." She smiles towards Medeia and gives a nod, "I'm so glad that you're happy with the gown, Lady Eswynd." To Lisebet, she smiles briefly, "Thank -you- for being willing to help us showcase the new velvet. You do it great justice."

Nomius, a deeply skeptical bloodhound, Siri, an attentive apprentice, Paris, a charming mercenary, Tagalong arrive, following Apollo.

Nomius, a deeply skeptical bloodhound, Siri, an attentive apprentice, Paris, a charming mercenary, Tagalong leave, following Apollo.

Nina reaches over and so carefully touches the rasbperry cashmere as if she were afraid it was going to disintegrate. "Oooo. Will these materials be put to the crafters guild or the market? I'm so eager to use them in my designs!"

Tesha is being a wallflower, like she usually does in social gatherings. She was just someone who was backing the operation, not one of the models. She didn't have anything made of the velvet even if she was wearing a type of velvet. Her dogs are not with her downstairs given fur on lovely fabrics is a no go. Which is fine. Cora is standing with her and making small talk as people enter and fabric is shown off.

Ansel grins some at Isabeau in response to her comment on his outfit. "Honeysilk, with all this gloriousness going on? I wouldn't dare dream of it. I am happy enough being a non-distracting piece of arm-candy for the night I should think. Audgrim's work stands well enough on its own as is." A small chuckle escapes his lips as his gaze moves over those gathered. Seemingly content to remain with Isabeau and draw no real attention to himself.

"The wool is made from goats, is that correct?" Cesare inquires, reaching to touch one of the finespun emerald garments that Medeia is wearing with a curious finger. "Duke Ansel," he offers with a bow. "It's a pleasure. We've yet to meet; I'm Cesare Whisper. Lady Medeia is my patron, and I am lucky to call her such. This is truly a wonderful showcase of the effects that talented hands from about the Compact can have in producing new wares to bring to market. I hope the Blackram lands will be much enriched by the silver brought in from these new materials."

Aconitesmiles to Isabeau and she courtseys, "It's all quite amazing. You must be incredibly proud. This coat is an absolute joy, I don't think I've felt anything finer." Listening to the others speak and nodding her agreement.

Lisebet smiles at Ivy, and one hand brushes down her skirt. "Wouldn't miss it. Congratulations on the next big fashion item, I'm certain," is her final comment on that, as she allows the conversation to move on. Now she starts to wander through the audience, looking for a vict - erm someone to talk to.

Isabeau smiles over at Nina and states in the affirmative, "We were waiting to release it with a bang of a party," she says, with a soft smile, "Guildmaster Caprice is the one who has been working with the fabric the most, so she is the only one who truly knows how to work it right now." She gives a gesture to the fabric of her gown and smiles, "The velvet is not velvet, but a blend of silk and the goat's wool. The effect is... more smooth, but with a thicker, texture and less of a nap."

"Yes, they will be hitting the market soon. We withheld their public release until after tonight to give people a chance to see how the fabrics wear and look before they were made available," Ivy nods to Nina as she feels out the fabric of the cape. The cashmere is super soft, a little fuzzy, thin enough to not be weighty and overbearing, but layered up it has the form to stand on its own (like the beret!). Glancing up towards Cesare, she nods, "The golden fainters of the Cloudspine have donated their wool for these fabrics. Delightful creatures. And I am hopeful that our economy will enjoy a boost from this as well. Our herders and tailors certainly deserve the additional income after all the work they've put in." Aconite's comment about the coat has her looking overjoyed before giving a nod to Lisebet, "Thank you, Duchess Ashford."

"Duke Ansel, it is a pleasure to finally meet you." Medeia greets the man beside Isabeau with a warm smile. "Lady Medeia Eswynd. Your wife has been wonderful to get to know, and we have a delightful project in the works. You're a lucky man to have such fine people surrounding you. Your vassals do excellent work." She does a little twirl then, for Cesare, while giving a bright smile in Aconite's direction. "You. Stunning. Always."

"Oh! I do hope the guildmaster will tell me everything there is to know." Nina returns her hand now, folding it so she's not just poking at Ivy all night long. She carefully gets some wine, though she has to be quite careful, she feels, about so much new fabric and something that might stain it. Though even the color of the wine inspires her, and she holds it up to the light before taking a sip.

With a shift of his attention, Ansel offers an easy smile and a nod of his head towards Cesare. "It is always a pleasure to meet a Whisper, Cesare. Well met, I'm sure. And given the Lady Medeia's judge of character I imagine we will have cause to meet again in days to come. I am quite confident House Blackram will feel the impact of this new advancement sooner rather than later. I am always glad to play a role in uplifting another." Next he turns his attention to Medeia, a touch of a grin upon his lips. "Ah the fair Lady Eswynd who I have heard so much about, always wonderful things. I am glad that we meet at last, and at such an occasion no less. I am hemmed in on all sides by excellence it would seem, fate has been abundantly kind in that regard. It seems each day I have cause for something new to be impressed by."

"Golden fainters!" Cesare laughs, a laugh that is just as golden as the goats in question. "What a delightful name. Lady Blackram, you are to be congratulated for the care and raising of such animals. It certainly follows that their feed and the attention they are given must show through in the fineness of their wool." He bows his head to her. "I hope your herders, weavers, and tailors are well compensated." He takes Medeia's hand to continue twirling her, admiring how the fabric is so light despite its warmth and softness. "Lady Medeia, I don't think I have ever seen you in such a color before. You look positively radiant." He offers a smile- brief, but equally radiant- to the Duke at the compliment.

Isabeau flits a look around, a finger indicated towards one of the passing servers as she takes a glass of something like a whiskey from them, passes that to Ansel, and gets given a glass of non-alcoholic juice for herself. She looks at everyone around, smiling her sweet smile as she asks, "Anything to drink?"

Aco enjoys another drink of her wine. "I'm one bloom in a garden of delights, Lady Eswynd. I do love the emerald on you." Aconite's reply is warm but she's taken again to soaking in all of the luxurious uses of the new materials.

Tesha takes a glass of wine that Lourche brings for her with a smile, "Thank you." she tells the butler as he disappears off to take care of others as well. She finds a place to settle next to her guard to watch the goings on. "Everyone looks very lovely." she murmurs to Cora as they converse.

Eventually, Agostino makes his way over to the cluster around the lord and lady hosting the night's festivities. Taking off his hat, he bows to the pair, and then returns it to his head as he greets those present, "Good evening Duke and Duchess Telmar, Lords and Ladies. I am Agostino Alonso." He does all of this without managing to spill a drop from the glass of wine he picked up along the way.

Lisebet smiles as she drifts near Tesha, amused at the conversation about Golden Fainters, though she's admittedly not quite sure what they are. Wait, someone said something about goats. That's all Lisebet knows. She nods to Tesha, with a bright smile, pausing there a moment.

"All the cashmere looks so elegant and comfortable," Nina says, admiring Medeia's green dress now. "You have all really outdone yourself. I think I'll send a note to the guildmaster and see if she can show me her techniques for the work."

Isabeau offers Agostino a sweet smile on his approach, her head dipping in a soft incline that causes the pearl-tipped teardrops of her hair stick jostle against the dark gold of her hair, "One of our most generous donors. Without you none of this would be possible, of course." she answers, with a gentle tip of her head, "I'll see about samples of this fabric being sent out soon to all the generous people who gave to the process."

Tesha gives a dip of her head to Lisebet, "Duchess Lisebet, you are looking well tonight. How is Ashford faring these days?" she asks her as she straightens a touch. Not wanting to slouch in front of the guests.

Medeia gives Ansel another smile, bowing her head to him before turning to greet Nina. "Nina, how lovely to see you! It's been a while. Congratulations on your... Organ?" She moves slightly, to show how the fabric swirls around her legs. "This stuff moves like a dream. Truly."

Nina has to touch the fabric again. She was invited. But just a light touch, and she smiles as Medeia moves it around. "Yes! An organ! It might be used to write some new songs in the future, and I'm very excited about that."

Ivy tries to stay visible so that the cashmere can be viewed or touched on, but for the moment, she enjoys the respite fromt he social side of things. Reaching for a glass of wine, she sips on the glass and just enjoys soaking up the good vibes of the room.

"M'Lady Tesha," Lisebet greets with a smile. "It's been some time. It's good to see you, and you look wonderful. Ashford is doing well, thank you. The children are thriving, as are the lands." She gives a delicate half shrug, and then grins mischievously. "I can see how well Telmar is doing, certainly. Have you tried the velvet or cashmere on display here as yet?"

Ansel tips his head in a smooth nod to Agostino as well after his Lady Wife, "Well met, Agostino. Your contributions are much appreciated." He takes a sip of his whiskey, effectively nursing the beverage. With a small quirk of an eyebrow he inquires toward Agostino, "How did you come to be involved? I have heard a good deal but many details have escaped me I'm sure."

"Oh, yes," Cesare asides to Nina. "Legate Bianca mentioned that you might be involved in writing a new hymn. I can only imagine how majestic it would be if the Hydraulis were to be involved. I hope you are enjoying the winter and having a bit of respite now that your large projects on the behalf of Pravus have borne fruit. It certainly seems to be a lovely time of year to stay indoors, the past week or so."

"A pleasure to finally meet you in person, Duchess Telmar. But I was happy to contribute to such a worthwhile endeavor. Seeing it in use here tonight is definitely satisfying," Agostino responds to Isabeau with a smile curving his lips. Lifting his glass, he takes a long sip from it before adding, "And you have a lovely home. This is the first time I've had occasion to visit this tower, though I've seen it from the outside every time I've come to the Valardin ward." He then turns to Ansel then the Duke addresses him. "Well met, Duke Telmar. I heard that your lovely wide was seeking investors, and I reached out to her. After she described the projects she was working on, I decided they all seemed worthy of investment," he explains in answer.

"Absolutely," Nina says, with a chuckle at Cesare. "I'm as tucked in as could be, just working on knitting and sewing. I spent a week beading two gowns. But one of them already sold," she says. "I'd say only small projects from here on out, but truthfully, I have so many ideas that a hymn is only the beginning. I'm glad the Legate mentioned it! It will be the first tribute to the gods created specifically for the organ. How do you fair in this cold weather?"

Tesha smiles to Lisebet, "I'm glad to hear that things are prospering there." she tells her. "And I've just seen and handled some of the samples. I'm not a model like some of the other ladies of the compact." she admits with a bit of a shrug to that. "They look and feel wonderful though. If you get a moment to look over Lady Ivy and the others dresses I would do so." she recommends.

Isabeau looks aside at Ansel, giving a playful roll of her brilliant blue eyes as she sighs at him, "I'm mostly just glad we didn't start pushing the event back much longer. I would have had to make some alterations come spring." She quirks a little smile at her husband before she looks to Agostino once more, "I hope you still think so after seeing the dog and pony show I've decided to put on."

"I find myself quite enjoying it," Cesare acknowledges. "To the surprise of many, no doubt. Perhaps my feelings will have changed by the springtime. But it is certainly beautiful, and there's a particular charm to how quiet it can be. I had a lovely discussion with the Legate the other day, after she put out word mentioning she'd like to write a new hymn. I'm glad to see her back in the city again."

Lisebet smiles to Tesha and nods her head. "Oh, I have," she says easily. "And I can tell you of a certainty that this velvet is spectacular." She might already even be wearing some, the petite duchess composed enough, and trained enough to be a model herself. When she chooses to do so. "I know that modelling is not for everyone, but I do enjoy it every once in a while. It's good to have an excuse."

Looking up when her name is mentioned, Ivy flickers a smile towards Tesha, gaze darting briefly to Isabeau before she hurriedly takes another mouthful of wine very pointedly says not a word!

"I love modeling," Nina says, lifting her glass. "You've done a fantastic job!" she says to Lisebet. She then gives a shiver, looking at the skirt Lisebet is wearing. "I do love all the beautiful jewel colors! They let me be my most creative, even if white and black are also nice."

As Medeia continues to circulate, she gives Nina a smile before moving on. She finds herself near Lisebet. "Duchess, you look fantastic. How are you?"

Agostino lets out a quiet laugh at Isabeau's words. "This 'dog and pony show', as you call it, has been pretty impressive so far. I've no doubt it will be an enjoyable evening," he assures her, dipping his head to her somewhat. He then glances around again, looking at the samples of the fabrics laid out on the tables, and what is being worn alike.

Briar, the fleet and agile shrike, Narciso, a tall light rose-grey Jennet stallion with tiger eyes and a dark mane and ombre tail, Azure and Azul, a singing pair of icy white and deep blue tits, Alejandro, a gravely sober middle-aged Torean leave, following Aconite.

"That is wonderful then." Tesha smiles to Lisebet. "And yes, I guess having an excuse to get dressed up does call for enjoyment." she nods to that. Then she's taking a sip of her wine as she watches, catching Ivy's smile there is a raise of her glass to her.

Isabeau tsks over at Nina, giving a soft scoff, "Then why didn't you answer my spreading word asking for models, mmm?" she asks over, amusement lacing her tone, "Or tailors, for that matter, mmm?" She laughs softly, then gestures with her hand, "I have been planning this for months, even if a postponement was necessary."

"Aw," Nina says. She frowns. "I would have, but my commissions were already backed up," she says, frowning a little bit. She gives Isabaeu a deep curtsey. "I hope to do well by the fabrics, however, if I end up using some in my own work, which I surely will."

Lisebet grins at Tesha, and then adds, "Indeed, it is. I particularly enjoy getting to wear new and fabulous materials and designs by the most famous of Arx," she says with a laugh. She sips her own wine as well, glancing around. "So, I see there are a lot of finger foods. Shall I try one of each or are there some I should particularly try?"

"Yes, the Mockingbird has been quite busy, with the opening of the Suspires Academy just recently," Cesare acknowledges. "And all of her good work on the behalf of the Bard's College. Only so much time in the day even for the most talented of us, isn't there, Mistress Nina?" He gives a soft cluck of the tongue, resting a hand lightly on his fellow Setarcan's shoulder.

Happiness, a bluebird arrives, delivering a message to Cesare before departing.

Nina feels reassured, but she also does look a little chided, realizing perhaps she should have indeed volunteered. She drinks to make herself feel better, just a bit.

Isabeau gives a soft smile to Nina, "I was teasing you, my dear. I understand how busy things can get." She laughs again while looking up at Ansel for a moment before her attention returns to Agostino, "While I don't have particular plans going forward, perhaps I should let you know should I make more?"

"I would try some of the bread, I know it's odd, but nothing is better than freshly baked bread." Tesha offers to Lisebet. There is a nod of greeting to Medeia when she arrives in the area where she and Lisebet are as well.

Lisebet smiles to Medeia, inclining her head. "Lady Medeia, it's good to see you. Thank you so much. It's very easy for me to shine, with this lovely velvet. I think we're all experiencing similar reactions. The materials are wonderful, the wine is good, the company is fantastic."

"Fresh bread?" Medeia's ears perk at Tesha's words. "Oh, you're right. One of life's simplest delights is fresh bread." She smiles in her agreement, offering a bow of her head to Lisebet and Tesha. "Now, I know that you are Lady Tesha Telmar, but I do not believe we've ever properly met, my lady. I am Lady Medeia Eswynd. Always happy to meet another who appreciates a baked good." Then she nods to Lisebet. "Honestly, I love my dress so very much, but I couldn't pick a favorite. Duchess Isabeau and Lady Ivy and Caprice all did wonderful work."

"Oh! No, please, all the design and tailoring accolades go to the Duchess and Guildmaster. I have no fashion sense of my own, I simply wore what was recommended when I asked for something with pants and long sleeves," Ivy offers towards Medeia with a sheepish expression and a small shake of her head. Dipping a nod to Isabeau, she murmurs, "The Duchess is truly the mastermind behind these lovely outfits."

Nina looks relieved... and then, there's bread, so she perks up and gets herself a bit of that. "I'll make it up to you by making the nicest things," she says. "And my personal commissions are open again," she adds... trailing off a bit, because, bread.

Tesha gives a bow to Medeia, "It's lovely to meet you, Lady Eswynd." she tells her. "They all did lovely work, I am happy to see that Telmar is getting involved in materials like other houses did. I just run numbers." she muses to that. "But yes, fresh bread, silky fabrics, I hope everyone has a good time this evening." she smiles to them.

"Please do, Duchess Telmar. I am always on the lookout for worthy causes to help out, whether with my time or money. And now that I've seen the results of these projects, I definitely trust your instincts on such matters," Agostino answers Isabeau, giving her a warm smile. Bringing his glass to his lips for another drink of wine, he then looks to Ivy when she speaks of their hostess' efforts where the dresses were concerned, prompting him to remark, "So a talent for fashion as well as good business sense?"

Isabeau gives a dismissive gesture of her hand as she smiles at Ivy, "It was so easy with such a lovely set of fabrics which wouldn't be possible without you." She looks to Agostino and blinks a few times, "Oh, I dabble in fashion, but coin is part of my responsibility for my birth family."

"They did wonderful work indeed. I agree," Lisebet replies to Medeia with a bright smile. "Fresh bread - oh yes, that is always a good choice," she says to Tesha lightly. "I definitely agree. It's a very nice party as well." It's calm, a fair number of people, no centipedes - this is a good thing. She looks impishly mischievous for a moment, as she picks up some of that bread for herself.

Isabeau is overheard praising Medeia.

Isabeau is overheard praising Caprice.

Tesha goes a little pale and looks nauseous over the mention of centipedes, "Yes...no centipedes please." she whispers. Then there's a dip of her head, "If you'll excuse me, need a little fresh air." she tells Medeia and Lisebet before withdrawing to head for the main doors.

Isabeau is overheard praising Ivy.

Isabeau is overheard praising Aconite.

Isabeau is overheard praising Lisebet.

Agostino is overheard praising Isabeau.

Agostino is overheard praising Lisebet.

Agostino is overheard praising Aconite.

Agostino is overheard praising Medeia.

Cesare watches the conversations unfold between the various models and supporters present with a keen gaze and a faint smile, observing the dynamics and relationships as best he can. And, of course, the fashion. Who could ignore the fashion? Doubtless he'll be getting his hands on some of the cashmere as soon as he can, even on a Whisper's modest salary.

Tesha is overheard praising Aconite.

Tesha is overheard praising Medeia.

Tesha is overheard praising Ivy.

Tesha is overheard praising Isabeau.

Lisebet is overheard praising Isabeau.

Lisebet is overheard praising Ivy.

Lisebet is overheard praising Caprice.

Lisebet is overheard praising Aconite.

Lisebet is overheard praising Medeia.

Ivy is overheard praising Isabeau.

Ivy is overheard praising Aconite.

Ivy is overheard praising Lisebet.

Ivy is overheard praising Medeia.

Ivy is overheard praising Caprice.

Ivy is overheard praising Audgrim.

Tesha is overheard praising Caprice.

"Your birth family is fortunate to have your talents in such matters, then," Agostino tells Isabeau, before finishing off his glass of wine and setting the empty vessel aside. Bowing to her once again, he goes on to take his leave, "Unfortunately, I have an early morning ahead of me tomorrow, so I should be getting home, Duchess. But it was wonderful meeting you, as I said, and I hope that we get more chances to work together in the future."