The Shrine of Gild is grand enough as it is, considering the deity it is devoted to, but for the art show there is a little more flair than usual! Hanging from the walls of the brilliant space are draped sheets of fine, almost sheer, gold silk against others of white silk, roused and pinned with small faux-silver coins. It is really rather exceptional. It is against the backdrop of luxurious silk that props are set to hold a work of art -- each piece has a unique location at varied heights depending upon the display. Though some might not be framed the canvases are edged by silk from the solid white-gold marbled pillar-stands they sit upon.

Attendants step deftly about the Shrine between those gathered within for the show without so much as bump to the visitors. Each of the attendants are swathed in gold and white, suited to the theme, and those with longer hair have had tresses pinned up with silver-painted silk flowers. The trays had a wide variety of wines; dry whites, floral roses, sumptuous or dark loamy reds, lightly sweet sparklings -- all in long stemmed glass, bowls or flutes. There is whiskey though, for those that prefer it. The food available is light, reminiscent of the spring tides, and each tray decorated with fresh, edible flowers.

There are fruits; peaches, oranges, strawberries and apricots, some sugar dusted, others chocolate covered and candied orange peels. Sweetened cream in dipping bowls trot passed on one or another tray. For those without a sweet tooth there are little savoury pastries with lightly seasoned venison, others of just vegetables.

Standing at the entrance of the Shrine, swathed in teal silks, Saedrus greets those coming into the art show. "Welcome," he greets warmly, with a smile lilted across his lips. No doubt Thena is not too far away, but there is no great show of titles or announcement as people arrive; it's quite casual and comfortable. Just a warm greeting and bright welcome from the Whisper before he gestures back to the Shrine proper, "we hope you enjoy the artwork, there are programs just to this side and a pamphlet with more information right here, take one as you like." Saedrus offers. He has a glass of wine in hands, a sparkling rose it seems, which he sips at in spare moments -- as few as they are. "Come in, welcome." Said to another person arriving.

Ugarte arrives, following Fortunato.

1 Grayson Guardsmen arrives, following Sabella.

1 Grayson Guardsmen leaves, following Sabella.

1 Grayson Guardsmen arrives, following Sabella.

Lethe gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Fortunato gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Finally, a place where Orazio's white and gold aethera just looks like part of the scenery, rather than a giant, gaudy sign. The Legate is smiling as he is greeted by Saedrus and murmurs a greeting to him in turn, "Good evening, Master Saedrus. A tremendous effort, and beautiful. It's wonderful." He doesn't linger, but rather moves to the program box to take a pamphlet and start looking around.

Esoka gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Orazio gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Arriving alongside Marquessa Cambria, Daemon filters into the Shrine draped in the tabard of a Knight of Solace. The brother-in-arms to his order has a warm smile on his face, his helmet held just beneath his arm as he takes a long look around the room. The various art pieces put a delightful look on his face, the man awed just briefly at taking in all the colorful sights and brilliant sculptures that dotted the room. Remember his posture he goes unbearably stiff, his eyes scanning the room until they land upon Thena's face. With a nod toward the Marquessa, he points out the newly minted Dame to her as he begins to march in that direction. "Thank you for the warm welcome, friend." He muses toward Saedrus as they'd pass him by at the entrance.

Sabella picks up The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Ailith gets The Knights of Solace, Silver Order: Who They Are and What They Do from The Knights of Solace Pamphlet Box.

As an auxillary member of the Knights of Solace, Cristoph has thrown the white tabard on over his more typical and casual armor. If there's such a thing as casual armor. He arrives with his wife, their arms linked as they merge into the crowd. Without asking, he stops a server that's passing by with some glasses of whiskey and hands one off to Nicia before taking another for himself. "It looks like they have candied oranges. You like them, right?" Their circuit will likely take them by Saedrus where he'll give the Softest Whisper a bright smile. "Another impressive event! I look forward to enjoying this evening."

Esoka enters the shrine, armor shined up and surcoat prominetly displaying the herons of Riven. She takes a program, bowing to one of the attendants, and then begins to mingle. Which involves getting herself a glass of whiskey, first and foremost. And a little plate of fruit to go with it.

Daemon gets The Knights of Solace, Silver Order: Who They Are and What They Do from The Knights of Solace Pamphlet Box.

Sabella drops The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Lethe gets The Knights of Solace, Silver Order: Who They Are and What They Do from The Knights of Solace Pamphlet Box.

Thena is indeed prowling not far from Saedrus, clad in ceremonial armor of black relieved only by touches of the silver and gold of her Faith and her Order, except for a pair of rubicund hairpins of stylized flame pinning up the complicated braided knot of her hair. She looks stoic and a touch wary, though she's managing smiles for those coming in and letting Saedrus do much of the talking.

Fortunato arrives and does his usual crowd thing, sticking to the edges, if not without a broad smile at Thena. He studies the pamphlet, for a bit.

Cristoph gets The Knights of Solace, Silver Order: Who They Are and What They Do from The Knights of Solace Pamphlet Box.

"I love oranges." Nicia replies, accepting the whiskey that is passed over to her, glancing around for these candied oranges as they make their circuit, only stopping her search when they reach Saedrus, offering him a quick smile, "Hello again...you have been very busy recently, haven't you?"

white-tailed eagle, other white-tailed eagle arrive, following Mia.

Cambria gets The Knights of Solace, Silver Order: Who They Are and What They Do from The Knights of Solace Pamphlet Box.

Orazio studies the pamphlet, and moves towards Thena. He gives her a reassuring smile. "This is beautiful." His voice drops and he leans in, "And it will go very well, so take a deep breath."

Valerio gets The Knights of Solace, Silver Order: Who They Are and What They Do from The Knights of Solace Pamphlet Box.

Cristoph gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Aleksei gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Lethe arrives to the event wearing blue. She quickly grabs a program and looks it over. She also takes a pamphlet but doesn't read it just yet.

"Father Orazio," Saedrus greets with a dip of his head and gentle smile. "I do hope you enjoy yourself." Head turned to Daemon and Cambria, "my Lord, my Lady. The attendants will see to drinks for you both, please, there is so much to see." He gestures back to the Shrine at large behind him. Evergreens catch Nicia and Cristoph though and he smiles brilliantly to the couple, "Ah, Duke Laurent, Duchess Laurent, welcome! Lovely to see you both, I hope you enjoy the displays-- oh and the oranges, I did hope you would attend to have some, Duchess Nicia." chortling brightly, "Oh, yes, very my Lady. But I prefer to be busy."

Cambria, stepping elegantly beside Daemon, enters into the shrine with the look of one most pleased. Much like the knight beside her, Cambria looks all around, clearly in awe. She does, however, manage to grab a pamphlet!

The white and gold of her simple silk robes could easily blend the Palace Seraph into the background but height denies any sneaking. "Thank you, Whisper Saedrus. I can see your gentle touch. Very beautiful." She grins and strides away to make room for others, plucking a pamphlet from a box and finding an alcove to linger within.

Thena lifts a hand to Fort and flashes a rueful, perhaps slightly jealous smile at her cousin who immediately goes wallflower, then turns torwards Orazio. She quite clearly inhales and then lets the breath out slowly, then nods. "Yes. Breathing. This is all Saedrus Whisper, by the way. I should mingle, yeah? This is the part where I mingle? Or do I do a speech?" Her dark eyes cast around for Saedrus, halp!

Mia gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Aleksei actually got here early. It's possible that he arrived with Saedrus while things were still being set up and just parked himself off to the side and out of the way. When others start arriving, he's full of smiles, even if he's not associated with the event himself. There's a hint of wry amusement in his eyes for Thena's awkwardness about the whole thing. He sidles closer to her. "Don't worry," he says in a stage whisper. "I don't think they'll start a riot or anything."

Ailith gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Fortunato lifts his hand next to his mouth to half say and half mouth, "I believe in you, Thena!"

Cambria gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Esoka spends a few moments studying her program intently. Head then lifts, looking about the room, eyes narrowed like she's formulating a plan of action for how to proceed. With looking at art. The first thing she does is approach Thena. "Dame Thena! Hello. This all looks very grand. There are so many beautiful things to look at." The sight of the hairpins just makes her //beam//.

Sabella gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

"Seraph," Saedrus greets and touches a kiss to Ailith's cheek -- even if he has to hop on his toes to do so. Something is whispered by Ailith's ear before Saedrus is distracted by more greetings. Evergreens cast to dear Thena, a little tip of his head as if to shake it but it never really makes it, 'not just yet, dear' says the look. Annnd he's back to chatting. "Dame Esoka, so lovely to see you! Welcome, I hope you enjoy yourself." Glancing aside himself to speak to an attendant, who swiftly makes their way away into the crowds and takes Aleksei a whiskey -- geez, so spoilt, Aleksei.

"Mingle," Orazio suggests, his voice soothing and calm. He reaches out and briefly touches her shoulder, if she allows. "Take it at your own pace, and remember that you have stabbed scarier things with a sword." He winks, chuckles at Fortunato's call, and then starts to move away so other people can chat with Thena. He ambles towards Fortunato.

Valerio gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Daemon smiles broadly to Thena as he approaches. "Dame Thena. We're in for the rough patch tonight, hm?" He says in good humor. "If you need a reprieve from all the socializing tonight, don't hesitate to let me know please. It is after all, my charge for the evening." He also makes a gesture back to the Marquessa. "And have you met the lovely Marquessa Cambria? She has only told me such incredible praise for the Knights of Solace in the time I've known her."

white-tailed eagle, other white-tailed eagle arrive, following Mia.

"You had the oranges just..." Nicia blinks at Saedrus before her smile widens just a bit, "I'm glad, then that I was able to attend." She gives Cristoph's arm a light squeeze before she glances at him, "Wasn't that thoughtful?" She then nods, glancing back at the Whisper, "Thank you...and things look wonderful."

Saedrus does lift that lilting voice of his to note, "I will say now that today is just the artshow, and the auction itself will be held in a month or so* but please enjoy the displays and the brilliant art that has been kindly offered for the show. And special thanks to the artists of whom some are and are not present here today, they have done exceptional work."

"I can't stab these people, Legate," Thena hisses, but then there's a little cheerful nose-crinkle at Fortuato and a quick little nod to Aleksei. "Though I might be better equipped for a riot. Esoka, hello! And Sir Daemon, and no, I have not had the pleasure. Marquessa Cambria, honored to meet you." She inclines her head in greeting.

"No stabbing," Fortunato mock-calls back over, and then turns a smile and attention over to Orazio. "It's hypocritical for me to say so, of course. I can't do crowds, not remotely. It's a fine show, though, so much variety, multiple contributors."

Armored as always, even during a display about Knights, Valerio works his way into the shrine. His head cocked to the left to be able to see everything a little easier at once, clearly utilizing his height for the purpose of being able to pick and choose his way through the throng gathered.

Cambria offers Thena bright smile as Daemon introduces the pair of them. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, dame Thena," she says. "I understand you're going to be exceptionally busy, so I won't take up much more of your time." That said, Cambria disengages herself from the crowd surely building up around the dame! She murmurs to Daemon as she does so.

The Countess arrived as she so often did -- at a pace so brisk that it kicked up her hems in a flurry of silk and lace skirts, swirling around her ankles. But she stopped short in the doorway, her too-dark eyes drinking in the sight of the now-transformed shrine, packed with people. Now might be the moment that another woman would smile at it all, but no. Mia simply regarded it with a decidedly naked curiosity before she selected a program to sate herself, nodding her thanks to the attendant who provided it.

Cristoph's grin remains bright, "We should probably go and find some of those oranges." There's a fondness to his expression when Nicia's reaction transpires. Then he glances around and tacks on, "And say hello to our other host of the evening." He's tucked close to Nicia and it seems the Whisper is about to begin other hosting duties. So he's got them moving again, passing a certain Mazetti along the way. "Lord Valerio! It's good to see you here. I don't believe you met my wife at the reception, did you?"

"It's quite fine, and I do enjoy seeing the Silver Order have a chance to receive recognition for their work. Master Saedrus is a masterful organizer, and Dame Thena will be fine," Orazio says, with a flash of a grin at Fortunato. He takes up a position near Fort, not exactly wallflowering, but at least out of the main press. "How are you doing, hmm?"

Esoka smiles warmly at Saedrus. "Whisper. Thank you. Everything looks lovely, as ever. I am going to look at things!" A last soft "Good luck" to Thena and she marches off. To art. Her first stop is the camp chair, which is peered at with narrow eyes. "Does anyone really take aeterna on the road?" Pause. "Actually, Magpie Grayhope probably does." Another pause. "It //does// look comfortable, doesn't it...?"

A soft sweep of silk whispers against the cobblestone path, hearalding a small slip of a young woman gilt in blue as deep and vibrant of her eyes. Sabella moves with an easy grace into the large shrine. Her gaze shifts across those before her before sliding outwards towards the room and the silk hangings beyond. She lifts a hand almost without though to retrieve a program from the box. A soft snap given to her wrist for the soft paper in her hair, the soft drift of air stirring soft golden stray locks of her tresses about her face. She pass amongst and through the gathering crowd, her own pace set to move as she will even as the tumble of her golden mussed tresses tumble freely over her shoulders and behind her. The soft curled tips tapping lightly against her lower back, a few strands clinging lightly to the trim of her waist against the blue silk of her gown.

Saedrus smiles brightly, noting Valerio's entrance. "My Lord, welcome, I do hope you enjoy the evening--" an attendant passing the Mazetti in that moment with an offer of wines and whiskey. Evergreens casting off towards Fortunato to give the artist a Look -- do not make Thena nervous, Fort.

Ailith plucks a sugar dusted apricot from one of the many passing trays and nibbles on an end. Her eyes drift to the program which she unfolds to peruse while lingering out of the main crowd. "Archlector Aleksei," she calls once the man finally has his drink. "Why don't you tell me a little about the chair?"

The attendants circulate the room deftly carrying trays in their hands with all sort of goodies! There's a wide variety of wines; dry whites, floral roses, sumptuous or dark loamy reds, lightly sweet sparklings -- all in long stemmed glass, bowls or flutes. There is whiskey though, for those that prefer it.

By way of food there are fruits; peaches, oranges, strawberries and apricots, some sugar dusted, others chocolate covered and candied orange peels. Sweetened cream in dipping bowls trot passed on one or another tray. For those without a sweet tooth there are little savoury pastries with lightly seasoned venison, others of just vegetables.

"Yes, the oranges." Nicia agrees, very willing to be steered in the direction of the candied fruit before they come to Valerio and she pauses when Cristoph does, shaking her head, "I don't believe that we got to, no...If we did, though, I am terribly sorry for my bad memory."

"Dame Thena's made of sturdier stuff than talk can damage, and the Silver Order deserves the memory." Fortunato glances briefly from Orazio to smile, just smile at Saedrus. What trouble can there possibly be. Than back to Orazio. "Fine. Busy, I suppose, but in the banal artist way. Which is solitary. How have you fared?"

Lethe takes a long look at the camp chair. "That does look like a good thing to have." She takes a glass of red wine for herself while she takes another look at the chair.

Daemon politely steps aside from Thena to allow her to receive more guests. Rather than continue the barrage of questions, the knight slowly begins to pace through the shrine properly. His eyes upon a particular broadsword that stood out from the rest of the pieces to him.

"The chair?" Aleksei blinks at Ailith, mid-sip with the glass of whiskey that's been pressed into his hand. And then he looks over at the camp chair. "Oh, well. I think Magpie made it? It's just a camp chair. Except it has aeterna, so it's fancy." He nods solemnly.

"I...yes, it seems so," Thena tells Cambria with a faintly worried look, then lifts a hand in greeting to Mia when she arrives, shoots a little smile to Esoka as the woman heads for the camp chair, and looks around her to see if there's anyone else in the press of new arrivals that she's missed.

Orazio snorts at Fortunato. "Artist, yes. Solitary, often. But never banal. You must not speak of yourself so, Fortunato," he says, lightly. He looks the artist over thoughtfully, and makes a quiet noise. "I exist. The world exists. I suppose we should grateful for anything more than that. We should catch a drink, sometime." And then he reaches out and snags a glass from a passing server, flashing another grin.

Esoka takes a sip on her whiskey, turning to Lethe as the woman comments on the chair. "I've never camped in such finery. But it looks so soft!" She gives the woman a look-over, trying to place her and not quite succeeding. "Are you a member of the Faith, or just here to enjoy all of this? I don't believe we've met before. I'm Dame Esoka Greenblood. Sworn knight to House Riven and Sword of the Twainfort." A grin to Aleksei when she spots him, chair-adjacent. "Blessed Aleksei. A good eve upon you."

"Duke Laurent, a pleasure to see you as well. I believe that is correct, Sir." Valerio inclines his head first to Christoph and then bows to Nicia. "An honor, Duchess. How have you both been faring? Also, apologies uneeded. This is a large city, so many names to keep straight. Though I imagine my face is a little easier to remember than most." Straightening up the eyebrow above his eyepatch does it's best imitation of bobbing up and down. It is then he plucks one of the whiskey glasses from the attendant. "Ah! Thank you, this reminds me to send a message to the Whisper House very soon, indeed."

Serenity arrives, delivering a message to Valerio before departing.

Fortunato takes a glass as well, light echo. "I see we've both caught drinks, Legate! But this is not what you mean." He's no sooner caught than swigging, after all. "I would like that very much. Existing. Speaking with you. And I'll stop pretending banality." A beat. "The turn out has been rather good for Faith events of late."

With most of the guests having arrives Saedrus swans off effortlessly into the gathered crowd in the Shrine. He passes by Sabella and bows graciously by the woman's side, "you Highness, welcome to the art show," he greets aware perhaps of her title but maybe not her name-- Saed is a Whisper though so that sort of thing is like his jam. "Have you seen anything that speaks to you, your Highness?" A beat, "I am Saedrus Whisper, I do not believe we have formally met."

Thena heads for the chair, since it's drawing a bit of a following. "Honestly, we don't have aeterna ones. Mags made that one special...the design is accurate, and it won't hold dirt. But the ones I'm more used to are leather. You can sit in it," she tells Esoka with some enthusiasm. "It is very comfortable."

Serenity, Drysi, a young shaman apprentice arrive, following Khanne.

Lethe shakes her head. "I'm not a member of the Faith. I like coming to the shrines, and I'm hoping to be a disciple for a certain god. I think I just like to see art for why I'm here. What about you? What brought you here?" She asks Esoka. "Also I'm Lady Lethe Tyde. It's nice to meet you."

"Ah ha," Cambria intones as she spies Valerio. There's a nod of her head to Daemon, indicating that she will be going to greet the towering Mazetti - he was welcome to join her, if he so chose!

Ailith flips the program around to find the notation while flicking glances towards said chair. "Is the aeterna all that makes it fancy?" she asks Aleksei, sliding a step to linger alongside. "I'm not familiar with Magpie's craftsmanship. How sturdy do you suppose it is?" She eyes Esoka, nearby fellow chair examiner, and grins in greeting. "Dame Esoka. Good to see you once more."

As Mia perused the pamphlet provided, there was a sudden, rare, and perhaps entirely unexpected sound that came from her -- she actually laughed. It was not a common sound for the woman to make, one that few people had heard from her and even they had heard it rarely, but apparently, something in particular had tickled her funnybone. It was a slightly sharp sound, one that didn't rest easily on her tongue and thus one that didn't last long. Hardly at all, really, given how swiftly she pressed two fingers to her mouth to muffle the sound. Thank the gods, for the sudden distraction which Thena provided. That same hand moved from her mouth to offer a greeting to the other woman, then reached for the hem of her gown. She lifted it just so as she strode across the room to the Knight's side, offering a surprisingly warm, "Dame Grayhope. I should apologize profusely for missing your recent Knighting; I had hoped so very much to be witness to it."

"Oh, here are some." Cristoph leans out and tugs on a servers elbow to bring them in closely. "Thank you." As he plucks several of the candied fruits off the tray to be presented to his wife. "I think that you were busy entertaining the other guests that we had." To Valerio he grins crookedly, "You're easy to spot in a room too, being several inches taller than even myself. And I'm not exactly short." To further explain he mentions to Nicia, "Lord Valerio is the uncle of Marquessa Cambria. Who I recently met with to discuss some trade details."

"It is a pleasure to meet you." Nicia replies to Valerio, offering him a little more of a smile, pausing when Cristoph further explains who the man is, "Oh! I'm not sure I've ever had the chance to meet the Marquessa, either. Perhaps...do you both like cakes?"

"Perhaps not, but I shall enjoy it just the same." With that, Orazio raises his glass in a toast. "To Jayus blessing the Faithful with his gifts in abundance, and to Gild providing us the leisure and safety in which to appreciate it." He takes a sip of the wine. "But yes, we should have a /different/ drink, soon." His gaze sweeps the room, looking with approval at the guests.

"Countess, it's good to see you," Thena tells Mia with a smile possessing a little more depth than her standard 'oh gods I'm hostessing' variety. "Please don't apologize. It's been a very busy time for everyone."

The passing of a servant with a laden tray draws Sabella's eye for but a brief moment. One hand lifts to pluck a Bordeaux glass filled with a full bodied red wine from the tray. There is a brief flash of a smile before she moves on, her svelte form slipping further into the room. Her gaze slides once more over those gathered though she doesn't speak at first, each of it's occupants making their own greetings. It seems that her circuitous leads her directly to where she deigns as Saedrus passes only to slow a moment in a gracious bow.
    Sabella smile is warm, a soft tip of her head and slight dip of her form given into return to the man. The kiss silk whispering against the ground in the return of her gesture. Her voice a soft chime, "A most gracious welcome and here I was seeking out the hosts in turn. "A pleasure," she chimes before offering in turn Sabella Grayson." She offers to title, no pomp and circumstance and his question draws her attention for a moment even as her gaze shifts. "It is quite a lovely sight to take in all at once." A soft admittance to not having yet the time to pick such a favorite to speak.

Khanne walks into the area of the Shrine, her head tilting this way, and that, looking through the crowd to see who might be here, but also for a specific person as well. Spotting him, a smile spreads across her face as she starts to approach. She reaches about halfway and is stopped by an attendant with a tray full of fruits. Oh! Distractions! She licks her hips and chuckles. "I'll take the whole tray!" She appears to be joking, as she merely takes a sampling (for now) and continues on her way towards Valerio.

"Dame Esoka!" Aleksei greets brightly. "Hello! Always nice to see you." He looks back at the chair that's the current focus of so many. "Do you suppose we're allowed to sit on it? I think it's just the aeterna making it fancy, yes. I'm sure it's sturdy enough."

From where Saedrus stands by Sabella his head turns as the Shrine welcomes another guest. There is a smile and delicate tip of his head to Khanne, "Lady Khanne, welcome." He greets brightly. Evergreen eyes cast back to Sabella though and he chuckles, "thank you, your Highness, I am honoured you think so. Take your time though to see each piece, I am sure most will be up for auction in a months time."

"Yes, yes, I know it has, but House Riven owes you a debt of gratitude, and the gift that I commissioned for you was such a small and simple thing. I thought I might bring it with me tonight, but doubted you'd have the time for conversation," she said, perhaps interposing herself -- just a little -- between Thena and some of the other guests. The sincerity of the knight's smile was enough to tell Mia that she might appreciate being shielding from her duties, even if it was only long enough to allow her a few breaths of peace. "I'm afraid I'll be riding out again soon, but the Count is doing quite well, all but his one leg really, and I've no doubt he'd like to offer you his thanks in person -- whether I'm off traipsing through the woods like an idiot or not. May we have that long-forgotten dinner soon?"

Turns a look over his shoulder to Aleksei, probably overhearing plans of //sitting on the art works//. Aleksei. No.

Fortunato raises his glass. "To Mangata's calm seas and Petrichor's calm woods. One of these days, one of these days. Inspiration in the meantime." With that, Fortunato drains his glass entire. It's too good to drink that way. "Saedrus is a genius, for certain, but the credit's not just at his door. The symbolism's drawing people. They need it."

"It certainly was a lovely reception, and I did arrive a little late as well. Unintentionally, but still, that fault remains mine." A slight bow again with a slight smile . "Ah, how did you enjoy meeting with the Marquessa? She has a formidable mind!" Valerio looks amued and then inclines his head towards Nicia with a chuckle. "I am a man, My Lady. Of course I like food." His grin grows into a big smile. "It is usually the quickest way to a mans heart, his stomach!" A sip of the whiskey and the smile continues as he gestures with his glass. "Actually here comes my Niece now, oh, and so does Lady Halfshav. Most excellent."

Esoka nods to Lethe. "The discipleship is a good way to serve. I recently became a Disciple of Gloria, to explore my own faith. I am friends with Dame Thena..." She sounds so proud of this. "...and I know some of the artists whose work is on display. Also, I like art! It's pretty." Ailith is shot one of those quick, warm grins. "Seraph. It's most good to see you. I sort of want to test its sturdiness, I'll admit." Aleksei's comment makes her look //very// considering. She employs something resembling manners and resists, though. She moves on, to take in the statue of the winged shield. The sound of Mia's laugh makes her turn her head. An arm is raised, to wave at her countess.

Orazio gives Fortunato's glass the pained look that only a Lycene can muster, and only at the tragic waste of very good wine. "Fortunato," he starts, then grimaces, and catches himself. With a brave sniffle for the alcohol guzzled and lost, he says, "You're not wrong. About the events. But let us just enjoy it, for the moment." He winks, then starts to move away, back into the crowd, turning a warm smile on the other guests.

"I haven't a met a single person who doesn't like cakes." Cristoph comments with a chuckle with Nicia. "I absolutely did, she is a lovely woman. Is she? Where?" And he looks over his shoulder to see if he can spot Cambria moving about. Which he might be more or less successful at, who knows! "I don't believe I've met a Lady Khanne. At least I hope that I haven't, I'd feel terrible for forgetting."

Ailith draws in a breath as she studies that chair. "Well. Hm." Her head bobs in listening to Aleksei, then Esoka. Ideas forming. "Maybe if Saedrus would test it."

Lethe smiles as Esoka talks about her own discipleship. "That's wonderful. I don't think I probably know any of the artists. I am pretty new to Arx, but I like what I've seen so far." She takes another look at the chair before moving on to look at the shield.

"Right, right. Enjoying!" Fortunato waggles the empty, disrespected glass after Orazio. "Enjoying, entirely." With that, and the Legate's departure, he reaches for another glass to, ah, enjoy.

Thena will absolutely take that little breather offered by Mia, and she nods, looking pleased. "I am glad Count Thesarin is doing well, and I'd be delighted to come to dinner. Though I believe we'll be seeing a lot of each other before then, since I'm riding out with a unit of my knights wth Princess Reese and I believe I heard that you're on that mission as well. Just a second, my lady..." Thena turns her head and raises her voice over the crowd a little. "Yes you may all sit in the chair!" Then, after a pause, "One at a time!"

Orazio suggests, as he drifts near to the chair and those assembled around it, "You should require a deposit bid before allowing people to take a seat. Although I can attest to the quality and comfort of the material," he adds with a chuckle, waving at his own robes.

Cambria approaches Valerio and those he is speaking with wearing a smile, inserting herself into the group. "It isn't that I do not *like* cakes," she announces. "It is that I chose not to eat them very often." Clasping her hands behind her back, Cambria casts a surreptitious glance towards Daemon. "I may have consume my allotment of sweets for the month today, in fact."

Overhearing that little tidbit, Daemon immediately springs into action to bring himself to Cambria's side. A warm smile had on his face for the familiar Valerio and an equal one turned toward the rest of the group. "It's true, Lord Mazetti. I saw her myself partake in a cookie and a mug of hot cocoa. It was fascinating to watch, truly fascinating." He chuckles briskly. "How does the night find the lot of you, my friends?"

As Thena made her announcement, Mia's head turned, trying to catch sight of exactly which piece it was that she was referring to. In doing so, she managed to see Esoka's wave just in time. One hand was lifted in return. "Ahh! Yes, the Princess had requested that I attend in the hopes that further diplomacy might turn yet more of the continent's tribes to the Compact. We managed to turn several the last time we rode out, but not without cost. More often than not, the encounters errupted into violence before I had the chance to say a word," she said, shaking her head. The frown that touched her face rested there all too easily. "Still, I'm happy to hear that you'll be coming with us. And have more than enough space in my pavilion, if you're in need of it, and don't mind weaving your way through the soldier's tents, given that I'll be bringing a hundred or so with us."

Aleksei frowns as Saedrus shoots a look over his shoulder at him. "I think we're not supposed to sit in it," he reports in a lower undertone to Ailith and Esoka. "Although it's a /chair/, so I feel like -- you know, the best way to honor its creation is to use it. And stuff. I don't think we'll get Saedrus to test it." But then Thena announces that sitting is allowed, and he jumps to the front of the line! To plop himself right down onto the chair. HIM FIRST.

As Saedrus turns so down the svelte young woman at his side. She can't help but give a give a soft tip of her head in turn to Lady Khanne though she knows recognizes not. Her own cerulean gaze lifting to meet those evergreen eyes for but a moment to long. A soft flush rises her to cheeks, "I shall, Sir Saedrus." To the rib of Aleksei and the chair in question she can't help the soft chuckle that slides unbidden from her lips. "The art here is diving, sitting upon a piece that you don't own is near sacrilege. May you burn to a crisp if you do." Her voice is soft, music and full of mischief.

    Sabella clears her throat to that.

"The test of furniture is utility!" Fortunato announces, waggling his glass over toward the aeterna crowd.

"Well, welcome to the city, then!" Esoka says to Lethe. "I've been here for...a little more than a year now. Sometimes it still makes me dizzy, but there's much wonderful here, too. Oh! We /can/ sit in it!" She shouts it excitedly. Turning from her examination of the statue and inching back toward the chair. She will patiently wait for her. But she WANTS a turn.

"Blessed Aleksei, it seems unfair for a priest of the Faith to monopolize the precious, first sitting in such a magnificent piece of art," Orazio says, stern if you ignore the warm humor in his eyes.

Aleksei's line cutting is noticed by Cristoph who, rather than point out how that's a punishable crime (or should be!), merely gestures and says, "Oh, look. It's Blessed Aleksei again." Then he returns to the cluster of people he's situated with and has to oggle at Cambria a little. "You've rationed your cake intake? But... why? And Sir Daemon, it's good to see you again."

Saedrus is a little distracted with first Sabella at his side and the flush of her cheeks causing a curious tip of the Whisper's head-- then there's Thena allowing the seat to be used. "Do you not--" /then/ Aleksei is jumping /onto/ the chair and evergreen eyes narrow. "Burning to a crisp is a touch dramatic, and I would rather prefer him-- not burnt." Saedrus admits to Sabella and sighs at Aleksei's antics. Well, he's in it now.

Ailith quietly smiles as the mischief begins over turns with the chair. "Dame Esoka, be certain to test its ability to withstand a fully armored knight as well. I'm certain the crafter took that into account." She quietly steps aside to wander passed the chair and towards the back areas. Before a painting, she stops to study while sipping from a wine flute she claimed on the way.

"Good evening, Saedrus," Khanne says in greeting, though her attention doesn't linger, aso as not to interrupt his conversation. Approaching Valerio and those he speaks with, she smiles to Cristoph. "You have, but, it has been a long time. Feels like a lifetime ago sometimes, but.. mm.. probably about a year ago?" She shrugs then touches Valerio's forearm gently. "And how are you tonight, Lord Valerio?"

Lethe smiles once more as she speak to Esoka. "Thank you. There really is so much to see here." She takes another looks toward the chair and considers but decides not to take a turn. She looks at the Silver, first Knight of Solace painting and stares at it as if she's fascinated.

"I promise, the Knights of Solace do not go out into the field with crappy chairs," Thena assures, probably a tidbit about her Order that she never imagined sharing, before turning back to Mia. "I'm sending out a force about the same size. Believe me, if I have any say in it, I'll make sure you get the chance to say a word." The knight seems very certain of that. "I thank you for the offer. I'm a soldier myself; I certainly don't mind."

Justice, an elegant hunting falcon arrives, delivering a message to Thena before departing.

"The gods reward the proactive!" Aleksei declares emphatically to Orazio as he wiggles his butt in the chair a bit. GETTING COMFY. He sits there a moment, quiet and contemplative, and then declares, "It's pretty comfy." He stands finally, stepping away and waving in invitation to Esoka to take a turn. (Unless someone DIVES AHEAD OF HER. Who knows!)

"Ah excellent we can probably fix that for you this evening." Valerio comments idly to Cristoph on the topic of introductions. Then he is gesturing to Cambria. "Marquessa Cambria Mazetti." Then a quick nod to Daemon. "Sir Dracone, how have you been?" Then there is Khanne, and Valerio's smile continues. "My Lady, thank you for joining me here. I thought an alternative plan would be better than cancelling."

Soot, a gray foxhound puppy arrives, following Petal.

Orazio laughs at Aleksei's declaration. "There you have it, fine men and women of the Compact. This chair is certainly a...first choice for distinguished collectors."

Petal gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Khanne gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Esoka nods to Lethe. "An endless amount of things. I try to take it as it comes, and not drown in it all." She considers the camp chair at Ailith's words. "Well, it's designed for knights. So I'm sure it can manage the weight of armor..." Does she sound a little unsure? Perhaps. Not that she hesitates when it's her turn. She does not want to miss this...sitting. She lowers herself gingerly. The thing is made of sturdy stuff, and remains intact. "Oh, my. It //is// very soft, isn't it?"

Sabella lifts a hand to touch gently upon Saedrus' arm, a brush of her fingertips really even as her dark blue eyes turn towards Aleksei and the plush of his skinny rump upon a finer seat than suits him. "Sadly, he just doesn't do it any justice," she remarks playfully to the sigh to Saedrus. "Are you sure?" she chimes then even as she lifts her hand, "I mean, just a little burnt.. singed perhaps?"

Cambria laughs, then reaches out to hook her arm through Daemon's own. "Marshal," she says to Valerio. "I haven't had the chance to introduce you to my my newest protege, and a brother-in-arms to the Knights of Solace, Sir Daemon. You know, even if the two of you actually are formally known to one another." There's a grin for that. Then Cambria hears Cristoph's astonished question, and she cannot help but laugh anew. "Because cakes make one fat. It is meat that I prefer, truth be told. Bacon from the Oathlands, has, in fact, become one of my favorite treats."

"Then I look forward to sharing a visit at the very least, and commiserating about how miserably cold we are over whatever muck it is they manage to make out of field rations, Dame Grayhope," Mia replied, a small crinkle appearing around the edges of her eyes. It wasn't a smile -- not quite -- but it was close enough to one to be worth noting. "And hopefully, to sharing far more pleasant meals on our arrival back in Arx. But in the meantime, I should probably let you see to your guests. And see what this chair everyone is fussing over is." She offered a sharp nod to Thena, then, and stepped back, allowing the flood of other well-wishers their way.

Ailith finishes off her wine and sets it aside. With one last look at the painting and its knight, she murmurs to no one in particular, "Glad you finally were recognized." Head bowed, she steps backwards to make a quiet departure.

Saedrus checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 40, rolling 10 higher.

Petal arrives while adorned in simple common cloth clothing. A hound is close at her legs. She reaches for a program and then wanders further inside, looking over the items with interest.

"Ah, over a year ago. You have my apologies. And I hope that you'll come to my home the next time we host. I promise that I won't forget again." Cristoph smiles at Khanne, mildly embarassed by his own forgetfulness! His blue eyes are turned onto Cambria once and his smile turns sly, "Since bacon is one of your new favorite treats, I won't ruin it for you. Have you met my wife, Duchess Nicia Laurent?" He asks, glancing between the Marquessa and the dark haired woman by his side.

"Wonderful, then perhaps you and the Marquessa would like..." Nicia starts, then pauses when she overhears Cambria say she prefers bacon and meat to cake, nodding, "I love bacon....I never had it before I met Cristoph, but it is wonderful. There is even bacon chocolate around..."

"I have been well, Lord Valerio. Tonight is lovely and it's only made better by the fact that we have such a celebration and fine art to attend us." Daemon replies to Valerio before his eyes are moving onto Cristoph next. A fond smile in store for him as well. "I'm glad you still recognize me among the hustle and bustle of so many other Oathlanders, my Lord. My lady honors me with her praise as well as her offer." He nudges his head toward Cambria, keeping his arm interlocked with her own as she comes around him. "It's a good place to be I believe."

Saedrus' distraction with art and such to turn his head back to regards Sabella. Evergreen eyes drop down to the gentle fingers that brush along his arm, "I think the Archlector of the First Choice does most things great justice, your Highness. Even chairs in an art show. And I would not have even a hair upon his head singed. Ever." The Whisper bows most graciously to the Grayson, drawing his arm away in the process. "Do enjoy the rest of the evening, Princess Sabella. The art is sensational." And the courtier turns to make his leave. Apparently Saedrus is particularly fond of that (particularly perfect) booty.

"I had been wondering, but, I failed to ask for a time last night anyway. Alternative plans are usually better than cancelling, they allow us to still enjoy an evening, yeah?" Khanne turns to Cambria then and smiles to her. "It is lovely to see you again, Marquessa." Turning to Cristoph she nods. "Of course I will. I need but an invite, and unless I am buried in paperwork, in meditation, or in dirt, I shall be there." She winks with a smile then looks to Nicia. "It is good to see you again, Duchess Nicia."

Orazio looks to the left, looks to the right, and utters a slight, small sigh. His shoulders drop in an easy shrug, and he wanders away to look at some of the other art. And he takes his bad puns with him.

Lethe nods to what Esoka says and takes a step back. "I need to be going, but it was nice to meet you Dame Esoka."

Petal gets The Knights of Solace, Silver Order: Who They Are and What They Do from The Knights of Solace Pamphlet Box.

Thena nods to Mia. "I will be sure to take you up on that. I'm very good at grumbling about things." The corner of her mouth quirks up at Mia, then she nods as the woman moves away and squares her shoulders to rejoin the fray, calling to everyone within earshot with maybe a /very/ faint hint of asperity, "I know you can't sit on it, but there's some other art pieces here as well."

"Nice, right?" Aleksei says to Esoka with a bit of a grin, thumbs hooking in his swordbelt, arms somewhat akimbo. "I better go look at the other pieces, too," he realizes, sidling over to some of the more traditional works of art. Hmmmmm.

"I have not had that opportunity before now, no," Cambria says to Cristoph, turning her bright gaze towards Nicia and smiling broadly. "It is lovely to meet you, Duchess Laurent. Bacon chocolate, you say? Perhaps I shall offer some to Sir Daemon in my stead." There's a chuckle for that, before she looks towards Khanne. "Ah, Lady Khanne. It is wonderful to see you again. I'm only too glad you and the Marshal are here to enjoy this evening alongside so many others."

"You as well." Nicia replies, flashing a quick smile to Khanne, "I hope that you are doing well?" She wonders, before she glances at Cambria once more, "Yes, bacon chocolate. Oh, does Sir Daemon enjoy bacon chocolate?"

Thena gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Esoka takes her time sitting but, finally, rises. Leaving the camp chair open to anyone else who wants to partake in it. "I deem this a handsome and sturdy construction!" she declares. Before resuming her travels through the art show. Examining the winged shield statue with more attention this time.

Orazio pauses at the full suit of armor, looking it over thoughtfully. He flashes a smile at Aleksei as the younger Archlector makes the rounds. "You had to sit in the chair, did you?"

Mia shook her head faintly at all the commotion, before weaving her way this way and that through the crowds, her steps highlighting the particular wave effect of her silk and lace ensemble. When she -- finally -- found her way to the chair at the center of the fray, she simply arched one black brow at Esoka and asked jovially, "Breaking things before we buy them, are you?"

Shard wanders in, looking entirely, utterly out of place in her basic leathers and general Prodigal mercenary...ness. Not to mention her typical lack of anything resembling a general cheerful mood. She plucks up a program and scans it briefly, then peers at the room itself.

Daemon checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 15 higher.

"There was an entire party for you at the Keatons, you're a hard man to forget about that." Cristoph laughs and rocks on his heels. Around now is when he remembers that he has an entire glass of whiskey in his hand still and sips. And I do see you around the House of Solace on my occasional trip down there. He plucks at his tabard which matches the other man's. "Bacon chocolate /is/ delicious." He agrees.

There is a soft tap of lashes against her cheeks as Saedrus turns back to her only it disengage entirely. A high flush rises to her cheeks as she is but dismissed for Aleksei though she simply dips softly in response to her soft bit of wit and joke. "Of course," she murmurs and turns away without meeting his eyes. Her gaze drawing then into her glass as Sabella moves quietly then off to the side of the room and out of the way of those moving amongst the exquisite art on display.

Shard gets "The Art of Heroics" Program from The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Saedrus moves off gracefully into the crowd, making his way between the artworks and speaking with his attendants as he passes. The Whisper makes his way to Thena, excusing himself to any company with the Dame to whisper past her ear.

"Bacon... Chocolate?" Could just a magical combination even exist? Would it be disgusting or delicious? Daemon could never be sure... Regardless though, he keeps his composure intact. "Ahem. Well yes, I am quite a lover of chocolate. Wyrmguard does magic in those shops."

"We have m- Yes, Darling Niece. I was curious as to who you had chosen to look after. Also. Mmm. Bacon." Valero chuckles as he looks from Khanne to speak to Cambria, and then Daemon. "Well you're a little hard to miss, Sir. Not that this is always a bad thing." Then for Nicia's torment. "There is also a candied bacon, and I am not one for sweets too often, but it is got to be one of the best things ever. Salty Sweetness.... now I am hungry again." For Khanne he keeps on smiling and adds. "Well, I mean, this has to be better than being surrounded by Hydra's, yeah?"

"Chairs are for sitting!" Aleksei reasons to Orazio. "It's like -- interactive art." He nods solemnly, clearly proud of himself for coming up with the justification. "Besides, Thena said I could!"

"Can you paint on aeterna?" Fortunato muses, having drifted closer to the chair. "I imagine not, but what a canvas!" He has been, at least, drinking this glass of wine more slowly.

"They are the ones that make the bacon chocolate. I believe...Lady Clover said she could find more since I think we've exhausted the supply in the city recently." Nicia then pauses, her attention slowly shifting towards Valerio when he mentions candied bacon, "Really? I've never...I wonder." She muses for a moment before giving Cristoph's arm a slight tug, "Do you suppose we can find some? For the next dinner party, of course."

"It did not break! I was testing its fortitude, and it passed," Esoka replies to Mia with a laugh. "You should try it, Countess. It's fun!" The sitting. "There are many beautiful things here. I do like the sweep of these wings." She indicates the piece. "I knew Mistress Petal was as fine a tailor as the city had, but I didn't know she worked in sculpture like this."

"Chairs are for sitting, that's true." Orazio laughs. "And at least it was a good advertisement. Master Magpie would be pleased, I hope, to know his work attracts so much attention." His gaze goes back to the suit of armor. "This, though, is quite lovely. It'd almost be a shame to keep it as an art installation, rather than allowing it to go onto the field and do what it is meant to do."

Thena and Saedrus are in a little tete-a-tete, Thena nods to his last murmur and immediately turns to snag a glass of something from a nearby server.

"You should try the bacon chocolate. It is actually quite good," Khanne says to Cambria. "Salty and sweet in one bite." She laughs to Valerio and says, "well, I did say I loved your groves. Hydras have their own... charm, of course." She wears a rather diplomatic grin now. Turning to Nicia she says, "I dipped bacon in chocolate at the tournament awhile back. Good that way too."

Petal looks to Fortunato. "You can't. It never stains, not even with Fortunato's paint." She then turns to Esoka upon hearing her words and she has a smile for her. "Fortunato taught me artwork." She says and has a smile.

"Is that what it's meant to do if it was made for this show, though?" Aleksei wonders as he considers the suit of armor with Orazio. "I guess I don't know. Maybe someone will buy it in the auction and make use of it." His gaze flits briefly to Saedrus, studying him for a moment with pursed lips.

Orazio leans in to speak quietly with Aleksei.

Fortunato inclines his head to Petal, only to note, "This I know, but I'd like to try." He does a small side-bow, after. "And I am always honored to impart a little of splashing paint, to talented clothiers especially."

Shard moves through the crowd to peer at the painting of Silver. Eye it, mostly. She does look a little appreciative, although it's terribly hard to read her sometimes.

"My Lords and Ladies, members of the Faith and citizens of Arx, if I may please have your attention." Saedrus calls without ever really lifting his voice. With all the //gold// in this place it echoes better than a cave. "Thank you all for coming, your most wonderful host Dame Thena Grayhope has a few words she would like to share with you all." Saedrus dips in a bow before those gathered and lifts a hand towards Thena to step forward. He doesn't leave her at least and keeps nearby; he's supportive!

"Candied bacon?" Cristoph's eyes widen a bit at the prospect and looks intrigued. "Well, perhaps are next dinner party can just be a dessert party with chocolate. Sort of like the reception. I think I enjoyed that more than sitting around eating roasts and nodding my head a lot." He glances around the room and seems to remember himself as he takes another drink from his glass, "We never did make it over to Dame Thena- Ah, sounds like she's going to speak now anyway." And there he falls politely silent.

"If it wasn't for how forgetful I am, I would not have attempted to schedule a dinner the same night as this lovely event. In any case, yes, I wanted to announce it at home, yet...Here is just as well, is it not?" She smiles towards Daemon, then gives into laughter at the banter around her, concerning all the delectable ways it could be prepared. As Saedrus speaks, however, Cambria turns her attention towards him, and subsequently, Dame Thena.

"She's a skilled woman, there's no questioning that. I bought out a fair bit of her winter collection for the first trip into the Gray Forest," she said to Esoka, as she eyed the sculpture thoughtfully, then looked down to her pamphlet. "I saw the description and immediately thought of you; with the wings, it sounded like the sort of piece you might be fond of. Though there are a fair few other pieces I would like to see, for both good and ill." One corner of her mouth ticked upwards. "Though I think I'd like to see Tikva's reaction to the painting even more than the painting itself." Maybe that was what Mia had laughed at.

Aleksei exchanges a few quiet words with Orazio, his expression shading a bit wry, with the hint of a crooked smile, before he looks over when Saedrus calls for everyone's attention. His gaze scans to find Thena.

Thena checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Another quiet exchange, before Orazio turns around to look towards the hosts of the evening. He flashes Thena another smile that he hopes is reassuring.

"It's pretty!" Esoka says brightly to Petal, turning to offer the woman an inclination of her head. "It is very fitting for the knights of Gild. Beauty and grace next to strength." Her smile warms at mention of the Tikva painting, though her brows do arch at Mia. She seems on point of asking something. But then Thena gets up to talk, and she quiets to pay attention.

Petal has another smile for Esoka at her words, seemingly flattered. Her cheeks are a bit pink and everything. "Thank you. I worked hard on it." She then peeks around, looking for Thena.

The soft drift of conversation washes of Sabella as she takes a moment to lift the glass of dark wine to her lips. They part softly even as the liquor slips along the deeply rotund glass to meet her tongue. Her glass parting after a moment with the close of her lips as the whisper calls out for attention. She gives it freely though there is but a soft calculating tap of one nail against the bottom curve of her glass. Her vibrant gaze turns them towards those assembled, a quiet calculating glance given towards a few of the more patrons of interest. A name or two heard that draws her attention though for this moment she seems destined to take a longer draught of her wine.

"We could, yes." Nicia agrees to the dessert party without any problems, although she drops the subject there as she turns her attention towards Thena when Saedrus calls everyone's attention over.

Realizing that Petal had overhead a part of their conversation, Mia's lips parted once again to offer her compliments directly to the artist. But announcement were being made, and so she bent her head in apologies, offering only a small, "Mistress Petal." Dark eyes then turned towards Saedrus and Thena.

As Saedrus draws the crowd's focus to her, Thena takes a gulp from whatever she's got in her glass and casts around for some raised ground...fortunately she can make use of a step near the altar to put herself a few inches above the others. The chair is safe for now. She squares her shoulders and clears her throat. "Everyone. Thank you so much for coming out to this exhibition. No matter what he says, Saedrus Whisper is the /actual/ wonderful host." She lifts her glass towards the man, then scans the crowd before her.

"I hope you all find this exhibition both entertaining and educational. There are pamphlets about the artworks, and about my Order, if you haven't picked one up already. If you have any questions about the Solace, please don't hesitate to ask me, or Sir Daemon Dracone, who is a sworn Brother-in-Arms-" She pauses to point him out, then Cristoph. "Or Duke Cristoph Laurent, one of our auxiliarys. I can also answer questions about the art. You might notice a couple of pieces that are not in the program, those are displays of the arms and armor of the Order, by Dame Alexis Wyrmfang." She cracks an impish little grin. "And I get to keep them. Anyway...carry on and yes, you can sit in the chair but not on anything else. Uhm...thank you."

Sabella puts "The Art of Heroics" Program in The Art of Heroics Program Box.

Saedrus lifts his hands in an applause for Thena. "Thank you, Dame Thena, and to the Knights of Solace; Brother and Sisters in arms, and the Auxiliaries. And of course thank you to all the artists who have gifted such beautiful pieces for the show." Another delicate applause for the artists and the Knights themselves.

Orazio applauds, although not particularly delicately.

Fortunato is overheard praising Thena for: Knight of Solace, excellent host of chairs.

Shard turns her head to listen to Saedrus, then Thena. Then she moves on, first to the painting of Tikva, which she eyes with some amount of bemusement, and then to 'Knight's Determination'. Here, she stops again, expression once more difficult to read, clearly studying the painting in some amount of detail.

Aleksei offers a small nod to Orazio before peeling away to make his way over to Saedrus. He waits until the speeches have come to something of a conclusion -- applauding briskly and enthusiastically himself -- before stepping close to him, perhaps the hint of a hand settling on Saedrus's back, and tips his head to speak quietly to him.

Fortunato sets down his glass to applaud properly, his face brightening.

When Thena's speech ends, he places his glass of whiskey down somewhere appropriate. Then begins to clap loudly. And because Cristoph is rather fond of being vocal in general, "Fine showing Dame Thena!" With more clapping.

Cristoph is overheard praising Thena for: A very brave hostess!

Aleksei is overheard praising Thena.

Aleksei is overheard praising Saedrus.

Daemon bows his head deeply as Thena finishes speaking and joins in on the applause himself. Clank, clang, clink went his gauntlets as they smacked together with gusto. "A fond thank you, Dame Thena for all you've done tonight!"

Orazio is overheard praising Thena.

Cristoph is overheard praising Saedrus for: An excellent host once again!

Orazio is overheard praising Aleksei.

Khanne is overheard praising Thena.

Orazio is overheard praising Saedrus.

Khanne is overheard praising Saedrus.

Cristoph is overheard praising Aleksei for: For proving chairs are for sitting in!

Saedrus smiles brightly to Thena, reaching a hand to touch at the Dame's arm. "You spoke excellently," he tells her warmly. Letting Thena go and mingle more (because she must be SO excited) turning in towards Aleksei in the next moment, resting a hand to one of the Archlector's shoulders with a passing word.

Mia is overheard praising Thena for: A breathtaking event. I've rarely enjoyed a display so thoroughly.

"They are rather nice groves. Even if they are not the most uhm, less somber of places." A brief chuckle and another nod and a wink for Nicia. "Indeed, I will have to track some down again myself. Once I find a supplier I shall let you know." Valerio drew silent and thoughtful at the speechifying. "Auxilliary, eh? What does this entail, Duke Laurent?" Valerio certainly looks curious, and looks to Khanne as he snags two glasses of passing whiskey, offering her one of the glasses.

Nicia is overheard praising Thena.

Nicia is overheard praising Saedrus.

Mia is overheard praising Saedrus for: As always, Master Saedrus has done a credit to his House and his profession.

Applause given, Fortunato quietly slips out.

Ugarte leaves, following Fortunato.

Thena is overheard praising Saedrus for: Aleksei may have risked his ass, but Saedrus saved mine by hosting an amazing event.

Orazio smiles, gives a pleased look around, and then also slips quietly away.

2 Faith of the Pantheon trained guards, 2 Faith of the Pantheon novice guards leave, following Orazio.

After a mildly statled look at Cristoph, Thena arcs a relieved grin at Saedrus and steps down from the low platform of the altar, slipping back into the crowd to disseminate knowledge and find a plate of nibbly things.

"It's sort of a... light duty, when needed position. If the Grandmaster were to request my assistance on a certain task, I would gladly give it. It's likely I'd accompany the order on trips into the Oathlands, given my in depth experience there. Though, I may travel with Dame Thena to the Maelstrom to work on this Pilgram's Path that I'm hearing so much about." Cristoph replies to Valerio, glancing once towards Thena and looking plenty amused by her startled expression.

Cambria, beside Daemon, claps for Thena as well, smiling cheerfully.

Esoka claps her big hands together, loud and boisterous, at the end of Thena's little speech. Her eyes then scan the art on display, settling on a particular painting. "I think I see the one of Tikva, Countess," she says to Mia. "Shall we go take it in? I'm eager to see how it turned out."

Khanne takes one of the glasses of whiskey from Valerio and says, "thank you." Taking a sip, she smiles wide, then reaches out to snag an apricot from a passing attendant's tray. She glances around then confides to Valerio, as if it is a big secret, "I love apricots..."

"You may do what?" Nicia glances at Cristoph, blinking at him before she frowns just a bit, brows furrowing a bit, "Did you already tell me about this, and I forgot?" She looks mildly concerned for the state of her memory for a moment, but then once again gets distracted by the discussion of bacon, nodding to Valerio, "If you do, I'd love to know. Have you ever had candied peppers before?"

By contract, Mia's applause were much softer than Esoka's, though no less enthusiastic. But then she turned, her lips pursing for a moment before she blurted out, "Only if you promise that we can describe it to her in excruciating detail later; I want to see if her cheeks will match her hair." The declaration was said with a sudden sparkle of entirely shameless mischief in her eyes.

Are Thena's ears burning? When she reappears, it's with a plate of fruits, and next to Cristoph and company. "Thank you for coming out, Duke Laurent. Duchess Laurent. I hope it was all right that I pointed you out up there."

"Ahh. Thank you. I was curious, there are times I think I have more spare time than I do. Then I think of ways to amuse myself. You know, dreaming os sneaking out to go do some battle somewhere." Valerio falshes an unrepentant grin despite Cambria's presence. "The Pilgrim's Path, though. Good cause." Leaning down to hear Khanne there is a conspirators chuckle. "Dried, makes for a good treat in the field. Plums for me though, when fresh and almost overripe with juice?" Nicia's question is considered with thoughtfullness. "No, and I don't think I have even heard of them. Sweetness with fire? I can see the potential, I imagine it must depend on the pepper."

Aleksei continues to speak quietly to Saedrus, humor and warmth lingering on his expression. At one point his head does turn to flick a gaze over towards someone else in the crowd, but then it returns to Saedrus in short order.

Petal is overheard praising Saedrus for: A great host for the Knights of the Solace and the Arts.

Esoka strides over to the painting of the Storming of Arx, smile widening as she takes it in. She looks rather proud. There's a somberness in her eyes as she regards the piece, though. "The sense of what it was like is right. The smoke and dizzying blades and swirling press of it. That's where we were - Tikva and I and...well, a whole army of us - during the Battle of Arx. Holding the Seawatch Gate."

Sabella gives a soft lift of her glass as others give an applause before drawing a long sip from it. One that drains the dark wine from her glass only to be placed upon a server's tray as they pass. Her form shifts from the back then, the whisper of silk once more following in her wake as she move gracefully through the crowd, the storm of her gaze centering upon Aleksei even as he speaks with one of the hosts. Her voice is soft even as she passes, "I do hear you've got a great posterior, once not to be touched in any manner. Which is admittedly a shame."

Cristoph clears his throat at Nicia's question. "Oh, yes. I may. It's not set in stone, I haven't heard much of it since the first exchange-" He scratches the back of his head. "I suppose I forgot to mention it. I'm sorry." There's an apologetic, soft smile for her. Thena appears on the other side of him just then and he ahs! "Dame Thena. I'd just been saying that I still hadn't said hello to you tonight. Hello. Have you met my wife before, Duchess Nicia Laurent?" The one who hopefully isn't mad at him, at least he's hoping! Time to pick up the glass of whiskey and drink once more.

"Dried apricots get me through the winter months when fresh fruit is nowhere to be found." Khanne smiles to him then says, "plums are good as well. I am not sure I have had a fruit I dislike... " She looks to Nicia and says, "I am not sure I can handle that. Spicy foods is not exactly the cuisine the north is known for." She grins.

"Yes, I often dream of *sneaking* out too," Cambria murmurs in shameless aside to Valerio. Otherwise, she is content to listen to the banter being tossed about by the group. She does add to Khanne, though, "Oh, spice is life, darling."

Aleksei's attention draws away from Saedrus when Sabella approaches, and he offers her a bright, friendly smile. "Oh, my ass?" he says. "I think plenty of people have touched it. I mean. It's a nice ass. It /would/ be a shame if /nobody/ had."

Petal seems to have fallen for a bit. She has tendency to dream while waking, like some crafters do. Finally she comes to awareness and has a belated return of a smile for Mia. She then has some words of praise for Saedrus.

Saedrus remains at Aleksei's side, a delicate hand still loose at the Archlector's nearest shoulder. Evergreens turn from quiet conversation as Sabella passes. The Whisper drops in a gracious bow as the Grayson Princess passes; though there's an arc of one dark brow for her comment. "Your Highness," Saedrus says in a warm drawl; no comment on Aleksei's ass -- or Aleksei's own comment. "I do hope you enjoyed the show. The auction will be open to anyone interested in a month's time." Ever polite and honey-voiced.

"Not yet had the pleasure. Thank you for coming out, Duchess. Congratulations on your marriage; the gift to the Faith...well, it's already being put to good use." Thena bows her head solemnly to Nicia.

For a few very long moments, Mia said absolutely nothing at all. On the contrary, her attention was focused solely on the painting, moving slowly over its contents to drink in each and every detail. A small furrow appeared between her brows and then she canted her head to the side at Esoka's comment. Wordlessly, she brought one hand up to rest on the Prodigal knight's wrist, fingers closing gently around it.

"Wonderful art show, Dame Thena." Nicia offers a smile before she continues on the candied pepper thing, "Evidently they lose a lot of the heat when they are candied, but retain their flavor. I've not had one, yet, but I remember there was this merchant in Setarco that had been trying to make them popular." She shrugs her shoulders just a bit before she gives Cristoph a bit of a frown, but then it just turns into a smile before she leans in to give his cheek a kiss, then she nods to Thena, "Has it? That is wonderful, and thank you."

Shard doesn't really move on from the Knight's Determination painting, although after a while she doesn't seem to be looking at it so much as in its general direction. She crosses her arms loosely over her chest, shifting her weight mostly to one foot, and occasionally glances to one side when someone passes close enough.


    For her previous conversation, albeit brief Sabella chimes, "I mentioned it might be worth a touch of fire for setting upon one of the pieces of art but I'm afraid I was very firmly rejected." She sighs, dramatically so, before her gaze lifts to Saedrus with a lift of her golden brows as if to ask, 'what?' before giving a slow, yet warm smile. It seems the wayfarer can't but help herself. "I've enjoyed the commentary," she chimes as softly for his composure though she moves naught to touch either. Instead her attention seems to seek Thena, a gracious dip of silk, and the soft scents of spiced soaps curling about her form as she murmurs softly, "A pleasure as a patron of the arts, Mistress."

Khanne looks to Cambria and asks, "is it? Hmm.. perhaps I have not been introduced to the right kinds then.... I might try it..." She smiles to Valerio with a grin then.

"Spicey food isn't exactly popular in the Oathlands either, but a man learns to adapt and like things he might not otherwise." There's a fond look given to Nicia and he smiles at her. Faltering briefly at the frown! And then mildly suspicion. Too easy perhaps? He does slip an arm around her shoulders. Cristoph's attention slips to Sabella's when she drifts over, speaking to Thena.

"Oh, well. Saedrus is very protective of my ass," Aleksei tells Sabella with solemn humor. "Nice to meet you, whether or not you think I should get singed, Princess...?"

Esoka briefly turns her eyes from the painting to Mia, clasping her hand tightly. "It's strange, to think it's been nearly a year...since the battle, I mean. Anyway. I think it turned out very striking, and I like the sentiment. It wasn't as if only knights risked their lives that day, after all. I hope Tikva likes it. I think Calaudrin did her likeness quite well."

"The not actually unfortunate side effect of making one's Order more well-known," Thena says to Nicia, with a little gesture at the room at large with her glass, "Is that we are suddenly being sought out. Resources go a long way." Planning to settle Cristoph's marital strife if and when asked to and maybe (probably) not even then, she turns a little smile to Sabella. "Thank you. I do hope you're enjoying yourself."

"Aleksei." Saedrus chides curtly before looking away entirely-- oh look, wine. Lovely. The Whisper plucks a flute of sparkling from a passing tray and sips on it. He's apparently keeping his mouth occupied for the moment. Sip.

Petal can be on the quiet side. She looks over toward Saedrus, Sabella and Aleksei, seemingly aware of their conversation. She then studies Aleksei with curious interesting, before giving the trio a smile. She studies her program a moment later and the goes back to looking over the art. "I think I will put some bids down." She says, directing her comment to Shard for the most part.

"A delicious combo, that may help you, is to take a spicy pepper, roast it over flame, and then top it with melted cheese. Some peppers are spicier than others, so I'd suggest trying something more mild, first," Cambria is only too happy to talk about spicy things and cheese, it would seem. "However, I believe I shall leave you to the Marshal for the rest of the evening. I must needs take care of a few things before I return to the manor this evening." She leans aside to catch Daemon's attention, muttering something to the knight.

"Fruits can make long days seem a little shorter." Valerio comments for Khanne, and with a grin ducks down to murmur something in her ear. Upon straightening up he comments dryly for Cambria. "You did sneak out... of the entire country." His face is almost deadpan, then it breaks and he waggles a hand at the mention of Spice is Life. "While it must flow, sometimes too much is simply too much." A look to Nicia and Cristoph. "Interesting, I may be game to try one some day. Still it sounds daunting. Have you ever heard the extreme spice lovers try to trap you? It's not spicy they say, next thing you know, you are crying in an undignified manner, and trying to drown your now lava flow covered tongue." A shudder clearly from memory occurs. A look around at the gathering once again. "Hmmm, well. I do not wish to cut short our meeting once again, and for the first time." A bow to Christoph and Nicia in turn, and then to his Niece. "However, it is time for us to slip out before the rest of the crowd. What say you?" His eye turns to Khanne, and he offers his arm to her.

Shard blinks, realizing, a little belatedly, that she's being addressed. "...Hmn?" She looks over at Petal. "What?"

Petal turns her attention back to Shard. "Oh, the items, I will be bidding on several. I'm Petal." She says with a heavy Northern Shav accent.

It was in that moment that the name clicked with her, a sudden recollection springing to the fore of her thoughts. "He's your man, isn't he?," Mia asked her, both brows raising expectantly. "The one you mentioned when Thesarin and I first came back to the city, after his wounds healed." A beat. "Or, well, that round of wounds healed, anyway. I'm beginning to wonder if there's any bits of him that aren't covered in ink or scars, at this point." The words were a murmur and for a few brief seconds, the look that she shot Esoka was one that was more fitting for a martyr than for a countess, she looked so entirely put upon. "We should meet, I think. Soon."

"It is good that you are being sought out, however." Nicia points out, that smile widening just a little more, and she doesn't seem to be changing her mind on letting Cristoph off the hook. When he curls his arm around her shoulders she wraps her arm around his waist, tilting her head a moment to rest against him before she shakes her head, "I never have, no...do they do that? Seems awfully cruel. If I do find some, though, I'll send a sampling your way."

"I know." Shard's own accent is also Northlands Shav, although it's decidedly muted, even entirely gone in places. "You're the seamstress." She glances back at Knight's Determination, and then shrugs. "Good luck, I guess. They go for a lot."

Khanne takes Valerio's arm and smiles. "That sounds good to me." She looks around and says, "I didn't get to comment on it, but... the art was really nice." She nods to Cambria, Cristoph, Nicia, and Daemon, who she neglected talking to this evening. "Have a great night everyone."


    Sabela tips her head before laughing, "Oh so you heard above the crows? Or perhaps that is what all the whispering is about.." Her voice is soft, musing to Aleksei's response out of the blue. The ever shifting storm of her blue gaze drifts towards Christoph as he slips an arms about Nacia's shoulders. She gives a soft dip of her head in response, leaving him to speak as quietly as he will. Her form turns then in a soft swirl of blue silks towards Thena. To the woman she gives a rather gracious bow. "A fine evening indeed, thank you."
    The svelte young woman is not oblivious to the glances given about her, turning towards Petal after a moment. She plucks another glass up wine up from a server as they pass only to lift it in the gentile woman's direction. As with her predecessor she turns away after a moment, "If you'll excuse me, I've a fine young.." she skips a beat before murmuring, "To attend."

Vladimir arrives, following Hana.

Cristoph laughs at Valerio's commentary before tipping his head towards the door. "I think that we should probably be going soon as well. Unfortunately I need to get myself up early in the morning. Thank you for the fine company this evening." He states to everyone in their little cluster. "And Dame Thena, excellent showing. I don't know why you looked so nervous when we walked in." There's a half-grin spared in her direction and he'll wait then for Nicia to make with her farewells.

"It was very lovely, and we look forward to the bidding...however..." Nicia pauses, glancing at her husband for a moment before she shakes her head, "Well, we'll be here, I'm sure. Evidently the Duke has quite the taste for art recently."

"Do have a lovely evening, your Highness." Saedrus bids to Sabella with a smile, another bow before it seems like the Grayson Princess is taking her leave. The Whisper returns to another sip of wine, with a sidelong look to Aleksei. "Do you want to come and see the other art?" He asks the Archlector now the show itself seems to be handling itself and the attendants are doing their job wonderfully without instruction. "Other than the chair, I think you have inspected it well enough for the night."

Cristoph has the good sense to look mildly abashed.

Aleksei blinks a bit at Sabella's response, his smile a bit confusedly blank. "Okay, well. Nice to meet you, your highness," he calls after her. He peers at her curiously for a moment before looking back to Saedrus. "Oh, uh. Yeah, of course. I mean, it all looks really nice."

"I'm not sure when we'll have the final bidding event...given the circumstances...but it's in Saedrus Whisper's more than capable hands," Thena tells Nicia, then just gives the duke a Look before taking herself over to the picture of Lady Tikva.

"Always a pleasure to speak with you, My Lord." Another bow and he chuckles at the mention of art and the Duke. "Even -I wish to bid on a few things here, do not feel bad." Then he goes to make his escape with Khanne while the night is still relatively young.

Serenity, Drysi, a young shaman apprentice leave, following Khanne.

Khanne leaves, following Valerio.

Nicia shakes her head at Cristoph, looking more than amused by things, "You were saying you were ready to head home?" She wonders, finishing her whiskey quickly before setting it down, fully prepare to make her exit.

"Yes, he is mine," Esoka says, all proprietary, with a grin. "His proper job is with the Iron Guard, but he's taken to painting as well. I think he's good at it. And getting better. I've got a piece of his in my room at Heron Hall from when he first started. The trees don't really look much like trees. I like it, though. It's peaceful and puts me in a good mood." Thesarin, and his many wounds, get a sigh. "I hope he's learned the value of armor, at least. If he ever tries to go out without again, you've my word I'll sit on him. He seems to be getting around well enough now, at least." It takes her a moment to realize Mia's last //isn't// about Thesarin. "But the Count and I...oh! Calaudrin? Certainly. Perhaps I can bring him around for dinner while we're all still in Arx."

Though the evening is winding down there are still plenty of guests viewing the art as the night grows darker; glinting armour taking on a new light in the gold caste atmosphere of the Shrine. There is still wine and food to enjoy though!