Bangarang, a loud-mouthed rooster arrives, following Rufio.

Lisebet has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

5 King's Own Guardsmen, Tulip, a small swarm of pearlescent spiders arrive, following Symonesse.

6 Grayson House Guards, Symonesse arrive, following Aindre.

Thesbe takes a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Akamos gets a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Udell has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Jaenelle has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Tulip have been dismissed.

a small swarm of pearlescent spiders have been dismissed.

Linx, a beautiful Persian cat with a green collared bow have been dismissed.

Zoey gets a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Terese gets a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Udell gets a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Medeia takes a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Liara gets a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Lisebet gets a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Caspian takes a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Aindre has joined the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Symonesse has joined the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Mattheu takes a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Rufio gets a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Alis gets a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Rufio has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Ilmia gets a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Jaenelle has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Jaenelle has joined the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Winter, A Highhill Puppy, Angeline arrive, following Kiera.

Alis has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Alis has joined the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Ilmia has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Drake has joined the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

As guests enter the Bastion Hall, they are asked to remove their shoes, and the reason becomes apparent quite quickly-- the floor has been covered, wall to wall, with every pillow and cushion Princess Keely could scrounge from every corner of Grayson mansion. Even Liara's chambers.

The young princess, who is dressed in a costume-like one-piece pajama set, complete with feet that boast leather toe beans on the bottom and badger-faced hood that is presently pulled up over her hair, greets everyone with warm smiles and full titles, and directs them to avail of the wide variety of junk food and booze before getting comfortable to watch. They are also welcomed to select a cuddly badger friend from the chest of party favors arranged near the snacks.

Once everyone is settled, the princess marches herself up to The Pillow Fort of Glory to address the crowd. "Hello, everyone, and welcome!" she calls out as well as she can in soft tones. "Today we will witness teams of fearsome opponents battle it out with the softest pillows in Arvum. The list of teams is posted here at the front, and I will call you forward one by one to face off elimination-style. The first team to have both members knocked to the ground shall be eliminated, and the winning team will move on to the next round." She glances around with a wide smile and bright eyes, and takes a deep breath before calling out, "I call to the Pillow Fort of Glory the first set of opponents: Lord Mattheu Rivenshari and Mister Caspian Wild against Princess Terese Valardin and Lady Thesbe Seryn!"

Lisebet mutters, "It seems ... ... ... has ... afflicting me and Captain Evaristo has been broken. It is ... ... ... ... ... breathe properly again."

Caspian looks up in surprise, then over at the others with a broad grin "there is no mercy upon the field of pillow battle!" he nods to mattheu "honor and glory are ours to be won this day by the might of our fluffy and feathery arms brother!"

Caspian has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Caspian has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Mattheu has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Mattheu has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Thesbe blinks for a few moments, realizing her name had just been called. Oh goody.. And then it sets in that she has to whack Mattheu and Caspian with pillows.... A nervous laugh before she gets up and heads towards the Pillow fort. Cerulean colored eyes shift to Caspian and Mattheu before she grins deviously, "You'll be eating feathers by the time I'm done with the both of you." she chuckles before giving Princess Terese a knuckle bump, if allowed.

Thesbe has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Thesbe has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Medeia looks over toward Lisebet from her perch. "Hm?" She seems to have caught some part of what the duchess said. She idly fusses with the pajamas on her badger stuffy while awaiting the entertainment of the first pillow fight.

Terese hears her name and stands up from her seat to make her way over to the pillow fort. She winks at Thesbe and says, "I got your back."

Terese has left the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Terese has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Mattheu slips to his feet in the booties made to look like rabbits feet with a soft jingle and nearly hops and skips towards the pillow fort. Picking up a pillow upon finding himself in the fort and grinning to Caspian, "Divide and conquer?" Then a soft smile to Thesbe, "Don't hold back."

Jordan, apologetic Gentleman of the Chamber arrives, following Noah.

Lisebet mutters, "The ... who caused it ... ... ... ... ... ... though ... ... not ... by whom."

(OOC)The scene set/room mood is now set to: The battle has commenced! The first round shall take place in the following order:

Mattheu/Caspian vs. Terese/Thesbe
Rufio/Udell vs. Akamos/Lisebet
Kiera/Ilmia vs Jaenelle/Aindre
Alis/Liara vs. Zoey/Symonesse

Check (dexterity, stamina, or wits) AND (athletics, dodge, or performance) THREE TIMES: at easy, medium, and hard.

One pose per person/round, losing team first.

Critical success: 3
Success: 2
Marginal success: 1
Marginal fail: -1
Fail: -2
Botch: -3

Caspian checks stamina and athletics at easy. Caspian marginally fails.

Akamos steps in wearing almost nothing, just an artfully wrapped bit of cloth to cover his modesty. He's given a plushy and that makes him smirk a bit as he carries it around and steps over to where the fighting ring is in the pillow fort. Spotting Terese, he waves his plushy to her.

Caspian checks stamina and athletics at normal. Caspian is successful.

Caspian checks stamina and athletics at hard. Caspian marginally fails.

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

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

Mattheu checks stamina and performance at hard. Mattheu fails.

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

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

Thesbe checks dexterity and dodge at hard. Thesbe fails.

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

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

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

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

Bells sing out as Mattheu bounces and hops around the pillow fort, laughing as he's pelted with pillows, ducking down to slide under an attack only to stand back up in mid laugh to be toppled over with a hard land upon head giving ever bell tied into his hair to sing out at the same time. Playfully, a foot goes out sideways as he then falls backwards into the pillows. Bells thud upon pillows and he leaves the lone foot in the air, "You've won," calling back to Thesbe, "You may take my foot."

Aindre has left the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Symonesse has left the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

5 King's Own Guardsmen leaves, following Symonesse.

6 Grayson House Guards, Symonesse leave, following Aindre.

Caspian offers the others a salute with his chosen weapon, the swinging end whipping around to collide with his face as he did. not to be dismayed but such a unfortunate start, he charged into the fray, pillow flailing about as he sought to rain plushy and cuddly carnage. sadly his onslaught was rebuffed again and again by the others, their pillows driving him back with each feathery thwack. a particularly solid hit by Terese left him folded around the pillow and he held up his hands "I have been felled! the feathers fall not for me! well done!" he looked up and grinned. "you better win this"

Ilmia winks at rufio at asks Lisebet "Lisebet! I was planning to meet with you again. Been looking to see how I can best serve the houses and Arx. Any advice?"

Terese a gentle grin rests on her lips, this means War! She takes no mercy on Caspian or Mattheu, wielding her pillow just as expertly she would a blade. *Thwak* and down goes Caspian. "Good fight," she says, still grinning

Blue eyes squinty at first, Thesbe tries to decide who to pelt with all the strength she could muster to whack fluffy, feathery goodness at them. She leapt and hopped along the pillows, playing like the floor was lava keeping her eyes on the prize. She'd raise chin up in what ever direction for Terese to keep at least one of them distracted while she goes for the other with a good face smack of pillow. Victory within sight, she grabs two pillows, wielding both like they were an extension of body, twirling and smacking Mattheu till he got knocked down. A laugh or two and she grins, offering a hand up to him and taking his rabbit foot first. "Great game!"

(OOC)The scene set/room mood is now set to: The battle has commenced! The first round shall take place in the following order:

Mattheu/Caspian vs. (Terese/Thesbe)
Rufio/Udell vs. Akamos/Lisebet
Kiera/Ilmia vs Zoey/Jaenelle

Bye for the first round: Alis/Liara

Check (dexterity, stamina, or wits) AND (athletics, dodge, or performance) THREE TIMES: at easy, medium, and hard.

One pose per person/round, losing team first.

Critical success: 3
Success: 2
Marginal success: 1
Marginal fail: -1
Fail: -2
Botch: -3

Thesbe offers Terese a healthy high five after there win!

Caspian has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Caspian has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Thesbe has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Thesbe has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Terese has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Terese has joined the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Mattheu has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Mattheu has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Caspian has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Keely has found a concoction of punch and champagne, and has found a place to stand at the end of one of the couches so she can better see what is taking place. It is not an event until she has stood on some furniture, after all. She winces as Mattheu takes a pillow to the face, turning her head aside when Terese practically sends Caspian flying.

"Princess Terese and Lady Thesbe win the first round," the princess giggles out delightedly. "Well fought, all! Come have some snacks while you wait for the next round. Next up, please may we have Lord Rufio Proscipi and Archlector Udell Alban to the Pillow Fort of Glory, to face Mister Akamos Cyrto'ani and Duchess Lisebet Ashford!"

Udell has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Udell has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Mattheu takes the offered hand up and laughs as he's now barefoot, shuffling over to get a drink and to watch how the others do in the pillow fort

Rufio has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Rufio has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Lisebet has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Lisebet has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Lisebet looks a bit startled. "Excuse me while I go get hit by some pillows," she murmurs, as she moves over to the pillow fort.

Rufio is up and on his bare feet as quick as can be. It takes him no time to hop-step across the carpet of pillows and fling himself into the Pillow Fort. "May the Feathers be with you all." Rufio is very clearly playing the dramatics of this entire thing up because that's what Rufios do.

Akamos has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Rufio checks dexterity and athletics at easy. Rufio marginally fails.

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

Rufio checks dexterity and athletics at hard. Rufio marginally fails.

Udell checks wits and dodge at easy. Udell marginally fails.

Udell checks wits and dodge at normal. Udell is successful.

Udell checks wits and dodge at hard. Udell is successful.

Lisebet checks wits and performance at easy. Lisebet is successful.

Lisebet checks wits and performance at hard. Lisebet is successful.

Lisebet checks wits and performance at normal. Botch! Lisebet fails badly.

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

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

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

(OOC)The scene set/room mood is now set to: The battle has commenced! The first round shall take place in the following order:

Mattheu/Caspian vs. (Terese/Thesbe)
Rufio/Udell vs. (Akamos/Lisebet)
Kiera/Ilmia vs Zoey/Jaenelle

Bye for the first round: Alis/Liara

Check (dexterity, stamina, or wits) AND (athletics, dodge, or performance) THREE TIMES: at easy, medium, and hard.

One pose per person/round, losing team first.

Critical success: 3
Success: 2
Marginal success: 1
Marginal fail: -1
Fail: -2
Botch: -3

"Aha!", the Archlector cries as he swings his pillowy bludgeon above his head, looking for all the world like either a venerated warrior of old or more likely, an old man in his nightclothes brandishing feathery doom. Udell bobs and weaves but alas, a solid blow from his opponents sends him on his backside in a plume of downy defeat.

Cue the slow motion. Because Rufio is moving in it. All the twirling of his pillow means nothing when it gets knocked out of his hand. Eyes go wide as the obliteration of Rufio becomes ever so apparent. His body is rocked from left to right and back again, twisting into a full spin before an impressive PILLOW UPPERCUT sends the laughing Lord sailing out of the Pillow Fort and back in the direction of the carpet where he belongs. And also where he plays dead for a few moments to really sell his dramatic downfall.

Rufio has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Rufio has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Pillows ho! Lisebet gets a pillow that might be Lou's, might be anyone else's too. She swats with it, once or twice, laughing as she dodges the attacks that are aimed her way. In fact, she's fairly graceful, and quick witted. Her third swing completely misses anyone and she ends up falling on her backside, which just makes her laugh even more. When she stops laughing and can talk she says, "Wiat, we won?"

Udell has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Udell has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

There is a brilliant grin on Keely's face as she watches this round, the bridge of her nose scrunching sympathetically when Udell is knocked over. She cringes a bit when Rufio looses his pillow, then brings her hands together with a bright laugh when Rufio is sent flying out of the ring.

"Goodness! Mister Akamos and Duchess Lisebet progress to the next round! Please may we have Lady Kiera Wyvernheart and Lady Ilmia Leary come to the Pillow Fort of Glory to face lady Zoey Kennex and Archduchess Jaenelle Velenosa?" she calls out, loud as she can.

Lisebet has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Lisebet has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Jaenelle has left the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Jaenelle has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Akamos, wearing nothing but some cloth wraped around his hips, steps up with a big pillow and a friendly little smile for his opponent. The large man bends his knees and skips about with a fair measure of quickness for his size and comes out on top with a little grin. "Hah! Good times." He says gruffly chuckling as he tosses his pillow into a pile and makes his way over to join the familiar Terese.

Kiera has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Akamos has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Akamos has joined the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Ilmia has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Ilmia has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Zoey has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Zoey has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Kiera has entered to find a sea of new faces as well as acquaintences and friends Her partner is among those she has not yet met and so she turns with a curtsey towards her "Lady Kiera wyvernheart, a pleasure to do battle at your side. Then a bow to Jaenelle and Zoey "Your Highness, Lady Best of Luck" She hefts a feather pillow with a smile

Kiera checks wits and dodge at easy. Kiera is successful.

Kiera checks wits and dodge at normal. Kiera is successful.

Kiera checks wits and dodge at hard. Kiera is successful.

Drake gets a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Ilmia checks wits and performance at easy. Ilmia is successful.

Ilmia checks wits and performance at normal. Ilmia is successful.

Ilmia checks wits and performance at hard. Botch! Ilmia fails completely.

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

Zoey checks dexterity and performance at normal. Zoey is successful.

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

Jaenelle checks dexterity and performance at easy. Jaenelle is successful.

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

Jaenelle checks dexterity and performance at normal. Jaenelle is successful.

Ilmia tries a flanking maneuver, but gets smacked and falls when she glances at her partner

Caspian has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

As is somewhat typical in physical contests Kiera does ok but falls short of mark. While her pillows do indeed connect with her oponnents they lack the strength to feel either while her own feet give underneath as she marvels at zoeys whack

1 Bisland pride guards, Rizoel arrive, following Gabriel.

There is a very good chance Jaenelle has never actually hit anyone with a pillow, and so armed with one she moves towards the fort. She grins towards Zoey before looking towards Ilmia and Kiera, preparing herself for the eventual hit. "Lady Keely, tell my husband that he should have died first if things go wrong." She is rather dramatic. There is a slight wince when the pillows make contact, but thankfully she remains standing. Then there is a deep breath, her feet wiggle slightly to find purchase, and her arms swing back for leverage as she twists and feels the pillow make contact with someone, her eyes are closed, she has no idea whos face she may have broken.

Zoey starts strong, a swing of the pillow with a mighty THWAP against her target opponent. A second hit lands, but upon seeing Ilmia's attempt at a flanking maneuver she puts herself between her and Jaenelle. She falls to the ground dramatically as she takes that hit, and manages to take Ilmia down with her.

Once Jaenelle is out of range, Keely bends to grab a throw pillow and give credence to its name. She hucks it in Noah's direction, then quickly turns to watch the match. There are light winces and giggles as Kiera and Ilmia are knocked to the ground, and in the end she lifts a gentle round of applause.

"Archduchess Jaenelle and Lady Zoey are victorious! This concludes the first round. Well pillowed, everyone! Please take a break, and then Princess Terese and Lady Thesbe shall face Highlords Liara and Alis!"

A break commences, and then the teams are called up to the Pillow Fort of Glory.

Zoey has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Zoey has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Ilmia has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Ilmia has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Kiera has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Kiera has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Terese has left the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Terese has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Liara has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Liara has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Jaenelle has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Jaenelle has joined the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Terese has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Terese has joined the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

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

Alis has left the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Alis has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

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

Terese has left the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Terese has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

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

Noah has joined the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

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

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

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

Zoey returns to the carpet of pillows, laughing and rubbing her arm where the pillow hit her. "Well done, Your Grace!" she tells Jaenelle.

Thesbe has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Thesbe has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Lisebet cheers loudly as steams go up this time. I mean, Valardin/Grayson high lords? How can she not cheer!

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

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

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

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

Thesbe checks dexterity and dodge at normal. Thesbe marginally fails.

Thesbe checks dexterity and dodge at hard. Thesbe fails.

Akamos cheers on Terese. "Yeah hit'm!" He calls with a little grin.

"And thank you too, Lady Zoey for being my hero and throwing yourself in the way of certain doom. There should be a metal of honor for this occassion. I will figure it out," Jaenelle says with a grin as she settles back on the couch.

(OOC)The scene set/room mood is now set to: The battle has commenced! The first round shall take place in the following order:

Terese/Thesbe vs. Alis/Liara
Akamos/Lisebet vs. Zoey/Jaenelle

Check (dexterity, stamina, or wits) AND (athletics, dodge, or performance) THREE TIMES: at easy, medium, and hard.

One pose per person/round, losing team first.

Critical success: 3
Success: 2
Marginal success: 1
Marginal fail: -1
Fail: -2
Botch: -3

From where she sits on the sidelines, Medeia cheers for Zoey and Jaenelle in as polite a way as one might cheer. She's certainly not picking favorites.

Walking pass the manor, Gabriel is lured into it by one of the door-greeters. He is taken into the heart of the place where he's met with a pillow fight championship, and then left to his whims. He approaches the chest with the party favors, watching the fighters take and give beatings to each other. Grabbing one of the plushies, he looks around for familiar faces.

Gabriel grabs a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Thesbe was feeling somewhat good going into the next round. She might've been a little more gentle, at least absentmindedly, especially going after the High Ladies. A few smacks were landed until she got bombarded with several others from Liaran and Alis, she laughed of course. Thankfully it was pillows. Then down she goes slipping on one of the pillows of the fort. "You can do it Terese." she yells out for her team mate to keep going.

Terese though her technic is flawless and epic it is no match for both Alis and Liara whom gang up on her after Thesbe is taken down. She falls on the floor of the fort chuckling. "Good fight," she says, not a sore loser. She picks herself up to offer a bow before returing to the couch she was sitting at

Terese has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Terese has joined the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Alis looks like she's taking this far too seriously, ambling towards the pillow fort with a determined expression... while wearing giant shield fuzzy slippers. That, of course, is when the stern face ends and the mischievous grin begins. Armed with a giant fluffy pillow, Alis is a whirling pillow dervish, whapping indiscriminately at Terese and Thesbe. When they are victorious, and the last two standing, she turns the serious face on again to give Liara a high-five. "Victory!"

Caspian has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Equipped with some very soft and fluffy pyjamas, Liara proceeds to the pillow fort. She stops to contemplate some perhaps familiar part of it on the way there, and then heads on in to try to drive some people with it using a pillow. Quite possibly her own pillow. She laughs as she goes in, getting gently bludgeoned a couple of times with someone else's pillow, even if she does mostly manage to duck out of the way, but ultimately prevailing, along with Alis.

Thesbe has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Thesbe has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Keely seems extra invested in this round, and she beams with unabashed pride as she watches Liara and Alis whack their opponents to the ground.

"The Highlords win! Princess Terese, Lady Thesbe, please stand by to compete with the final losing team for third place. Highlords, you shall move on to the final round!" Keely pauses for applause, adding to it with her own hands before calling out, "Mister Akamos and Duchess Lisebet, please come and face Lady Zoey and Archduchess Jaenelle!"

Zoey has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Zoey has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Jaenelle has left the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Jaenelle has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Alis has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Alis has joined the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

With her pillow in hand, the one she had from last round, Lisebet gets to her feet, bare as they are, and makes her way across the bouncy pillow floor to the fort. "Sir Gabriel," she calls, recognizing the man of course. "Grab some cute cookies and cheer on the combatants!"

Lisebet has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Lisebet has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Liara has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Liara has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Lisebet checks wits and performance at easy. Lisebet is successful.

Lisebet checks wits and performance at normal. Lisebet is successful.

Lisebet checks wits and performance at hard. Lisebet is successful.

Akamos checks dexterity and dodge at easy. Akamos marginally fails.

Akamos checks dexterity and dodge at normal. Botch! Akamos fails badly.

Akamos checks dexterity and dodge at hard. Akamos marginally fails.

Zoey checks dexterity and performance at easy. Zoey is successful.

Zoey checks dexterity and performance at normal. Zoey is successful.

Zoey checks dexterity and performance at hard. Zoey fails.

Jaenelle checks dexterity and performance at easy. Jaenelle is successful.

Jaenelle checks dexterity and performance at normal. Jaenelle is successful.

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

(OOC)The scene set/room mood is now set to: The battle has commenced! The final round shall take place in the following order:

Terese/Thesbe vs. Akamos/Lisebet (Battle for third place)
Alis/Liara vs. Zoey/Jaenelle

Check (dexterity, stamina, or wits) AND (athletics, dodge, or performance) THREE TIMES: at easy, medium, and hard.

One pose per person/round, losing team first.

Critical success: 3
Success: 2
Marginal success: 1
Marginal fail: -1
Fail: -2
Botch: -3

Lisebet goes in with a will, swinging her pillow front and center, as hard as she can. Which isn't very hard. She's surprised by a sudden pillow to the hip, just as she's leaning a bit the wrong way, and she ends up toppling over onto the soft pillow floor in a very dramatic fashion. It's a moment where she automatically checks her ankles, but they look perfectly normal. There's a brief smile, and then she calls, "Well fought," in between laughter. She rolls to her feet, and moves out of the fort.

Thesbe has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Thesbe has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Terese has left the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Terese has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Terese has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Terese has joined the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Terese has left the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Terese has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Zoey comes out swinging one more, getting right into the mix of it instead of staying at range like the archer was accustomed to. She got two good swings in, but paid for her enthusiasm with a Lisebet's pillow to her face. She stumbles as she laughs.

Jaenelle dips her head towards Gabriel when she stands and moves off to battle, greeting her uncle who isnt her uncle anymore. "I should have come better prepared for this," she tells Zoey, "but I was not expecting to participate. I should have known better," she gives Keely an accusing look. She lifts her pillow up once more, wiggling her shoulders. "I am one with the pillow," she says evenly. "There are many like it but this one is mine." There are so many because Keely is a pillow stealer. Then she swings again, making contact, this one softer, then again, a little harder, until someone takes a dive onto the floor below. When it becomes evident they've won again, she turns to look at Noah, "who needs a dagger?"

Zoey has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Zoey has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Zoey checks composure at normal. Zoey is successful.

Keely offers Jaenelle her warmest and sweetest smile. "We are all honored by your surprise participation," she calls back with a small flutter of her lengthy eyelashes.

She watches the battle, raising her hands in applause and voice to call out once the losing team has been defeated. "Archduchess Jaenelle and Lady Zoey shall face the Highlords in the next round!" Keely calls to the room after cheering along with the crowd. "Mister Akamos, Duchess Lisebet, please stay where you are. Lady Thesbe and Princess Terese, please come to the Pillow Fort of Glory to battle for third place!"

Zoey spots Gabriel when Jaenelle draws her attention to him. Her eyes sparkle a bit when she seems him, but she contents herself for now with a dip of her head before returning to her seat.

Zoey has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Zoey has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Gabriel meets Jaenelle's greeting the same way, with a subtle dip of his head. He watches her move to the ring to fight, catching her and Zoey in his judgemental glance. He leans towards his assistant and whispers to them, getting a nod of agreement as a reply.

Jaenelle has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Jaenelle has joined the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

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

Thesbe checks dexterity and dodge at normal. Botch! Thesbe fails completely.

Zoey has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Octavian, a silken spaniel have been dismissed.

Ruslana Stormshead, an aide in Kennex livery have been dismissed.

3 Kennex corsairs have been dismissed.

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

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

Zoey has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Terese checks dexterity and dodge at normal. Terese marginally fails.

Akamos goes up, swings a pillow and trips over another one, then he's just trying to recover as he's bapped by pillows from his foes! What an unglorious showing for the big mountain warrior..

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

Lisebet checks wits and performance at easy. Lisebet is successful.

Lisebet checks wits and performance at normal. Lisebet is successful.

Lisebet checks wits and performance at hard. Lisebet is successful.

Noah lounges on the couch as he watches this pillow combat. His left brow arches for a moment as he rolls a coin over the back of his knuckles. When Jae asks who needs daggers, he just looks at her. LOOKS AT HER. "Smart people who know where the pointy end is at." His deep voice answers as he watches her move. "You should stick to pillows though." His eyes slide over to see how Thesbe is fairing.

"Stay here," Lisebet says, looking at Keely. "you mean I have to do this again?" There's mock horror on her face with that comment. "Very well, one more time."

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

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

Akamos checks dexterity and dodge at hard. Akamos marginally fails.

Thesbe wasn't fairing so well after her and Terese's first round of victory. Her honeyed blonde hair kept getting swept in her face and as she was trying to brush it away she got smacked till she was down, laughing all the way as she hit the pillows. "That was fun!" She exclaimed. Not caring if she won, but she had alot of fun anyways.

Drake applauds from the couches as the brackets flip. He's got himself a warm cider now, so he's staying put while he drinks it to enjoy the show.

Terese seems to focus her attacks at Akamos, trying to take the big mountain man down but she missjudges her step and slips on a pillow, landing on the cushy floor of the fort. "Okay, Okay I yeild," she says chuckling trying to defend blows. She stands when she can. "Good job," she states, grining widely then going back to her seat again

Terese has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Terese has joined the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Thesbe has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Thesbe has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Lisebet sticks where she is, with a smile over at Akamos. "Think you can handle one more round?" she teases the big guy. From the petite duchess it's perhaps amusing. As their next fight starts, she goes all in, her pillow thwacking at whoever is in front of her. She even tries to get a bit to the side in an attempt to knock her opponent down. And then as her opponent falls, she exclaims, "Oh well fought!" She'll even help the other Lady up, if allowed. "This is a lot of fun!" She ends up still standing, bouncing on the balls of her feet a bit, and glances around. "Oh. I guess I should go sit down now."

Akamos is defending himself very well from the incoming blows this time and smacking Terese just as hard as he's smacked himself. he falters at the end but Lisebet rescues him and they come out on top. The big man is laughing gruffly. "Good fight!" He says with a cheerful grin and then casts his grin to Lisebet and upnods to her. "Good fight, we should do it agian some time." He says and reaches out to fistbump the Duchess.

Keely has perched on the arm of the couch she had been standing on in order to quickly avail of some potato wedges and cheesy fondue, her dark eyes frequently rising toward the pillow fort as the teams battle for third place. She lifts a hand here and there, cheering behind it while blocking the sight of any lingering morsels from view.

"Duchess Lisebet and Mister Akamos win third place! Please come see me for your prizes," she calls once the battle is won, after the cheering and applause has died down. "Lady Zoey, Archduchess Jaenelle, Highlord Liara, and Highlord Alis, please make your way to the Pillow Fort of Glory. This round shall decide the victors!" She passes her plate off to a passing servant, lifting her hands to adjust the hood of her badger pajamas and then, from a pocket, she retrieves a pair of vouchers for a set of semiprecious jewelry for each of the third place winners.

Alis has left the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Alis has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Zoey has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Zoey has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Liara has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Liara has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Lisebet has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Lisebet has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Jaenelle has left the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Jaenelle has joined the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Keely is overheard praising Akamos.

Keely is overheard praising Lisebet.

Fistbump! Lisebet reaches her fist to bump against Akamos, with a nod and a smile.

Noah shouts from nearby, "Don't lose, Poison. You got this."

Zoey looks at Jaenelle with a raised eyebrow. "Is that really his nickname for you, Your Grace?"

Lisebet pauses and stares at Noah.

"Ooh, a battle of graces," Medeia murmurs. She settles back comfortably to watch, once again choosing to favor Zoey and Jaenelle - she has to show support for the Isles and Lyceum, right?

Akamos grins at Keely accepting his prize. "Thanks." He tells her cheerfully, and then returns to the couch to sit beside Terese. "That was a good fight." He says warmly.

Kiera just stares at noah with a small quirk to her lips

Lisebet recalls herself and heads over to Keely to accept her prize with a smile. "Thank you," she says softly. "This was unexpected fun."

"Yes," Jaenelle answers easily enough, not even looking towards Noah, though there is a hint of a smile anyway. She is trying to look fierce, she cant smile! She finds her lucky pillow again, and prepares again. She squints towards Liara and Alis after, look at her prepare.

Zoey checks dexterity and performance at easy. Zoey is spectacularly successful.

Zoey checks dexterity and performance at normal. Zoey is successful.

Zoey checks dexterity and performance at hard. Zoey fails.

Jaenelle checks dexterity and performance at easy. Jaenelle is successful.

Jaenelle checks dexterity and performance at normal. Jaenelle is successful.

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

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

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

Alis checks dexterity and dodge at hard. Critical Success! Alis is spectacularly successful.

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

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

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

"Your Graces," Zoey addresses her final opponents with a respectful dip of her head to go with her warm smile. An attempt at a curtsey is made in her bathrobe, but lacks the sort of elegance that a proper gown would provide. No matter. She takes up her pillow and charges into the fray, targeting Alis. She gets a couple of solid hits in, then when winding up for a third swing finds herself knocked into one of the multicolored plush walls of the pillow fort.

Zoey is overheard praising Jaenelle: A sister in down-filled arms, at my side until the bitter, fluffy end!

Perhaps it is because Noah told her she could do it, and because she is so very stubborn, Jaenelle simply has to prove him wrong. She manages to hit Liara each time she swings, but suddenly at the very end she drops her pillow, mouths to Zoey 'im sorry', and tells the Grayson High Lord as she squeezes her eyes shut, "I've changed my mind. You can have Noah back now." Then she just waits.

Alis gestures at her own eyes, and then at Jaenelle. She's watchin' you, Archduchess. This may be a substitute for her daily training regimen though (what?? she's gotta train every day okay), because she is way too into the technique of drop, roll, then get up and surprise whap your opponent with a pillow. "Worthy opponents, thank you for the excellent showing." she replies in the end to Zoey and Jaenelle, though she is also biting back a laugh at the attempt to give Noah back to the Graysons.

Abandoning a plate of cookies back where she had been settled in to watch, Liara crosses over to the pillow fort on slippered feet to join Alis. The pillow that she's furnished with is particularly soft, and she hugs it to herself, chin buried into the top of it as she waits for the starting signal, a smile offered over to Zoey and Jaenelle. Then she's a flurry of fluffy pyjama-clad motion, and gets batted a few times, before Jaenelle's words prompt some abrupt and resoundingly amused laughter from Liara, and she hefts up her pillow to give Jaenelle a gentle tap on the head with it.

Keely has risen back to her feet upon the couch she has been using for better vantage, her gaze intent on the intense battle at hand. Her eyes grow wide as the four fearsome foes fwap feather pillows into one other's fabulous faces. When Liara (gently) takes out Jaenelle after the Archduchess makes her stubborn sacrifice, she jumps up and down, cheering and pumping her fists over her head, which causes the tail on her pajamas to flip about.

"Hooo!" she cheers, probably because Liara won and not because her favorite cousin has been offered back to the House. "The Highlords win!" It takes some time for the applause and cheering to settled down (and for Keely to catch her breath from her own cheering), at which point the princess calls out to the competitors, "Your graces, my lady, please come forth to retrieve your well-earned prizes. Everyone else, you are now free to explore the pillow fort, do freeform pillow fighting, drink, snack, and socialize as you like! Thank you all for coming to witness this epic and historic contest."

She then retrieves even more vouchers from her pockets-- a precious jewelry set for the second place winners, and a luxury set for the victors.

Medeia has left the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Klavdiya, who is definitely a handmaiden and not a reaver have been dismissed.

Fluffy, a wild nanny-cat have been dismissed.

2 Eswynd shieldbearers have been dismissed.

Loryk, a cocky but amiable reaver have been dismissed.

Butterpup, a Graypeak Mountain Dog have been dismissed.

Virgil - an agile wildcat kitten have been dismissed.

Noah is continuing to lounge on that couch as his wife LOSES, but Grayson for the win. Thus, Noah figures he wins regardless. "She's right. She wants to give me back because I keep threatening to get rid of her stuff. Our daughter comes with me though." He says this so deadpan, as if this is another day and they are talking about the weather not the end of his 'loving' marriage. "I think the contract said we weren't supposed to divorce." He pauses for a moment and looks Jaenelle over slowly. "You are getting older." Secret fact, Jae is older than Noah. He smirks behind his drink, because he ALWAYS has a drinkk.

Caspian raises his hands to his lips and whistles loudly, "Well done! Pillowy Victory is well deserved and well earned! he claps his hands, face in a broad grin as he stood in his 'tunic', looking to the others. "Never thought a pillow fight would be such steep competition!"

Gabriel looks at Virgil, watching the wildcat for a moment.

Zoey accepts her prize with a smile, dip of her head, and a quiet 'thank you' to the hostess before turning to return to her seat. She stops and smiles to Jaenelle. "A pleasure working with you, as always."

Lisebet manages to keep her composure but it's a tough call. Noah and Jaenelle are very entertaining. "Such fun indeed. Princess Keely, thank you for such a fun idea!" The petite duchess flashes a smile, and then returns to settle into her seat.

"Your Grace. I believe we've proven we're not to be underestimated." Alis quips, offering the Grayson Highlord an impish smile. "Not even with pillows. And thank you, Princess Keely. You certainly know how to arrange an enjoyable contest."

Kiera is overheard praising Keely.

Drake is overheard praising Keely.

Lisebet is overheard praising Keely.

Zoey is overheard praising Keely.

Udell is overheard praising Keely: An awesome display of downy daring-do!

Terese stands and claps for the victors. "Glorious job all," she says warmly. She sits back down to see who will stay to socialize

Terese is overheard praising Keely.

Alis is overheard praising Keely: The fluffiest, fuzziest battle ever. Well done!

Klavdiya, who is definitely a handmaiden and not a reaver, Fluffy, a wild nanny-cat, 2 Eswynd shieldbearers, Loryk, a cocky but amiable reaver, Butterpup, a Graypeak Mountain Dog, Virgil - an agile wildcat kitten leave, following Medeia.

Keely beams at the thanks and praise, her cheeks quite rosy from that and the excitement (and probably the champagne punch.) "Thank -you-," she emphasizes to each of the participants, her eyes just as bright as her smile. "Don't forget your badger if you haven't got one already!"

Drake is overheard praising Liara.

Drake is overheard praising Alis.

Udell has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Alis has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Sir Rhys, a Valardin Knight, Laurene, a military adjutant leave, following Alis.

Jaenelle dips her head towards her partner in pillows, "as always Lady Zoey, you have proven your strength and dedication to a worthy cause, and I appreciate your abilities." Then she offers Liara and Alis a grin, "thank you both as well." Then she turns back to Noah, "Chaos."

Returning to just hugging her pillow to herself, Liara gives a bright laugh at Alis' words, a small duck of her chin offered. "Indeed not! That was quite a change from the usual." She turns an easy smile to Jaenelle as she goes to return to her abandoned cookies, "Of course. Though one might thank Keely the most, and then perhaps inquire about the source of her pyjamas."

Liara is overheard praising Keely.

Zoey redirects and heads toward Gabriel to converse with him quietly.

Cawio, a crow with a black hat arrives, delivering a message to Terese before departing.

Lisebet is overheard praising Alis.

Lisebet is overheard praising Liara.

Gabriel watching the wildcat leave, he turns to face Zoey and watching her walk to him. He smiles softly and nods to her quiet greeting, "You got second." Gabriel says without lowering his voice.

Noah looks up at Jaenelle as she arrives back to the couch. His blue-gray eyes meet hers for a moment and then as if in a stretch, his left arm comes out to wrap around the Archduchess. He'll pull her to his lap and nuzzle his nose to her hair as his lips move. Then he sits back as if there was not just a public show of affection from him to take a drink from his glass. "What in the names of the Gods is Keely wearing?"

Caspian looks to Keely and offers a grin, moving next to her to lean and whisper softly to the princess.

Mattheu mutters, "I suppose I ... ... had ... ... ... of ..."

Zoey nods and visibly straightens, holding herself proudly as she looks the former Duke in the eye. "We did, yes. The other competitors made an excellent showing, and in the end I believe the best team won, but we did not make it easy for them."

Keely flashes a grin Liara's way as she hops up from her perch and begins making her way across the cushion-carpeted floor. "Keely is wearing pajamas that make her look like a badger, Noah," she remarks as she wanders the short distance to the couch Noah shares with Jaenelle and settles onto a cushion on the floor nearby, her coffee-brown eyes scanning the room and her bright smile lingering. "I see you are not bleeding today. Perhaps this can be the new trend at my events?"

"Thank you much for the invitation Princess Keely," Terese says warmly. "I think I shall call it an evening," she states, with a respectful farewell given. "Walk me home," she questions Akamos before heading to the exit. Akamos free to follow or not

Jaenelle has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Jaenelle has joined the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Zoey has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

"I have no idea, but I need some," Jaenelle tells Noah with a nod of her head as she lands on his lap and leans to hear whatever else was said. "I already have the bunny ears that Princess Gwenna gifted me, I need something to wear them with, and that is perfect. Just not in badger form." She grins as she looks at Keely when she moves closer, "he was bleeding?" She looks back at Noah, "you were bleeding?"

"Second is not first." Gabriel replies, frowning. He changes the topic and asks, "How are you?"

Lisebet finds more of the charming small cookies and nibbles on one. She also nabs a drink now that she's done with the pillow fighting. "There are a lot of pillows here, Princess Keely. Wherever did you find so many?" That question is asked honestly perfectly innocently.

Noah smirks at Jaenelle a bit. "You could just wear the ears. I won't complain." Then he looks at Keely when she sits down. He attempts to ruffle the top of the 'badger' head. "Well the person who likes to cause such things isn't here, so that helps." He then looks back to Jaenelle. "Of course not, why would I be bleeding?"

Kiera takes a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Liara has left the The Pillow Fort of Glory.

Liara has joined the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Noah takes a cuddly badger plushie wearing silk pajamas from a silk-lined chest of party favors.

Zoey checks composure at normal. Zoey is successful.

Mattheu rolls out of the pillow nest that has held him captive for a bit, the few bells within his hair sing out as he finally finds his way to his feet and with a small hop grins to the party at large. Then pads over towards Keely, "A lovely event Princess Keely!" He nods to Noah and Jaenelle.

Akamos speaks to Terese for a moment at the couch before he stands up, and makes his way closer to Keely. "Thanks Keely, this was a lot of fun." He offers with a smile before making his way toward the exit.

"You caused your own bleeding when you were doing the tree dance," Keely reminds Noah helpfully, leaning into his ruffling a little as she crosses her ankles primly and sweeps her legs to one side, her poised posture and demeanor a stark contrast to her outfit. "Miss Artiglio helped me with these, Your Grace," she then informs Jaenelle with a warm smile. "I am sure she could help with bunny ones. I recommend cashmere, it is wildly cozy." She then peers up at her cousin with a tilt of her head. "Did you dislike the present I sent you?"

Mattheu's approach summons another bright smile to the princess' young face, and she lifts a pale hand to wiggle her fingers his way. "Thank you, Lord Mattheu," she chirps cheerfully. "I hope you enjoyed yourself and did not get any feathers up your nose."

Thesbe eventually having made way back to the party from the outside to deal with something, she shakes off the snow from her seatouched wool robe, smiling and then looked around.

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

Thesbe has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Terese has left the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Akamos has left the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Hermeline, a russet vixen, 2 Valardin Knights, Akamos leave, following Terese.

Zoey's smile stays firmly in place, much as though it were plastered on. "I have been well," she answers Gabriel. "I have been seeing to the affairs Stormward and my house. It keeps my busy. You understand how that is."

"No feathers up my nose, simply a loss of booties, then much to drink and interesting conversation while a nest was made to capture me within." Mattheu wiggles his toes, sans rabbit booties nodding towards them being held by Thesbe. "The victor to our first fight was awarded them." He laughs before taking another drink.

Thesbe blinks a few times, blue eye gaze catching glimpse of Mattheu nodding towards her. She grinned and waved his booties from her position before walking over. "Hello." she offered a polite bow to Keely.

Gabriel nods slowly, "That is good to hear and your family?" The King's Guard asks, maybe small talk that while natural between them, it wasn't something he was regularly seen doing.

Linx, a beautiful Persian cat with a green collared bow, 2 Seryn veteran guards leave, following Thesbe.

Jaenelle smiles brightly towards Mattheu when he approaches, "I am positive that if you tried harder, you could have made certain some of the feathers found their way upward." Then she turns towards Keely and lowers her voice slightly before straightening up once more to inform her husband, "I won that one at least. I am a great tree."

Linx, a beautiful Persian cat with a green collared bow, 2 Seryn veteran guards arrive, following Thesbe.

"Thriving," Zoey replies, a note of pride in her voice. "Five children now, myself, and the duchy is the most prosperous is has ever been." Her aide, who had been lingering out of sight, signals her. "We should catch up over tea soon," she tells Gabriel. "For now, it seems responsibility calls."

Lord Rufio has been playing all on the carpet of pillows and just snacking it up. He's even been dancing around with that Badger Plushie of greatness! Which, of course, he tosses to Bangarang as he gets up to his feet. "Next time, I'm coming for the Pillow Throne!" And with that, Rufio prances his way on out. No hyperbole, a straight up actual prance. Bangarang does the same.

Rufio has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Bangarang, a loud-mouthed rooster leaves, following Rufio.

Gabriel nods, a slow signature gesture of his and he replies, "We should." He follows her gaze to her aid and back to her, shifting slightly to the side.

"My lady," Keely smiles warmly aside to Thesbe at her greeting. "You are quite deft with a pillow, it must be said." She plucks a stray bit of down from her pajamas, lifting her focus back to Mattheu. "Well, if you are meant to be captured in a nest, far be it from me to aid in your escape," she murmurs up to him, with another glance toward Thesbe. "I will pester you for protege things at another time."

When Jaenelle leans to murmur to her, she looks up in some surprise at whatever it is she has said, nodding slightly as her young face takes on a lovely shade of pink. Her eyes flit to Noah shortly after, and she clears her throat quietly, gathering a velvety pillow from nearby to hug.

Noah watches the people as they mill around the area. Keely is given a blank look and then he nods. "Yes! Sorry, I was going to message back." And then he got high. He looks up at Mattheu and offers his trademark smirk. "It's good to see you again. How did you fare? My wife lost." That's all that he says. He leans back and then utters another comment to Jaenelle.

Caspian moves to join Thesbe and Mattheu, offering a bow to the small gathering. he looks to Mattheu and offers a grin "Well there is still time for lady Thesbe to land a surprise strike! dont give any idea now" he smiled warmly to others, then looked to Keely, "This was a marvelous idea and truly splendid fun! Thank you so much Princess!"

Zoey nods to her uncle and excuses herself before departing.

Mattheu grins back to Noah, "I was knocked out cleanly by Lady Thesbe in the first round, and she /stole/ my feet." His smile curls to a smirk as he looks to Thesbe, then bowing to Keely. "I have escaped the nest of pillows, less I'm to be dragged back. What would you have of me while I am free?"

Mattheu has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Thesbe smiles sweetly, "Thank you, your highness. I have my twin sister Iseulet to thank for all the practice, surely." a hand going to her mouth as she chuckles. Blue eyes shifting gaze from Keely then to Mattheu, "Oh, well I don't wish to capture him in my nest of pillows again if you need him, your highness." She then looks to Caspian as he walks up. "Your a real damage dealer too with pillows Caspian." she states before she grins, "No, no surprised attacks for tonight." she nods to Mattheu about her stealing his booties, they are hanging off the ribbon sash along her robe as a victory prize.

Keely's focus strays aside after a time, a small and playful grin curving her lips when she spies Liara. She shifts the velvet pillow she is holding and sends it sailing in her sister's direction before turning to look back up at Jaenelle and Noah to obfuscate her criminality. "Oh, Lord Mattheu, I would have you enjoy yourself," she informs her protege after his question, the bridge of her nose taking on a gentle scrunch.

"Uncle Gabriel," Jaenelle calls after the man when Zoey frees him. He must have a lot of nieces. "I hope the King's Own is treating you well since your joining, we have not had the pleasure of speaking since you took your oaths." She turns towards her husband to make the introductions, "Prince Noah, this is my uncle, Sir Gabriel Bisland. He is Duke Michael's father." Then she notes Keely's blush at whatever was shared between the two and she clicks her tongue in amusement.

"I'm /sure/ Thesbe would not steal. Are you certain you did not ask her to take you feet?" Noah offers towards Mattheu. There is a chance that he might not hate the man. Then he stares at Jaenelle. "Did you just introduce Gabriel to a Grayson? The once Regent?" He sort of stares at her before he looks between Keely and Jaenelle. There is another low comment to his wife.

Gabriel looks to Jaenelle and gestures for her and Noah to come to him, "Come speak to me your highness, we aint out in the field." He remark, turning to those leaving with a short but polite nod.

Thesbe turns on her heels hearing Noah's voice. "Oh patron!" she smiles sweetly, "I won his rabbit booties through victory of course. A good whack to the face with pillow and he was down. He put up a good fight though." a wink towards Mattheu before looking back to Noah, "Oh! Did you receive the gift I sent you? I hope you liked it."

Drake gets up and walks over toward the hostess now that the heavy lifting of the tournament is over. He's had a few warm ciders by now, but not so much that he's wobbling. Just cheerful. "It was a good contest," he says to Keely. "Pity I was a bit late to join the fun but it's always nice to see the Champions get some action in any form."

Lisebet listens to the conversation comfortably, her gaze going to Noah and to Gabriel as the conversation continues through. She shakes her head a little wryly, and then she gets to her feet, offering a lovely and polite curtsey. "Princess Keely, it's been a pleasure. Thank you for such an enjoyable event. Alas, it's time for me to take my leave. I do hope you all have fun! Master Akamos, you're a wonderful partner. Everyone who played, well fought." She might have one of those comfy pillows still in hand as she heads for the door. But she pauses to toss it back to the floor as she takes her leave.

Eating cookies, Liara is hit by a rogue pillow, courtesy of Keely, which prompts her to shed a few cookie crumbs from her plate as it's tilted over somewhat, and then she laughs, looking for the source of it, before returning her attention to the people sat on the various pillows strewn around the floor.

Caspian looked to Thesbe and Mattheu with a smile, " Oh? had a small wager on the outcome?" his eyes sparkle with delight at the notion. As people begin to take their leave, he steps back so as to not intrude.

3 Armed Confessors arrives, following Insaya.

"I shall find means to enjoy myself then." Mattheu smiles warmly to Keely as he then looks back to Noah, about to answer though Thesbe answers for him. Left to point at her, "As Thesbe has put it, they were a reward for failing to dodge her properly, and instead of eating feathers again. It's all in good fun..." His attention is lost for a moment as he swipes a few cookies from a passing tray, immediately handing one to Keely, then to Thesbe as he turns to Caspian with a third tucked to his lips, "In a means it was a wager."

"You have been married to me for two years and you still have trouble remembering Lycene houses and who leads them, I dont know what it is you do or do not know," Jaenelle tells Noah as she stands to move towards Gabriel to great him properly, leaving Noah behind for the moment. When the Lord Sistermander of the King's Own gets close enough so her voice doesn't rise, "I find that the pastries in the tower mean that you have to run up and down the stairs at least a few more times a day."

Lisebet has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

"Thank you for coming, my lady," Keely murmurs warmly to Lisebet after making some brief but intense eye contact with Jaenelle. "You fought valiantly, and it was an honor to watch."

Drake's approach is next to summon the dark gaze of the princess, and she lifts a welcoming smile his way and makes a gesture toward the many open pillows nearby for sitting. "There will certainly be other opportunities, my lord," she assures him in soft tones, accepting a cookie from Mattheu as she speaks. "I do not believe we have met? I am Princess Keely Grayson. This is Archduchess Jaenelle Velenosa--" but Jaenelle is walking away, so she continues, "And my cousin, Archduke-consort Noah Velenosa. My protege Lord Mattheu Rivenshari. His friend, Lady Thesbe. Mister Caspian Wild the Champion." She gestures to each person in turn.

As soon as Jaenelle approaches and arrives before him, he bows politely. Looking over her shoulders to Noah, who he regards briefly, trying to pin point him, "Matilda's." Gabriel says softly, bowing politely to the man from afar. His attention turning back to Jaenelle, "How are you?" The King's Own asks.

"Ah, I'm familiar with most," Drake says, then gives the princess a bow. "But if you aren't familiar with me, I'm Count Drake from Wyvernheart." A slight tilt of his head, and a little more casualy. "Kiera's brother." He gives Mattheu a little look after that, but then returns his eyes to Keely.

Noah nods towards Thesbe. "Of course, I--" He lowers his brows a bit as he takes in the outfit and the hair bells. The hair bells cause him to look at Mattheu a moment. Then he offers, "A good wager." He nods towards Gabriel, but he doesn't get up. Jaenelle may have broken his legs. He then sort of looks around the rest of the room again.

Keely looks between Drake and Mattheu with a somewhat mystified little smile, her already-lofty eyebrows arching lightly. She subtly reaches up to place the cookie she has been handed on Noah's knee before murmuring, "A pleasure, Count Wyvernheart," and then quieting again to see what comes of that Look that was given to the Rivenshari Lord.

Ilmia nods in response to Kiera and says to Keely "Can I keep a pillow in addition to the party favor?"

Ilmia stops examining the pillow

Thesbe waves to the newer person she hadn't met either that Keely introduced them to. "Lady Thesbe Seryn," she offers a polite introduction of her own to go with the Princess'. A soft nod makes the colorful ribbon with bells along them sing out in there own soft tune. Then to Caspian, "I wasn't planning winning but hey I got a rabbit's foot. So that makes me extra lucky, right?" she chuckles.

"Count Wyvernheart." Mattheu bows in his rabbit onesie to Drake, continuing to smile as he chews on the totally not stolen cookie. A nod for Keely, "The Wyvernhearts are neighbors within our Ward. Our expanse's river runs past their tree house."

The very first thing that Insaya wants to do in the party space, because it may be a while before she can greet the hosts, is to fall over into a collection of tufty cushions. WHOOMPF is the noise that air makes as it escapes from lots and lots of eider-fluff. Her strawberry toned curls, tied up in a hella lot of rag-knots to make it curl later, and there is a greenish mud drying over her face, and her house-coat is just a sortof worn robe. And once she is down there in her sea of pouf, with the tiny bits of down floating around her location, she makes a pillow-seraph. You can dress a senior inquisitor for bed, but you just can't take them anywhere fancy.

Caspian nods to Thesbe, "im fairly sure that only works if you rub it, but either way its bound to bring good fortune" he chuckled, then looked to Drake, "I dont think we have had the pleasure, so its good to put a face to the name." he offered the man a bow, "Always a pleasure to meet another champion."

Keely glances aside to Ilmia with a slightly apologetic smile. "I wish I could say yes, my lady, but I do not entirely know to whom all the pillows belong and we might end up with one of my cousins beating down my door to abscond with mine." Then she pauses, glancing around and plucking up a small, silver and ivory silk throw pillow from nearby to toss lightly in the woman's direction. "Here, this one is from my chambers, I am fairly confident." Then her eyes turn aside to Insaya, and she watches the woman's antics with a growing grin, head tipping to one side.

"Well," Jaenelle answers easily enough as she hears Keely introduce her to Drake, and turns to smile at the man she is familiar with before turning back to Gabriel. "And yourself? Have you found your new duties to the King satisfactory?" She takes a moment to watch Insaya, "good form."

Thesbe quietly stands looking between everyone around, noticing the few glances given to particular people. However, she is distracted by Caspian. "Fairly certain it's good luck." she chuckles, "Oh.. Have you spoke with Lady Olivia at all today? I've been wondering how she's faring after me... Well having to help clean her wound." Thesbe shudders a little at the thought.

Liara looks up at Insaya's arrival from where she sits somewhere amid the many, many cushions with a burst of easy laughter. She doesn't offer any greeting of her own, though - there's important pillow-seraph-making going on - and instead goes back to listening to others chatting nearby, and finishes off the last of a tiny cookie.

Drake nods to Mattheu again, then looks at Caspian. "Ah, for certain. It's been a while since I've been in the arena. Sometimes I get a little disappointed when the peerage is able to resolve their disputes peacefully." He laughs. "But we'll have the next Champions bout be a pillow fight, eh? Or maybe we can get a spar in when the weather clears."

Noah takes the cookie on his knee. He eats it without an ounce of guilt. It seems he's just fallen a bit quiet with those gathered, but he is people watching.

"Well sounds a lot like second place. Not good enough." Gabriel speaks, following her short attention to Keely and Drake. He regards them silently, shifting back to Jaenelle, "My new duties are pretty much the same as the old ones." His voice rings a bit monotone, like something else took place in his brain to allow him to fully focus on the event, "But tell me what well means."

Mattheu makes quick work of the cookie, then leans over to share a quiet word with Thesbe. Nodding to Keely after, "If the only requirement is to enjoy myself, would there be a dance that I could steal you for?"

Caspian heard the whoompf of insaya's collapse into the pillows and looked. his face broke into a broad grin, his head shakeing slightly. he looked back to Thesbe then, "no.. no i havent spoken with her. her wounds werent so severe from the excursion, but there was something wholly unnatural about it. im glad she saw them tended to." he looked to Drake and nododed, "Yes on both counts my lord! i am always happy to spar, simply send a note when you wish!" he grinned then, "Could you imagine Aleksei wielding a pillow? some how he would still be deadly." he glanced to insaya again and then beckoned her over with a broad smile

Thesbe cants her head and leans in to share upon the quiet word given to her. She smiles and wrinkles her nose towards Mattheu before finally nibbling at the cookie he had given her. When Caspian replies back she nods, "Ah ok. She's probably resting then. It was definitely unnatural. My sewing skills came into use. She was patched up and good to go after. Just didn't know if she hobbled out of bed so soon. I should probably go see her sometime." she says softly, a thoughtful expression.

Kiera rises from the couch to join the others round keely

"Me?" Keely wonders of Mattheu after he pulls her attention from Insaya, a curious smile on her young features. "I am afraid I must pass this once, my lord, I am presently basking in my cousin's illustrious presence while I have the chance. Lady Thesbe looks recovered from her bouts, perhaps she would like to attempt a dance?" She isn't exactly interacting with Noah, but she is lingering near where he sits, which is apparently good enough for the princess.

"Second place is the perfect place to be," Jaenelle assures Gabriel, her eyes lifting to meet his without hesitation. "If you fall to third, that means you have to work twice as hard to be first, but never quite making it. Working towards a goal is fine, of course, but can be discouraging should you not achieve what you wished for. First place is the end, there is no further to go and you find yourself showing your cards too soon. First place puts a target on your back, one that causes you to constantly look over your shoulder. Second place," and here Jaenelle smiles softly, "gives third place the freedom to hope they could have done just a little better without dashing such hope, and presents a picture to first that you could have done better if you wished to and to anticipate such in the future. It causes people to underestimate you, which is something that could be used as an advantage." Then after that, "well is a continued effort to remain so without losing sight on goals. Well is not resting on accomplishments but still enjoying the moments."

Drake has left the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Insaya doesn't have cucumber slices to drape over her eyes. Mistakes were made. It is possible she ate them, or that she simply bumped into too many things in the halls. Still, she is perfectly chill as she backstrokes through the bolsters, and on her progress through the sea of soft pauses to construct and crawl through a pillow fort as diligently as a soldier in the trench. If only trenches were like this. She salutes the resplendent Jaenelle, and slithers along past Liara. People are beckoning. She knows people. Possibly she knows too much about people, but not tonight. There have to be cucumber slices somewhere in here... At one point on the trek, she stops moving for a suspiciously long time. Snr-snort! "Five more minnnnutes," she mumbles, but continues the crawl. "This is what the big chinwag in the Assembly hall should be like. Everything would be better if it were softer."

"Sounds good," Drake says to Caspian. "I know you're the best so I look forward to it," he says, though there might be a hint of false humility there on his own part. He gives Kiera a nod as she approaches his side. "Glad one of us go to compete."

Noah drops his lips near Keely's ear before he nudges her with his foot. "You can go dance with the man if you want. I'm just not super social in groups. I'm to be admired, not to be interacted with. Like a painting. I'm a beautiful painting."

"Who is in charge of the next Assembly?" Keely calls over to Insaya as she climbs up onto the couch to perch beside and therefore more easily pester her cousin, and avoid his feet. "I can have all of this sent over for the occasion upon their request, though there may be some complaining from people who sleep here and want their pillows. Her gaze flits curiously from Mattheu to Drake, and then she turns to speak quite quietly with Noah, launching another pillow Liara's way in the process.

Keely has joined the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Caspian looks to Drake with a flash of incredulity in his claim, but a smile all the same. "i can assure i am HARDLY the best. Not by a long shot my lord. but i will do my best to give a good practice all the same." his gaze turns to Insaya then with a grin, "Everyone would likely be far happier to be sure. i suspect many there would actually just fall asleep." he stroked his chin then, "might make for the quickest assembly of peers in history."

Gabriel says, "You want to be first. Trust me." Gabriel says back at the end, letting her go on without interruption, "None of that matters when you are drowning in a pool of your own blood, your stomach cut open by some farmer that got lucky. Right all that matters is that we survive long enough to give our children a chance to do it right this time around." Clearing his voice he gives out a deep sigh, resting his hand on the hilt of his blade. The man completely armored up, "If I come to see you fight, you, Zoey, better come in first, your highness.""

Mattheu smirks to Noah then nods to Keely, "A fair option, Prince Noah, it is good to see you again." More of a jingling nod to Jaenelle, "And you as well Princess Jaenelle." He looks to Kiera for a longing moment, holding his smile before looking to Thesbe.

Chatting with Ilmia, Liara gets pillowed by Keely, though at least she hasn't cookies to spill this time. She reaches up to pat down some hair sent flying every which way by the pillow impact, then grabs the pillow in question and hugs it.

Drake inclines his head toward his sister for a moment as she mentions something, to which he nods. He may be about to step out for a moment, but then he notices Keely moving toward the couches, and he looks at Kiera again. "We'll speak at home, eh? Don't wait up. I won't be too much longer."

Eventually, as Thesbe is standing in the circle of people Linx, her cat, would come prancing along and rubbing along her leg. She chuckled, blue eyes looking down before going to grab him to cradle him in her arms. "Haven't been getting into trouble have you?" she murmurs to the cat before kissing his fluffy head. Catching Mattheu's smile she'd return it joyfully before just listening to those around.

"I don't know about happier. Some people are restless sleepers. But a warm cup of fermented mare's milk, some cookies... Asleep would definitely be better for some people. Cranky people get into mischief and drag the rest of us along," Insaya opines. "At LEAST send the cushions, highness! Those backless benches are murder on your tender bits," she says and illustratively pats her lower hip.

Drake has joined the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

Kiera smiles in return to Mattheu's gaze, squaring her shoulders slightly and approaches, nodding ro Thesbe "I don't believe we've met. I'm lady kiera Wyvernheart"

Mattheu appears to be caught off guard, and nods to Kiera then to Thesbe in a quickened jingling of bells. "Lady Kiera, this is Lady Thesbe of Seryn." A nod and smile to Thesbe, "Lady Kiera of Wyvernheart."

Caspian nods in agreement with insaya, moving to put his hands in his pockets until he realized he had no pockets in what he was wearing. "its true! the benches leave you either hunched over, your back dying, or sitting up straight like a board. the blood pools down in the uh.. lower regions.. and can truly make it uncomfortable." he thinks on it a moment, "unless thats the point of the benches... a subtle way to ensure those how are there truly WANT to be there and are prepared for the duress."

"Ah, here is the thing," Jaenelle is actually smiling now at Gabriel, "if for some reason a simple farmer has reached such an extreme low that they believe killing me would save them, then I deserve such because I have let my people down. I have backed them into a corner where they feel desperate enough to strike out so I do not deserve to be first. If a farmer needs to kill their High Lord because it is their last chance to survive, my children's chance is forfeit." There is a shake of her head now, "it is not luck that would cause the farmer's weapon to hit true, but his dispair." She looks over her shoulder towards the bells, "be well Lord Mattheu! I hope you keep your feet in your travels."

Thesbe offers a polite smile to Kiera, "No I don't think we have." then as Mattheu interjects to finish the remaining of introductions she chuckles. Linx is purring quietly before he mews at the jingling of bells. "Yes, Lady Thesbe Seryn, twin sister to Marquessa Iseulet Seryn." she offers a polite bow, before Linx bats at the bells jingling in Thesbe's braided hair. "I don't believe I'm familiar with Wyvernheart." she admits with a curious glance to the woman.

Drake gets another cider, since his was empty, and circles back to flop on a slightly different couch. That means Kiera is the one to explain the house, but she's well equipped to do so.

Ilmia nods at Liara. Then looking at Jaenelle, says "Speaking of farmers. What happened to the Commoners Assembly? There was one a while ago but I don't remember any more happening afterwards?"

Keely is in the midst of a quiet coversation with Noah that has her looking quite apprehensive, and therefore likely oblivious to the goings on around her. She is certainly not purposely ignoring anyone, if anyone has addressed her since this conversation began.

Noah is pretty in depth whispering conversation with poor Keely. He does manage to convince someone to give Drake a glass of something that probably has higher alcohol content than sense.

"It won't always be your farmer but do you feel you are done with this life? You have nothing to learn, nothing to give, that you give fate sovereign over your meat and bones? So sure that in your demise your house will not crumble into ash and your children murder in their sleep. It is not enough to be chivalrous. Martyrs do not save kingdoms." Gabriel begins to speak, with more words this time. He becomes silent when she greets Lord Mattheu, looking at the man, "What do you think Gloria sees when she looks at this event?" The knight asks Jaenelle.

Liara rises to her feet with a smile for Ilmia, and then goes to see herself out. "Enjoy the rest of the party!" she says as she goes, and then tosses the pillow that she had been hugging lightly towards Keely, or, at least, probably Keely, though maybe someone else has a badger onesie too.

Kiera smiles "If you've been away from Arx for a bit you would not be. We are only two years old. my brothers and I were born wyrmguard. When wyrmguard took over high hill after the tragic events, we established a new house and oversee it"

Insaya stands up, bundling herself in her tatty old robe (as close as she can get to her cozy fat-pants), and leans back a bit from Caspian and to the side, glancing at the part in question. "Some swelling, yes. Can be a bit tender." Ahem. "Clever, that, if it was intended. But never underestimate the obstinancy of a gadfly."

Drake won't interrupt a private conversation, so after noticing Noah is otherwise occupied he just sits back with the drink. He listens in at Gabriel's comment, but he's curious about Jaenelle's answer since she was the one asked.

Insaya has joined the Couch of Majestic Gryphons.

Keely is pillowed as Liara takes her fluffy revenge, and she startles a bit more than a pillow should warrant, looking away from Noah briefly to search for her assailant.

Liara has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Mattheu looks to Gabriel briefly, not recognizing the man and seeing that he's in conversation with the Archduchess he stays quiet on the matter of the glance. Looking to Kiera and Thesbe, a moment held between the two then stepping aside to grab a drink for them and himself. To come back with a juggle of glasses and two teacups hooked to his fingers. "I wasn't sure what either you would like. Tea and wine? Or one or the other?"

Noah offers a low comment towards Keely. Then he nods towards Drake and reaches around to clamp him on the shoulder. "You look far too sober. We should fix that." However, his attention moves towards Gabriel and there is a sudden tension in his form.

Thesbe says, "Ah." Thesbe nods to Kiera's explanation. "I was away from Arx on business." a quaint smile, "I'm sorry to hear of the tragedy. Hopefully it remains peaceful now and in the coming future." Crystal blue eyes shift to Mattheu as he returns juggling drinks. "Oh, I'm.. I'm good for now thanks." she'"

"Your idea of not sober jsut about poisoned me last time," Drake says back to Noah, but he's still drinking what was offered. He looks like he's at least started up, cheerful enough. "Pretty good show tonight at least. I'm glad to see you doing well. Married life still suiting you?"

Thesbe would politely decline the offer of drinks.

Ilmia has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Ilmia has joined the silver seasilk sofa of superb repose.

"I believe Tanith Grayhope is the current leader of the Commoner's Council, though I am uncertain if they have regular meetings or not," Jaenelle tells Ilmia regarding her question before Gabriel once again holds her attention with further questions, "I think I trust those who have taken an oath to protect me not to betray that trust and allow someone else's farmer with a grudge to murder me. I also know for a fact that my house will go on without me, as they had before me, as we had after Eleyna, and Niccolo, and Esera, and Carlotta, because it is what we do. We survive. We overcome. We punish." Her voice is quite even, calm, "martyrs do not save kingdoms but they can easily destroy the very foundation one sits on. All it takes is a single person with enough passion and drive and focus and desire to see something fulfilled. That is how heroes are made, that is why people are remembered. And I can assure you Gloria respect the gracious loser, that she honors those who come in last as long as they respect the battle and accepts the outcome with grace and poise. To honor Gloria is to give your all and accept that is all you have to give." Then she holds up a hand, and here her eyes lose their calm, "never speak of my children or those beneath my care in such a way again. Murdering of children should never be a talking point in polite debate."

Caspian lets out a laugh at Insaya's comment, "Speaking as one of the gadfly's i will take that as a complement. I consider my obstinacy one of my finer qualities. And goodness knows there are so few of them." he glances to the other's doing his best to track the flow of conversation as he spoke. he looked to Insaya then, "its a shame you came late! you could have represented us common folk far better then i did. Failed lord Mattheu spectacularly in the first round."

Keely murmurs a reply to Noah, but his shift in demeanor has her attention also turning to Gabriel and Jaenelle. Her expression shifts subtly and she sits up a bit on the couch, her gaze flitting to the various points at which the Grayson-liveried guards are dotted around the hall. Just checking for now.

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

Mattheu tries to rebalance the tea and wine glasses, giving it to throating the wine in one go then to cup the stems upside down in one hand while trying not to burn his fingers on the teacups. A spectacular attempt until one of the teacups starts to slip from his hold and he jumps back from the pillows in an attempt to not drop the tea onto his patron or the others sitting upon the benches. One of the teacups manages to get free of his fingers and is nearly smashed on the floor, instead caught in a precarious manner on side of his foot, the liquid still finds the floor with a splash. Bouncing around on one foot with the teacup held upon side of foot he smiles to those sitting at the bench and upon pillows, then to look to Caspian with a nod. Almost calmly, "You did well Caspian."

Insaya is overheard praising Mattheu: Good save...

Gabriel listens, nodding in agreement to some things... and shaking his head to others. He looks at her, fixing his gaze to meet her's, "You are right in some things but you are not listening to what I am saying if that is how you respond. Do you believe I wish harm upon your house and your family? Should I even be asking? Many have come before you with that naivety, only to loose it all. Our own houses among them. What I think Gloria sees is winners and losers. Those that survive and those that do not. If you believe that your death with signal peace and its transition smooth, you have not been paying attention. Remember who you are talking to, my niece. I want you to succeed. I want you to train how you fight. Honor Gloria by winning."

"Forgive me, my lord, I am all over the place this evening," Keely voices aside to Drake with an apologetic smile, which is somewhat tense as she watches the exchange taking place across the room. "Can I have anything fetched for you? There are these sandwiches with chocolate and marshmallows that are simply divine."

Kiera smiles "I'll have to be going Matti, but thank you. I apologize for my abpruptness Lady Thesbe. I simply wanted to say hello. You will have share details of seryn at a later time. I've not had much contact. Wyvernheart is a young house. Always looking for allies. I serve as House Voice. Times are turnulent. Never enough of those. Good night"

Drake listens to Jaenelle's passioned comments thoughtfully. He nods a few times. "No need to apologize to me," Drake says to Keely, all smiles. "Prince Noah after all will make sure I try to keep up with him on the drink. And I think I'm satisfied with the sweets. Spring is coming after all, no more need to bulk up." Drake sits back a bit more comfortably. "Personally, I believe a competition like this one is a fine tribute to Gloria. Not every competition is about blood drawn. As long as blood is flowing."

Noah shoves off his seat almost immediately, ignoring both Keely and Drake for the moment. He moves over towards Jaenelle and Gabriel, as his arm snakes out for Jae's waist. "Gabriel, you are in my family home. While I respect you, I ask you respect me and cease and desist your conversation. It is not appropriate and I know that you know your etiquette better than you are showing right now." There is steel to his voice and to his eyes as they meet Gabriel's. "Perhaps we can table it to another time and get a drink and mingle now?"

Kiera has left the a carpet made from every pillow and cushion that exists in Grayson mansion.

Gabriel looks to Noah, fixing his gaze on the man, "Jaenelle can handle this one."

Thesbe politely dips her head at Kiera's departure, giving a friendly wave before she catches Mattheu's save of tea-cup and she chuckles, going to grab it before it does fall to the floor.

It is at this point that Keely rises from the couch, lifting her chin slightly and leveling her dark gaze on Gabriel. Normally a rather withdrawn and timid presence, the princess lifts her voice to address the King's Own with the faintest touch of firmness. "Thank you for coming, my lord. I am sure you are eager to settle back in after your return to the capital. I wish you an excellent evening and warmth on your walk home."

Ilmia shakes her head, sighs, and softly sings a children's lullaby

Caspian leans in to insaya to whisper something, eyes darting around between those still speaking, but seemingly just listening.

Insaya may applaud the teacup's fate being averted, but she is clearly listening in a way only the Inquisition can to the exchange between the former Duke Bisland and the current Archduchess of Lenosia. She spears an arm out for a cookie. She pulls a hairin and drops it, perhaps just to test the noise level of the room...

Mattheu nods to Thesbe as she grabs the cup, "Thank you." Putting his foot down into the liquid and he is quick to lift it again, back to balancing upon one foot as he leans upon Thesbe and smiles.

Gabriel looks to Keely and nods. Raising his hand to interrupt Jaenelle, "We need to be cold and precise but you'll figure that out. I'm being kicked out. Atleast politely. That is a step up." He says, walking away, adjusting his cloak to make a big woosh. Gesturing with his head, his champion joins him as they walk out the door.

Insaya whispers something back, and crouches to crawl around after her hair accoutrement in the cloak flutter. "Past bedtime for some," she says, sotto voce.

Keely's cheeks are blazing red after she speaks up, and she stands stock still as she watches Gabriel depart. It is not often that a princess in a badger onesie makes such an assertive display, but here we are. She clears her throat quietly after a moment, returning to her seat beside Drake and folding her hands tightly in her lap, affording him another tense smile. "You were saying?" she prompts quietly in the nearly silent hall, apprehensive gaze flitting between the remaining guests.

Insaya is overheard praising Keely.

Jaenelle doesn't startle when she feels a hand move around her waist before she hears the voice the hand belongs to. As Noah speaks, Jae leans against him though its not a move to shy away or hide, but in appreciation. She opens her mouth but Keely steps forward and it easily closes afterwards without further conversation. She turns towards Noah and she grins, "did you just try to save me?" Not that the rather small Archduchess appeared to need it, but its now a source of amusement, "by using etiquette arguements?"