Lucita is standing over near the clavichord, setting instruments out and checking that everything is tuned and at the ready. Servants move around in the background making sure seating is ready, places set out for people to set their picnic foods when they arrive and that empty goblets are lined up in a glittering row on trays, ready for wines to be poured as guests arrive.

Magpie shows up with a slightly frazzled look on his face and a group of grubby, dirty, potty-mouthed children following him. They all seem to range between eight and twelve in age with some of the older ones holding onto the younger ones. "Looking for Lucita... Lucita... anyone know where Lucita is?"

Quenia has been roaming around the atrium, seeing to some last minute details. She pauses here and there for a word with Lucita, and she bobs her head at this and that, and sometimes creases her brow at something else mentioned. She reaches out to touch her cousin's arm gently and says, "Well, he'll have to get over it, won't he? It's not going to fall through." It's then that she starts seeing others arriving and she beams a bright some at them. "Welcome to Domus Igniseri. Please feel free to make yourselves comfortable, and partake in our wines, herbed cheeses, olive oils and breads. The concert will start shortly. I am told that Princess Tikva Grayson will be performing tonight, among others."

Monique arrives, looking eager for the event, gowned for summer but with a cloak slung over one arm and a blanket and picnic basket in the other. She pauses to look around, stunned. "How beautiful!" the Greenmarch exclaims to no one in particular, but loud enough for everyone.

Sebastian arrives to the picnic with a small basket tucked onto one arm and makes his way over toward Lucita to say, "Thank you for hosting. I'm looking forward to the concert." This, he also passes on to Quenia as well, the less familiar of the two, to him.

Lethe arrives alone. She carries a basket and takes a look around. She nods to Monique at her words and gives a curious look toward the breads and wine.

Lucita looks up with a cheerful smile and lifts one hand to discretely wave a greeting. "I'm over here!" She leaves the clavichord area and moves over where she can greet those arriving and to see the children. "Hello there! Wasn't it a pretty walk to get here? Thank you for bringing them" She says to Magpie. "..and congratulations on your new position. You had expressed a lot of interest in it during the meeting we both attended some time ago." To Sebastian, Lethe and Monique she gives a beguiling smile, clearly delighted they were able to come.

Quenia's beaming smile warms a bit when she sees Monique. "Lady Monique. Thank you for coming. Is Lord Corban attending this evening?" she asks, looking around Monique to see if Corban snuck in or not. She nods in Lethe's and Sebastian's direction. "I am Marquessa Quenia Igniseri. This is my cousin, Lady Lucita Igniseri. She'll be among those playing as well, I believe," she doles out a few introductions, and just out of the corner of her eye she sees Magpie too and seems to include him in her comments as well. She's talented that way!

Magpie glances back at the group of children that are already starting to disperse and wander, "One.. two.. five six... ten.. eleven.. Oh gods, one is missing. Where's Tim? Tim! Where are you?!" There's a splash and a childish cry. "Oh. There he is. Tim! Out of the pool!" His eyes fall on Monique. "Lady Monique! Pleasure to see you." The man greets. Then Lucita is making herself known and Magpie looks her way, grinning. "Thank you! I have a lot of ideas and I'm already working with some prodigals to improve things. But, where do these kids go? This place is reaaally nice and they're going to walk off with anything that isn't nailed down soon."

Lethe looks to Lucita with a smile before speaking to Quenia. "I am Lady Lethe Tyde. It is good to be here. I am looking forward to the music."

Lucita says, "Food!" She calls out to the children, "Lots of yummy food!" She looks to Magpie. "Would you want them to sing first or eat then sing. I'll leave it in your hands" Servants seem to cope with wandering children and wet ones with fetching a towel or three. Another herds a child away from some of the plants and another offers to set one in a swing to help occupy them."

"Lord Sebastian Pravus," he introduces himself to Quenia when she begins to make introductions. "I believe we met briefly in the past. I am a fan of your family's wines." He gives a pleasant smile to Lethe as well, "It's nice to see you again."

Monique chortles, curtseying to Quenia. "I'm afraid Lord Corban didn't tell me, but I wouldn't be surprised to see him arrive fashionably late. This is quite the spread. I can't wait to purchase the wines and get stinking drunk later!"

To Magpie, Monique flashes a smile. "Losing children already?"

Quenia bobs her head again at Lethe, "A pleasure to meet you, Lady Lethe." She glances to Sebastian and grins. "Things have been a whirlwind of preparation this week, so do forgive me for momentarily forgetting. Yes, we have met. Briefly. I believe when you were visiting with my cousin Lucita?" she queries, not entirely certain if that was the event, or something else. She also grins in Monique's direction. "We've more of the Violet Delight we debuted at your event, but we're also debuting two newer wines - a grape, apple, grapefruit wine called Zephyrs of Spring, and our Summer Blush wine that hints of pears, peaches and strawberries."

"Food!" "I'm hungry!" "I have to take a piss..." "I want to swim. Why did Tim get to swim." "Where's the cake? I was promised cake!" This is the chorus of little human voices and Magpie just groans before giving Lucita a smile, "Well, you just offered them food. But, lemme see if I can get them wrangled." He turns and starts gathering up the group, "You remember the deal! Sing first, then food and silver. Nothing's free in this world. Valuable life lesson for you..." He throws Monique a smirk, "Oh, I left the Lowers with twenty. I'm down to twelve."

Magpie gets a pouch embroidered with a scene of a summer day at a beach from a pouch embroidered with a scene of a summer day at a beach.

Lucita chuckles softly. "I'm looking forward to hearing you all!" She smiles and has a servant set out food for the children once they are done singing.

Lethe smiles in return as she looks to Sebastiam. " It is good to see you too. I hope you have been well." She nods to Quenia.

"I believe Lucita also has a game for people to play later this evening," Quenia offers, looking over curiously at the kids. "It, of course, involves music - and potentially dancing." she grins a bit impishly.

Lucita hands cakes and pastries over to Magpie to help with making sure he and the kids see she is keeping her word. "What shall they be singing for us?

Sebastian gets a pouch embroidered with a scene of a summer day at a beach from a pouch embroidered with a scene of a summer day at a beach.

Sebastian smiles and shakes his head to Quenia and says, "It was briefly, and yes, when I was visiting the lady Lucita. The preparations seem to have paid off. Everything looks wonderful." He then glances off where the children seem to be scattering and one brow raises just a little in amusement. To Lethe he says, "Well enough, my lady, and yourself?"

Quenia nods to something Lucita says, then asks. "Shall we start the concert? Who else is in the line up and who is going first?" She gives Sebastian a nod of thanks for the confirmation.

Lucita says, "the children first." She says giving Magpie a nod."

Corban slips into the Domus Igniseri, his eyes sweeping this way and that. He seems to be looking for a certain someone among the crowd, pursuing his lips as he tries to spot her.

"Oh, look... cakes." Magpie carries them with him to the open clearing where the children are going to sing. Two of them are soggy from jumping in the pool, one has stuffed his face with cheese that he snagged from someone else's picnic spread, but the rest are mostly behaving. "Alright guys. Just.. uh... like we practiced, and .. smile... and.. you know, look cute." He says with a smirk, patting one of the younger kids on the head before turning. He focuses on Lucita, "They'll be singing some popular Arx songs. Stuff everyone knows." He looks to Quenia, "Better let the kids sing first or they'll never get there." Sooo professional, this group.
Then Magpie Grayhope clears his throat and announces, "Everyone! May I introduce the Lower Boroughs Orphan Choir! This is their second performance!" He turns back to the kids and does a quick count to get them started. The first is a very common nursery rhyme about the Faith that most kids learn.

Lethe watches the children for a moment. She nods as she speaks to Sebastian. "That is good to hear. I have been keeping busy." As the performance starts she smiles.

1 Grayson Guardsmen arrives, following Aiden.

Monique is all smiles for the children's choir, spreading out her blanket near by, setting out her picnic basket.

Magpie GM Roll checked charm(2) + permormance(1) at difficulty 15, rolling 10 lower.

When the children start performing, Quenia moves over to the large bench and takes a seat, giving them her complete attention. Servants in House Igniseri colors start moving around the crowds, plying people with free samples of the wines the have on sale - allowing them to choose which one they want. On offer are: an elegant Granato wine called Summer Blush, Violet Delight, a powerful Granato wine, and The Zephyrs of Spring, an opulent white wine. Also, a herbed virgin olive oil with a plate of toast and cheese cubes.

Quenia has joined the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Corban spots the person he has come here to see, and makes his way over to Monique, touching her arm lightly and leaning in to murmur. He hums along with the nursery rhyme about the gods, apparently knowing it well enough. "Should I get us a bottle of wine?" he asks the Greenmarcher he sits with.

Sebastian inclines his head to Lethe at her words, but when the children begin to sing he moves over to find himself a place to settle after acquiring a bit of Violet wine and some olives, toast, and cheese cubes to take with him to the place where he chooses to settle, his attention turning to the children to watch their performance as he pours his glass.

Guests are gathered, picnics just starting, A handful of children are being gathered by Magpie to sing, maybe. Lucinda is near the instruments and clavichord watching. A smile is on her lips and she chuckles as the children sing.

A Prince of Grayson shows up... on time or late, it's hard to say since he loiters in the back, chewing at his bottom lip and constantly straightening out his shirt. Aiden finally has to loosely cross his arms to stop the fidgeting.

Lethe tries some of the summer blush wine and continues to watch the children with amusement.

If one classifies a Children's Choir as a group of kids that are mostly singing at the barest minimum, then these orphans are rocking it. However, if one expects them to be singing together in tune, and in some sort of performance-worthy organized fashion they're going to be sorely disappointed. One child has just laid down on the ground and refuses to participate. Another couple are shoving each other. A few in the front gamely try to make up for the rest and at least two of them have decent singing voices. It's... something. When that song ends they move on to another, which is a lively sea shanty about sailors and love.

Magpie GM Roll checked charm(2) + permormance(1) at difficulty 15, rolling 9 higher.

Quenia has left the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Aioni, a regal snowy white owl arrives, delivering a message to Aiden before departing.

Between songs, Quenia gets up from her bench and starts moving around the crowd. She stops near where Sebastian and Lethe are seated, and settles down again. "I'm still rather new to Arx, in many ways. When I first got here, my brothers were both killed at the Battle of Pridehall. They were the leaders of House Igniseri, and I had been in mourning for quite sometime until several months ago. So, I'm very far behind on getting to know the people here. Could you tell me a bit about your houses?" She asks this quietly of both Sebastian and Lethe.

Lucita claps for the children's choir. " You sang wonderfully. Thank you. Does singing make you hungry, there is a picnic there for you if you wish." She says to Magpie. "You did a good job with them." She then moves to curtsy toward Aiden. She gives him a charming smile of welcome. "Oh, am so glad to see you here. Thank you for coming. Look what I have! A clavichord. It is not as nice as your instrument, but has a lovely sound.

The kids have a great time singing the sea shanty. It's easy. It's fun. It's catchy. It's a bit dirty at places. Magpie just grins and when they're done he murmurs to them to bow and then waves them off to go get some food while *he* seeks out some of those wine samples. Lucita gets a chuckle, "Thanks. This may be their last performance. My new job has me pretty busy."

Lucita checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 23 higher.

"My condolences," Sebastian says to Quenia whens he speaks of the loss of her brothers. The singing and antics of the children seems to amuse him, and he smiles behind his glass. When the children have finished, he applauds for them before turning back to Quenia. When she asks about their houses, Sebastian says, "We are scandalous libertines, my lady, for they call us Sins, after all, and we do so enjoy indulging," in explanation, a little amused smile on his lips.

Aiden watches the performance with only a hint of amusement on his face, such is evident when Lucita wanders toward him to acknowledge him loitering quietly. For the charming smile, he tips his head in return with his own polite one, "Thank you for inviting me." He glances around at the folks there, then toward the instrument, "Oh well, that's lovely. It should be... more or less what I use at home." He murmurs, "Am I supposed to play any particular theme for your party?"

1 Saik Guard, Gunther, a Rottweiler arrive, following Estaban.

Quenia raises both brows at Sebastian, and then seems most amused. "I feel that my mother would have fit right in with your House, Lord Sebastian. She is quiet licentious herself, and has married three times. Unfortunately, none of her husbands ever survived their marriages, my father included. I never got to know him, for he died well before I was born. All of the deaths were true accidents, but there are rumors, of course."

Lucita says, "Highness, the pleasure of your company is what is most sought, the instrument there if you feel you would like to play, anything you would enjoy sharing with us." And she smiles again to Aiden as she speaks. "And if you would like, will try to accompany you. If you would rather to just picnic and talk with others, that is fine.""

Lethe nods to Quenia. "Sure. There aren't many Tydes, but we are a family again. I can't say we're much like Lord Sebastian's family."

There's a visible gulp made from the Grayson Prince at the prospect of talking with people! Though he does instead grapple to the idea of performing, "Oh erm well, I think... I think I came here to perform for your party, maybe... maybe that'll break the ice with people I don't know..." He looks toward Quenia, Sebastian and Lethe, before he tells to Lucita, "Let me know when I should go up to play..."

Magpie wanders over to a spot on the ground where an extra blanket was spread and sits down, lounging back now that his work is done. It seems the servants will have to keep an eye on the children. "Aaaaah."

Sebastian inclines his head to Quenia and says, "Perhaps she would." He lifts his glass and takes a small swallow from it before noting Aiden's glance in their direction. He lifts his glass toward the man in greeting, and perhaps welcome if he seems incline to speak with them. Then his attention returns to Lethe and he says, "Howso, lady? Tell us a bit about the Tyde."

There are one or two servants who've been designated to entertain the children. It seems they have small games and party favors to give out to those inclined, on top of making sure they are plied with ample food and sweets.

Quenia glances aside a moment to look over at Lucita and the man she's taking to. She inclines her head in Aiden's direction in greeting, but as she's already conversing at the moment, doesn't get up to introduce herself as yet. Sebastian addressing Lethe brings her attention back to their conversation, and she gets an inquiring look at her comment. Sebastian, however, seems to beat her to asking for more information, and so she waits politely for the response.

Lucita moves to Aiden's side and with a calm grace offers to move forward through the atrium with him toward the instruments. She takes the time to pause and make introductions Prince Aiden Grayson, may I present to you Lord Sebastian Pravus. He is a charming man and an artist, appreciates wine and good company. And here is Missere Magpie Grayhope, leader of the children's choir and works with a new position in government dealing with refugees and Portagals. Lady Lethe Tyde, Lady in waiting for Princess Alarissa and a healer, she is a sweet person. Marquessa Quenia, the head of our house and my cousin and friend. Lord Corban Telmar and Lady Monique Greenmarch, a more lovely couple than you could hope to know and wonderful hosts of parties. Very friendly, interesting to know. Everyone, this is Prince Aiden Grayson. If you know the menagerie, you know of his work. He is someone with a warm heart and a talent to work with animals.

Estaban comes walking into the Atrium looking around, he is dressed in his leather armor and his guard and dog are with him, his blue eyes scanning over to see who is here.

Lethe considers. "I suppose we're all a little different. We only recently became a family again. We are a fairly traditional family in the Thrax fealty. We can be adventurous at times."

Quenia tilts her head at Lethe a moment, then nods solemnly. "It seems like there are tumultuous times ahead; not entirely of the adventurous sort. But, we of Igniseri know what it's like being a small house. I'm glad that your family could get back together again," she says with a soft smile. Her attention is pulled to Aiden once more, and she rises from her seated position near Sebastian and Lethe to offer the Grayson prince a curtsey. "Welcome to Domus Igniseri, Prince Aiden. Thank you for offering to be one of our esteemed performers this evening," The Igniseri Marquessa gives Aiden a warm smile. She espies Estaban in the background and offers him a wave an equally warm smile - her future cousin-in-law!

Quenia looks to Lucita as a thought occurs to her. "Do you wish to do the contest now, or wait until later?"

Aiden spots the gestures of greeting from both Sebastian and Quenia, returning it in a quick lift of his fingers. Though at Lucita's indication to move on ahead and does so, remaining at her side as she goes on to introduce him. His eyes flash from Sebastian, to Magpie, toward Lethe, and Quenia, bowing his head slightly to Quenia, before his attention reverts to the re-introductions of Corban and Monique, "Thank you for the lovely introduction Lady Lucita. It is good to know more illustrious names of those in our city and to put faces to them as well." His eyes turn to Lucita for the mention of the menagerie, "Thank you, again." He looks toward the others, "I hope I may get the pleasure of playing for you all tonight. Though... it is not something I commonly do outside of my home... If I miss a key..." he warns with a charming smile dotting the end of his sentiment.

Aiden adds on for Quenia, "Thank you for having invited me to do so, Marquessa."

Magpie throws smiles to each in turn, "Hey there." He says from where he's relaxing on the blanket. "Your highness..." He says to Aiden. Then his blue eyes wander to Lethe, "Lady Lethe, could I chat with you a bit? If you're willing?"

Estaban looks over to Quenia nodding his head to her giving a small smile in her direction, patting his dog the Rottir trots off in a certin princes direction, a grin coming to the mans lips. He looks over to Lucita smiling watching her then looking back over to Aiden to see his reaction when the large dog greets him.

Lucita says, "Later, please, Quenia." Estaban is given a soft smile, the delight on seeing him unmistakable. "Prince Aiden, it is a new instrument, any missed keys are simply because of that." She grins at him, lowers her voice and says simply. "Please make yourself at home and just enjoy.""

Sebastian rises as well and gives a bit of a bow, respectfully, to Aiden. "A pleasure to meet you, Highness. I don't think that anyone will begrudge you a missed note for the gift of hearing you perform." He then settles himself back into his seat, taking up his glass once more.

Lethe nods to Quenia and looks to Aiden with a smile. As Magpie speaks to her she nods. "Of course. What would you like to talk about?"

"You are quite welcome," Quenia tells Aiden. Her brow furrows a moment as a thought passes, then she turns to everyone and says. "While we are debuting our newest wines this evening, I wanted to take a moment to announce that I have decided that House Igniseri will be donating 50% of tonight's proceeds from our wine sales to help House Kennex with their current financial predicament. I applaud their efforts to free their thralls, and have no wish to see a House fall due to such a noble cause." Lucita is given a nod for response regarding the game. She then looks around for others to mingle with as Lucita determines who will be performing next.

Magpie gives Lethe a smile, gesturing to the open space on the blanket beside him, "House Tyde, actually. I've been trying to learn more about the houses of Arx now that I have a job working with so many people in the different regions." He gives Quenia a grin when she announces that half of the proceeds will go to Kennex.

Aiden's gaze flicks to Magpie for the your highness, then toward Sebastian due to the fact of his more direct conversation, "I appreciate your words, Lord Pravus." His hands fold in front of him as he looks to Lucita, "There comes a time that every bird must take a leap from it's nest." That is his reply, fitting. Silver eyes flash toward Estaban and he lifts his hand to wave, "Hello Lord Saik." The Prince shows some palpable relief at Estaban's presence though he does turn toward the instrument, "New, is it? Let's see what it does." He pauses upon the note that Quenia makes, hrmming thoughtfully, "That's very kind of you Marquessa. I approve, perhaps I may be inclined to consider ... a piece uh, aligned with freedom?"

Aiden is overheard praising Quenia.

Lethe nods once. "Is there anything in paticular that you want to know?" She asks Magpie.

Quenia inclines her head to Aiden. "If you so desire. Play what pleases you most, we are here to enjoy it." She makes a motion toward the stage and instruments set before them.

Aiden has joined the an unfretted clavichord.

"Oh.. just about the nobility in the house, I suppose. Are they approachable? Do you like the Duchess? Do you think the people of Tyde are happy?" Magpie asks casually, his tone light. "My position is one of both refugee and prodigal affairs. I know there likely aren't many of the latter, but the former?... "

Estaban nods his head as Aiden, "Your Highness." he moves over in Lucita's direction, a smirk on his lips watching her. "I hope all is going well."

Quenia finally settles near to Corban and Monique, nodding her head to each of them. "Lord Corban," she greets as she settles down upon a seat. "How have you and Lady Monique been doing since the spring soiree?" she asks, including Monique in the question as she waits for the next bout of music to play.

Thoughtful, Prince Aiden approaches the clavichord, murmuring, "I don't tend to play off a written sheet..." He considers the keys upon the instrument, then takes a place at the bench. Adjusting his shirt he begins to test the sound of the instrument and seeing if it was in tune. He makes a few adjustments after playing the same key a few times in a row and to his ear it sounds slightly off, which is adjusted by a knob to the left of it. Then satisfied he attempts to play.

Aiden checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 29 higher.

Corban rises to his feet when Quenia comes close and then settles down when she sits. "Oh, we are doing quite well," says the Lord Corban, with a dip of his head. "We are following the new rulership in the Lyceum with great interest and attempting to decide how to best help with the Thrax crisis."

Sebastian settles comfortably as others continue about their conversations, taking up a bit of toast and dipping it into the olive oil before tasting it. He then takes one of the olives and pops it into his mouth as he watches Aiden settle in at the clavichord, studying him and the instrument with interest.

Lucita reaches over to Estaban to say. "So far." There is a slightly worried look as Aiden adjusts the instrument and she sheepishly says to him. "I missed that one, a flurry of messengers interrupted the tuning and did not get it rechecked. Thank you for catching it." She looks back at Estaban to say. "If anyone understands messengers to deal with it will be Prince Aiden, he had so many of them when planning the animal clinic." She picks up her lute, checking its tuning. "There is more food over to the side if anyone wishes to try something different from what they brought." She says to the others attending.

Lethe nods. "I do like the Duchess. She is fair and I think she is approachable. I feel that I am happy, but I can't speak for everyone. My brother or the Duchess could probably tell you more about refugees and those matters." She pauses. "I've been made to feel very welcome since I've been here. I am sorry if I am not more help."

The sounds are almost reminiscent of a lute, the keys allowing it to become something more than what a lute could produce however and the ability to have larger keys rather than just strings, helped the performer come up with some tantilizing little melodies. His first one sounded easy enough by ear to play but his fingers weave in fast pace over the wooden keys. It has some liveliness to it, a regal melody and octave, something that one would anticipate to hear in the Grayson courts rather than played by one. All the same it's quick and leaves the audience perhaps wanting more. A warm up, at least, for it doesn't look like Aiden was meaning to climb up off the bench yet.

Piece: https://youtu.be/-Vejo_4ZmHw

Aiden checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 9 higher.

Magpie listens to the Grayson music but his attention is on Lethe. There's a smile from the common as she talks of the Duchess, the sailor nodding. "Good to hear... good to hear." He says easily. "Thank you. Who is your brother?"

"Indeed, there seems to have been quite a few shake ups of late," Quenia remarks upon Corban's comment. "But, I expect with the way things are presently, there will always be something that needs doing somewhere. Finance are not a problem for us in Granato, so I figured this was the best way we could help. I applaud House Kennex's decision, and hope that by offering financial assistance that we're doing our part to make sure a part of our community doesn't fall. We'll need everyone we can get when the true fight comes with the darker forces." She pauses in her discussion a moment to admire Aiden's music. "He plays wonderfully," she remarks.

Lucita becomes lost in the music Aiden is playing, clearly appreciating every note drifting up from the clavichord. The compliment she pays for the playing is her silence, and the joy in her expression. Only when it ends does she say to the others. "He is so gifted."

Ian is shown into the atrium, late, but here, at least. Eventually. He walks carefully on the more uneven ground of the garden, his attention more on his feet than on the performance.

"I fear that you are right. But I cannot help but noticing that those areas are increasingly in Thrax lands." Even as he professes to be looking how to help, Lord Corban cannot let some of the Oathlander ways go. "Nonetheless, it is a good thing for you to do. Congratulations to your House, too, on your cousin's engagement. That should strengthen your alliances well."

Lethe smiles. "Lord Archeron. He is fairly easygoing usually. I think you'll like him if you speak with him."

Sebastian listens quietly to the music as it is played, seeming content, for the time being, just to study the player and the instrument, glass of wine forgotten for the moment, held lightly to one side.

Aiden is at the clavichord playing, Lucita is adjacent to him, lute in hand but not playing, Estaban is near her, others are gathered talking and having a picnic, servants overwatching some children with their food and games and small gifts for them. Lucinda says to Ian. "Welcome, Lord Ian Kennex. I saved you some food if you would like to eat and some drinks for you." She signals a servant to bring some fine whiskey if it should be preferred.

The slow press of keys and the short introduction to the instrument was not to last. While the first was barely a minute long, he starts to get into something a little less formal and more whimisical, something that tells a tale to those who hear it. The piece is more complicated and takes far more dexterity of fingers to play than the first initial piece. And after a while it becomes clear he doesn't really notice anyone in the room or hear them. He's hearing the music and going along with what comes of it, twists and turns, as if the mystery and intrigue were written behind every draw and rise. He might have practiced this before, but it's hard to say. Some of it doesn't sound as planned as other parts of it, especially where his fingers go on a run and fly. (Inspired by: https://youtu.be/QKvuj-OJwYw)

Aiden ^

Estaban smiles nodding his head moving to find a place to sit near to Aiden and Lucita, making a hand movment for his dog to come join him and the large rottie plops in his lap, he pets the animal as he listens and watches.

Ian looks up when he hears his name coming from the... stage area? From the players. He nods a greeting to Lucita, but doesn't move to interrupt the performance.

"Ahh.. I'll keep that in mind if I ever cross paths with him." Magpie gets to his feet down, stretching and watching Aiden for a few minutes before murmuring, "Thank you, Lady Lethe. I should probably start gathering what children are still around and get them back before they look for homes to break into." He muses. "Nice to meet you."

Lethe nods to Magpie "I enjoyed meeting you too." She turns her attention to the music.

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

Lucita claps as Aiden finishes playing. "that was beautiful. Some day, I'd like to play with you but that was so lovely, it needed to be appreciated alone." She turns to the others. "I have a little game perhaps we can try. It's not been tried before so might not work, but the fun may be in the effort, yes? Lord Ian, instead of playing, perhaps you can help keep watch, be a judge for it?

Lucita drops Last one dancing notes-11-4.

Quenia nods grimly in Corban's direction. "Well, and from the North, too. Was there not just an expedition there?" she asks, full of curiosity. "Aside from that though, I have no knowledge of martial ways. That was my brothers' forte, and without Vincent or Pietro here, I'm not quite sure how to forward the House in that manner, nor offer military aid so much. I grew up being the social butterfly of the House, so to speak. And, while my cousins have some knowledge of military matters, I do not get the impression it's extensive. Of course, that could be because we keep passing each other in the night on our way to separate events and issues."

Quenia adds, "And thank you. It's a love match between Lucita and Estaban. We hope the alliance they build will be a strong one between our houses."

Zavi leaves, following Magpie.

Ian raises his eyebrows to Lucita, but he seems game. Or at the very least he doesn't object. Especially once he's found a place to sit -- hopefully not on the ground -- and has a drink in his hand.

Aiden looks up at the applause and blinks, remembering he had an audience. Oops, sometimes musicians were like that, certainly the quiet ones! He nods his head toward Lucita and flushes. He sits there on the bench though, with his ear tilted toward the instrument and his hands are folded and pressed into his lap so he doesn't get tempted to continue playing while a game goes on. He does look toward Lucita to hear what her game might be.

Aiden checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Although Aiden does find himself coughing rather suddenly and departs from the bench to retrieve some... drinks.

Aiden has left the an unfretted clavichord.

Sebastian applauds once Aiden has finished playing, rising from his seat to do so for a moment or two and then reclaiming it with an amused little smile when the Prince seems to remember his audience. Noticing Ian, he lifts his glass over in that direction in greeting.

Corban ahs and nods his head to Quenia. "Well, quite the opposite with Telmar. We are much sword and very little social graces. But nonetheless, it takes all sorts to move along." He takes his glass of the dark grape wine he is drinking and raises it up. "This is quite -- potent. But delicious, as always."

Ian nods to Sebastian from where he's found his seat.

Lucita explains the game format hesitantly and sets a reminder in place in case any need to review it. She says to Aiden while waiting for others to decide if to try or not. "If you like the instrument as a change from yours, you are welcome to play it any time." She looks toward Estaban to tease. "Will Gunther be playing, too?" The lute is strummed and she begins to play a simple tune popular in some of the inns that has a repetitive rhythm, the pace of the music very slow, soft, but enough to show what the game will have to use for a tune.

Aiden gets a pouch embroidered with a scene of a summer day at a beach from a pouch embroidered with a scene of a summer day at a beach.

Lucita says, "The game is a simple one, a few simple dance steps everyone does. They repeat them at a faster pace each round and drop out if one is unable to keep up or stumbles. Last dancer in the game gets a ...ribbon for a prize."

Lucita drops a decorative ribbon awarded to the last one dancing.

Corban gets a pouch embroidered with a scene of a summer day at a beach from a pouch embroidered with a scene of a summer day at a beach.

Lethe gets a pouch embroidered with a scene of a summer day at a beach from a pouch embroidered with a scene of a summer day at a beach.

Lucita gets The Zephyrs of Spring, an opulent white wine from a padded pouch for storing exceptional wines.

Quenia inclines her head to Corban. "We like to pack a bit of a punch in our wines from time to time. Sometimes it is the sweeter wines that catch you by surprise," Quenia grins a bit. "One moment you are fine, and the next perhaps a bit flat on your face. Do have a care," she warns lightly.

Estaban chuckles, "If he plays we will all lose." he grins and winks watching her then pats his side hugging the dog then looks to Aiden.

Aiden finishes his coughing and returns with a glass of wine in his hand, likely some of that nice Zephyrs white. He glances toward Estaban and grouses, "Will not. I happen to be terrible at dancing." He notes.

"It seems all in good fun," Sebastian says, "And I'd hate to turn down a challenge," when it seems the game is brought up. He takes another fortifying sip of wine.

Lucita says, "Well someone better play, please! I'd hate to go back to the poor tailor who spent hours embroidering that ribbon only to tell her it never got used!"

Lethe looks to Lucita. "I'm not much of a dancer, but I think it could be fun."

Ian doesn't seem inclined to play, but hopefully that's understandable. He watches and sip at his drink.

Lucita smiles as she continues playing. "Alright then, all who are playing..." And she turns so she is gesturing for Aiden and Estaban to join in if they will and glancing toward the others. "Ar you ready, if so, start!

Aiden checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Aiden has joined the line.

Corban has joined the line.

Lethe has joined the line.

Estaban has joined the line.

Estaban gets a pouch embroidered with a scene of a summer day at a beach from a pouch embroidered with a scene of a summer day at a beach.

Aiden is joining and maintains a polite expression on his face, with his one hand balancing the wine, "Come on Lord Saik, you've sea legs." He puts his hand on the Saik's shoulder and leans in to speak quietly toward him, flashing a small smile before he steps away and consumes a copious amount of wine left in his glass so he can wave the empty toward a house staff member to take away.

Sebastian has joined the line.

Corban checked perception at difficulty 5, rolling 2 higher.

Aiden has rolled a critical success!
Aiden checked luck at difficulty 5, rolling 11 higher.

Sebastian checked luck at difficulty 5, rolling 5 higher.

Lethe checked intellect at difficulty 5, rolling 8 higher.

Estaban checked dexterity at difficulty 5, rolling 23 higher.

Monique checked dexterity at difficulty 5, rolling 11 higher.

Monique has joined the line.

Luck was on Aiden's side as he kept with the dancing steps and does laugh lightly when Estaban does clearly show off those sea-legs, "See what I mean Estaban, you've got this!" Aiden even puts his hands on his sides, bent at the elbows, as he does the whole step kick step step sequence.

Corban gets up from where he was sitting with Quenia and Monique, leading the latter out onto the dance floor and next to one another. "Step, step, little-kick, step-back, step-back, and stomp." But the reality is that the Telmar Voice has two left feet, or isn't quite able to concentrate on it very much, for the judge soon touches him on the shoulder and he is out.

Lethe concentrates as the dancing starts. She stays focused and manages to stay focused on the dancing even though it is difficult for her.

When the music and dancing begins, Sebastian takes in the steps, and by pure luck, though he has no familiarity with them, he manages to keep up, though admittedly he watches his feet more than anything else. There's a chuckle as he watches the others as well, "I think I'm getting the hang of this."

Monique is up and excited, dancing around even before the dancing starts. She dances with Corban until the poor Telmar is evicted from the floor. There's a wave. "I'll teach you later," she calls out, teasing him mercilessly.

Lucita nods as everyone does the simple steps, grinning as she quickens the pace of the music as a prelude to round 2 "Will be a little more difficult this time."

Estaban listens ro Aidens words nodding and whispering something back to the prince before standing next to him and chuckles as he starts to do the dance steps doing his best to keep up, he shakes his head with a grin.

Ian holds up his glass in a silent invitation to Corban to join him for a drink while the game progresses.

Tangled sable hair, plain linen dress, the woman who slips in to the Domus Igniseri... might be lost. Maybe she's drawn by the sound of music. Saya has one hand plastered to her face and is peeking out between fingertips. What is all this about?

Monique checked stamina at difficulty 5, rolling 10 higher.

Estaban checked perception at difficulty 5, rolling 19 higher.

Sebastian checked perception at difficulty 5, rolling 2 lower.

Ian has joined the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

Lethe checked luck at difficulty 5, rolling 1 higher.

Aiden checked willpower at difficulty 5, rolling 9 higher.

There is a bit of a dancing game going on - people moving about until the music stops. Quenia, for her part, is enjoying simply watching - she is of two left feet. Plus, it's her House giving away the pretty, pretty ribbon. She spies Ian in the crowd and walks in his direction, nodding to him. "Lord Ian. Welcome to Domus Igniseri. We're happy you could come this evening," she tells him. She pauses a moment, then adds. "We've also decided to donate half our proceeds from wine sales tonight towards helping House Kennex."

Monique is kick-kick-stomp-stomp-twirling all over the place. She's got this! And she casts a look at Estaban. Oh, it's SO ON!

Lethe barely can keep up with the steps. She stays on her feet though and keeps going.

Ian doesn't rise to greet Quenia when she approaches, but he does nod solemnly to her. "I'm grateful for that, and I'm sure the Marquis will be, too. He asked me to ask anyone looking to help to send him something by messenger." There's an odd twist of wry humor behind his words that doesn't really fit in with what he's saying.

Monique checked intellect at difficulty 10, rolling 1 lower.

Aiden checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 6 higher.

Lucita's fingers move faster still as round 3 begins the catchy rhythm rising in the air in a toe tapping beat, she sings along with it, the words laced with humor.

Lethe checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 4 higher.

Perhaps Sebastian was paying a little TOO much attention to the others around him and not enough to his own two feet, but he manages to skip a step and then ends up all out of sync. Laughing, he says, "Perhaps I shall stick to drinking tonight," making his way back to his glass and reclaiming it.

Quenia quirks a brow at Ian, "Indeed? Well, it is because of our friendship with both yourself and Lord Wash that we've largely determined to do this. So, I'll be glad to send those regards along." She gives Ian a warm smile. "We'll help in other ways if we can as well, but this is what I best know to do."

Saya stands and stares for a little bit at the people dancing, but then slips back toward the exit.

Estaban continues to keep up with the dancing steps, he looks over at Monique and a smirk spreads wide across his face oh yes indeed it is on!

"Actually..." Ian studies Quenia for a moment. "I do have a pet project that I could use help on. With everything that's just happened, Kennex's merchants are going to have a hard time replacing their ships. It probably won't happen for a while. I've been trying to help some of them out by finding places on the holds of the ships pledged to other houses. If you hear of anyone with spare hold space that needs filling, would you mind refering them my way?"

Aiden keeps his composure and carires on dancing!

Estaban checked stamina at difficulty 10, rolling 40 higher.

"My cousin Ariella has a ship. I would be glad to give an official directive to her to aid in anyway that she can." Quenia replies easily enough to Ian's request. "Feel free to reach out to her as well. She might enjoy some time sailing out for a cause."

Clearly, it's not on. It's so far on that it's off, at least for Monique. Her competitiveness throws her off and she stumbles with zero grace. A good deal of shav cursing goes with her back to Corban. Along with pouting.

Lethe starts to improve a little and one can tell by the expression on her face that she is enjoying herself.

Lucita and for round four, again the rhythm increases, she does a little step herself, moving closer to the remaining dancers and as if she is dancing with them, moving back when they advance and forward when they are back-stepping, still playing the lute.

Quenia takes a moment to clap for the participants. "Well done!" she calls out to them. "And I hope you are all having fun!" she adds. She smiles over in Lucita's direction, then looks back to Ian. "In return, if you could simply talk up our wines to a few other people, that'd be great."

Aiden checked stamina at difficulty 10, rolling 4 higher.

Lethe checked dexterity at difficulty 10, rolling 10 higher.

Corban reaches over and touches Monique's waist as she comes back, his competitive Minx returning to him. "It's just a ribbon, my dear," he says. "At least it is not a very valuable ring." Small favors.

Monique sulks at Corban for a minute or two longer, her gaze focused on Estaban because this clearly is ALL his fault!

Estaban checked strength at difficulty 10, rolling 9 higher.

Lethe continues each step. She has less trouble now that she has danced for a while.

Lethe checked perception at difficulty 15, rolling 7 higher.

Aiden doesn't have the stamina to keep on going, misses a step... no one may have seen it but he's too honest and laughs a little. "Phew..." and makes his way aside from the line, toward the others watching the contest. He grabs some wine to watch the rest of it play out.

Lucita stops dancing with the others, this next round is just too brisk to both keep up the faster playing and the dancing that continues. There is admiration in the glance she gives the others.

Estaban continues to dance the moves he breaths deeply and he has a look of concintration on his face, he continues to step kick and all that jazz!

Estaban checked luck at difficulty 15, rolling 10 higher.

Sebastian stretches out comfortably to drink his wine and to pick through the olives and cheese on his plate, seeming to enjoy just watching. He applauds for the two that remain, waiting to see who will come out ahead between Lethe and Estaban.

Ian nods to Quenia. "I will do so," he says as he sips his... whiskey. Seeming to see no irony whatsoever in this.

Monique is clapping. But she is also pouting. Terrible loser. Poor Estaban. Poor Corban, too. She turns to him, and something he murmurs causes the Greenmarcher to thrust her lower lip out even further, to toss her fiery head with a sniff.

Lucita stops playing and in a teasing, exaggerated way, blows on her fingertips as if they are smoldering from how fast she had to play for the last round. "Congratulations Lord Estaban, Lady Lethe was a very close second there but you barely edged her out and all of you did so well! If you want to continue dancing, I'll play at a slower rate for you.

Aiden is overheard praising Lucita for: For hostessing a very fun game!

Corban is overheard praising Lucita.

Liquor is liquor. Quenia doesn't complain that Ian is drinking whiskey instead! "Thank you," Quenia says with a nod of the head and a smile. She claps for Estaban. "Well done, Lord Saik!" she calls out.

Quenia is overheard praising Aiden for: For playing wonderfully at our concert.

Quenia is overheard praising Magpie for: For bringing the children's choir to our concert to sing! What talent, reigning in 12 children!

Lethe takes a moment to catch her breath and looks to Estaban. "Good job. Your danxing is impressive."

Quenia is overheard praising Lucita for: For being a wonderful co-hostess!

Ian sets his drink down on the bench next to him long enough to politely applaud Estaban's win. Then he picks it up again and takes a sip.

Lucita is overheard praising Aiden for: Mesmerizing when playing the clavichord.

Estaban takes a bow to all, "Thank you." he smiles breathing deeply tring to catch his breath, he shakes his head, "If my sister saw this." is all he comments with a grin.

Aiden finishes up his wine and asks for another! He clearly is going to make sure he is able to wobble a bit more than he can weave! He looks over toward the group, murmuring, "Fine dancing!" And toasts them with a raise of his glass.

Sebastian appaulds when Esteban comes out as the winner of the contest and calls out, "Congratulations, my lord. Excellent dancing!" He then raises his own glass along with the others before finally consuming the last of its contents.

Aiden is overheard praising Estaban for: For showing us how sailors dance

Lucita is overheard praising Magpie for: Fun Children's Choir

Quenia is overheard praising Estaban for: For showing smooth moves during the concert dance-off!

Barbara, the stalwart Stormward secretary arrives, delivering a message to Quenia before departing.

Lethe smiles as she looks around. "I have had a good time, but it is time for me to go." She looks to Quenia and Lucita before she goes. "Thank you for the fun time."

Lucita starts playing a little song while others mingle and talk. "That was fun. If any of you would like to dance more this should do, or just to be background music." She can stroll along to join the others while she does this instead of being set aside.

Quenia sends a few messages back and forth, then gives Ian a raised eyebrow of amusement. She turns away from him a moment to look over at Lethe and smiles warmly at her. "Thank you for coming this evening, Lady Lethe. We are glad you had fun."

Barbara, the stalwart Stormward secretary arrives, delivering a message to Quenia before departing.

Estaban moves to go find a seat to sit down looking to Aiden, "Prince Aiden, come join me." he grabs some wine and moves to find a spot to sit.

Ian looks back at Quenia, with no clear sense that he knows how to interpret said eyebrow raise. Maybe he does, and he's just not reacting. Either way, he takes a sip of his drink.

Quenia turns her attention back to Ian, keeping her brow raised at him. Its a puzzled look. "You speak highly of me to Marquis Ford? Or was he making a play on words when he says - It would also be nice to put a name to the face that Lord Ian speaks so highly of." she asks.

Aiden had been sending glances to the exit and might have been trying to figure out a way to get there and slip out. Instead, as he's drinking his wine, Estaban calls on him. A sheepish smile is made toward the Saik, "Of course." He wanders his way over toward the seating and takes a spot up alongside the Saik. "Nice dance moves back there," he compliments.

Corban dips his head to the Igniseri women, smiling to them as he moves with Monique towards the door. "Lady Quenia. Lady Lucita. A good day to you both. And thank you for the lovely party. It is always delightful.

Estaban has joined the a walnut wooden swing with a steel chain.

Quenia glances over at Corban and nods. "Thank you again for coming. We hope you enjoyed the wine!" she calls out.

"Amazing party! You two did exceptional!" Monique calls out with a brighter-than-bright grin. "Thank you!" And she follows Corban away. Possibly to pout at him further.

Quenia bobs her head at Monique as well. "Thank you!" She notes the bottle of Summer Blush in her possession.

Kit, the grey fox, a tiny man with a BIG unpronounceable name leave, following Monique.

Monique leaves, following Corban.

Lucita winds up near the hammock, her stare at it verging on a glare before hearing Corban speak. She stops playing and says to him with a warm smile. "Our thanks to you for joining us for a picnic, and thank you, but it was much more modest than the wonderful even t you hosted. We so enjoyed that. We hope you will join us again soon.

Estaban smiles," Thanks, not sure how I managed it honestly." he chuckles and then lowers his voice and starts to speak with him.

Ian pauses for a moment. There's a flash of confusion there, just enough for someone observant to realize that what Quenia has said came out of left field to him. "I don't talk to the Marquis very often," he finally allows. "And generally only about business. He's probably getting me confused with Wash. Wash has had more time with him to talk about friends."

Quenia ahs lightly, nodding her head. "That would make quite much more sense, as I'd think of either of us, it'd be Lucita you'd have words about - as you've spent much more time with her." She seems much less confused or puzzled herself now. She glances over at her cousin again, when she mentions her, and smiles her way. "I just hope she'll be happy in her new arrangement, once they set the wedding date."

As the festivities begin to wind down, Sebastian makes sure to put in an order for some of the wine available before he collects the small basket that he brought with him and drifts over toward Lucita and Quenia to make his farewells and says, "Thank you both, for a lovely evening."

Lucita says, "Thank you for coming to share time with us. Has Marquessa Cambria set a date yet for showing your lovely art? I don't want to miss that." She pauses and then looks toward Estaban and back to Sebastian to lower her voice a moment."

Ian considers Quenia, his electric gaze focused entirely on her as they talk. "To the Marquis, I would have been most likely to talk of your house as a whole, but I don't think I was ever given a reason to do so." He doesn't comment on Lucita and Estaban's betrothal.

Quenia inclines her head to Sebastian, "Thank you for coming. We hope you enjoyed yourself this evening. Don't forget to take a pouch!" she points over at the pouch of pouches.

Aiden has joined the a walnut wooden swing with a steel chain.

Quenia glances back to Ian after addressing Sebastian's departure, and dips her head in his direction. She settles down on the bench to speak to him.

Quenia has joined the a sturdy pine wooden bench.

From the wooden swing, Aiden is talking to Estaban and gestures lightly toward Quenia during one instance. He actually kicks the swing to rock back and forth as they talk.

"We had to do a little bit of rescheduling for the art showing," Sebastian says to Lucita, "But as soon as I know the date, then I will let you know. You are always welcome to come and see the pieces at the studio if you feel so inclined, however, my lady." He dips his head to her, and then tilts his head as she murmurs something to him and responds quietly in return. Then he dips his head to Quenia as well, lifting the small pouch that he'd claimed earlier.

Lucita says, "Thank you. I'll look forward to the showing. Marquessa Cambria mentioned she was trying to line up spot on the schedule."

Quenia finishes smoothing over her skirts as she starts a quieter conversation with Ian. She does see Aiden's gesture in her direction, and delicately lifts a questioning brow in response. That brow, so ever expressive!

Ian is quiet for a long moment before answering Quenia in his usual level voice, although he's choosing his words carefully. He takes a sip of his drink, and looks briefly in Aiden and Estaban's direction when Quenia does.

Lucita looks from Sebastian to Estaban and back. Conniving woman plotting, all in a good way of course. She nods. "Thank you. He'll like that."

Aiden checked charm + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Aiden catches the looks, that expressive brow, and smiles politely across the way toward where Quenia and Ian are sitting, "I was just saying how wonderful it was to meet you Marquessa and how your wine tastes very very good. I think I should buy some more before I run out!" He makes a soft chortle sound, as if to indicate he had been in his cups... and was enjoying himself, relaxed!

With that bit of business conducted, Sebastian gives a smile to Lucita and a dip of his head, and then he slips out.

"It was a pleasure meeting you as well, Prince Aiden." Quenia replies easily to the Prince, nodding in his direction. She goes back to her conversation with Ian.

Lucita moves from the exit toward Quenia and Ian, waits a moment to make sure not interrupting before saying. "I'm going to trade a few bottles of wine for some artwork, Quenia, if you do not mind, sort of a mutual gift exchanged."

Quenia nods to Lucita, "Of course, that's fine."

Ian looks to Lucita when she comes over, not really because he has anything to say at present, but just as a polite acknowledgement.

Aiden elbow nudges Estaban from their swing seats and his voice can be heard rising a little, something about 'the abyss' and 'go dance'... His eyes flash toward Lucita and he hoists up his glass to her.

Lucita says, "Is your family handling all this alright? Have not seen any of them around except you since some of this started, except Marquis Ford. I saw him one day in the Shrine of Mangata one day when was offering prayers and a song there. Maggie suggested anything dealing with wind and water, ships would be something that would be welcome there. It was the first time had played the song about Bounty of Cirella."

Quenia nods a bit to Ian, but doesn't seem to have anything further to say on their topic of conversation. "If you'll all excuse me - the hour grows late, and I think it's time I go rest."

"Things are going to get a lot worse before they get better," Ian tells Lucita, although his tone seems untroubled by what he's saying. He nods to Quenia when she rises to leave. "Have a good evening."