Dolente, a mourning dove, Dolce, a collared dove, Appassionata, a trumpeter swan arrive, following Cesare.

Avalanche, a fluffy mountain pup, Jasper, an unflappable scoundrel, 2 Redrain Guards, 1 Redrain Veteran Guards arrive, following Deva.

(OOC)The scene set/room mood is now set to: The Silver Consortium is decked out for the gala event. A few tables off to the side are set up with refreshments, and a clear space open in the middle for people to congregate. There is a very large - something - hanging in the middle of the room, concealed by a curtain. A few of the Silver Consortium attendants are runniung to and fro. And there is what looks like a large board off to the side, showing a list of stages and appears to be a way to keep track of teams' progress.

OOC Notes: All RP for the event will occur IN THIS ROOM. We are going to be simulating the other locations via Places, so that logging remains in place. There will be a series of riddles and challenges. The winning team will be the team with the lowest number of points - each roll made and each incorrect answer to a riddle (or hint requested) counts as a point. So the fewer rolls it takes to complete an objective and fewer incorrect answers, the better your score. We will NOT be factoring in RL time to complete, as I want people to be able to pose however they would like and not feel like they need to rush the RP experience.

Rules:

1. When the Race starts, Rook will pose the opening riddle. If you think you know the answer to the destination, page him. If you are correct, he will tell you which Place to go to.

2. Each location has a challenge which you will receive when you get there. Do the rolls necessary to complete the challenge. Once you complete it, Rook will tell you the next riddle, and so on and so forth.

3. Please use the places to tt the posing at each challenge - you do not want an errant pose to give away the solution to a puzzle to competitors!

4. If you have Streetwise, it will grant you one clue for free per dot that you have if you need help on a location clue.

5. This is a match of two person teams. If you do not have a teammmate, let Rook know and you can get matched up. 6. Either member of the team can complete and of the challenges, or you can alternate who is taking rolls.

7. Once you have completed all of the challenges, you will receive final instructions.

8. EVERYONE who completes the entire race will receive a prize. The team to do so in the fewst number of points will receive a trophy! and recognition.

As the pages come and go, making some final notations for the race, Rook stands looking at the Big Board, and the names of the registered teams as well as the other participants. A smile curves over his face. Then he turns and looks out at the contestants, and raises his hand to draw the murmuring down to a close.

"Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the first of what may, if successful, become an annual Race Across Arx!" He pauses for a moment as if expecting applause. "Everyone, if you would, please move off into your pairs. If anyone is here and does not have a teammmate, please let me know, and I will do my best to match-make effectively."

Keely applauds softly and politely at the pause, looking around to ensure she isn't the only one. If she is, she stops abruptly. When the instruction to find partners is announced, she stands on her toes to peer around the room with her dusky gaze, her face lighting up with a warm smile when she spies Cesare. She gathers her full skirts, moving carefully through the room in attempt to reach him.

The brightly dressed young Rivenshari with jingling bells stands near middle of the room, a mild bow compared to his usual flourished bow to those that he recognizes. As Mattheu stands up and assesses where his team member might be he nods to Keely with a smile, his top hat is raised from head and given a small twirl before he goes back to looking towards Rook, "My team member is around here somewhere. Lady Kiera Wyvernheart."

Kiera grins as she makes her way over to mattheu. the first benefit of being his partner is he's easy to spot in a crowd. She gives polite nods to the other competitors as she goes

Though he's still not quite comfortable with a gala setting, and it certainly shows in his reserved manner, Edris is amongst those who have come to the Race, having entered with and escorting a certain flame-haired Redrain princess on his arm. At some point, someone has handed him a beverage, and he's drained most of it until Rook's signal is given. He applauds when Rook pauses, approvingly, and with some of the distance of his expression warming into a half smile, especially as he murmurs something to Deva; and also as he observes the other pairs formed and forming.

Arriving early and wearing an angsty combination of blood red and black, Denica steps confidently into the room. Her cloak that rests on her shoulders, billows back and rogue curls bounce to threaten an overcomplicated hair-style as she assembles onwards. A smile is easy on her lips, eyes lighting up as she steps in, arms linked with her game partner, Yuri. "This is so exciting!," she comments randomly, loud enough for others to hear, engaging the moment she is surrounded by people. Her eyes sparkle with avid curiosity, seeing the Big Board immediately. Her attention drifts to Rook, flashing a smile and applauding at the appropriate moment. The Thrax takes a moment to look at the other teams, small finger wiggles of the others greeting everyone in turn.

Vitalis steps into those gathered from where he'd been observing, clapping with the others. "Crown Minister," he inclines his head, courtesies offered, and studies those gathered with a weighing eye, sizing up opponents? Potential partners? He is not with anyone as such. "I am waiting on someone, but-" he flares his hands, "-will accept a match if the race begins before they arrive."

Cesare wasn't /planning/ on participating, but Keely has espied him, and he's exactly the kind of person who is always game for some spontaneous, planned fun. Sometimes more spontaneous than others. Occasionally more life-threatening than others. Tonight is a good night for non-life-threatening spontanaiety. He gives Keely a little wave, and a faint smile, looking kind of like an airy, bright colored cotton ball.

Deva claps excitedly, and leans and flashes a smile at Keely and then Cesare. Edris, who she arrived with and is drinking alongside, gets a curious smile before she responds. Whatever he says makes her laugh, brightly, eyes crinkled at the corners as she stifles her noise of amusement behind splayed fingers. An eager nod follows shortly before she responds in kind.

The smile broadens as Rook watches the groups pair off. "Alright, the Silver Consortium members will be coming your way to collect from you two vital things - the members of your team, and your team name." He pauses, and flashes a grin. "There may be a special prize from Yours Truly awarded to the team that comes up with the best team name. Criteria being of my own using." He winks.

OOC: Have one person from each team designated as the "pager of Rook", and page me your partner's name and team name. That will be the person I will consider the "official" guesser, for the purposes of keeping track of guesses.

Settled right beside Denica, Yuri stepped in time for a moment to take in some of the teams that they would be competing alongside. There was a moment he had sought out to grab some refreshment but an errant pull from his partner caused him to pause within his steps, nodding off to her a moment before speaking off to the princess absently, "Well, until we stumble down an alley we are not supposed to end up in." Rook's words had the lord closing his eyes in fixed thought before leaning off to Denica to whisper.

Vitalis ponders and his brows loft with an idea, "Well, it is distressingly plural when I am alone, but: The Arxpeditioneers." He'll take the first bid for a name. For now, he'll settle on sizing up the teams. "I'm content to take you all on solo."

Keely stands beside Cesare, softly chattering, their conversation interrupted more and more often with her giggles until -snort!- The unseemly sound has the princess blushing furiously and refusing to look anywhere but the floor for quite a while.

As the team names come in, Rook nods slowly. "Definitely some good ones here." He looks up and smiles. "As a reminder, this event may be staged here but it is being co-hosted and supported by the Crafters' Guild, so I want to acknowledge Guildmaster Caprice Artiglio for her support in this endeavor, and that of her colleagues."

In contrary to Keely's embarrassment over her snort, Cesare is both delighted and charmed by it, clapping his hands, his bright laugh ringing out as well. "Perfect!" he says. "Thank you both, Minister, and the Guildmaster in absentia, for your hard work."

Eyes widen at the realization they need a name and she is whispering back and forth with Yuri coming up with something on the spot. There is a moment she smirks and then her eyes sparkle mischievously. Then her attention drifts to one of the Silver Consortium members that walk around, providing them with details as they approach. With that sorted out she looks back to the other teams. A hand wiggle at Deva and then the collection of Keely and Cesare. A smile forms at Vitalis's choice catching it. Then the princess claps again at the mention of the Crafters' Guild and their sponsorship.

Treb, a restless direhorn, Rascal, a large striped skunk, Dash, a Kite of the Cloudspine, a feral Bastion kitten arrive, following Ivy.

4 Silvershields, Ivy arrive, following Sira.

A warm smile crosses over Rook's face as Sira arrives. Then he raises his hands. "More than just fun, this night is about a goal. About bringing people together. So you may notice a theme. If you do, more power to you, it may help you figure out the challenges and riddles faster! So, to get you started - seek out a place in Arx where you might go, metaphorically perhaps, to address issues with the answer to this riddle "On mountain top we plant our roots; And grow forever more. From brown or black to snowy white; Our leaving most deplore?"


OOC: I realize I forgot this in the room description, if you would like help, if you succeed on a roll of intellect + puzzles at hard I will give you the answer, intellect + puzzles at normal I will give you a hint. Each roll counts towards your points, as does each incorrect guess. Correct guesses count for nothing.

"Will he need an outfit, too?" Sira enters the Consortium hall with Lady Ivy on her arm, the noblewoman seeming to have been goaded into coming along. The seamstress continues to speak amicably, describing something she envisions. Anyone who is paying attention may hear snippets like: "...trailing behind... with the vines embroidered... tell me I can do beading?" She somewhat effortlessly leads them over to Rook, leaning in to give her patron a quick kiss on the cheek in greeting. "Sorry I'm late, have you met Lady Ivy Blackram? We're here to give others encouragement." There is a lace making tool holding her mass of curls in place, clearly preoccupied with her work.

Mattheu shares a quiet word with Kiera then heads over to Rook to share the name of their team. Each step he takes is followed by jingling bells, on the way he slips by where Cesare and Keely are, a nod and smile to Cesare, no big hug this time. Then looking to Keely, "Princess Keely, may our teams find amusement in the adventure across the city in this playful competition. And perhaps we can find some tea later." He looks back to where Kiera stands, "I should get back to settle up how my team member, Lady Kiera would like to proceed."

(OOC)The scene set/room mood is now set to: The Silver Consortium is decked out for the gala event. A few tables off to the side are set up with refreshments, and a clear space open in the middle for people to congregate. There is a very large - something - hanging in the middle of the room, concealed by a curtain. A few of the Silver Consortium attendants are runniung to and fro. And there is what looks like a large board off to the side, showing a list of stages and appears to be a way to keep track of teams' progress.

OOC Notes: All RP for the event will occur IN THIS ROOM. We are going to be simulating the other locations via Places, so that logging remains in place. There will be a series of riddles and challenges. The winning team will be the team with the lowest number of points - each roll made and each incorrect answer to a riddle (or hint requested) counts as a point. So the fewer rolls it takes to complete an objective and fewer incorrect answers, the better your score. We will NOT be factoring in RL time to complete, as I want people to be able to pose however they would like and not feel like they need to rush the RP experience.

Rules:

1. When the Race starts, Rook will pose the opening riddle. If you think you know the answer to the destination, page him. If you are correct, he will tell you which Place to go to.

2. Each location has a challenge which you will receive when you get there. Do the rolls necessary to complete the challenge. Once you complete it, Rook will tell you the next riddle, and so on and so forth.

3. Please use the places to tt the posing at each challenge - you do not want an errant pose to give away the solution to a puzzle to competitors!

4. If you have Streetwise, it will grant you one clue for free per dot that you have if you need help on a location clue.

5. This is a match of two person teams. If you do not have a teammmate, let Rook know and you can get matched up. 6. Either member of the team can complete and of the challenges, or you can alternate who is taking rolls.

7. Once you have completed all of the challenges, you will receive final instructions.

8. If you would like help, if you succeed on a roll of intellect + puzzles at hard I will give you the answer, intellect + puzzles at normal I will give you a hint. Each roll counts towards your points, as does each incorrect guess. Correct guesses count for nothing.

9. EVERYONE who completes the entire race will receive a prize. The team to do so in the fewst number of points will receive a trophy! and recognition.

Rook glances towards Sira and offers a smile, and inclines his head towards Ivy. "No, I have not had the pleasure." He dips his head. "Please, do participate. You have no advantage, as you did not help craft any of the riddles."

Rook has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Denica receives a subtle wave from across the room, Keely's smile for her positively radiant. She continues to look around, dipping her chin to Deva belatedly, and acknowledging everyone else with polite smiles, until Mattheu approaches. "Tea afterward sounds lovely," she murmurs in warm reply. "Best of luck to you and your teammate!" She then turns to confer with Cesare.

Edris remains in quiet consultation with Deva, first over a name, but then taking in the riddle. He frowns ever so slightly, but maybe that's just his thinking face.

"I- ...huh. You know, I didn't think about that. Probably. He's quite busy, often on the road for long periods of time. And I would prefer to not have my betrothed in armor for his wedding. It's nice armor but... rather clunky," Ivy is likely thinking of how he would sound clomping around in it. She glances around as they approach the event, smiling, "This looks quite interesting. Were I better at such things, I would suggest we join but.. time is short and I think you'll need as much time as I can give you." She offers a faint smile towards Sira before looking to Rook and offering a quick bow, "I know who you are, Master Champagne. A pleasure, to be sure."

Yuri leaned inward to Denica, quietly working out a solution as his hands moved to and fro. His brow pulled in thought.

Vitalis mulls over the clue, squinting at the other groups, then - of a sudden - dashes out the door, cloak streaming behind him.

A warm smile crosses over Rook's face as Sira arrives. Then he raises his hands. "More than just fun, this night is about a goal. About bringing people together. So you may notice a theme. If you do, more power to you, it may help you figure out the challenges and riddles faster! So, to get you started - seek out a place in Arx where you might go, metaphorically perhaps, to address issues with the answer to this riddle "On mountain top we plant our roots; And grow forever more. From brown or black to snowy white; Our leaving most

This riddle

"On mountain top we plant our roots; And grow forever more. From brown or black to snowy white; Our leaving most deplore?"

OOC: Just page me the answer to the riddle, and I'll tell you where you are virtually going.

Sira has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Avalanche, a fluffy mountain pup have been dismissed.

Jasper, an unflappable scoundrel have been dismissed.

2 Redrain Guards have been dismissed.

1 Redrain Veteran Guards have been dismissed.

Ivy has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Vitalis has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

You all see Vitalis race out, suddenly, inspired by some thought.

Vitalis checks intellect and riddles at hard. Vitalis fails.

Sira nods and directs Ivy to a table, offering a seat before looking out at the crowd of racers. "Best of luck! I'll give the winner an extra prize." Then she turns to say something to Ivy, quietly.

Keely sucks in a sudden breath, reaching to take Cesare by the arm and tug him out the door in a most uncharacteristically assertive fashion.

Keely has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Cesare has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Deva very belatedly fingerwiggles back at Denica, pleased as punch. The riddle, however, seems to have her stumped. Arms loosely crossed, she knits her brows and engages in low conversation with Edris, head tilting from side to side as she strives to work through it.

"Best of luck to all the competitors!" Ivy lifts a hand and offers a supportive cheer for them all before turning towards the more quiet conversation with Sira.

Denica knits her brows together, she murmurs back and forth with Yuri, but mostly she has this rather blank stare on her face.

Mattheu listens to the clue and just stands there with his face scrunched up. A little scratch to his chin as Kiera says something quietly to him.

Vitalis has left the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Vitalis has joined the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Yuri tugged on Denica's arm, motioning her toward Rook.

Rook looks over to a runner and nods, who goes to adjust the big board. "The Arxpeditioneers are moving onto the second stage, Sloth Sleuths at the first." He looks out at the crowd of teams still pondering. "Maybe these are too hard," he muses

Mattheu checks intellect and riddles at normal. Mattheu marginally fails.

Edris checks intellect and riddles at normal. Edris is successful.

Denica has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Kiera checks intellect and riddles at normal. Kiera fails.

Cesare checks intellect and riddles at hard. Cesare fails.

Keely checks intellect and riddles at hard. Botch! Keely fails completely.

Cesare checks wits and riddles at hard. Cesare marginally fails.

Cesare checks luck at hard. Cesare is successful.

Mattheu checks intellect and riddles at hard. Mattheu marginally fails.

Keely checks luck at hard. Botch! Keely fails completely.

Edris has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Yuri has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Wherever they are, Cesare tries to stop Keely from getting hit by a falling pot from someone's window, but is unsuccessful. Luckily it is a small, fragile pot.

Mattheu checks intellect and riddles at normal. Mattheu marginally fails.

Yuri checks intellect and riddles at hard. Yuri fails.

Kiera checks intellect and riddles at hard. Kiera fails.

Kiera checks intellect and riddles at hard. Kiera fails.

Denica checks intellect and riddles at normal. Denica is successful.

Vitalis checks charm and performance at normal. Vitalis is successful.

Kiera checks luck at normal. Kiera is successful.

Keely is not having a great day. She cannot figure out the riddle, she has run out of tiny muffins, and now she has been hiy by a pot. She looks at Cesare with big, sad eyes. "I am sorry, Softest Whisper Cesare. I should have let you be an Arxpeditioneer."

Yuri has left the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Yuri has joined the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Mattheu stares at Rook for a good long moment. He might be ready to just find a drink and watch everyone else.

Denica has left the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Denica has joined the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Yuri checks intellect and riddles at hard. Yuri is successful.

Deva has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Vitalis checks intellect and riddles at hard. Vitalis is marginally successful.

Deva checks intellect and riddles at hard. Deva fails.

Deva checks intellect and riddles at hard. Deva fails.

Deva checks intellect and riddles at hard. Deva fails.

Deva checks intellect and riddles at hard. Deva fails.

Deva checks intellect and riddles at hard. Deva fails.

There is a brief detour as Cesare and Keely must stop at Lottie's Place and retrieve more tiny muffins. It is simply a necessity for the princess to get whatever she needs to recover from the pot fiasco, and how many times they walked in circles trying to decipher those footprints. Probably someone got tired of hearing the sound of Cesare's boots clicking, and dropped the pot on purpose.

Denica checks charm and performance at normal. Botch! Denica fails badly.

Yuri checks dexterity and performance at normal. Critical Success! Yuri is spectacularly successful.

Vitalis is a ghost. There is a saying, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." Vitalis, by happenstance, is living the former this eve.

Vitalis has left the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Vitalis has joined the a large boat with a red sail.

Kiera has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Happily munching on tiny muffins, Keely emerges from Lottie's Place arm-in-arm with Cesare, her satchel looking quite a bit fuller than when they walked inside. She is chattering away cheerfully now, all traces of the pot incident banished from her mind. Presently she is just listing various types of dessert and their components, with Intensity.

Yuri has left the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Yuri has joined the a large boat with a red sail.

Rook has left the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Rook has joined the a large boat with a red sail.

Yuri checks intellect and riddles at hard. Yuri is successful.

Denica has left the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Denica has joined the a large boat with a red sail.

Mattheu says in Ravashari, "There's got to be something to drink. Eshra would backhand me back to Riva if I did anything else...""

Vitalis checks dexterity and dodge at easy. Vitalis is successful.

Vitalis checks dexterity and dodge at normal. Vitalis is successful.

Vitalis checks dexterity and dodge at hard. Vitalis fails.

Rook has left the a large boat with a red sail.

Rook has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Denica checks dexterity and dodge at easy. Denica is successful.

Denica checks dexterity and dodge at normal. Denica is successful.

Denica checks dexterity and dodge at hard. Denica is successful.

Yuri checks dexterity and dodge at easy. Yuri is successful.

Yuri checks dexterity and dodge at normal. Critical Success! Yuri is spectacularly successful.

Yuri checks dexterity and dodge at hard. Yuri is successful.

Mattheu shrugs to Kiera, "If there's something to punch or slice, let me know. Otherwise, lead the way."

Keely has left the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Keely has joined the an seashell and driftwood dessert bar.

Vitalis checks dexterity and dodge at easy. Critical Success! Vitalis is inhumanly successful in a way that defies expectations.

Vitalis checks dexterity and dodge at normal. Vitalis is successful.

Keely has left the an seashell and driftwood dessert bar.

Keely has joined the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Vitalis checks dexterity and dodge at hard. Vitalis fails.

Vitalis checks dexterity and dodge at easy. Vitalis is successful.

Vitalis checks dexterity and dodge at normal. Vitalis is successful.

Vitalis checks dexterity and dodge at hard. Vitalis fails.

Sira continues to speak with Ivy, looking thoughtful.

Cesare has left the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Cesare has joined the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Vitalis has left the a large boat with a red sail.

Vitalis has joined the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Denica has left the a large boat with a red sail.

Denica has joined the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Yuri has left the a large boat with a red sail.

Yuri has joined the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Runners come in, and the board shifts. Vitalis along with Denica and Yuri are neck and neck. The other teams are in various stages along the way.

Kiera checks intellect and riddles at hard. Kiera is successful.

Cesare checks charm and performance at normal. Cesare is successful.

Keely checks intellect and performance at normal. Keely is successful.

Yuri checks intellect and riddles at hard. Yuri fails.

Denica checks intellect and riddles at normal. Denica is successful.

Yuri checks dexterity and artwork at hard. Yuri fails.

Wyla, a small wisp of an assistant arrives, delivering a message to Mattheu before departing.

Denica checks dexterity and artwork at hard. Denica is successful.

Deva has left the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Deva has joined the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Edris has left the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Edris has joined the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Mattheu has joined the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Vitalis checks dexterity and artwork at hard. Vitalis marginally fails.

Vitalis checks dexterity and artwork at hard. Vitalis fails.

Vitalis checks dexterity and artwork at hard. Vitalis fails.

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

Vitalis checks luck at hard. Vitalis is successful.

Vitalis swallows cursed oaths as he follows suit and more than once hammers a thumb in his haste.

Deva checks dexterity and performance at normal. Deva marginally fails.

One would think an archer like Deva might be good on the harp. Today, everyone discovers she's absolutely not.

A tired and increasingly giggly Keely is seen wandering the streets aimlessly with Cesare, offering him what looks like a very small, slender book now and then.

Deva checks dexterity and performance at normal. Deva marginally fails.

Deva checks dexterity and performance at normal. Deva marginally fails.

Deva checks luck at hard. Deva fails.

Yuri has left the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Yuri has joined the a large boat with a green sail.

Let it be known: Keely is a terrible influence. The longer this goes on, the more lackadaisical Cesare becomes. It's entirely possible that the two of them are now wandering the streets together full of tiny muffins and singing - or trying to convince the bashful princess to sing, in Cesare's case. He may be forgetting about the race entirely.

Yuri checks strength and medium wpn at hard. Yuri is marginally successful.

Yuri checks strength and medium wpn at normal. Yuri marginally fails.

Cesare checks intellect and riddles at normal. Cesare is successful.

Denica checks strength and small wpn at hard. Botch! Denica fails completely.

Yuri checks strength and medium wpn at hard. Yuri is successful.

Denica checks strength and small wpn at hard. Denica is successful.

Keely checks intellect and riddles at normal. Keely is successful.

Yuri checks strength and medium wpn at normal. Yuri is successful.

Yuri checks strength and medium wpn at easy. Yuri is successful.

Denica checks strength and small wpn at normal. Denica is successful.

Denica checks strength and small wpn at easy. Denica is successful.

Deva checks dexterity and performance at hard. Deva marginally fails.

Deva checks dexterity and performance at hard. Deva fails.

Deva checks dexterity and performance at hard. Deva is successful.

Vitalis checks intellect and riddles at hard. Vitalis fails.

Cesare has left the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Cesare has joined the a large boat with a red sail.

Keely has left the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Keely has joined the a large boat with a red sail.

Mattheu checks charm and performance at normal. Mattheu is successful.

Cesare checks charm and seduction at normal. Cesare is successful.

To the horror of the attendants at the Dream, Cesare takes the riddle to mean something it most certainly does not, and begins doing some kind of gyrating dance whose focus is /absolutely/ on the perfect fit of his pants upon his lovely derriere.

Denica has left the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Denica has joined the a large boat with a green sail.

On the way to their next destination, Keely and Cesare have stopped at several jewelry shops and tailors, and will probably have to write some embarrassing missives to cancel multiple orders for matching outfits once they have had some rest.

Once there and her partner begins to dance, a mortified Keely uses the massive sleeves on her coat in attempt to shield him from view of anyone with an eyeline.

Vitalis checks strength and huge wpn at hard. Vitalis is successful.

Vitalis checks strength and huge wpn at normal. Vitalis is successful.

Vitalis checks strength and huge wpn at easy. Vitalis is successful.

Yuri has left the a large boat with a green sail.

Denica has left the a large boat with a green sail.

Vitalis has left the a large boat with a yellow sail.

The runners adjust the boards. Yuri and Denica appear to have completed whatever the last task is, along with Vitalis. Mattheu and Kiera are on their way to the third from last, which is where Keely and Cesare and Deva and Edris are, as well.

Denica is racing through the city with Yuri, skipping towards the end but it's race and so she doesn't doddle. It's a race after all! A grin is forming on her face and she is looking a little flushed in the cheeks from everything. The princess looks invigorated by all the challenges that have come before them. Eyes bright there is a silly smile on her face like she's having a great time.

Vitalis dashes into the Consortium Hall, eyes bright and color high from the merry chase through the City. He's got something wound around his fist and stumbles to thie side to plant hands on his knees and pant, "Back-" he peers at the board, and stands, wheezing. "Who-" pant, pant, "Who-"

Cesare checks dexterity and athletics at easy. Cesare is successful.

Yuri trailed back within the main hall, a tad exasperated, as he settled in alongside Denica. His cloak was strewn over his shoulder, sleeves of doublet rolled up marginally as if he had exerted some work. His hands shuffled within the inner pockets of his jacket. He pawned off something into Denica's hand, before he slowly began to walk off toward the refreshments, panting slightly as his hands on his hips as he stared down at the floor.

Cesare checks dexterity and athletics at normal. Cesare fails.

Reports from the runners is that Mattheu and Kiera have stopped for a couple of drinks along the way, and are now dancing between the Bard's College and the next location. The few that have spotted them are amused with the blur of color that is the Rivenshari lord, muttering in Ravashari and laughing all while bells sing out in his ever movement.

Cesare checks dexterity and athletics at normal. Cesare fails.

Cesare checks dexterity and athletics at normal. Cesare marginally fails.

Keely checks dexterity and athletics at easy. Keely is successful.

Keely checks dexterity and athletics at normal. Keely fails.

Cesare checks luck at hard. Cesare marginally fails.

Keely checks luck at hard. Keely fails.

Keely checks intellect and riddles at hard. Keely fails.

Mattheu checks dexterity and athletics at easy. Mattheu is successful.

Mattheu checks dexterity and athletics at normal. Mattheu is successful.

Mattheu checks dexterity and athletics at hard. Mattheu is successful.

Kiera has left the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Kiera has joined the a large boat with a red sail.

Vitalis staggers up to the board and strikes the 'S' from his team name, before moving loose-limbed to stand with Yuri at the refreshments. He takes up a beverage, "Thought I had you two." He grins, "Cheers."

"Oh it's not a - dance challenge?" Cesare asks someone, and then something truly awful to witness transpires as he and Keely attempt to build some kind of contraption out of the furniture while Cesare is holding some kind of bizarre and very unstable pose. Nobody will tell them what to do, so mostly they just end up falling on the ground.

At least they are laughing. Keely, specifically, cannot stop laughing. She is mortified, and paralyzed with giggles, laying on the floor of the Dream and staring at the ceiling.

Edris checks dexterity and dodge at easy. Edris is successful.

Edris checks dexterity and dodge at normal. Edris is successful.

Edris checks dexterity and dodge at hard. Edris is marginally successful.

Up at the front of thje Silver Consortium, Rook is grinning as reports come in. "It looks like everyone has made it through the challenge at the Dream, folks. A few more teams puzzling out the penultimate destination..." He looks up as a few folks start streaming in. "We will have to see the final reports on how many attempts it took them on the challenges, but it appears that we have a close match so far between the Dancing Dragons and the Arxpeditioneer."

Mattheu takes to stacking the chairs with ease, climbing to the top of them and sitting down with his legs crossed. He looks out from his perch and spots Keely, hopping down as the next envelope is handed to Kiera. Then heading over to stand near Keely looking at her position with a grin.

Keely checks intellect and artwork at hard. Keely is successful.

Keely has left the a large boat with a red sail.

Keely has joined the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Yuri glanced over to Vitalis, already a bit more leveled in his breathing as he seemed to be clutching, for dear life, a glass of whiskey, "We'll...huh, gods. It's that chill that gets you; right in your lungs. We'll certainly see in the tally." His eyes peeled around to see where the Brush had run off to; this being Denica.

Vitalis nods at Yuri, "We will." He lifts his mug in salute to Denica, with a look of bemusement, "The Dancing Dragons? Who was that?"

If there are drinks, Denica is reaching for one, knocking back the whisky in short order. A grin is flashed to Vitalis, "good to see you Lord Clement," she says to him before she leans to murmur something to Yuri.

There are drinks. Many, many drinks.

Edris has left the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Edris has joined the a large boat with a yellow sail.

"Admittedly, I don't think we had stayed so long as to have an entire clarion call of the team names before we left. I'm afraid I would be no help there, Lord Clement." Yuri buried himself in his drink, letting the cloak drape a bit over his shoulders before turning his head to hear what Denica had to say. He chuckled, giving a nod before downing his own glass of whiskey.

Kiera has left the a large boat with a red sail.

Kiera has joined the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Mattheu has left the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Mattheu has joined the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Maybe it's the secret brandy. Maybe it's the delightful company. Princess Keely Grayson manages to build a respectable stool on the firsf try, and even sits on it for a while. It somehow does not collapse.

Deva has left the a nautical themed oyster bar.

Deva has joined the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Mattheu checks dexterity and woodworking at normal. Mattheu is marginally successful.

The brandy isn't SECRET if you SAY it's THERE, Keely. Will this miracle stool survive Cesare attempting to sit /on/ Keely, on the stool?

Will -KEELY- survive Cesare trying to sit on Keely? Her vast capacity for mortification puts this notion in question.

Keely has left the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Keely has joined the a large boat with a green sail.

Cesare has left the a large boat with a red sail.

Cesare has joined the a large boat with a green sail.

Deva checks dexterity and artwork at hard. Botch! Deva fails completely.

Kiera is looking from the instructions to mattheu dubiously

Sira is absolutely still at the Consortium hall, taking note of board updates. Waiting for winners to appear.

A tipsy Mattheu looks at the items and gives a shrug to something Kiera has said, grinning while looking at the tools. "It can't be all that bad? The pieces just need to quit spinning." He takes a very jingly loud step forwards, his foot hovering for a moment as if he might have forgotten where the ground is and then finally sets his foot upon one of the planks.

*WHAM*
The look on his face when the plank screeches into him then doubling over in pain should say it all. "I'll need a moment, but will teach this board what it should be shortly."

Does Deva know what she's doing? No. Does that stop her? Also no. She dashes around and probably gets as much glue on herself as she does on her attempt at making a stool. Clearly she went for artistry over stability. "Um, what do you think?" she asks Edris, arms loosely crossed as she leans back to squint at her horrifying and in no way structurally sound creation.

Cesare checks strength and small wpn at hard. Botch! Cesare fails completely.

Keely checks strength and small wpn at hard. Keely fails.

Cesare checks strength and small wpn at normal. Cesare fails.

Cesare checks strength and small wpn at easy. Cesare is successful.

How much does a polar bear weigh? More than Keely, because it's enough to break the ice. She huffs, then turns around and sits on one of the blocks. Maybe it will melt.

Vitalis watches the board keenly, maybe wagering in his mind on who will win their way through the door next. He clears a path to the hearth and warm beverages for those coming in after the last leg back to the Consortium hall.

Eventually Keely and Cesare come back into the Silver Consortium. Keely seems to have a new hairdo, elaborately tied up with a wet ribbon. Lovely! They've done so well for themselves. Neither of them are falling down yet.

Keely is still giggling, though it is quiet, and she looks exhausted but positively jubilant. "We made it," she exhales aside to Cesare, collapsing onto the nearest seat. It turns out to be a tabletop. She is too tired to move to a more respectable seat, and instead tries to coax Cesare to join her in her improper perch.

Vitalis brings the cheer to Keely and Cesare, a warm mug each (hot toddy? tea and amaretto? mulled wine? he didn't try it to find out, just snagged a couple mugs). "Cheers!"

Rook walks over towards Denica as some of the other teams filter in. "I appreciate you joining us tonight, Your highness, and hope you had a good time." His eyes glance skyward. "And I thank you for your participation in this little display."

Mattheu checks strength and medium wpn at hard. Mattheu is successful.

Mattheu checks strength and medium wpn at easy. Mattheu is spectacularly successful.

Having had a moment to catch her breath, Denica is seated somewhere comfortable, drinking and engaging in some murmured conversation. Watching as other teams arrive she greats them all with a smile and a finger wiggle. The young woman seems full of energy despite everything, catching her second wind perhaps, a result of the people and buzz around her. As Rook approaches she turns her cheerful expression his way, "you have out done yourself again Minister Champagne. That was great fun! What a great way to experience the city in a whole new way," she tells him. Vivid blue eyes also glance up and she is reminded of something and her brows lift upwards suddenly. "I am glad to be part of it," she says to him.

"Cheers!" Keely should not be given more alcohol right now, but she takes the offered drink in her delicate fingertips anyway, dainty feet swinging lightly just above the floor. She beams a silly, sunny smile at Vitalis and lifts the mug to her lips, peering around the hall briefly over its rim.

Evan, a veritable mountain of an Arakkoan, Estevan, an attentive young man carrying a writing desk arrive, following Maharet.

Bowing to Denica, Rook offers her a smile. "Always appreciated." He makes his way back over towards the center of the room and looks back out. An attendance walks over and whispers into his ear. "I believe that we are just about done, as the last teams are making their way here. If you all will induldge me one last time, I want to talk about the reason for all of this."

Cesare sits next to Keely on her improper perch, very properly, and accepts the mug. "Lord Vitalis, we should have known that competing against the likes of you, partner or none, would be an exercise in futility. Who was supposed to be your second tonight? We should have appropriated you for /our/ team instead. We could have used a bit of... focus."

Yuri glanced off between Denica and Rook a moment, trailing his head up as if trying to follow their gestures before he settled back into his seat beside the princess, leaning comfortably within his seat as he nursed down his second whiskey.

Edris is not a carpenter, but that doesn't mean that Deva's creation doesn't ping his sketch-o-meter as far as structural integrity. Still, an Oathlands knight is nothing if not chivalrous, so he gives a very diplomatic hmmm of assessment. "Shall one of us try it out?" The messenger that starts over to hand them their next clue seems to be extremely EXTREMELY nervous about that prospect. But luckily they're saved by heading to the next location--just in time to see the Rivenshari lord leaving an impressive array of glittering ice shards on the ground, with ribbons for the taking. "Well and admirably done, Lord Mattheu," the Elwood knight calls, offering a salute of sorts, and a smile that reaches his eyes, as he claims a ribbon and offers it to Deva, so that they can head back.

Mattheu wanders back into the starting point of the race with Kiera riding upon his back, several ribbons trailing along behind them. He kneels down to let Kiera step off with ease, before standing back up and swiping a drink from a passing tray. "This has been an interesting evening."

As the last few teams filter in, Rook smiles broadly once more. "Welcome back, Racers, and thank you for your participation. I want to talk for a moment, before we announce the winner, about the reason for all of this." The attendants begin to bring forth the stools that were made as part of the challenge at the Society of Explorers. "Let us think about what we did - we walked in another's footsteps. We played some music, we balanced. We built something with our hands. We chiseled away at a barrier. And we came back, holding a ribbon - a tie that binds." As he narrates this, the attendants begin to stack the chairs, which wobble. Then others walk over with the ribbons they collected from the teams at the end, and start to tie the chairs together. They grow more stable. "You see, with all of us working together, each of us doing our individual part, we can achieve great things. And perhaps, tonight, you saw a little bit of how hard it is - to make a stool, to play a harp." He glances over at Denica. "Without breaking it." He grins. "And so it truly takes all kinds, here in Arx, and in the Compact itself, to achieve our goals."

Once the odd assemblage is built, a man begins the slow ascent to the top. The tower of chairs teeters, but the ribbons keeps it steady. He reaches up and out towards the large covered item, and yanks it off, revealing an enormoue piece of artwork. Rook raises his hand in triumph. "When we all work together, we can create beautiful things." He pauses for applause from the gathered crowd.

Rook drops a mixed media art installation called 'Saving for a Rainy Day'.

"Beautiful," Deva claps enthusiastically. She seems a little clueless, perhaps, but in good spirits all the same. Sliding a grin to Edris, her poor partner, she winds crimson strands up into a messy bun atop her head with the ribbon he hands her. "A very exciting evening! Thank you," she cheers for the hosts.

Deva is overheard praising Rook: What an evening!

Evan, a veritable mountain of an Arakkoan, Estevan, an attentive young man carrying a writing desk leave, following Maharet.

Cesare is overheard praising Rook: My brain hurts even thinking about trying to write these riddles.

Denica is overheard praising Rook: Ain't no race, like a Rook Race!

Mattheu is overheard praising Rook: where's the drink? got the ice.

Keely's silly smile softens as Rook addresses the crowd, and cheers softly at the end of his speech, clapping a hand against her wrist while trying not to spill her hot adult beverage.

Kiera is overheard praising Rook.

Yuri pursed his brow together, nodding gently as he focused in upon Rook thoughtfully, "Be we from different parts of Arvum, even if Arx was not our first home, this is where we reside. Together. This is our city. This is where we do live, for the moment. And laugh, learn. And mingle. And form bonds. Master Champagne, you made a fantastic bid that whilst we all have the chance to work together, collaborate, there is nothing we cannot achieve. An inspired notion." He rose his glass to Rook before committing to his toast.

Now that everyone is back, Sira gives Ivy a soft smile before turning to listen to Rook. And because she is the most obnoxious of proteges, her response is, "Yes yes, but who won?"

Edris is overheard praising Rook: An excellent evening of challenge, humility, and more than a little laughter.

Vitalis coughs when his stool is incorporated into the tower, "That-" a wince, ehh, the assemblers know their business. He clears his throat and listens, lifting fingers to his lips to whistle for the sentiment. "Inspiring, Minister Rook." He nods, seeming moved by the sentiments, looking fondly at those gathered. His brows loft, though, at the question. And he looks expectantly at Denica and Yuri before glancing back to Rook.

A reserved assistant named Stojan have been dismissed.

3 Thrax Guards have been dismissed.

An ostentatious curator named Sivas have been dismissed.

1 Thrax Elite Guards have been dismissed.

A nondescript man named Cato have been dismissed.

Vitalis amends, a hand lifted to his mouth to call, "And Guildmaster Caprice!"

Mattheu is overheard praising Caprice.

Kiera is overheard praising Caprice.

"It was the riddles that were truly the difficult part," Cesare bemoans. "Playing a harp is not difficult at all with any dexterity and a good teacher." Of course he thinks so. "All those footprints."

Deva has left the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Avalanche, a fluffy mountain pup have been dismissed.

Jasper, an unflappable scoundrel have been dismissed.

2 Redrain Guards have been dismissed.

1 Redrain Veteran Guards have been dismissed.

Taking in a breath as Rook unveils the art, Denica looks up with raised eyebrows and she leans in to whisper something to Yuri, her cheeks uncharacteristically flushed. "Well put," she says to Rook. "It's a good reminder, how we can pull together and take on any challenge, even the unexpected," the princess says raising her glass up to toast the host and the room in general. Then she knocks it back quickly.

Rook smiles broadly towards Yuri, and nods. "Thank you, milord." The same to Vitalis, and the others as they comment.

"And now, what you have been waiting for - who goes home with the cup?" He waves his hand to indicate the trophies. "I have been told that it is challenging to discern, within an appreciable amount, who is the winner between two teams." He glances over to the two trophies. "I apologize that I have but two trophies, but I shall have a third commissioned, to be shared among The Blades and Brushes and the Arxpeditioneers." He pauses for a moment to allow any applause to follow as the attendants bring the awards to Denica and Yuri and then to Vitalis. Then he glances towards Cesare and Keely. "And winner of perhaps more on the nose team name - the Sloth Sleuths." He winks towards the two of them. "I will connect with you both on your prize."

"But I would like to say that the real winners tonight are all of you who endured the puzzles and the challenges, and made it back with the ties that bound us. And so to each of you - a medal of accomplishment!"

Vitalis examines his thumb, looking at Cesare with an offhand and good-natured grumble, "I have splinters *and* contusions."

Rook takes Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016, Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016 and Race Across Arx Completion Medal - 1016 from a soft pouch with a silver acorn charm.

Rook takes Race Across Arx Winner's Trophy - 1016.

Rook takes Race Across Arx Winner's Trophy - 1016.

A gasp is sounded from Keely, who lifts her voice a bit above her usual soft tones to declare, "Hooray!" while beaming aside at Cesare. "We won something," she chirps at him more quietly, and probably unnecessarily considering it was just announced to the entire room

Cesare scoffs at being called slow, even as he proudly pins his completion medal on. "Sloth Sleuths," he says solemnly to Keely, raising his mug to her.

Sira rises from her seat when Rook announces the winners and rummaged through her pockets - she's a seamstress, there's a few hidden in her ensemble. Producing three pouches, and seeming not to care at all what the contents of the pouches is, she moves to deposit one each in the hands of Vitalis, Denica, and Yuri.

Ivy stands from her seat and offers, "Anyone that needs medical attention, I can assist, and congratulations to all the teams!"

Sira is overheard praising Rook.

Sira is overheard praising Vitalis.

Sira is overheard praising Denica.

Sira is overheard praising Yuri.

Denica is overheard praising Vitalis: Smart and swift!

Cesare is overheard praising Vitalis: Too smart. Next time we'll make all the riddles about esoteric etiquette.

Kiera is overheard praising Denica.

"I did get hit by a pot," Keely remarks aside to Ivy, a cheery smile still on her fair face. She doesn't appear injured, just a bit disheveled.

Denica is overheard praising Yuri: Teamwork is Dreamwork!

Calling up the winners, Rook continues his pronouncements. A warm smile is extended towards Denica as Rook hands her the trophy. "Thank you for your participation, and thank you again for the fine piece of artwork." He calls out to the gathered crowd. "I promise you, there was no favoritism involved here, but this magnificent symbol was a gift from the fabulous and creative Princess Denica Thrax." He waves his hand to indicate the now unveiled mixed media piece. He then nods, and hands the second trophy to Yuri. Then he looks to Vitalis. "I will get you one shortly."

Kiera is overheard praising Yuri.

Yuri is overheard praising Denica: The Blade is nothing without the Brush!

Cesare is overheard praising Denica: There is nothing she cannot do. Whisper House should have gotten to her early.

Kiera is overheard praising Vitalis.

Cesare is overheard praising Yuri: Only someone of strong wit could keep up with Denica

"Your Highness, if you'll step over here, I'll be more than happy to look you over and tend any injuries," Ivy offers a small smile towards Keely and motions to the table.

Mattheu claps for the winners, which is more to him tapping at his chest and allowing the bells upon his clothing to sing out in the motion. Then looking to Kiera, in a bit of a drunken stupor, "Have you met Princess Keely? We should go say hello." And in that he's heading over to where Keely was sitting, to find Cesare.

Deva is overheard praising Denica: Clever and talented!

Vitalis looks up when there's a pouch placed in his hands, he'd been rather absorbed with the splinters there. And he's announced a winner? He blinks and looks at Sira, then Rook, and then Denica and Yuri, grinning. He fixes the medal to his collar and smiles, "No need, but thank you. The enjoyment was the race itself, and the message. That piece is remarkable." The ribbon-bound tower is between him and the artwork and he moves around it to study the piece. There's a lot to take in and someone who spends the bulk of his time noting details is rapt.

Edris accepts another glass of alcoholic cheer, as the artwork is unveiled--and he even raises a glass in toast to the unveiling, to Rook, and to the winners, and then to the artist as well. "A splendid evening, Minster. Thank you. And to all who made it possible." He offers his arm to Deva, speaking to her quietly for a moment.

It is time for Cesare to make sure Keely makes it back to the Grayson Ward unimpeded and on both feet. So, gallantly, he offers his arm. "Thank you again, Minister. What a pleasure it has been."

"That is so very kind of you," Keely smiles warmly to Ivy as she hops down from the table on which she is sitting. "But I think the pot is much worse off than I. You should check the Softest Whisper, though, I think I heard a crunch when he fell off that chair." She extends a hand, resting it gently against Cesare's arm. "Thank you for being the Most Excellent partner. I must go and pester my protege now." She abandons what's left of her drink then, abruptly turning to wander through the crowd in search kf Mattheu.

Rook takes a mixed media art installation called 'Saving for a Rainy Day'.

Cesare has left the a large boat with a green sail.

Dolente, a mourning dove, Dolce, a collared dove, Appassionata, a trumpeter swan leave, following Cesare.

With parting smiles for the winners and hosts, Deva leaves with Edris in high spirits and despite her lackluster showing!

Yuri humbly bowed his head toward Rook with a smile, sharing a glance with Denica for a moment as he nodded his head, leaning over somewhat to mutter, "You were the brain and I the brawn in this game, I do believe." When Sira offered her gifts to the winner, he gave a thankful nod along to the seamstress before hauling off the trophy off to his side. His attendant, Bartolomeo, was quick to offer support in carrying it off. A polite nod was offered to Vitalis as well, seeing him rewarded, before the lord himself opted to make himself another drink.

Sira has left the A large rectangular table for meetings.

4 Silvershields leaves, following Sira.

Ivy has left the A large rectangular table for meetings.

Kiera has left the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Denica lifts her glass to Vitalis and grins, "well done Lord Clement!," she says loudly which is really normal volume for her. The princess takes her trophy from Rook and her smile remains bright, "thank you! That was so much fun! A formidable challenge.," she murmurs with weighted words. Looking at Yuri she smirks a little, "I'd say we both gave each a run for our coin," she winks at her partner, smirking at her own joke watching the man go off to seek more drinks. =

Edris has left the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Avalanche, a fluffy mountain pup, Jasper, an unflappable scoundrel, 2 Redrain Guards, 1 Redrain Veteran Guards leave, following Deva.

Deva leaves, following Edris.

Keely has left the a large boat with a green sail.

6 Grayson House Guards, Wyla, a small wisp of an assistant leave, following Keely.

Mattheu has left the a large boat with a yellow sail.

Violeta Emili, a Ravashari smuggler dressed as the wind, 2 Rivenshari Clan Guardsman leave, following Mattheu.