The doors to the banquet hall of the Petriochan wing of the Eurusi Consulate have been opened, and guests are being ushered in between a pair of Consulate guards, who stand at dutiful attention. The renovations in the Petrioch wing have gone on unabated recently, and it shows in the lovely murals and frescos, carvings and fountains. Here in the banquet hall, a shimmering, shallow marble pool of blue-green water reminiscent of the canals of the Water City of Petrioch is decorated with fanciful floating waxed paper lanterns of different colors which float and bob around aimlessly, while a quartet of musicians play Eurusi instruments upon the water stage. The music is subtle, soft, pleasant but not likely to overpower any conversations.

Surrounding the pool in a horseshoe-shaped layout, the banquet tables are fully bedecked in a splendor of glittering plates, flatware and crystal glasses, along with centerpieces of vibrant summer blossoms in shades of red and blue, with trailing vines and blue creeper flowers that fall in tendrils from the edge of the tables into the water.

At the far end of the banquet hall is a high table, where Eurusi dignitaries and their honored guests may be seated, while everyone else has a sort of fend-for-yourself option of seats at the two long tables to either side. Seated in a throne-like chair upholstered in teal silk at the center of the high table is a familiar-looking woman with dusky skin and long, raven black hair, her vibrant seafoam green eyes framed by long, dark lashes. She is wearing shades of soft blue-green, and a teal and gold brocade robe that is quite stately in Eurusi fashion. An alariciate diadem inset with serpentine gems glimmers upon her brow, and there is an aura of almost palpable dark majesty about her, a subtle thing that was only hinted at before, but is now pronounced. It is present in the regal lift of her chin, the direct confidence of her gaze, the grace and poise with which she carries herself. Seated in that throne-like chair is Princess Fatima Masah'Malak Thrax, the future Queen of the Dune Kingdom of Petrioch. The barest hint of a warm smile touches her lips as she waits for her guests arrive.

Fatima has joined the The High Table of the Waves.

Resplendent in steelsilk of blue and steel, cut in a southern fashion that suits the climate of Setara and the Saffron Chain, the archduke of Setara, Patrizio Pravus, ensures that he is on time for such an occasion as this. There are nods of his head to those guards who frame the doorway as he passes through, but it /is/ to that high table that he approaches, pausing before it with a smile for the dignitaries there, and allowing for a respectful inclination of his head. "Your highness," intones he seriously to Fatima. "We do, clearly, still need to find time that we may speak, but may I offer - publicly - the hopes that the gods smile upon your intentions, and allow the work of your hands to prosper, in bringing peace and proper reign back to your homeland."

Eirene's declined to dress for the occasion, because she doesn't often, but nonetheless she comes to hear what news and what is to be done about the Dune Kingdoms in light of the gossip heard. Her platinum threaded scarf is unwound from around her neck, and her hat is politely handed off to a servant, but she otherwise appears to be the usual leather and steelsilk clad woman she always is. She nods her head to Fatima in polite greeting for the hostess. Then she bows her head and shoulders a little deeper in a more repsectful greeting for a future monarch. "Thank you for the invitation," she says in her gravel-rough voice. "I look forward to hearing what news."

Raven arrives. As before her guards are left outside and her weapon is firmly peacebound. She arrives in Patrizio's wake and bows to the hostess respectfully but remains silent. Fatima is flashed a quick, warm grin.

Princess Katarina Valardin is seated at the high table, not far from the evening's hostess. As the rightful heir of the Dune Kingdom of Suj'abbat, she has her own exquisitely crafted, throne-like chair, cast in purple and gold. She herself is wearing Valardin blue and white, though she looks completely at home sitting on a throne -- remember, she spent her entire childhood and adolescence being groomed to be a Queen one day. She's having a quiet conversation in Eurusi with one of the dignitaries seated next to her as people start to filter in, but quickly her attention turns toward the gathering.

As more guests assemble, Aconite subtly blends into the gathering crowd. She glides amidst the attendees, exchanging pleasantries, offering curtseys, and engaging in light conversation while navigating her way towards Fatima. However, upon reaching her destination, Aco opts for a respectful curtsey without initiating verbal interaction, gracefully continuing her movement towards a seat amidst the commonfolk. Her demeanor exudes an air of elegant yet understated presence as she sits.

Calista arrives about the same time as the other guests, offering warm greetings to those familiar faces. It is her first time visiting the Eurusi Consulate. The room is observed through her shadowed emerald eyes; wide with awe as they draw in the sight of the vaulted ceiling. She is draped in a shadowy affair but glittering with Torean emeralds and diamonds. There is a pleasant exchange with another guest as she moves with elegant grace towards the table where the hostess is seated. The Duchess of Tor dips into curtsey with a respectful bow of her head. "Greetings your highness. Thank you for hosting such an occasion." Her attention flits towards Aconite then and she smiles warmly to the fostered Fidante courtier.

While Samira has previously visited the Petrioch wing of the consulate, the banquet hall is an unfamiliar space to her. She makes a quiet, unassuming entrance, admiring the beauty of the marble pool, the paper lanterns, the pleasant music. Eventually, her gaze slides toward the table of dignitaries, the presence of the two Eurusi royals coaxing a faint smile from the Culler. Her current focus, however? Finding a seat to claim.

Aconite has joined the The Table of Twilight's Descent.

Raja is not one to participate in such extravagant events. However, the Culler woman did arrive. She comes in not too far behind Samira, quickening her pace to catch up. "Hey." She says in warm tones to the younger woman. "I think you are following me." She pokes Samira softly in the side. As far as Raja goes, she has taken the time to even put on a more formal outfit! She is dressed in the purple hues of twilight and her hair is put up into an elegant updo. Ringlets even frame her face.

Raven spies Raja and Samira and offers a quick finger-wave. Aconite gets a quick smile and dip of her chin in greeting as does Eirene.

As Patrizio arrives, Fatima turns her gaze toward him when he approaches, and she inclines her head, offering him the warmest of smiles. "Your Grace," she greets in turn. "I am so pleased you could make it. Please, join me here if you wish?" she offers, gesturing to the chair to her left. The one to her right, of course, is reserved for Katarina, a similar throne-like quality to the chairs, for another potential Queen of Eurus. As Eirene greets her, Fatima's smmile brightens, and she inclines her head to the head of the Physicans Guild. "You are most welcome, Lady Eirene. I hope that I can shed some light on the situation, assuming word has not already spread from other fronts," she responds in turn. "Please, sit anywhere you'd like," she offers serenely, inviting Eirene to the high table too if she wants, or anywhere really. A brief smile and a nod is directed to Raven and she'll encourage Raven pick wherever she wants to sit too.

As Aconite arrives, Fatima notices it, and she offers a warm smile to the Radiant. "Radiant Aconite Whisper," she greets warmly, her voice carrying easily. "You honor us with your presence. You are welcome to join us here, if you wish," she offers, gesturing to the high table. She glances to Katarina with a soft smile, then settles back in her chair as servants move about the room, beginning to pour drinks as requested by the guests. As Calista arrives and greets her, Fatima smiles warmly, and inclines her head. "It is a pleasure to have you here, Duchess," she response, her voice pleasant. "Please, sit anywhere you like." As Samira and Raja arrive, Fatima acknowledges them as well, with a polite inclination of the head, a radiant smile for Samira in particular. Drinks continue to be poured, music softly playing, while she waits for everyone to settle. As her own drink is poured Fatima waits while a taster tastes it - someone actually volunteered to do that. No thralls or slaves here.

Aconite has left the The Table of Twilight's Descent.

Katarina has joined the The High Table of the Waves.

Aconite has joined the The High Table of the Waves.

Patrizio has joined the The High Table of the Waves.

Eirene has joined the The Table of the Green Canals.

Patrizio smiles to Raven, noticing her there in his wake, and he does pause for a moment to murmur to her, before there's another inclination of his head to Fatima. "I would not have missed it for the world," rejoins he, before he's moving towards the high table as bidden. A warm smile is likewise offered to Eirene and Katarina as he see them as well, and there are moments where those jade eyes sweep over the hall, and those within.

3 House Velenosa Guards, Stormbringer, the Highhill War Hound arrive, following Jasper.

Raven bows her head to Patrizio, agreeing and adding her own murmur before he takes his place at the high table.

"Nuh uh. You're the one making a habit of showing up wherever I go," comes Samira's playful retort to Raja, the words laced with fondness. Her gaze shifts, a head-to-toe appraisal of the other Culler's outfit. "You look great. Here, wanna sit over here?" She gestures to a pair of empty seats nearby. A few familiar faces are noted, a wave offered to Raven as she spots her friend among the gathering. Aconite's attendence is noted as well, a smile sent toward the Whisper if she should happen to catch her eye. Fatima's greeting is returned with a respectful bow of her head. It's a bit more refined than giving one of her casual upnods.

Eirene lifts her hand in greeting to Patrizio as he gives her a smile. She doesn't feel right for the high table, so she instead sits nearby at the lower ones. "I've heard both good and bad," she replies to Fatima, "so clarity is good, Highness." She does her own taste testing of her wine out of Lycene habit before drinking deeply. She's head to enjoy some new cuisine, good wine, and hopefully good news.

The Radiant pauses briefly before rising gracefully, executing a deep and respectful curtsey. "Thank you, Your Highness. I would be delighted," she expresses with a warm smile, acknowledging Fatina's invitation. Aco dips into a quick long-distance curtsey to Calista. Aconite smiles warmly at Raven and waves to Samira and Raja as she moves toward the High Table. Settling into her seat, she takes a moment to glance along the line of esteemed guests, quietly observing and registering each individual with a composed demeanor while smoothing her hands over her lap.

Raven has joined the The Table of the Green Canals.

Katarina returns any greetings -- she's nothing if not polite, and probably considers etiquette a matter of honor or something besides. For the moment, she sits in silence, letting Fatima lead the proceedings, not YET butting in with her own thoughts.

Calista offers a little bow of her head in thanks to Fatima. Katarina and Patrizio are also greeted in kind before she turns from the high table to find herself a seat elsewhere. She reaches one of the other tables and finds Eirene and Raven seated there. "Mind some company?" She asks Eirene and extends her smile to Raven.

Raja laughs along with Samira's comment, "Well, if you didn't want me to show up in all the places you are going, maybe you should tell me that you are going there in the first place." There is a sassy tone in her own voice. "Sure! Looks as good of a place as any." She replies to Samira's suggestion of seating. She moves to one of the empty seats, smoothing out her silk skirts before settling into the seat. She leans towards Samira, "I got your messenger, by the way. I will indeed help you in your endeavor." She then lifts her gaze to look to the various people here. A smile is offered to Aconite and a return wave is given to Raven.

Jasper is late to this, but hopefully not too late. He'll offer a bow towards Fatima, flashing his erstwhile patron a smile, before taking a seat off to the side. He is here to listen in.

Raven reaches out a hand to gesture to open seats nearby in a wordless invitation for Calista to join. The banter between the sisters earns a quick grin their way.

There's a soft, pleasant music as one of the musicians thrums out an exotic melody on the oud, the other musicians having fallen silent, watching or listening to their fellow. The soft blend of notes drifts about the banquet hall. Once drinks are poured, Fatima lifts her glass, and she rises from her seat, and that aura of dark majesty seems to emanate around her just a little more strongly. Her voice, too, carries perhaps a touch more than a normal voice would, as if elevated by magic.

"Welcome," she says. "I offer guest right to all who come beneath our roof this evening. I offer sanctuary to those who seek refuge within the Eurusi consulate. In the name of Limerance, I vow safe passage to all here this evening, and should danger beset us, I vow to defend the lives of those within these walls." She smiles warmly then, glancing around. "Please, make yourselves comfortable. Enjoy the music, the drink, the bounty we will present before you tonight. But most of all, I hope you will feel welcome to discuss anything that comes to mind. Our fight at Harrow Hall was a triumph. But our work is not yet done. Let us discuss how we may aid one another." She lifts her glass, and says, "To the Last." Then she drinks, and resumes her seat. She sees Jasper's arrive, and she curves her lips in a radiant smile toward him, before she lifts her hand to signal to the servants.

That is the cue for the servants to bring in the first course, which appears to be charcuterie boards with a variety of cheeses, thinly-sliced meats, fruits and flatbreads with Eurusi dipping sauces both tangy and sweet, bland and spiced, and a cucumber and tomato salad that is gently spiced with dill and lemon.

As the servants depart, Fatima turns her attention back to Eirene, and asks, "Let us address what we have heard, first," she suggests, "and then we can sort fact from fiction. May I ask, my lady, what it is you have heard?"

Calista has joined the The Table of the Green Canals.

Raja has joined the The Table of Twilight's Descent.

Calista is greeted with a nod and a lift of her glass. "Been a while," Eirene replies. But then the banquet begins and Fatima calls on her. "War. Violence. The chains of the enslaved broken." She gives a grim smile. "Freedom, but at a price. And an old enemy making their way elsewhere...." she snorts to herself, "Gods, I sound like a side show fortune teller.

From where he is seated, Patrizio gives a smile and an inclination of his head back to Calista, though the jade eyes are turned to Fatima when she's speaking, with his expression growing more serious at the toast - to which he raises his glass in salute before taking a sip from it - and then a consideration, once more, of those present.. but a chuckle at Eirene at her last. "Either that, or one who's lived through the last few years with all of us. We seem, my lady, to have a theme to our lives."

Jasper has joined the The High Table of the Waves.

Raja's words receive a pleased look from Samira who leans sideways to deliver a light nudge of her hsoulder. "I thought you might be willing to assist. Thank you. I'll fill you in soon." For now, she's turning full attention to Fatima and to Eirene's summary of recent events. "Momentous times," she muses aloud.

Samira has joined the The Table of Twilight's Descent.

Raven Flashes a grin at Eirene "Not at all but maybe the fortune tellers I know have a sense of drama." she looks to Fatima "The seals are in danger is what I've heard."

Eirene mutters, "... hasn't ... as of ... Everything's in danger."

Raja calls to Raven, "One in particular." She says with a cant of her head. "and should the seal be destroyed, the next Reckoning will come. Essentially, we have a two-front war on our hands."

Fatima lounges back in her chair as she listens to Eirene, taking a piece of fruit from the board in front of her. "It is true," she says. "The Writs that have held much of the world enslaved have been broken. Some have had visions of these things, and when the visions are all brought together and examined, the picture is grim but... not unexpected," she says, lifting the cheese to her lips and eating with all the grace one can.

"In one vision," she says, "the Undying Empire is seen in chaos, as Platinum apparently cannot be found after his Court turned on him. Former slaves in Cardia have also revolted, and the Skylords debate on what should be done - should they do anything, or hold?" She glances around. "Meanwhile, a black dragon flies toward the Undying Empire." She does not likely need to name that dragon for those who know. "And the now-freed slaves of the Dune Kingdoms, some of them quite powerful mages and adepts in their own right, revolt against their taskmasters. The Dune Kingdoms burn, and the Prophet of the Sands seeks to finalize his plans to awaken the Sleeper."

She pauses, letting all that settle in, before she proceeds to address Eirene's concerns. "Aapparently, our old enemy," she says with a glance back to Eirene, "has joined with the Prophet, or soon will." She isn't eating the cheese, too focused on speaking. "What I know for certain is that the rumors of the Prophet of the Sands being in Arvum were true, but he has since returned to Pyre to build his army." She glances to Raven, and nods slightly. "And the Eater of Stories remains in Arvum... for now. It traveled north, in a cloud of millions of crows, and devoured Fable, Legion and probably Ruin in the process. The Despite of Fable has been broken, and the shardhavens in the Mourning Isles have all been emptied of their demonic residents. I suspect they have been elsewhere as well, as the Eater builds its army."

Her dark lashes lower over her eyes, and she glances toward Raja as the woman speaks. "Yes," she says quietly, lifting her gaze once more. "And the Darkwater is no more. Which allows passage to Eurus." She glances around, meeting the gazes of her guests. "That means there are three priorities: One - protect the remaining Seals. Two - Protect the Thinnest Point. And three - sail to Eurus, to do battle with the Prophet of the Sands, before he can join with Azazel to complete his rite to awaken the Sleeper. That is what we face, and what decisions must be made," she says plainly, lifting her glass of rum now for a drink. Who wouldn't want a drink after that?

Raja casually enjoys the cheeses, neats, and sauces that had beenleft upon their tables. In silence, she indulges while Fatima lays down the information. Her gaze lifts to inquire when the time feels it is right, "Your Highness, do we know where this seal is?" She inquires.

Fatima looks to Raja, and lifts her chin slightly. "If that location is known, I would beg no one to say it here. The locations of the Seals are hidden for a reason. I personally do not know, nor would I wish to. The Prophet of the Sands has long sought me dead, and would no doubt torture the information from me first if he suspected I knew. So if you know, do not tell me," she says emphatically.

"While I think it important to know where they are," voices Patrizio from where he's sitting, with a nod mindfully, "I would agree with her highness. And better, still, that we limit who actually knows, to make it harder to discover. Better still that we simply stop our foes before they discover, yes?"

Raven ahhhs, "A reliable source told me earlier that the Prophet has returned to Eurus but acknowledged that he was in arvum. The source also mentioned something about an army following Az." she shakes her head "I don't know the location but I do know seals are sometimes people. "

Calista remains quiet while conversations happen around her. She is either already in the know of some that is being shared, agreeing with those who share information she can confirm, or learning something new.

Aconite follows the conversation with invested interest but leans back a little as Fatima speaks and reaches for a glass of water. The Whisper focusing on those who are speaking, following closely.

Such a lovely dinner conversation. No doubt, the servants are glancing around a bit wide-eyed, and for just a moment, Fatima's aura of dark majesty seems to emanate a little stronger. Their confidence returns, their focus becoming resolute as they pour drinks and take away soiled dishes or finished charcuterie boards. The servants depart to collect the next course, and Fatima resumes her serene demeanor. She glances sharply at Raven and then nods to Patrizio. "That is my thought as well," she says, "hence why I am calling any who wish to aid me, to join my fleet, and Princess Katarina's Eventide Flotilla," she says with a glance and a nod to Katarina, "to sail to Eurus, and meet the enemy there. I know what my duty is. What it has always been. And not many may agree or support me in it," she says, with a glance around, "and that is perfectly fine. There are the other two priorities that must be met. That was the mistake made during the Reckoning, as was repeatedly pointed out to me. All the attention was focused upon Eurus, and the Thinnest Point left unguarded. Let us not make that mistake again. But... this dinner," she says, with an expansive gesture around the room, "is intended for those who may be willing to travel to Eurus, or at least support our efforts," she finishes. "The Dune Kingdoms of Petrioch, Suj'Abbat, Mangaldissi, Gildorian and Lagadorus, and perhaps Jay'alaz, will no doubt be able to form a strong alliance, if we can throw back the forces of the Dune Emperor. And from there, surely, other Dune Kingdoms will follow. Stealthy types will be needed too," she adds, with a little glance around through her dark lashes, "to free the hostages of the noble families that are being kept by the Dune Emperor to keep them in line. Sailors, war veterans who know how to command, medics," she says with a nod to Eirene, "and more. Most of all, we need resources for recruiting." She glance around. "This is not merely an Eurusi problem. This is a world-shaking problem that will require cooperation, and our very existence depends upon it." She falls silent then, lifting her glass as servants return, this time bearing the first of several main courses: duck in saffron and cinnamon sauce, with a side of green and yellow squash.

After Fatima details the plans, Katarina clears her throat softly. She adds: "In addition to my Flotilla -- I have brokered the assistance of the Scales of Cardia in liberating Suj'abbat. I cannot say with certainty what aid they will be able to provide, given the state of the Sky Kingdoms... but if even one dragon flies at our side, then that is one dragon's power added to our own."

Eirene says, "I have spoken to the Guild, and we will send who we can to assist. As well as supplies and guardsmen to keep them all safe. I myself cannot command but the Guild will be there." She nods to Fatima and Katarima. "May our partnership bring health and happiness to many."

Raja has left the The Table of Twilight's Descent.

Patrizio is quiet, while Fatima is speaking, listening to that gauging of what it is that she's asking. Though his head inclines, in the wake of Eirene's words. "Just as the good guildmaster has spoken, I too cannot absent myself from these shores, as much as I want to." And it is clear, from his expression, that there is want to be part of this. "But likewise, I will speak to my people, and those who have want and ability to go shall be given leave by me to do so. May the Compact endure, may a free Eurus rise, and may the gods all favour us in these dark hours."

Raven doesn't pipe up, being one of Patrizio's people and clearly there shall be a conversation to follow where her role is to be in the insanity of an unravelling dream.

Katarina checks 'recovery check' at normal. Katarina is successful.

Fatima turns a gaze to Katarina as she mentions that the Scales have agreed to assist with liberating Suj'Abbat, and a warm smile comes to her lips. "Excellent," she says, sounding quite impressed in spite of herself. "I am glad to hear it," she says, before looking to Eirene, with a deep inclination of her head. "It is much appreciated, Lady Eirene," she says with warm sincerity. Her attention turns to Patrizio then, and her green eyes study him with quiet consideration, before she inclines her head. "I appreciate any aid you can, your Grace," she says with a soft smile. "But I do understand, your duties as Archduke prevent your personal presence. I would not expect any Highlords really, to abandon their people in favor of Eurus. It would be an unrealistic expectation," she says, her smile brightening, her features radiant. "May we all find strength in faith and a mutual desire for peace in these hours of need." She lifts her glass to him then and takes a sip. She turns her attention to the duck, and starts to eat, though she remains attentive to any who may still wish to speak on the matters at hand.

Jasper takes a goblet of wine. He lifts it in a silent toast to Fatima and drinks a sip before he is served the first main course.

Fatima converses quietly with those at the high table. Meanwhile, the servants return, checking on the progress of the first entree, and once those plates have been finished, they take them away. Soon they return with large platters filled with various types of seafood with different dipping sauces, or sauteed with spices and vegetables. All of the Eurusi food that is served is pleasantly spiced, sometimes hotly spiced. The variety is decadent, and the drink flows freely as guests begin to eat and converse more privately.

Calista has left the The Table of the Green Canals.

3 Fidante House Guards, Santino leave, following Calista.

Raven says, "Does anyone know who or how the trouble with the thinnest point is to be addressed?"

The musicians have changed their tune again, this time with the lilting sounds of the ney, which is sort of flute made of reed, mixed with the softer notes of a violin. Occasionally, the dummer raps out a soft staccato with his fingers lightly, so as not to disturb the conversation. It does provide cover for some conversations too, so that they do not carry about the room. As Raven speaks up again, Fatima turns her attention to the Blackheart. "That," she says quietly, "is likely a matter for the Crown and the Faith to decide. I suspect such decisions are being discussed behind closed doors." In other words, she clearly doesn't know what the plan there is.

Raven nods once and promises "So long as other duties don't prevent me, I will lend what aid I may."

Eirene grunts a little to herself. "Probably outside our paygrade," she replies to Raven.

Raven nods to Eirene and admits something with a soft sigh.

Eventually, as the dinner seems to begin to wind down, servants appear once more, and delicious deserts are brought in, featuring pistachios and rose, or a more hearty pastry filled with chopped nuts and fig, shaped like little birds' nests, with chocolate eggs hidden inside. Chilled juice is also served, or cordials, coffee or stronger drink for those who want them.

Patrizio has left the The High Table of the Waves.

9 First Legion Centurions, 3 Setarcan Royal Shields leave, following Patrizio.

Samira's gaze slides to each person who speaks in turn as the conversation unfolds. She's enjoying the Eurusi food presented, delighting in the richness of the flavors, but it's clear that the discussion has her attention. Raven's question earns a pensive look, but it seems she's content to leave the matter of the Thinnest Point to those far more knowledgeable than she. Of the Eurusi needs, she promises, "I'll be spreading the word, seeing how many others I might be able to recruit to assist."

Fatima murmurs a farewell to Patrizio, and then turns her gaze to Samira as she speaks up. "That would be most helpful and appreciated, Samira," she says with a soft smile. The Princess takes her glass, newly refilled and tasted by her taster, and takes a slow sip. "Does anyone else have anything else to discuss?" she asks then, as she eyes the dessert placed in front of her. She eats from this heartily too. How one woman can eat so much and never gain weight is a mystery. She's not turned down a single dish.

Katarina, meanwhile, has not eaten a single thing. She's had maybe a single sip of wine. Her expression is thoughtful, bordering on solemn, as she considers all the... /everything/ that is about to unfold. "Not I, but should that change, I will let you know, Your Highness."

Raven has picked at her food, hungry when she remembers there's food but largely distracted by conversation and the topic at hand.

Fatima inclines her head to Katarina. "I would welcome the opportunity to speak more privately on this matters, so that we can plan for the future, your Highness," she says agreeably in reply. She glances around then, and says, "Please feel free to linger if you wish. Otherwise, if you are departing, I bid you all farewell and safe travels."

Aconite has left the The High Table of the Waves.