The Grotto is warm. The rising steam off the fire-heated bathes entices with a rich, indulgent scent akin to spiced brandy. There is plenty of space between the bathes for people to stand and mingle, and the bathes themselves are as they always are; no special decorations required. The braziers burn on casting a dim, soft light over the area with the trickle of incense burning within.
As people enter, the Grotto’s staff, who are dressed the same in royal blue cotton and silver trimmed trousers or delicate slip-dresses, are waiting by the door. They are quick to offer fresh linen robes and directions to the screens to change; any belongings can be tucked into one of the many cubbies in the nearby wall. The rest of the staff bear silver trays, held aloft by both hands. Once the guests begin to arrive the young, uniformed men and women disperse amongst them with a variety of delights on offer.
There are aged wines from the Lyceum ranging from the sweet whites that require a lick of the lips to savour to full bodied reds that leaves the tongue alight, and nearly everything else in-between including a small number of sparkling varieties. Tea is also on offer though all are a chilled variety. It would be poor sense to offer hot beverages in the equivalent to an open sauna! The flavours range from simple peppermints to fruits like peach and elderberry. If none of the aforementioned are to taste, fruit and herb infused waters are also carried about like lime, lemon, sage, lavender or raspberry.
Nibbles are also available! Seasonal fruits, sliced and peeled, have been arranged like art on silver platters, while others carry soft and hard cheeses ringed by spiced or peppered crackers. Though there are regular soft pleas from the staff to only eat outside the bathes, thank you.

Juliet's left Fidelia at home, because, honestly, who wants to bring their awkward cousin to parties? Speaking of, she's on Prospero's arm, at least until the time comes to slip behind screens and into something more comfortable. She's prepared for the event by having her hair arranged in a loose fall of curls, and she's quick to slip into a linen robe, wearing it loosely enough to still put her rose pendant on display. Quicker still, to find herself a glass of wine and a slice of fruit to nibble, waiting for Prospero to come rejoin her. "Shall we go find the host, dear cousin, and give thanks for offering this oasis of heat and bliss in our desolation of winter?"

Yes. The akward cousin, single-handedly raising the average age of the gahering. That would Prospero with his mop of nearly untamed curls who disappears behind one of the privacy screens to trade silk and wool for the provided linen and have one of the uniformed servants stuff his things in a cubby. "Winter is nearly over," Prospero supplies to Juliet when re-offering his arm. "Yet I suspect this place will be as busy in spring and summeras it was in the cold." A glass of red is picked up and he nods to the younger Fidante. "Lead the way."

Eos had been soaking for some time now, but as the event was set to begin, he moved to the edge of the turtle bath and hauled himself up out of the water. There's a brief moment spared to adjust his wrap before he pads barefoot through the the attendents. A glass of lime and berry water is snagged from one tray on the way towards other familiar faces. There are all the expected scatterings of scars one would expect to find on a career soldier, but there is also the notable absence of his left small toe if anyone happens to look that far down. "Lord Prosperi, Lady Juliet," he calls ahead of himself when he spies the familiar Fidantes. "How'd you manage it, dragging him away from his desk?"

For a creature of the senses like Princess Sophie, this is a dangerous place. Upon arrival, she can already see all the nooks and crannies where countless days would be lost. Entirely counterproductive to her whole Save the World lifestyle. Alas. Although politely accepting the linen robe, she seems ill inclined to trade in what she's wearing. Although, really, the coat really will need to go if she plans on socializing. Speaking of which, she smiles at one of the servants and inquires, "Where might I find Master Saedrus?"

Saedrus arrives from a room tucked into the back of the Grotto with a smile and open arms in greeting to the gathered guests. "Welcome to the Grotto!" he exclaims happily. The dress code this evening is appropriate to the internal climate of the bathhouse, otherwise he would surely swelter, but he is not in the offered linen robes. Not unusual though, he is draped in silk in a wash of cool colours from rich purples, to sultry reds and vibrant blues; the robe is left open, the sash hanging from the gold clasps at his waist, and trousers sport hip to ankle splits with clasps like the ones on his robe drawing the fabric in at his knees and ankles. A moment spent to glance about the bathhouse with an excited expression. "Welcome!" He greets happily, beaming a smile for those present.

"my Lord Eos," Juliet offers with a bright smile, leaning in to plant a peck on the man's cheek. "It's very simple. You suggest there might be some sort of precedent for ancient law involved, like say slipping on a stone tile." Looking to her cousin, beaming bright. "No, honestly, I just asked if he'd take me. the Duke is the one who consistently sends cold tea back to the kitchen every morning." She admits. Offering a wave of greeting to Sophie, the chains connecting ring and bracelet clinking as she does so. Then she eats the last of her fruit slice and drapes herself on Prospero's arm again. Grinning as Saedrus appears. "He is so -very- pretty. You must be proud, my lord Baron." Applauding politely, at the announcement and welcome.

"It is you that I have heard called cranky and had to be drug by wild, miniature ponies away from you work, my lord," Prospero counters to Eos, though the grumpy tone is belied by the quirk of a grin pulling th ecorners of his lips. "It is a most relaxing place you have here," is said. Murky eyes cut towards Saedrus when he man announces his arrival with that loud shout of colorful silk.

Eos returns the kiss to Juliet's cheek, and turns to do the same to Prospero's. "Ah, clever minx, I will have to keep that in mind," he chuckles. He smiles to Sophie when she finds her way in, dipping his head before Saedrus' call twists him around. He considers the silk draped man with a raised brow, taking inhis excitement with a twitch of a grin before looking back to Prospero with a blip of confusion. "Ah....You met Charlemagne," he laughs. "He has done well with the place," he further agrees with Prospero. For Sophie's benefit, though Saedrus is hard to miss, he extend a hand to point an accusatory finger at Saedrus. He done it.

is Master Saedrus, who is not sweltering. For the moment, the same can be said of Sophie, who has already reached beneath her tabard to unbutton her coat. Smiling brightly at the courtesan-turn-manager's announcement, she starts in his direction, her attention curiously drawn to a light clinking sound. "Lady Juliet," she amiably greets, politely pausing, then offering a polite nod for both, "Lord Propsero," and, "Baron Eos. Well met."

"Pretty knows pretty," Saedrus chuckles to Juliet, but he first moves to Sophie with a small bow then leaning into to touch a kiss to her cheek. "Welcome to the Grotto, Princess Sophie. What do you think?" Offering an arm to the Princess before leading her towards the others where he can dot a kiss to Juliet's cheek as well. To Prospero, Saedrus bows politely and greets, "thank you, my Lord, I am quite happy with it. And construction is almost done on the gardens only furniture to finish and some decoration." A smile passed Eos' way, "I am amazed you did not soak yourself away, Baron, you have been here almost as long as I have today."

"So very good to see you, your highness." Juliet sketches a small curtsey to Sophie. "Messere Saedrus, you look positively stunning." she adds to Saedrus, looking from the host to Prospero, giving her cousin's arm a squeeze before letting go of him and when Saedrus does go for the small kiss, she's quick to turn her head so she can greet him with a touch of lips to lips. For a Velenosan, it might be positively innocent. Look ma, no tongue.

Eos heaves a put upon sigh. "I work too hard, I soak too long, you all need to decide which it is," he grunts not-quite deadpan. He takes a long drink from his water and paces a few steps closer to the main pool, peering down into it when he asks aloud, "Which pool will you be holding the games in, Master Saedrus? I will still have to find a partner to play."

Prospero says, "I believe there is a tutu in the works for that poor beast," Prospero says to Eos. His head is then inclined to the approaching Princess. "Your Highness," he greets the Mercy simply. A sip of his wine is taken while people politely make out with one another. It gives Prospero a chance to review the area, looking at the various pools that have been set out."

There's a fluttered blink when Juliet steals the touch of lips; so sneaky! And Saedrus chuckles as he leans back, tucking a fall of dark hair behind one ear. "Now! As Baron Eos says, I do have a game planned for the day, and of course," he gestures back to the wicker basket, "there are party favours. Massage oils which are divine if I do say so myself, and prizes for the winners of the little game!" He steps aside, unlinking his arm with Sophie with another brief kiss on her cheek. "The game will have to be held in the Grotto pool as it is the largest, and deepest. But, there is to be no throwing one another off the other's shoulders else I will have to hire Lord Prospero when I am brought to legal action for the broken skull of a royal."

Saedrus adds, "we can start the game just between each other of course, or we wait a little to see if others arrive."

The kiss is merrily accepted and fondly returned. On the cheek. "I think it is in the best interest of everyone in my care that I never step foot in here again," Sophie tells Saedrus, mirth in her lambent voice. For now, though, she is here, accepting his escort, seeming entirely unfazed by Juliet's version of cheek kissing. Oh, but there are games to be played? Has it been mentioned this is a dangerous place?

The Lady Fidante returns to her cousin's side with a self-satisfied smile on her lips and an impish gleam of delight in her eyes. "Which one is Charlemagne?" She inquires between the two elder men. "And why is there a tutu involved?" Furrowing her brow a little, shifting her attentions towards Saedrus' explanation of the games, and grinning at Sophie's comment. "I've already threatened to have my bed moved here."

"Throwng? Oh my that does sound dangerous," Prospero remarks on Saedrus's laying out of rules for the pool games. "Is that something you find you do in here often?" is asked. "Ah, Charlemagne appears to be a miniature pony that was gifted to a Whisper," he answers Juliet. "It looked quite like a tiny unicorn when I saw it earlier."

With the main pool designated, Eos lets himself down into the grotto pool, his glass held up out of the meager splash. He takes one last drink, then sets the glass on the pool's edge. "I promised Mistress Larissa a pony some time ago, and finally made good on it. The poor thing is apparently doomed to be subjected to dress-up for the rest of his days," Eos chuckles in answer to Juliet. "He stands barely higher than my knee."

Eos has left the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Eos has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

"I've heard of waterbeds," Sophie asides to Juliet in what is probably a joke. Probably. She also looks torn about the prospect of playing water sports, even if she's realizing staying in her coat much longer is ill-advised.

For those arriving there are staff awaiting with linen robes to be changed into and direct guest to the changing screens, behind which cubbies are present to put away their belongings. Other staff are carrying silver trays of wine, teas, waters and fruits.

Saedrus looks between Eos and Prospero, evergreens narrowing to the Baron in a brief moment. "I /did/ see the pony, you--" never mind, it clearly wasn't important.

Eirene is dressed far too warmly for the bathhouse in her customary leather slightly armored coat. As with most social functions, she looks slightly lost as to what she's doing here. The attendant is reluctantly handed swordbelt and falcon crested longcoat before she stops behind the screen to change, padding out on bare feet and a soft robe wrapped about her lean frame. Nods of 'Sup ' are given as she joins the small party gathered.

Dafne wanders into the Grotto. The little Zaffria looks curious, clad in a midnight blue gown and the ever-present kitten. (Said kitten has draped herself around her shoulders, like an exotic sort of scarf.) "I don't think you want to go for a swim, Nightshade," she tells the kitten as she accepts a robe and heads for a screen.

Prospero finishes his wine on the way to the deeper pool, following Eos's lead. The empty glass is passed off to one of the servers wandering around before the Fidante undoes the loosely knotted belt robe and slips out of it. Eos may have battle scars to steal the breath of those so inclined to such ornamentation, but the lawyer has no blemish of he sort to show off. Lawyers! Naked he slips into the water, lingering near an edge.

Prospero has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

"I should see mistress Larissa, and get introduced," Juliet concludes, with a quirk of her lips, as both Eos and Prospero proffers answers. Her robe is quickly discarded revealing tightly wrapped silk repeatedly put around her waist and in a thin line around her breasts, preserving at least a modicum of modesty, which, honestly, is going one better than her usual antics in the Grotto. Beaming bright as she spots Eirene and Dafne, giving them waves that clink with the rosegold wrapped against her hand. Sipping from her wine, she steps into the pool after Eos, and looks to Sophie, ever so briefly. "I -have- slept in one. Doing anything but sleeping in them is an adventure," She admits to the Mercy, then turns her attention to Saedrus. "You've met the pony?"

Juliet has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

"What was that Master Saedrus, I can't hear you-" Eos taunts, just as he's ducking under the water, where he's sure to not hear anything else, at least not until he comes up again for air and shoves his hair back from his face. "Lady Eirene," he calls when he spots her, a hand raised from the pool before he settles himself on one of the boulders, sitting comfortably. While others are gathering and getting acquainted, Eos turns back to Prospero. "Have you flesh left on your fingers, my lord? Or have they worked them down the bone already."

Kitten! Saedrus turns to look to the sound of the doors and the steps of his staff seeing to the new comers. "Welcome to the Grotto!" he greets excitedly, "Lady Eirene," he bows before the medic with a smile, and tilts his head as Dafne steps behind one of the screens to change, when she reappears he bows to her as well. "Welcome my Lady. I am Saedrus Cicisbeo, caretaker of the Grotto. Please, help yourself to the available drinks, and I can have cushion brought for your little companion if you like?" To Sophie, Saedrus' smile smooths a touch, "briefly," he mentions of the pony with one more glance towards Eos.

"Oh most assuredly they are being worked to the bone," Prospero says to Eos when the Baron is once more above the surface. He even hold sup a hand to demonsrate the miserably condition of his writing hand. "We will have quite the season of marriages, and each one is most boring and lengthy to write up. Perhaps there is one in your future as well, Baron?" A quick grin is given to Eos before Prospero looks around, noting the newer arrivals. "This is the Master Saedrus that you speak so much of, then?"

"Thank you," says Dafne to Saedrus, with a faint smile as she emerges, robe-clad. "I wouldn't want her to get into any trouble with the pools. Perhaps if she has a little cushion to sit on she'll stay in one place, and behave herself." She returns Juliet's wave with a little flutter of one hand.

Eos snorts quietly at the prospect of his marrying. "There is nothing on the horizon so far as I am aware," Eos assures. "And if there were, I am certain that it might be thwarted with mention of many, many heirs lest there's another southern plague." Widower turned confirmed bachelor it seems. His attention turns towards Saedrus when Prospero asks after him, and Eos watches the man at work with a twitch of a grin. "The one and only. He's been a tremendous help - though now others are starting to snap him up for work and I've had to write a few of my own letters." Woe is him.

Eirene seems to be having an internal conflict. She looks at faces both known and unknown as her blue eyes move about the grotto. "Ah fuck it," she concludes, glancing down at her bare figure under the robe. She motions for the attendant to bring a silken wrap and vanishes once more to change. Apparently the notion of njudity doesn't appeal to her at the moment. She instead joins them in the pool with the lightweight( fabric wrapped about her long lean figure. "Wedding talk? Hit me over the head and wake me up when it's over," she comments in her warm raspy voice.

Eirene has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

"As for the game, it is a simple little thing, just a spot of fun really. I am sure everyone has played it at some point or another but I have always called it Water War. There must be pairs, and each pair consists of the sturdier person standing in the pool and the second on their shoulders. And it is not already clear the aim of the game is just simply to topple the other pair into the water-- which is why we need to play in the largest bath." Saedrus claps his hands together with clap, "So either you pair up each other, or it is a matter of taking your choice of oil from the basket and I will tell you who you are paired with." With that said he summons a server to go gather a cluster of cushion for Nightshade, Dafne's kitten, to snug up on which is brought promptly.

e Saedrus glances to Eos and Prospero with a chuckle, "He lies," he informs Prospero, "the only missives he writes himself are to me, which I rewrite."

"You'll have to make introductions," Juliet teases, of the pony, to Saedrus - then she swims a bit further out into the pool, a process complicated by the fact that she still has her glass of wine in one hand. "I need to sneak into your office, cousin, and get an advance view of just whom is marrying whom. Unless they've all already been announced publically? I should be very put out if you've got nothing interesting in your desk." She notes to Prospero. Raising her free hand and gesturing for Dafne to come join her in the pool, and looking over to Eos. "He's scribed all your letters to me, lately." she notes. Quirking a brow. Whatever that means. Grinning to Eirene. "What -would- you like to talk of? Our Messere Saedrus has the game afoot, which should be exciting." Listening to the courtesan outline the rules, and looking about for a partner. "I'd suggest the oil. For fairness."

Sophie did say she would support Saedrus in this new adventure of his, and she'd be a terrible friend if she arrived, stood around for a moment, and then left. So it is that she finally opts to head behind a screen to divest herself of her outerwear. Eventually, she emerges wearing the linen robe, padding back over in bare feet. And should anyone bother to look, they would notice the wrapping of fine cord -- seemingly alight like flame with reds, oranges, and golds when the light is reflected just so -- starting in bands around her ankles, lacing up her legs in elaborate rope work that continues Gods only know where else throughout her body.

"Lady Dafne," Prospero greets the other familiar face when she's spied - probably at that awkward moment right before she's duckin behind a changing scren. "Ah, it is good to know that Baron Eos is in good hands still, Master Saedrus." All of this is enough to disract from Wedding Talk, so at least Eirene might be spared having to drown herself as a way to escape it. To Juliet he sates only a simple, "You most certainly will not." Rather firmly, that.

Dafne settles Nightshade on her cushions. The kitten sits down on the pile of them, as regal as a tiny furry queen. She sheds her robe--she wears a light silk wrap beneath--and dips a toe in the pool to test the temperature. "Lord Prospero," she greets with a warm smile. "Lady Juliet," she adds, perfectly demure, and glances at the others she does not know.

Juliet gets a small, opaque pink glass vial of fragrant oil from an elaborate wicker basket weaved with blossom vines.

Dafne gets a small, opaque red glass vial of fragrant oil from an elaborate wicker basket weaved with blossom vines.

Eos snorts quietly and hold fast. "I wrote two to others just today!" Two! A whole two that were not to Saedrus. He waves a dismissive hand at Juliet's joining the teasing though it's followed with a grin. Eos, at least, does catch sight of the strange and intricate ropework, with a brief glance and a slight rise of his brow, but he didn't linger on it. "She's been persuaded," he chuckles to no one in particular. "Come on in, Princess, the water is fine." He glances then towards Dafne, leaning back on the stone some when he says, "I do not believe we've met, my lady."

Eirene gets a small, opaque yellow glass vial of fragrant oil from an elaborate wicker basket weaved with blossom vines.

Eos gets a small, opaque green glass vial of fragrant oil from an elaborate wicker basket weaved with blossom vines.

Prospero gets a small, opaque opal glass vial of fragrant oil from an elaborate wicker basket weaved with blossom vines.

Saedrus puts a small, opaque green glass vial of fragrant oil in an elaborate wicker basket weaved with blossom vines.

Saedrus puts a small, opaque purple glass vial of fragrant oil in an elaborate wicker basket weaved with blossom vines.

Saedrus puts a small, opaque blue glass vial of fragrant oil in an elaborate wicker basket weaved with blossom vines.

Juliet swims to the edge to divest herself of her glass (after properly draining it) and grab herself a vial. "Lady Dafne. How wonderful to see you again," She offers, in a purr. "That is the Baron Eos Saik. Lord Eos, the lady Dafne Zaffria." There, introductions made. Looking to Sophie, the intricate ropework catching her attention. "Those are beautiful," She offers to the Princess. "Would you tie me up with one of those?"

The Lady Fidante is -happy- to ignore any scolding from her cousin - save for, y'know, the slightly rueful look she gives him.

Eirene grabs one at random before introducing herself. "Lady Eirene Malvici, in command of our field medics and hospital units." She adds quickly, "Not a Mercy." She finds that clears things up quickly. She glances at the ropework in mention and she furrows her brow in baffled confusion. "I'll pass on the game if it makes uneven teams. I don't do 'fun' too well."

Dafne's cheeks turn faintly pink. "A pleasure to meet you," she murmurs, "My lord baron, Lady Eirene." She reaches over to snatch a vial from the basket. "Mine smells of roses," she says exclaims after a sniff. "And chocolate!"

Saedrus chuckles brightly, "once everyone has a vial, I will pair you all up and we can begin. And I do hope you like them, they will be available from the Grotto at any time after today."

Prospero makes his way to the basket when others have had a chance to pull out a vial. He reache sin and takes one at random, rather than being overly selective of which one he gets an dthen turns back to let their host do his thing.

Juliet uncorks her own vial, taking a deep whiff of the scent and fluttering her lashes. "Mm. Cherry blossoms and..." Another whiff. "Something else. Jasmine? No..." Really, it's just an excuse to revel in the perfume at this point. "Mm. Ylang Ylang." Holding the vial out then, so that Dafne may take a whiff. Grinning over at Saedrus, and giving him a quick nod. "I think I'll have to get the full collection, honestly."

Sophie gets a small, opaque pearlescent glass vial of fragrant oil from an elaborate wicker basket weaved with blossom vines.

Eirene holds up a yellow. "Honey and clover. Not bad ," says the woman for whom 'scotch' is a regular perfumed scent. "Are any of these matched or do we need to pick again?" She scowls as she closes her bottle of oil back up. "I'm terrible at this sort of thing," she admits freely.

Saedrus waits until everyone has picked a pretty little vial, a server trots to his side and hands him a parchment. "So, Pink and Pearlescent, Yellow and Green and Red and Opal!"

Eos tipped his vial back and forth, considering the green glass. Curiosity gets the better of him and he pops his open to drift it under his nose. "Apples and cinnamon," he chuckles. "Lovely, I'll smell like pie." He closes the thing back up the next moment and tucks it through the knot of his wrap. "Suppose that's better than horsesweat." When the colors are named, he holds up his hand and looks around, "Yellow?"

Eos points to Eirene then with a grin. "Like old times, but without the blood and gore."

"And we'll smell nicer," Eirene adds.

Saedrus steps up beside the Grotto bath with a grin, "So, now you all just have to pick who is top and who is bottom." And look, he doesn't even giggle once.

Eos slips down from his boulder and wades over to Eirene, leaning in to start whispering at her ear, and size up the competition.

Somewhere in the course of it all, Sophie acquired a pearlescent vial. Before she has a chance to open it and smell the contents, she registers what Juliet asks. Quirking a smile, she inquires, "Intending to convert to Oathlands orthodoxy, milady?" Wait, what? Blood and gore. Blue eyes slice to the medic, who is offered an amiable smile. "I should have known it was you, Lady Eirene."

Dafne leans forward to sniff at Juliet's offered vial. "Mm," she murmurs, with a flutter of lashes. "But I like my scents darker." She straightens up and displays her vial. "I'm red," she offers.

When Saedrus calls out the colors, Prospero looks around, holding up the opal vial. "Ah, Lady Dafne. Did you wish to be on bottom or top?" he asks, managing to do so with such deadpan that one less familiar with him might think it a serious question. He starts wading over towards the Zaffria.

Once Dafne has had her whiff, Juliet corks her bottle. "Well," The Fidante looks to Sophie, with a little grin, as she places her vial in the wrap between her breasts - to fit it securely. "Do you want to be on top, or should I climb onto you? And I just think the ropes look pretty, I'm willing to try new things, including religious ones."

"I think I best be on top, my lord," says Dafne, sounding completely innocent. "Lest you crush me."

Eirene smiles modestly to Sophie. "I do my best to make sure folk are god and

"Did you just imply I am rotund, Lady Dafne?" Prospero asks, holding a hand to his bare chest as if to keep his heart from exploding. Still as he gets closer to his assigned partner he lowers his voice to a murmur. It might be closer to a naked Fidante than the poor woman ever wanted to get.

Saedrus gives everyone time to get into their pairs and pick their places. "When everyone is settled I will call who faces who first." He says, reaching out as a server passes to pick up a glass of sparkling white wine. Because Saed isn't participating, just playing referee -- it takes a long time to dry hair that long after all.

Eirene smiles modestly to Sophie. "I do my best to make sure folk are good and patched up before I give them over to you." She laughs at whatever game plan she and Eos come up with, nodding. "Yeah. That's a non-wager there."

Eirene has left the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Eos steps in front of Eirene, making a glance or two over his shoulder before he takes a breath and sinks down beneath the surface for Eirene to scramble up onto his shoulders. He waits until she's seated there to tug her legs down and tuck her feet behind his back before pushing back up to standing. There's only a little wobbling before he's steadied himself, hands curled over her knees to keep her balanced on his shoulders.

"No, my lord," replies Dafne, with a light laugh. "I implied that I am very small."

"I can go other way, Lady Juliet." Is it really as innocent a statement as it seems to be spoken? "But as you are already wet, it seems fitting I be on top." Amiably, she smiles, setting aside her vial somewhere dry. "And should to ever truly be drawn to the more esoteric worshippings of Our Lady of Change, I will happily initiate you." Which, in all fairness, does not sound like an invitation to kinky sexy times. Princess Sophie is devout, yo. Then to Eirene, another smiles. "I am grateful for your good works."

"She's being polite, Lord Prospero," Eos calls out with a laugh. "You'll have to come join me for training soon."

"I suppose," Prospero says. And with that he dips under the water in front of Dafnet, breath held as he gives her a chance to scramble onto his shoulders.

"Everyone ready?" Saedrus summons over the pool, he takes a sip of his wine and considers the parchment in his other hand. "Lady Eirene, Baron Eos," he nods to the pair, "your first battle is with... Lord Prospero and Lady Dafne! Play nice! And remember no throwing!"

Eos checked strength + leadership against difficulty 15, resulting in 44, 29 higher than the difficulty.

Eirene checked dexterity + brawl against difficulty 15, resulting in 21, 6 higher than the difficulty.

Prospero checked strength + law against difficulty 15, resulting in 23, 8 higher than the difficulty.

"Saedrus does have a gift for leaving me dripping," Juliet agrees with a grin to Sophie. Dipping down deeper in the water, so she may get Sophie on her shoulders, wrapping her arms around the mercy's hips. "I would love to be initiated in such a manner. I'm sure I can find all kinds of uses for that kind of knotwork." Because Juliet is Lycene. And incapable of going more than two minutes without uttering some form of innuendo. She looks to Saedrus, at his call, and gives a nod. wincing slightly. "Rise up, I got my hair caught." She instructs the Mercy, and then is quick to make sure her hair ISN'T going to be stuck against her neck.

Juliet checked strength + manipulation against difficulty 15, resulting in 35, 20 higher than the difficulty.

Dafne checked dexterity + leadership against difficulty 15, resulting in 27, 12 higher than the difficulty.

Eos wades towards Prospero and Dafne, with no apparent trouble for Eirene's weight on his shoulders, compensating for it easily enough. It can't quite be called a real game face for the grin that tugs at his lips, but it's near to it. He waits for the call from Saedrus to begin before lumbering in towards their opponents. He calls up commands to Eirene - Lean left, left dammit, forward, back, go for it now! - While Eirene uses her brawling wiles to duck and dodge hands and lurching forward for the shove when Eos thinks that they have the enem- ah, friendly opponents - off balance.

Dafne rests on Prospero's shoulders. She's not very tall, after all. She leans forward, poised for action like a knight riding a joust, and calls down commands to Prospero as they try to dodge the others--not particularly successful.

Is it an ill-omened beginging when Prospero wobbles on rising with the graceful Dafne on his shoulders? Or merely an attempt to make Eos and Eirene think that he's less capable than he is. Hands curlin about Dafne's legs to keep her secure, he starts towards Eos. "It might be best, Baron Eos, if you do not think much of the case of Baron Drinvar. You probably haven't heard of it; his title and lands were removed when he spilled a Duke's favored cousin into a punch bowl at a gala. I'm _certain_ that knocking this gem of your neighbors into a large pool should not be as bad. Though... he did end up dying in Thrax, I hear..."

Atop Juliet's shoulders, the Fidante will have a much better idea how elaborate that rope work just is. At the very least, it laces Sophie's things and hips, as felt through the fabric of the robe. Whatever she might remark about instruction gets waylaid and she maneuvers to free Juliet's hair with an utmost chaste wriggle-wriggle.

Eos checked strength + leadership against difficulty 15, resulting in 39, 24 higher than the difficulty.

Juliet merely watches, languid, calling for another glass of wine as she rests against the edge of the pool, so Sophie can remain seated and dry while the Fidante floats. "Oof. Cousin Prospero plays -dirty-" She relates to her partner with a snicker. Slowly braiding her hair in-between sips of wine. The better to keep it out.

Prospero checked strength + law against difficulty 15, resulting in 49, 34 higher than the difficulty.

Dafne checked dexterity + leadership against difficulty 15, resulting in 38, 23 higher than the difficulty.

And there Eos was doing -so well-. But Prospero's choice of offense was so blasted baffling that, despite the commands coming quick and steady to Eirene, he starts to laugh. He starts to really laugh, enough to shake through his shoulders and threaten Eirene's balance on his shoulders. "You, sir, are a rake and a scoundrel," he accuses the lawyer in all good fun before he starts to loose his grip on Eirene's shoulders, and wobble back with her weight.

Dafne does not laugh. Dafne is deadly serious. This is SERIOUS BUSINESS. She keeps her game face on, still balanced lightly on Prospero's shoulders, watching Eos for the sighs of weakening. "Left!" she calls down to Prospero. She even nudges his chest with her right heel, for all the world like he was a horse she was encouraging leftward.

For those arriving there are staff awaiting with linen robes to be changed into and direct guest to the changing screens, behind which cubbies are present to put away their belongings. Other staff are carrying silver trays of wine, teas, waters and fruits.

Saedrus looks about, sparkling wine in one hand and a parchment in the other. "Welcome to the Grotto!" he exclaims. Seems there's a game afoot, which entails people on other peoples shoulders in the largest pool trying to bring the other pair into the water. "Please, change as you see fit and you are welcome to join the game. You two can be paired, how lucky you came together."

It is perhaps all too appropriat that Dafne, as the Top, is so skilled at commanding Prospero, her bottom. The Lawyer does hisbest to drone on pedantically over the fine points of laws relating to water fixtures and nobiity in Arx while charging forward through the water. And really, between that distraction and the sudden shift to the left - as ordered - the pair are able to take out the balance from E & E without, themselves, falling into the drink.

Eos and Eirene fall back with quite the splash - likely more from Eos than Eirene, but what had seemed so sure at the onset falls and sends waves washing up over the edge of the pool. Eos comes up with a gasp of breath, laughing still. But alas, Eirene had to go then, and Eos bids her farewell before moving to wade to the pool's edge. "Well fought, my lord, my lady," he offers to the victorious Prospero and Dafne, before looking then to Juliet and Sophie. "You two had better best them! Avenge me!"

Saedrus leans forward with a laugh, tucking the parchment under one arm as he applauds Prospero and Dafne. "Wonderful!" he chortles delightedly, "Baron Eos and Lady Eirene were no match! Well done Lord Prospero and Lady Dafne, but can you keep your title? Princess Sophie, Lady Juliet you two are up!"

Prospero checked strength + law against difficulty 15, resulting in 48, 33 higher than the difficulty.

Prospero checked strength + law against difficulty 15, resulting in 39, 24 higher than the difficulty.

Dafne checked dexterity + leadership against difficulty 15, resulting in 33, 18 higher than the difficulty.

Dafne checked dexterity + leadership against difficulty 15, resulting in 40, 25 higher than the difficulty.

Juliet wags her fingers in the direction of the newcomers, then slowly gets up to ensure that Sophie can keep her balance, looking up at her."Well, here's hoping Laguma is with us," She concludes, looking to Prospero and Dafne, and curving her lips in a wicked grin.

Juliet checked strength + manipulation against difficulty 15, resulting in 46, 31 higher than the difficulty.

Juliet checked strength + manipulation against difficulty 15, resulting in 75, 60 higher than the difficulty.

There is a certain touch of uncertainty on Belladonna's face as she and Costas make their way into the Grotto, though that fades away as she takes the beauty of the place in. "Oh, this is lovely," she murmurs for her companion, offering a pleased smile up his way and giving his arm a squeeze. "This was a brilliant suggestion. I'll meet you in a moment..." She trails off as Saedrus greets them, and she holds a hand up as if in defense. "Oh -- I think that we will only watch, unless Costas wishes...?" The prompt is for the man beside her, and she looks up his way for his answer before she turns to select a robe and disappear behind the screen.

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

Sophie checked dexterity + medicine against difficulty 15, resulting in 26, 11 higher than the difficulty.

Sophie checked dexterity + medicine against difficulty 15, resulting in 31, 16 higher than the difficulty.

Perhaps it's a Valardin thing, but Princess Sophie takes a moment to extend her arms wide, palms turned up to the heavens. And when she speaks, it's with the command and reverent resonance one would expect of a devout priestess.

"Gloria guide us this day,
Steady our sword arms to strengthen them;
Fly above us to keep our heads held high;
Hold beneath us so we keep our feet planted;
Run before us to lead us and behind us to restrain us;
Around us to shield us;
Within us that we strike true and with honor.
In your name we meet our enemy,
In your name we will defeat them,
Yours is the glory
Ours the victory."

And then IT'S ON.

Costas waits until the Lady of Parvus disappears before allowing the color to subtly drain from his face. He has somehow walked in on nobles.. at play? Like a man condemned to the gallows, he heads to the dressing screen, face contorted in deep thought as he considers how to survive this scenario with his hide intact.

Eos pulls himself up to sit on the edge of the pool near where Saedrus is standing playing referee. He's wearing a wrap of green linen knotted around his hip and not a stitch more, but given the environs and the natives, that was par for course. He looks towards the Belladonna and Costas as they arrived, lifting a hand to wave to them, but before anything can be caleld out, Sophie's sermonizing over the pool. Well shit. Eos almost bows his head before he catches himself with a cough. "Did she just invoke Gloria...? You're doomed Lord Prospero, doomed!"

There is no rest for the weary water mounts this evening! No sooner have they vanquished their first foe than Prospero feels the lady astride his shoulders direct him to move in a new direction. It is not th efiner points of aquatic law that Prospero goes after the other pairing with. Rather, for some reason, Prospero starts to elucidate on how a noble famiy - ow, carefuly that's not my ribs - might disinherit - hey lighten up on the toes! - a member of its family.

"Right! Left!" Dafne is still shouting commands at Prospero, occasionally backing them up with nudges of her heel. "INSIDE OUT!" she yells. Yeah, don't ask me how he's supposed to obey that one.

Juliet manages to keep the priestess balanced on her shoulders. And if Prospero can fight dirty, then so can she. "My lady Dafne, did you enjoy the book I lent you? I've been thinking about your stories, wondering if perhaps you'd like to come visit me and read some more. The waters here put me in mind of the potential of drowning. Just the... Sensation. I think it should be interesting to slip away, in the warmth and heat, and just... Slowly lose all sensation, mm?" She still manages to move deftly, focusing her eyes on Prospero. "Tell me cousin, is your desk drawer supposed to come open with the use of a letter-opener?"

For those arriving there are staff awaiting with linen robes to be changed into and direct guest to the changing screens, behind which cubbies are present to put away their belongings. Other staff are carrying silver trays of wine, teas, waters and fruits.

Saedrus looks about, sparkling wine in one hand and a parchment in the other. "Welcome to the Grotto!" he exclaims. Seems there's a game afoot, which entails people on other peoples shoulders in the largest pool trying to bring the other pair into the water. "Please, change as you see fit and you are welcome to join the game. Pick a vial and I can tell you who you are paired with."

And thusly enters, on a breeze of salt, rum and leather, the Count of Darkwater. Pariah glides into the room on silent wings, taking a perch on one of the various seating arrangements. A well oiled tri corner hat is removed as he steps inside, and Maximilian gives his eyes a chance to adjust. "What unholy hell is happening here, and why was I not summoned sooner?"

Inside Out? Prospero forwns. "Who trains your mounts in Gemeecitta?" he calls up to his partner. Right before Gloria and whatever dark gods Juliet prays to comes to their aid. Wobble, wobble. SPLASH. Prospero falls backwards, taking Dafne with him.

Linen-robed atop Juliet's shoulders sits Sophie, her legs wrapped in an artful display of fine ropework that flickers with the reds, oranges, and golds of flame with the reflection of light. And it would seem that the Valardin does not need to play dirty: unless one considers invoking Gloria to grant her victory is a cheap shot.

Dafne turns suddenly, vibrantly bright red. She wibbles. And wobbles. And as Prospero topples, so does she. SPLASH.

Saedrus is distracted from his welcomes with the SPLASH that the poor lawyer and the lady are taken down. "Oh dear, well, the ladies certainly avenged you Baron Eos, well done girls!"

It does not take Belladonna terribly long to get changed from what there was of her dress into a robe. The fireweave silk is left behind, her hair let down, the robe tied snugly into place. Once she's certain she is at least mostly presentable, the little duchess slips back out from behind the curtain. She turns, padding in the direction of the pool where all the stuff and nonsense is happening at least a few paces before she stops, turning to look for Costas. The duchess seems content to wait for him, her smile soft and pleased. Oh, but. Oh -- there's Max. He catches her attention and her eyes go that way, lips curving into a little 'oh' before she laughs and moves in his direction.

"...Inside...ou-what?" Eos laughs from his spectator's spot. "I think the games might be better from this vantage." He looks up towards Max when he asks after the games. "Count Maximilian - I believe there's still time to get in on the games, though you might have to drag Saedrus in as partner. Mind - they fight dirty in that pool." His attention turns back to Saedrus at his announcement, and he finds his abandoned glass of infused water to raise to Sophie and Juliet, "Well done! My pride is mended!"

"You must tell me what it's like, my lady Dafne," Juliet purrs, as the girl resurfaces. "To submerge so fully, for as long as you can." Giving her a little wink, and blowing a kiss with an apologetic glance to Prospero, before she looks up to Sophie. "Gloria on our side, mm?" She grins. "I like it." The arrival of Max gets another little wave. Quirking her brow as Belladonna heads in his direction, and shooting the man a big grin.

It takes a moment before Prospero can untagnle himself from Dafne's legs, the urge to laugh while under water, and get himself righted. But he does eventually break the surface, his near shaggy mop of curls spraying water when he tosses his head back and takes in air. "Well done," he calls to the winning team before looking around to see if his poor partner needs help up. If not, he starts to retreat from the pool to find his discarded robe.

Merrily, Sophie calls out to Eos, a hint of laughter in her voice, "You are among the favored of Gloria, milord. How could she not see you avenged when so earnestly entreated?" Then, from her vantage, she grins down at Juliet, curling over a little bit.

Maximilian gestures with the hatted hand in greeting to Belladonna and steps her way as well. Pariah, for his part, watches the Pravan duchess for a moment and then croaks out: "RIGHT FULL RUDDER! BATTLESTATIONS!"

It seems Max's Stormcrow is warning Max as to what angle from which a beautful woman is approaching. Helpful bird, wot.

Dafne emerges from the pool, spluttering, her thin silk wrap now leaving very little to the imagination, and her dark curls heavy and straightened with water. She spits out water. "Are there fish in here?" she asks. "I swear I felt--" Her cheeks are still read.

Costas emerges from behind the screen, a robe tied tight around his frame. Still, what skin shows tells a tale. Several long, poorly-healed scars cover his forearms and legs, some clearly the work of blades and others the waxy remains of deep rope burns. The edge of an elaborate tattoo peaks from his collar, where usually a scarf conceals. He lingers back from the pool, watching the lords and ladies at play with indolent distance. He note his companion has wandered off to talk with another, and it clearly comes at some comfort- his shoulders relax an inch.

The courtesan is still chortling over the antics in the pool as he sips at his bubbly wine. "well there, unless anyone wishes to take on the reigning champions we could certainly call them the winners. Though I am sure we could play in whatever pairs people wish to make regardless." He bows to the Count of Darkwater, and the very helpful bird which also gains a chuckle from Saedrus. "No, dear," he promises to Dafne, "no real fish in the water, that might have been the hands of another you felt." Then to Costas and Belladonna, Saedrus bows again, "you are all sure you do not wish to join the games?"

Finding his robe, Prospero chuckles. "My appologies if there was extra flailing, Lady Dafne," he tells her before belting the robe in place. "Master Saedrus, a lovely evening. Well done," he repeats before stoppin gone of the servants and requesting his clothes be brought out of the cubby and to one of the changing screens.

"Well. There goes my sympathy for vanquishing you, cousin." Juliet laughs, as Prospero... confesses? The Lady Fidante wades to offer a hand to Dafne, nonetheless, and shoots a grin to Eos. "I'm not sure if we truly deserve to be called winners without vanquishing both teams, but as the Lady Eirene had to leave, I suppose we win against Baron Saik by default."

Saedrus bows graciously before Prospero, "and thank you for coming, my Lord. I hope you enjoyed yourself." Then smiles to Sophie and Juliet, "Ladies I believe you are the winners! Congratulations!"

"Yes, fuck you too, darling," Belladonna greets the bird fairly quietly, chuckling softly to go with it as she turns her eyes back to Max. Steps in to brush a kiss against his cheek, though she does not linger. "Lord Darkwater," she greets him. "It is lovely to see you." Poor Costas is not going to get away so easily, sadly. She's watching for the man, and when she spots him make his appearance she watches him move across the room before Saedras calls out and she looks there. "Oh, I am certain -- but thank you." A smile, and then she is at least pausing to speak to Max. The little blonde Duchess seems just fine, her demeanor pleasant, her smile easy. If there is tension there, it's well enough disguised to be for all practical purposes nonexistent. She _does_, however, snag a glass of wine.

Eos pushes up to his feet to give a bow of his head to Sophie and her words. When he straightens up, he clasps Saedrus by the shoulder. "A fine opening, Master Saedrus, and a fine distraction for the evening from the seriousness of the world. Thank you for hosting a night of amusement." He makes bow to Juliet when his hand comes away. "I will concede to beauty and faith, Lady Juliet, Princess Sophie. Enjoy your winnings!"

Dafne takes Juliet's hand and allows herself to pulled to her feet. She really is exceeding wet. Somehow, being violently thrown into the water makes you wetter than a normal bath. "Congratulations on your win, Lady Juliet," she murmurs. "I think you owe it to being terribly distracting."

Juliet is overheard praising Saedrus for: A masterful host and a grand entertainer. And so pretty!

Juliet is overheard praising Sophie for: Best hymn I have ever heard while between someone's legs.

Maximilian takes the kiss to the cheek in grace, setting his hat to the side. His eyes flicker down the length of her sanguine outfit - then back to her features. He says nothing, but he does take a moment to grab a wine class from the same passing server. Sip. Sip. Sip.

Finally he speaks... "Duchess Pravas.... you are looking -quite- lovely today. Such a vision I had not... truly imagined before now."

Two servers arrive at Saedrus' side, each holding a silk robe in their hands. One is regal blue and the other a vibrant purple. "Your prizes, Champions," Saedrus manages with only a small chuckle. Each server steps to the edge of the pool to offer the blue robe to Juliet and the purple to Sophie, "Of course you can switch if you prefer the other." And turns to Eos, a hand holding over one of the man's at his shoulder. "Thank you Baron Eos, I just hope everyone enjoyed themselves."

Juliet is overheard praising Dafne for: Gracious in defeat.

Juliet is overheard praising Prospero for: Throwing a game for family is the finest of sacrifices.

Prospero has left the Large Natural Stone Pool.

"Indeed, I concur with Lady Juliet," concurs Princess Sophie, "however, far be it from me to deny Baron Eos his wish." With a smile, she respectfully inclines her head to the Saik. "Might part of my prize be assistance off from Lady Juliet's shoulders, milord?" she asks aforementioned Saik.

Costas pads quietly round the pool, counting the faces both familiar and not. Considering it likely not a one is not his social better, he wisely keeps his gaze from falling too long or too heavily. He comes to rest just outside Belladonna's orbit as she converses, at first coming to attention out of habit but then remonstrating himself and quickly shifting to a more casual stance.

Eos had been just about to step away from the pool, but he chuckles for the request and gestures Juliet and Sophie to the edge as well, there to pluck Sophie up from Juliet's shoulders with ease. He swings her up and around from the water, in one arm and sets her down light on her feet on dry land alongside him.

"What -are- our winnings, anyway? I wasn't paying attention to that bit." Juliet asks, and then that is answered, as the robes arrives. She shifts to let Sophie get off, tugging Dafne with her towards the edge of the pool. "Thank you, Lady Dafne. I'm sure you would be just gorgeous in those robes, and that I could... Mm... Easily have slipped if I'd let myself be a little -more- distracting. Or distracted, I should say." Focusing her eyes on the girl, even as - with Sophie helped off, she climbs the steps to accept her prize, water cascading down her body, the multiple wrappings of thin silk bands around her chest and hips managing to preserve some modesty while promising that, if just given enough time, all will be revealed.

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