Umbroise drops a sac of spun silk thread, a treasure chest filled with booze, the mosaic ballroom floor, the Diplomacy table, the Accords table, the table of Unity, the table of tranquility.

Umbroise gets a sac of spun silk thread.

The ballroom of the Whisper Palace with it's vaulted ceiling is a breathtaking sight to behold. Marble walls, interspersed with crystalline glass windows overlooking a spectacular view from the ledges above the city of Aviaron's Peak, give an icy impression even in the winter, though the view gets greener the further south one looks. Smooth white marble with veins of gold and quartz gleam beneath the light of hundreds of candles. Three chandeliers above, dripping with crystals, illuminate the ballroom, and draw attention to the beautiful frescoes painted across the ceiling, depicting great and sprawing cities, gardens and towers, beautiful crowds of people, and clock towers and plazas and landmarks that are familiar across Arvum in a celebration of Civilization. Columns of white marble soar upward to support the ceiling with intricately carved flying buttresses. Friezes of spruce and blackwood have been carved along the edges of the ballroom ceiling, with bold Northern bears, delicate flowers and riotous hunting scenes.

The ballroom floor seems to stretch for what seems like infinity, and is made of solid gold, with a central dance area before a raised marble dais. The dance floor is made up of an intricate mosiac of the map of Arvum. Gilded lines between each of the lands of the people of the Compact seem to seal it all together with golden threads of beauty. Sets of double doors lead outside, into beautiful gardens and a hedge maze further beyond, with statues created by Jhond Whisper. This time of year, the gardens are especially lovely, and in full bloom, giving of a pleasant floral scent through the open doors, sheer curtains billowing in the winds.

Despite the recent rumors of part of Aviaron's Peak collapsing inward, the masquerade ball at the Whisper Palace is still taking place. Any minor damages have already been repaired, and the beautiful ballroom is decorated with long ceiling-to-floor banners of the Compact's six Great Houses, and others that are representative of the various baronies, counties, marches and Duchies, though perhaps with the forgetfulness plague, some of those may be headscratchers now. A group of musicians is set up on the marble dais to entertain. Tables covered in white and gold cloth, set with beautiful plates and flatware and crystal glasses, await guests and invite them to dine. Two items are on prominent display, ready to be auctioned.

Umbroise is here to greet guests, wearing a lovely steelsilk gown glittering with ice crystals. She does not wear a mask, since being the hostess, she likely would be difficult to hide anyway, but she does wear a delicate lace veil, which is reminiscent of spiderwebs. The items from the canceled auction of before are here as well, on display, for any who may wish to bid on them.


Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster's a platinum and spidersilk set of stars and webs. Silver beadwork and diamonds sparkle in the light as she strolls in with an easy gait. No swing of hips, just a confident and casual entry. Her hair, silver and grey among black, is curled up and piled atop her head and held with another comb of platinum. Her eyes are instantly drawn to the sword on display and she whistles low and soft. Then she turns to their hostess and offers a bow. Her accent is Lycene, her voice dark and rough. "A final chance to wear my pretty shit before the world tries to end on us, thank you Whisper."

Mattheu takes Captain Magpie's Banana Sauce from a treasure chest filled with booze.

Ann takes Farhaven Label Ten Winters Aged Whiskey from a treasure chest filled with booze.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster gets a very fuzzy stuffed brown bear with blue eyes from a wooden treasure chest filled with stuffed bears.

Bells do a funny thing when they are frozen, their metals sounding shrill in what should be soft gentle songs are now a long echoing cry as Mattheu Rivenshari is quick to hurry into the ballroom. Holding tightly to a very large and plush fur coat where there appears to be far more of fur than the Rivenshari wrapped up within it. "No. It is far tooo cold outside. How?" He's left to stare at Ann as she strides in.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster gets Farhaven Label Ten Winters Aged Whiskey from a treasure chest filled with booze.

As people begin to arrive, Umbroise greets them warmly, and she dips her head graciously toward the woman in the celestial mask. "Oh, how lovely you look, my lady!" she says, admiring the beadwork and the diamonds. "Please, do enjoy yourself this evening. And oh please, I am no Whisper. We are merely making use of the gorgeous Whisper Palace this evening. The Radiant Whisper herself might be here," she says, with a cheerful smile. "Please, try to take your ease, and take your mind off the troubles of the day." She gestures graciously into the ballroom, where musicians have set up on the dais before the dance floor. "Should anyone wish to bid on the items, there will be an auction for them in a short while."

Ann takes a very fuzzy stuffed brown bear with blue eyes from a wooden treasure chest filled with stuffed bears.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster smiles with a mild touch of chagrin. "My apologies. You look like a Whisper tonight, which is a compliment," she says to Umbroise. Then the word auction catches her attention. "Do you know the opening bid on that alaricite... sparklefest?" It's not a derogatory term either.

Medeia is likewise unmasked as she stands beside Umbroise to greet guests. The Whisper's Whisper is not quite as elegantly dressed as some of the others - if anyone inquires, she explains that it was simply /a nightmare/ getting the travel arrangements made, and so some things had to be foregone (like the gown so gorgeous it would make one weep to look upon it). Still! The journey should prove well worth it.

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk takes Aviaron's Ice - Thrice-Distilled Vodka from a treasure chest filled with booze.

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk takes a very fuzzy stuffed brown bear with blue eyes from a wooden treasure chest filled with stuffed bears.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster gives a nod to Medeia. If the other hostess doesn't recogize her accent and silver and sable hair, she'd be surprised.

Umbroise inclines her head to the Celestial One, and gestures toward the dagger in question. "It is lovley, isn't it? It was crafted by Mistress Mirari Corsetina, so it is a true treat, for the one who wins it. The starting bid is one and a half million silver. As a reminder," she adds, "all of the proceeds from the charity auction will be donated to the Knights of Solace and the Mercies, and the Devotions of Limerance." She inclines her head to Mattheu and Ann, and to Medeia as well, smiling warmly.

Ann is right at home as she comes in with Matti. This had been a last minute decision but she had always wanted to show him what the North met for her hence the no mask. A smile to Umbroise when the pair approaches. Her own bells give a sharp tune to mingle in with Matti's. Her hand on his fur arm. She on the other hand is not dressed like that because the cold never bothered her anyways. Looking to Umbroise, "This is a lovely idea and I am glad you were able to still put this on."

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk steps in, looking quite elegant. Quite different from her usual attire. She steps toward Medeia, a smile on her lips. Her gold-flecked green eyes likely giving her away. "We need to meet more,"she tells her friend before looking to Umbroise,"I will happily bid,"before going to find a drink.

This is a masquerade and well, Calista has forgotten her mask. She does however have a slinky strip of black lace across her eyes, allowing her to see as she makes her way into the Whisper Palace. Her long hair is left loose, parted on the side where a glossy veil of mahogany cascades over one side while the other side is held up by a simple comb of red roses. The Duchess of Tor glides across the room and makes her way to greet Umbroise and Medeia. "Marquessa Archeron, Lady Medeia, what a beautiful event. Thank you for hosting such a lavish fete."

Medeia's smile absolutely brightens when she sees both the Swirling Galaxies and the Shattered Mirror guests. "Hello, you two," She winks at them both, genuinely delighted to see them. "I'm so glad you're both here." To Calista, she bows her head with respect. "Duchess, you are the picture of elegance this evening. Beautiful."

Someone wearing A glittering gold and cupridium serpent mask is here! She's been distractred by a breif chat with one of the attendees before the Radiant moves back over to Umbriose and Medeia with a smile under her serpenting mask. "Duchess." She greets Caslista with a sweeping bow.

Umbroise smiles to the half-mask warmly, and inclines her head. "Greetings and welcome," she says, nodding to Mattheu and Ann as well. "Please, feel free to take a bear, and a bottle of booze," she goes on, as she greets guests. "The bears are in memory of Rhea and Riagnon. I do not know where they got off to, but wherever they are, I hope they are safe. Please lift a bear in their honor!" she says as she turns to shattered mirror once again. "Oh, how delightful. Please, simply write your name and your bid on the papers provided in front of the item you wish to bid on, and we'll take the highest bid once it's done. She smiles to Calista as well, inclining her head. "Duchess, welcome." She smiles to the serpent mask as well, lifting her hand in a familiar wave as she recognizes a little of her fellow hostess.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster hisses in a breath of air at the cost of the blade. Clearly, she wasn't expecting that. "Damn. Too rich for my blood," she laments with a scowl. "But truly, worth the cost. Mirari is a legend and a true artisan."

Donella is just passing through, but she does pass by to pay her respects. No mask, but she has allowed someone to paint her face with some mineral pigments, and the Redrain trio of droplets between her eyes. Donella has always just flipped conventional fashion the bird and worn whatever pleased her. "Presumably a small one?" she inquires with a brow raising teasingly at the request to hoik a bear.

Umbroise laughs brightly at Donella, and gives a curtsey toward the Princess-Consort. "Naturally, your Highness!" she says with a grin. "We wouldn't want to disturb actual bears." She clears her throat. "Welcome!"

"Always so kind with your compliments, Lady Medeia. You are the picture of a perfect Summer's day. I love your gown. You have such incredible fashion sense." Calista says with a brilliant smile. Speaking of fashion sense, when the Radiant greets her, Calista chuckles softly only because despite the mask, she knows who the veiled gorgeous woman is. "Ahh! The Serpent Radiant. You look exquisite as always. Truly. I need to have both you and Lady Medeia sign off on my gowns before they are sent off to the seamstress. How have you been?" As if this needs to be said but Umbroise is also praised for her fashion.

Mattheu nearly wrestles with an attending for his coat. They win and he's left to hug his arms tightly while trying to jostle some feeling into his body again. A rub of his hands to then be handed a bottle of banana creme something by Ann when she takes a whiskey from what is offered and he's sporting a silly grin while taking to drinking directly from the bottle. Trying to be a good guest he nods to Umbroise for her greetings and then to Medeia with turn to Ann. "I really don't know nor understand how you stay collected with this co-" He's distracted by the masks as their dazzling colors where he turns to watch the Swirling Galaxies then slowly turn back to Ann. "Dance?"

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster goes for alcohol. Since the auctions are off her list, the glittering woman goes for booze instead. She tales a glass, then takes a bear, and puts the glass into the bear's paws and squishes them together so it hold the glass. Thus she lifts both bear and booze in honor.

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk spies Calista and offers her a finger wiggle. "Congratulations on your marriage. I haven't seen you in too long to tell you myself." There's a sip of her drink before she goes to settle elsewhere.

Ann hands off that banana alcohol to Matti when the attendant makes him give up his coat. Alcohol does warm up the blood. Maybe that is why whiskey is a favorite to her and she constantly drinks it. Looking at the bottle she claims and she smiles as memories of Farhaven flow in her mind it takes her a few minutes to come back to the now and gives Matti a hmm look. But he is greeting Medeia and she does the same, "You look lovely tonight." Trying to figure out who is the masked Whisper but having heard others say things towards Aco there's a nod of her head in that direction and tells the Whisper, "Lovely, lovely." She truly is distracted by all the glamour and beauty to be found here that she gives a look to Matti as if to comprehend what it is he's asking her. Her smile blossoms as she takes her hand, "Yes, dance." She would also point out to him the dress and the sword that is on display as they make their way to the floor. She actually pockets her whiskey and doesn't drink. There is dancing to be done and a River Lord to warm up!

Someone wearing a mask of tears arrives quietly, the barest of smiles on her dark red lips, her gown of seasilk like liquid as she moves, a cascade of tears to match her mask. She takes in all the brilliance of the evening, the peculiar mix of masked and unmasked, and her smile grows just a sliver before veiled attention turns to the figure at her side, their mask of uncertain mood, muted assurances. She reaches a hand to snag on their arm, to angle upward and curl close, a suggestion of familiarity echoed in the murmured inquiry, "Shall we, darling?"

Someone wearing A glittering gold and cupridium serpent mask smiles to Ann and Mattheu under her serpent mask and courtseys to them as well. Aco stands off to the side, quietly greeting others but also occasionally pausing to stop to Whispers who have questions.

"Lord Mattheu, Lady Ann," Medeia bows her head to the Rivenshari couple with a welcoming smile. "We're thrilled to see you here, enjoy your dance!" When she turns her attention back to Calista, it's with a soft laugh. "I hardly think you need me or Aco to sign off on your garments! We all have our own unique tastes, and there is nothing at all wrong with us displaying them proudly."

The musicians are playing a lively tune at the moment, and a few dancers are already making their way out onto the dance floor. Other guests are going for the buffet-style treat tables off to the side, where sweet and savory snacks are piled high on tiered silver platters. Crystal glasses are supplied for drinks, and the grand music swells in the background, pleasing to the ears, encouraging one to dance. The windows overlooking the big sunken hole in Aviaron's Peak have all been curtained, so as not to remind the guests of what transpired before the ball. This is a happy occasion! No one needs to look at that. The sun is begining to descend into the west, the view spectacular through the western windows that are not curtained, the sky painted in shades of vermillion, gold and rose.

Ann has joined the the mosaic ballroom floor.

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk has joined the the table of tranquility.

Donella ahhs in understanding and makes a gesture of courtesy to Umbroise. "A pity, though. Many years ago, His Grace had a small black cub, Fluffy, that would follow him about. I asked him where it would sit, and he told me 'like me, wherever it wants'." She smiles and says, "Who are the artisans that have crafted the sword and gown set?"

Duarte slinks in at a slow pace with a small smile on his face underneath a ridiculously large and flimsy fake nose that does nothing to obscure his identity. Mid drift he acquires a glass of whiskey and sips on it while looking around at the setting and guests and the giant sunken peak that used to be. But this latter he ignores because this is a happy occasion!

(OOC)The scene set/room mood is now set to: The spreadsheet for the auction is: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/19-ZVworB76rpk8XgsOx4KXgC4j9BWg5OkVb13EIVMUA/edit?usp=sharing - Anyone can edit. Just write your bid in the current bid slot. May need to refresh if you had the previous link. Everyone is welcome to a bear and a booze.

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

Someone wearing a mask of tears gets a tall bottle of Nightgold's Stone Mountain White Whiskey from a treasure chest filled with booze.

Someone wearing a mask that is a little less likely okay seems too lighthearted for the mask he's wearing, but such is the risk of wearing such an opinionated mask. He offers a slight smile to his teary companion, already strapped in for a night of auction, dancing, and whatever else the evening holds. "Mm, let's."

Someone wearing a mask that is a little less likely okay takes gold earrings with mirrored cloisonne irises from a simple cloth pouch of giftables.

When Duarte enters, Medeia looks over and gives him an all-too-serious study. Her lips curve into a frown. "I thought you said you were going to wear a mask?" Because that is Obviously His Real Nose. Above the frown, her eyes sparkle with amusement. Briefly, she looks aside to take in the sight of all the lovely people moving onto the dance floor, and she can't help but smile for it.

Mattheu has joined the the mosaic ballroom floor.

Dancing first. The woman in a mask of tears picks the direction, drawing her companion toward the dancefloor, though she does seem intent on following his lead once they're there. Without quite intending to, they clear a small pocket of the dancefloor as other dancers grant them a little extra space, those who draw too near seeming to slow in their steps, their moods drooping. Best to keep a distance, perhaps.

When Duarte enters, Medeia looks over and gives him an all-too-serious study. Her lips curve into a frown. "I thought you said you were going to wear a mask?" Because that is Obviously His Real Nose. Above the frown, her eyes sparkle with amusement. Briefly, she looks aside to take in the sight of all the lovely people moving onto the dance floor, and she can't help but smile for it. While the lady looks, she sees Donella and brightens. "Your Highness! It has been..." Too long. Far too long. "It's wonderful to see you."

Someone wearing a mask of tears has joined the the mosaic ballroom floor.

Someone wearing a mask that is a little less likely okay has joined the the mosaic ballroom floor.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster has joined the the table of Unity.

Someone wearing a mask that is a little less likely okay is fortunately inclined to give the tearful woman little room at all. Even if his mood droops for it, he was already sort of /not okay/, wasn't he? He's exactly where he wants to be, drawing her into a dance hold and setting about the dance floor. "You look magnificent," he tells her, and means it.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster settles into a chair, crosses her legs at the ankle, and kicks back to sip expensive whiskey and watch the world float by in a swirl of color. As someone brings by a platter of food, she grabs some of the things on sticks and pops them into her mouth one by one.

Duarte narrows his eyes and approaches Medeia. He punishes her with over the top flamboyance in bow and presentation. "Lady Medeia! What a treat." He slides in to whisper something to her ear. Then he turns to face Donella, his large and flimsy nose accidentally swipes Medeia's cheek like a little nose-slap. He curtsies to the princess and then allows his gaze to drift to the dance floor. "Ah! We are surrounded by family," he says happily.

After a short time, a servant arrives, dressed in fine livery, carrying a silver tray. Upon the tray are a pair of exquisite earrings, nestled in a bed of velvet cloth. The tray is also set down among the auction items, and then the servant departs at a stroll, hands clasped behind his back, as he eyes the others who are serving, as if checking on them to make sure they are doing all they need to be doing. And then the man departs.

Umbroise drops gold earrings with mirrored cloisonne irises.

Calista excuses herself from conversation to fetch a glass of wine or even something more festive with bubbles. As she moves about the room, she finds Donella whom she makes a beeline for. It's not the hurried sort of beeline but there's purpose to her steps. "I think I have traveled back in time." She teases. "How are you? Alejandro has recently send me a letter from Tor. He says to make sure I say hello to you."

Aconite pulls away her mask and demures away from a small group of Whispers so that she can join her fellow HOstesses once more. The Radiant is all smiles but is allowing Medeia and Umbroise to do most of the talking.

Donella offers her hands to Medeia with a warm smile, and says, "Lady Medeia... Saik, again, isn't it? Since the ... ordeal on that shitshow of a Tyde fief, I believe. Before...." She resists the trigger of thoughts of her late brother. "It doesn't matter. We are here now. My lord," she says to Duarte. "I don't believe we've even formally been introduced. Your nose, though, knows everyone it would seem." She draws one hand back and offers it toward the approaching Calista. "Where is your troubadour, my dear?"

Umbroise smiles to Aconite as she removes her mask, and inclines her head. "It's so lovely! Thank you both for being here for this," she says with a smile to Medeia as well. "It's going rather well, don't you think?" She looks at the people dancing, and the Marquessa smiles behind her lacy veil.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster perks. Something not covered in a million silver's worth of gemstones. She stands and sets aside her drink to look at the irises. "I have a honeysilk dress which would match that nicely. Jayus-fuck, why am I caring," she asks herself in sudden surprise. "I want to match jewelry to a dress. Who the fuck have I become," she says with a disbelieving laugh.

Umbroisegalaxies

"It is a /liar's/ nose, fit to be pecked." Duarte informs Donella with a pride that is all too smug. His arm snakes around Medeia's waist and he smiles. He looks at Umbroise and nods before giving his own unsolicited opinion. "Very, very lovely indeed!"

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk spies Aconite and gives her smile. "Aco,"she greets her friend. "Long time no see." There's an amused look to the person in the Swirling Galaxies Mask. "I can sympathize."

Medeia's hands land in Donella's happily, giving them a squeeze. "I've missed you," she says softly, with only a nod to confirm the correct last name. There is no desire within her speak further on anything relating to Tyde. Instead, she laughs off Duarte's nose-slap and presses up on her toes to peck a kiss to thst giant fake nose. "Indeed, darling... Princess Donella Redrain, Count Duarte Amadeo," comes the offered introduction. Her smile is brighter as she nests against the man's aide when he wraps an arm around her. She agrees, too, toward Umbroise. "Splendid, truly."

Aconite courtseys to theindividual wearing the shattered mirror mask, "Indeed, what a rare treat to see you." Umbroise's comment draws a nod and she smiles. "Yes. It's amazing." She agrees. Clearly she's distracted, as is often the case, when there are so many lovely outfits and beatuiful masks.

Someone wearing a mask of tears, despite the heavy crown she wears, moves with a lightness and ease, her soft smile steady as she follows her partner's skillful lead. When he draws her close after leading her through a turn, murmuring so warm to her, the shadow of veiled eyes widen beneath bejeweled silk, her response unheard but decidedly bright.

"When you smoke your pipe, suppose | That the heady-smoke spouts from your nose-- | Do not the neighbors, as the fumes rise higher, | Cry terror-struck: "The chimney's afire"?'" Donella teases of the Liar's Nose, quoting poetry from something, and says to Medeia. "I have missed you as well. And am glad to see you come through the afray at Harrow Hall. Go, go. Dance while there's a tune to carry." As they seem poised to Dance off, the Redrain princess consort pulls out her blindfold, and dangles it from pinched fingers. "Tie my eyes up, Rose of Tor? Too glittering a company... my too-conservatively-raised eyes bleed in appreciation."

A masked newcomer arrives to the ballroom, her late arrival made with little fanfare. She is clad in a leather dress of journal pages, unruly hair swept into an updo kept in place with a pair of cupridium hairpins. Although her face is concealed by a mask of mourning, its features frozen in a theatrical grimace of anguish, her curiosity is evident in the turn of her head and the sweep of her steady gaze around the room.

Duarte simply offers a, "You see?" when his nose pecked (not picked) by Medeia. It takes a moment for the floppy thing to stop swaying to and fro after it's nudged by the woman's lips. Duarte grins at Donella's recitation and bows, "Poetry did inform the choice of mask, certainly. How astute of you." But then, uh oh. Dancing? Duarte deftly excuses himself away from Medeia and back toward the...uhhh...oh there's someone he needs to talk to over there!

Duarte has joined the the table of Unity.

Someone wearing a mask that is a little less likely okay is leading his partner on the dance floor capably, murmuring in their closeness and smiling, fleetingly, when a turn sets them further apart. Finishing the dance with an opportunity for flourish rather than a dip, which might set her crown askew, he says, "A drink sounds perfect." He lifts her hand, presses his lips to her knuckles mid-bow, and then turns to offer his arm. They can find drinks together.

Pasquale arrives masked somewhat late. Or perhaps he's been here all along. Whatever the truth, just after he steps through the door his eyes skim the room taking in both masked and maskless partygoers and then he reaches up to tug the mask aside. He takes a moment to look after the dancers, a hint of a smile shaping the line of his mouth, and then heads to Aconite's side. "Did you coordinate your outfit to your fan or your fan to your outfit Aconite?"

Medeia laughs, shaking her head, "I'll have to find my dance elsewhere unless I want mud all over my skirt hem," she says to Donella, but she doesn't try to stop Duarte as he deftly /runs away/ from her. She watches him go with a fond smile before turning the greet the newcomer wesr a dress of journal pages. "Hello! Welcome! You look incredible!"

Aconite chuckles quietly at Medeia before she's distractred by Pasquale moving towards her side. She turns her mask over in her hands and replies, "I coordinated everything with my hairpins." She replies with a wide smile and a courtsey before stepping closer to him, "Have a look at the things up for auction? May as well spend a little extra coin. The wine is also especially good."

A symphony of bells as Matti and Ann spin around the dance floor. Whatever the musicians might be playing the Rivenshari are moving to the mixture of offered song and of what their bells sing as well.

Someone wearing a mask of tears's laughter is too light when her partner leads her through those last lovely steps, ill-suited to the whole mood her attire's meant to set. She draws in close when her less-likely-okay companion offers his arm, both of her hands alighting upon his bicep. When he draws her attention to a newcomer, to a mask of performative mourning, her smile grows bright, and she murmurs, "Gorgeous," of the outfit. all of it striking a tone not too far from their own. "Let's get her a drink, too, mm?"

Someone wearing a mask of tears has left the the mosaic ballroom floor.

Someone wearing a mask that is a little less likely okay has left the the mosaic ballroom floor.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster returns to her quiet table and is mildly amused when Duarte joins her. "Ah good. I wanted to ask you a question," she says as her voice turns quiet. A little animation to her gestures. Another tray of food passes by and she grabs more onnastick foods to munch on.

Umbroise smiles to Pasquale as he arrives. "Welcome," she says, and then she glances to Aconite. "Oh, that's clever! I have a pair of spider hairpins that I coordinated an outfit to once. It is a good way to coordinate things." She grins, and then turns back to studying the guests, greeting those who arrive, her smiles pleasant beneath the delicate edge of her veil.

Calista laughs at Donella's reply. She too lowers the swathe of lace that is across her eyes then steps in to give one of her first friends in Arx a hug. "It is good to see you!" Shadowed emerald eyes catch the arrival of the lady in a mask of public mourning. Her dress captures her attention, but so does her jewelry. Calista looks to Donella once more. "We should try to steal more time and gossip over wine like we used to."

Ann has been focused on the dancing she has been doing with Matti and the soft conversation they have been having. Slight smile as she twirls with him. She's been with him long enough to figure out what dance they may be doing even if it is opposite of what others may do. As she is swirled about and the bells ring from her hair she thought she saw Pasquale come in but hard to tell. Regardless, he gets a finger wave as she is moved about the dance floor.

Someone wearing a mask that is a little less likely okay lays a hand over one of his tearful companion's and - with a smile that seems more /secretive/ than reserved - leads her toward the recently-arrived mourner. By way of a serving tray, of course; he takes two glasses of wine, passes one to her, then takes a third. This, for the Lady of Performative Mourning. "Hello darling," he tells her. "Your timing is impeccable."

Duarte is deeply intrugued by the question someone wearing a swirling galaxies mask with celestial luster has for him. He only briefly side-scans and looks behind him to ensure no one is coming to want a dance. But aside from this, soooo interesting!

Umbroise departs the guest-greeting area near the doors after a time, leaving Medeia and Aconite to greet any stragglers. Then she makes her way over toward the auction items, checking on the bids. After a moment of checking them, she turns and calls out, "Thank you for those who have bid upon the auction items so far. I'm going to give a last call here for the bids, and then we will close the auction and announce the winners." She smiles brightly, "And then the Knights of Solace, the Mercies, and the Devotions of Limerance shall enjoy hefty donations. Thank you again!" She simmers down, and makes her way over to the pastry buffet, picking up a delicate treat, and then making her way slowly back to the entrance, nibbling on the treet.

Someone wearing a mask of public mourning reaches out to clasp Medeia's hand, a quick squeeze delivered in response to the warm greeting. "Thank you! As do you. So kind of you all to arrange an event like this." She leans in, the remainder of her thoughts delivered in a low murmur before she steps back. The approach of the less likely okay masked one and his tearful companion receives a moment of appreciative study, the whisper of a smile appearing beneath her mournful mask. "You make such a striking pair," she notes, tipping her head in a greeting to both.

Pasquale offers Umbroise a small bow. "I appreciate the invitation Marquessa." His eyes go to the lady in the journal book and he offers them a respectful nod, before finally turning his attention back to Aconite and Umbroise. "I will quietly envy whoever it is who claims them." he promises Aconite "and donate to the devotions anyway."

Medeia's expression lights up at whatever the person wearing the mask of public mourning says to her. "Really? That's amazing. I'm happy to have reminded you." She beams a smile at them and squeezes their hand in return. Then she turns her attention to greet Pasquale. "Hello! How are you?" She gives him a wave. Finally, she seems to realize that she doesn't have a drink. She should fix this! On her way to collect one, she gives a wink to the teary mask and her companion.

Aconite smiles after Medeia and leans in to listen to Pasquale and murmurs a reply to him. She looks towards the dance floor and back to the Nobleman. "Should we dance?"

Donella laughs, "It would be theft indeed. But I don't mind a little larceny with a friend. But no spa-trips. My pride can't take a repeat..."

Someone wearing a mask of tears heaves a quiet sigh as one hand pulls from her companion to accept the wine, uncertain it's a fair trade. Of course, once she tastes this particular selection, that briefest grief is assuaged, her smile again bright as they approach the Mourner. "And you," she breathes. "Remarkable. Fairly certain I know your voice, too." Any slyness in her eyes remains hidden beneath her teary veil, but it might be caught in her own voice, subtly.

Pasquale very nearly turns down that offer of a dance before catching himself and instead offering a hand to Aconite "Why not?" A quiet word or two is shared with Aconite which he follows up with a soft chuckle. "I don't really."

Aconite smiles and leads Pasquale towards the dance floor. She murmurs something quietly to him until they reach the floor where she squares up for a dance.

Aconite has joined the the mosaic ballroom floor.

Pasquale has joined the the mosaic ballroom floor.

Mattheu checks charm and athletics at normal. Botch! Mattheu fails completely.

Umbroise smiles as she sees people still heading out onto the dance floor, and after a moment, she settles into a chair at a nearby table to watch. At some point, even the hostess must sit down to enjoy a drink. The Marquessa takes a glass of champagne from a passing server and lifts the glass to her lips for a little sip.

Pasquale is overheard praising Umbroise.

Aconite is overheard praising Medeia: 10

Aconite is overheard praising Umbroise: 10

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk is overheard praising Medeia.

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk is overheard praising Umbroise.

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk is overheard praising Ripley.

Aconite is overheard praising Titus.

Aconite is overheard praising Pasquale.

Pasquale takes Aconite's hands and draws her into a sedate dance. No twirls and chandelier leaps for him. They talk softly as they dance.

Aconite is overheard praising Ferrando.

Someone wearing a mask that is a little less likely okay is overheard praising Umbroise.

Someone wearing a mask that is a little less likely okay is overheard praising Medeia.

Someone wearing a mask that is a little less likely okay is overheard praising Aconite.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster is overheard praising Aconite.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster is overheard praising Medeia.

Someone wearing a mask that is a little less likely okay is overheard praising Samira.

Aconite smiles at the others on the dance floor before falling into the lively dance with the Malespero Lord. Aco is energetic as she dances. It's one of her favorite things and it shows in her lively and elegant moves.

Mattheu grins to soft words from Ann, to reach into pouch and produce a handful of hair bells. About to hand them out to those around them on the dance floor leads to a trip upon skirt of dress and bells go flying into the air as Mattheu falls on his ass.

Ann checks composure at hard. Botch! Ann fails completely.

Aconitepauses and looks towards MAttheu as he slips and falls and bells are scattering everywhere. She looks towards Ann...

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster checks composure and etiquette at daunting. Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster marginally fails.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster sniggers at Mattheu's bell-jangling trip but it's short. She quickly turns away to hide her expresison and go back to her chat with Duarte. It looks like a sincere conversation about serious things (no, really).

As bells skitter all over the floor, Pasquale merely stops whatever he was going to say, shifts a hand to Aconite's shoulder, and steers her to a point of safety on the edge of the dance floor. From there he turns to watch Mattheu, dissaproval in his eyes.

Ann smiles at Matti her smile only to widen and gives a nod when Matti shows what it is that he is up to when the hair bells come out. Only she's falling when Matti trips over her skirt and there's a gasp and than a rip to the skirt and bells fall as if it is glitter or a version of bellsplosions. She tries very hard to keep her composure but she's laughing too hard and looking to Matti as she tries to show concern, "Are you alright?"

Umbroise turns at the sound of scattering bells, and lifts her hands to her mouth. "Oh dear!" she says. "Are you alright, Lord Mattheu?" she asks, hurring over, carefully avoiding any bells. Servants, too, are already rushing forward with brooms to sweep up the tinkling bells, which are likely still rattling around even now. Several other dancers shy away from the bells as if they were made of poison, and a few slip and stumble on them.

Umbroise checks dexterity and dodge at normal. Umbroise fails.

Aconite smiles and leans in to Pasquale and murmurs. She picks up her fan to hide her own laugh though she nods as Ann and Umbroise rush to help the Rivenshari Lord. Still watching.. only her dark eyes visible.

Someone wearing a mask of tears, not entirely distant from the dancefloor, may find herself jingling ever so slightly later, a bell or two snagged on the soft seasilk of her dress. She doesn't move quite enough as she turns to regard Mattheu--and the other stumbling dancers--with a measure of concern more vocally expressed by others, checking to make sure everyone's okay, no help needed.

Umbroise slips on a bell just reaching Mattheu too, and lands on her rump next to him.

Someone wearing a mask that is a little less likely okay hums a note of delighted commiseration. "I didn't think I'd ever see that all again," he says. "Isn't it lovely to be wrong?" He has a good drink of his wine; an attendant pulls his attention, briefly. He'll be back after a glass swap. His was cracked - by a flying bell or before it was served? - but swiftly caught.

So much noise! Medeia is turning to stare in surprise at the spectacle upon the dance floor. "Any broken bones?" Hopefully not! But she can help.

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk watches Matti's bells scatter, then Umbroise fall. She twitches her lips a bit, containing her smile. "You good,"she asks Umbroise

If Mattheu is paying attention he would stick his tongue out at Pasquale. Only he's caught up in the laugher Ann has as she finds herself on the floor next to him. Her laughter is infectious as he starts to laugh and looks to Umbroise as he helps Ann up from the floor. Then reaching out to help Umbroise to her feet. "That... Wasn't how it was to go." A look to Ann as she finds her feet, a soft word to her as he shifts to Umbroise, "Marquessa Umbroise, Are you alright?" The Rivenshari have made an impression to the North and Mattheu appears to be stuck in the hall as the other option is to go back out to the cold.

Someone wearing a mask of public mourning's lashes flutter, dipping low to momentarily conceal her dark eyes from view. For a brief moment, her bearing seems to match that of her anguished mask, a subtle flare of emotion, but perhaps it's only a trick of the light for when her gaze lifts, her smile warmly renews. "Quite lovely," she agrees with her not-so-okay company. His tearful companion receives a swift grin. "I suspected you might." If there's more to say, it's cut off by the sudden jangling of bells, her slippered feet carefully stepping to avoid slipping upon one as she glances toward the dance floor.

Umbroise just starts laughing, tilting her head back, and letting the laughter spill out. "Oh my gods, what a disaster," she says, as she gets back to her feet with Mattheu's help, as gracefully as it is possible to do in a gown, and heels. Brushing at her skirts, she makes certain to ensure there was no harm done to the gown. Luckily, she is wearing steelsilk, so she seems to be perfectly fine with no damage whatsoever, and the gown itself is also in one piece. Once she's ensured everyone is alright, and there are no injuries that need tending, the Marquessa gives a little clearing of her throat, and pats her hair neatly into place. "Well then," she says, still chuckling at Mattheu. "All is quite well, I am certain." The servants start sweeping things up. "Why don't we uh... go on to announcing the auction winners?" she suggeests, and then she carefully makes her way toward the displayed items.

Ann also did not see Pasquale's scowl but had a moment where she did see that he and Aconite did move off the dance floor looking at them quickly to make sure they were not hurt. She straightens upwards and on her feet with Matti's help and looks pleased that Matti is not hurt and he's helping the Marquessa up. Once Umbroise distracts the others with auction winners Ann is murmuring to her husband.

Aconite snaps her fan closed and her brows lift, "Best not find out." She replies seriously but her bright smile returns, "I'm glad you're okay." She says to the recently tumbled Lord and Lady. She nods as Umbroise indicates she's going to announce the winners. To pasquale she murmurs a quick, "I'll be right back." She hurries carefully over to where the main Hostess is.

Pasquale steps away from the dance floor and instead goes over to where the mask of tears and less-than-ok masked people are speaking with the woman with the incredible dress. "I am glad we came." he tells them as he approaches.

Someone wearing a mask of tears murmurs, "What's a masquerade without a touch of chaos, mm?" a note of quiet delight in her tone. With her date stepping away to see to a new drink, she carefully steps a little nearer to the Mourner, tentatively taking her arm instead, if permitted, with a soft murmur of, "I'm glad you're here. Perhaps we'll have some time to talk before we head back to the capital?" Pasquale's approach sees her lifting her glass. "As am I. It's been... gods, /years/ since I've visited. Thirteen, I think. Almost to the day." Oh, that... sounds a little ominous, actually.

As she sees no one else bidding on the auction items, Umbroise returns to the displays, and lifts a glass, tinging it with a little fork. "Attention everyone!" she says. "I shall now announce who has won the auction items. Thank you all for your generous bids." She picks up the paper in front of the earrings first with graceful, and then turns to read it out. "The earrings, donated by Apollo Malespero, shall go to Lady Eirene Riven." She glances around with a smile. "Please feel free to pick them up at the end of the ball, so you do not have to remove your mask now if you don't wish," she says, and smiles, setting the paper down. "The gown and slippers donated by the legendary Aurora Thornburn shall go to Countess Thea Wyvernheart." She beams and then moves on to the magnificent display case, holding that magnificent dagger. "And the winner of this glorious weapon, crafted by the esteemed Mirari Corsetina, is...." she lifts the paper and reads it slowly and dramatically, "Duchess Lianne Malespero." She glances up, and smiles warmly all around. "Congratulations to you all." She turns then as a messenger approaches her, and her eyebrows lift. She turns a shade of dark ash in winter, and re-reads the message again. The messenger looks anxious, agitated, stepping from foot to foot, glancing around nervously.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster claps for the winners and nods at the revelation of the names. But she pauses as Umbroise does a 180 from her refined hostess appearance. "Is... everything okay," she asks, scowling deeply with lines etching her lips. "Bad news? What's wrong?"

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk gives a wink to Umbroise at the mention of the gown and slippers. Her eyes however move in the direction of the messenger. "Everything alright,"she asks Umbroise.

There is applause from Ann for the winners only to frown as the messenger comes from Umbroise and how their hostess looks. She tightens the hold she has on Matti's arm as she waits for an answer.

Umbroise checks composure at daunting. Umbroise is successful.

Aconite tilts her head and her expression becomes serious and curious at Umbroises expression. The Radiant's brows loft in silent question.

Medeia slips over toward Duarte and settles a hand on his shoulder, leaning in to whisper something softly in his ear as the rest of the party continues.

Duarte looks at his non-dance partner and rises to join Medeia's side and listen to the woman. He offers his masked partner a wan smile and murmurs a final thing before departing.

Swiftly and quietly, Medeia and Duarte make their exit from the ballroom, a lingering glance given to Umbroise before disappearing.

Duarte has left the the table of Unity.

Duarte leaves, following Medeia.

"A little chaos keeps things memorable," the mournfully masked attendee muses in wry agreement. Pasquale's approach receives a respectful dip of her head in greeting and a brief smile beneath that anguished visage. Threading arms with the wearer of the mask of tears, she nods in earnest reply. "I'm glad to see you. And I'd like that. There's so much to discuss." She falls quiet for the announcement of the winners, but it's that anxious-looking messenger who receives the majority of her attention, a moment of narrow-eyed scrutiny devoted to them.

Swallowing hard, Umbroise somehow manages to pull herself together, and returns to her pleasant and calm and perfectly composed hostess appearance. She glances around, seeing th econcerned faces looking at her. "Alas," she says, "I am sad to say that I must /cancel/ the rest of this beautiful masquerade I had planned for you all." The hand with the message drops to her side, and her mind is clearly working even as she speaks. "Instead, we will be conducting a carefully controlled evacuation of Aviaron's Peak. Any who have come to Aviaron's Peak for the Masquerade are encouraged to assist with helping to conduct the evacuations. I do not know if we will have time to fortify the city. Our army is very small. But we will hold them back as long as we can, while we retreat." She glances around, then says, "Thank you all for coming." Then she crumples the note up in her fist, and proceeds to try to project calm as she organizes ushering everyone out of the Whisper Palace safely.

"Time to change. Fuck. I'm not fighting in these heels." The Celestial Mask slips them off and with shoes in had, goes to change back into her usual clothing. Which is likely NOT spidersilk and platinum.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster gets gold earrings with mirrored cloisonne irises.

a gilded glass-paned display case lined with velvet is now unlocked.

a life-sized mannequin displaying a gorgeous gown is now unlocked.

"Thirteen years." Pasquale murmurs. "It is hard to imagine it has been that long." His gaze settles back onto Umbroise as she speaks of evacuations. A deeply thoughtful look on his face.

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk takes an asymmetrical sage gown trimmed in detailed dove gray brocade from a life-sized mannequin displaying a gorgeous gown.

Someone wearing a mask of tears gets Unity, a balanced alaricite recurved blade from a gilded glass-paned display case lined with velvet.

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk takes a pair of sage slippers with decorative patches of dove gray brocade from a life-sized mannequin displaying a gorgeous gown.

Someone wearing a winged half-mask of shattered mirror and colorful gems set upon pure white silk has left the the table of tranquility.

Someone wearing a mask of tears tilts in toward Pasquale as the winners are announced to quietly assure, "It's well worth the expense," even if it's entirely questionable whether she'll ever put that blade to its proper use. It takes her a moment to catch the shift in tone, how--while it's not the /entire/ party that's grown quiet--there's yet a subtle hush, a note of concern all angled toward Umbroise. Her hand tightens a little on the Mourner's arm as she turns her attention to the marquessa. Her veiled gaze, as the news is delivered, flicks toward the masked man with whom she arrived, her smile no longer present. "On the ride home," she murmurs to her friend, reconsideration. For now, she'll collect her weapon and quietly offer any assistance she can to Umbroise.

Aconite touches Umbroise' arm, "I'll help evacuate who I can with the carraiges Whisper House brought. I'll go do that now." And Aco hurries off to go assist with the evacuation.

Aconite has left the the mosaic ballroom floor.

Someone wearing Swirling Galaxies Mask with Celestial Luster has left the the table of Unity.

Umbroise gets a very fuzzy stuffed brown bear with blue eyes from a wooden treasure chest filled with stuffed bears.

Someone wearing a mask of tears gets Aviaron's Ice - Thrice-Distilled Vodka from a treasure chest filled with booze.

Someone wearing a mask of tears gets Farhaven Label Ten Winters Aged Whiskey from a treasure chest filled with booze.

Ann begins to make her way out with Mattheu. But she would help where she could. The North still lives within her even if she is of the River now.

Mattheu takes Aviaron's Ice - Thrice-Distilled Vodka from a treasure chest filled with booze.

Mattheu takes a tall bottle of Nightgold's Stone Mountain White Whiskey from a treasure chest filled with booze.

Mattheu takes Farhaven Dark Cherry Cider from a treasure chest filled with booze.

Mattheu takes Wind Dancer Chest from leather rucksack with pouches.

Someone wearing a mask of tears gets Farhaven Dark Cherry Cider from a treasure chest filled with booze.

"Well, shit. Just when I got fancy," the mournfully masked woman murmurs ruefully. Her fingers pluck at the thin fabric of her dress, yearning instead for the comfortable familiarity of her leathers. Her arm linked through her tearful companion's tightens subtly, silent support as she nods her assent to the wise change of plans. And then she's on the move, ready to assist however she can.

Mattheu takes A small braided crown of orchids with bells from Wind Dancer Chest.

Someone wearing a mask of public mourning takes Aviaron's Ice - Thrice-Distilled Vodka from a treasure chest filled with booze.

Mattheu takes A small braided crown of orchids with bells from Wind Dancer Chest.

Mattheu takes A small braided crown of orchids with bells from Wind Dancer Chest.

Pasquale looks back to Lianne and tells her "I know." before saying "I am going to go ensure the defenses last long enough for the evacuation." He gives the woman in the tearful mask an almost apologetic look before heading on out the doors. Pausing just once by the entrance to tell the guard there "A bow would be handy."

Mattheu takes A small braided crown of orchids with bells from Wind Dancer Chest.