Reese arrives in the courtyard while adorned in pink and toting along her many weapons. Blonde curls are soft about her slender shoulders and tangled up with fancy rosy ribbons. A hound is close at her legs. Rosalie is at her side and a falcon takes a perch in a nearby tree. The Grayson servants start to set up the chests. There is also red velvet cupcakes, tea and booze being served at long table.

Jessamine, the innocuous shop girl arrives, following Alarie.

Tikva is out here in the courtyard, too! She's sitting on the ground -- she appears to have forgotten to wear shoes -- and she has a toddler sitting atop her lap, making a huge mess out of the cupcake he is apparently trying to smear all over his face rather than trying to eat.

Avaline gets a long sleeved, boatnecked, backless dress from sturdy northern cedar chest.

a sleek white and brown spotted corgi arrives, following Sabella.

Avaline puts a long sleeved, boatnecked, backless dress in a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.


Can't touch this! Why? Because Cassima and Caith Thrax, sisters from other misters and who look nothing alike, have entered arm in arm surrounded by a retinue of six armed guards and a guard captain. Today she wears a slate purple dress embroidered with silver, with dramatically long dagged sleeves that are lined in the same fine silver. It has a conservative boat neckline, and is accentuated with two polished silver coins hanging from her ears; money turned to fashion. Her wild black hair has been pinned up, where it remains wild. Just up. "Why are you eyeing me so mischeviously, sister mine?" she asks, speaking to her sister Caith with a fond, amused smile.


Alarie gets Swirl of Colors Vase from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Alarie gets Seaspray Decorated Screen from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Felicia's one of the latter ones to arrive, the King's Own electing to take her off duty time to at least come by and check things out. She slides from her stallion and takes its reins in her hand as she finds a place relatively out of the way to observe.

Aiden's come down to support Reese but... he's only going toward one area and that's where the books are, staying well out of the way of everyone else, for now.

Alarie gets a long sleeved, boatnecked, backless dress from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Aiden gets When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a chest of books by Reese.

Luca is here, you see, in complete support of his lovely-deadly wife Reese (also Ribbons) even if he is kicked back on a wooden bench and partially a-snoozing. His arms are tucked back behind his head, his clothes are mostly clean, and he is mostly sober. Mostly.

Making her way into the courtyard, Catalana was there to at least say hello. But in her arms was a small little girl with bright eyes and curly hair. Looking around she'd cling to her mother, her head on Catalana's shoulder. Meanwhile that tall blonde would raise a hand as she waved to those already there. "Hello! I hope you don't mind I brought Cerilla..." But then she saw a woman with another child and smiled warmly. "Look Cerilla....another child...."

Aiden plucks up one of the books with a faint sadness coming to his features and starts to read it.

Mia arrived from Heron Hall -- a short walk across Triumph Plaza, and then a single block south to the Grayson's mansions. She offered a swift curtsy to the assembled members of the family, and cocks a brow at Reese. "Another yard sale, Princess? You ought to start charging -- at least a little -- and make a donation of it!" Her lips had curved into a faint smile as she said it.

Shard stalks onto the grounds at a quiet, even pace, looking every bit as friendly as she usually does--which is to say, not at all. She's not actively scowling, but her expression is guarded and her eyes are faintly narrowed, seemingly more intent on studying those present than on the items laid out for giving away. She skirts the edge of the gathering, rather than mingling directly.

Alarie gets a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - L-Z from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Alarie gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 1 from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

"Would you stop trying to make a face mask out of that?" Tikva demands of her offspring, to which the response is a predictable, but very loud, "NO." Tikva sighs as she fetches a handkerchief from some pocket and starts trying to clean up some of the mess while Tiber wriggles and thrashes imperiously.

Alarie gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 2 from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Several chests of stuff are all set-up. Reese sure does have a lot of stuff. She peeks over to Tikva and then gives Tiber a thoughtful look that suggests she isn't all that used to children. "Prince Princess Tikva and Lord Tiber." She says. She then smiles over to the others arriving. "Thank you for coming. I am giving away stuff. I have so much. Mistress Joscelin also donated stuff to the give away. Mistress Alarie made some of the items. Also, I might bore you, trying to get support for Grayson's prep to fight the fleet as well want to do all we can to protect compact. Please feel free to help yourselves."

Mia gets a long sleeved, boatnecked, backless dress from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Dash the Guard Corgi, 2 Iron Guardsmen arrive, following Silas.

Aiden gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Bringers at the Badger from a chest of books by Reese.

Titania comes walking onto the Grayson grounds her eyes looking rhis way and that as her steps are slow looking at everyone and everthing that is here,

Alarie's making her way in, eyes going from table to table, chest to chest, the seamstress peering in here and there.

Aiden gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Silence at a Wedding from a chest of books by Reese.

Caspian has arrived moments after the schedualed time, wandering in with his hands clasped behind his backs. His eyes wander around before eventually spying Tikva and her child, chuckling at the two with a wide grin given their way, though Reese captures his attention afterwards.

Cassima gets a pair of fine gold serpent earrings from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Catalana gets diagonally cut woollen frock coat lined with silvery silk from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Avaline gets a plain sword of excellent make from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Aiden gets The Lay of Princess Ribbons and the Silent War from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Mia gets When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a chest of books by Reese.

Mia gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Bringers at the Badger from a chest of books by Reese.

Mia gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Silence at a Wedding from a chest of books by Reese.

Cassima gets driftwood marin'alfar chest from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Tikva gets When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a chest of books by Reese.

Mia gets The Lay of Princess Ribbons and the Silent War from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Silas gets tall hat in deep red silk wreathed in a white ribbon from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Caith gets When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a chest of books by Reese.

Reese looks over to those getting the books. "I plan to write more books on Lady Aislin and Lord Killian and hopefully on Dame Zhayla too. That is just all I got done so far, but maybe for future give aways." She says. She then has a warm smile for Caspian. "Master Caspian." Reese peeks over to the sleeping Luca and hmms. "Lord Tiber..if you are free, can you wake up Luca?"

Sabella steps out from the mansion, glancing around at the various people who have gathered in the courtyard. She moves to the side standing near her sister Reese. "It looks like a lot of people have turned out, you did a good job."

Aiden gets Romolo y Julietta Reserve cigar from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Artur heard tales of a giveaway! He is not certain that is is very princely to arrive at a giveaway. He is not terribly good at prince-ing at the best of times. Still, here he is! Striding on in, he sort of flashes a general smile and a wave to anyone that catches his eye, though there don't seem to be many about he really recognizes. Heading on over toward the chests that have been laid out, Artur peers into a few of them, eyes lighting up with keen interest every now and then when he happens across something interesting.

Caith gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Bringers at the Badger from a chest of books by Reese.

Cassima gets a plain sword of excellent make from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Caith gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Silence at a Wedding from a chest of books by Reese.

Catalana gets a pair of light pink silk sandles that crisscross up the legs from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Felicia gets King Alaric Grayson IV figurine from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Cassima gets Violet Delight, a powerful Granato wine from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Catalana gets a flowing light pink silk blouse adorned with flower shaped buttons from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Silas makes the short trip from the Whitehawk Manor to the Grayson square, curious to what goodies Reese has to sell this time. He briefly makes a stop next to Aiden, though, to give the young prince a peck on the cheek before he goes rummaging around in the chests.

Reese smiles when Catalana choses the pink shoes. "Pink is the best. I just have too much to wear it all."

Whisper the Snowy Owl, Frostbite the Wolf, Umbra, Mirrormasked Handmaiden, Mirrormasked Manservant arrive, following Arianna.

Whisper the Snowy Owl, Frostbite the Wolf, Umbra, Mirrormasked Handmaiden, Mirrormasked Manservant leave, following Arianna.

Through the clothing Alarie rustle around, coming up with a dress and draping that over her arm, in another chest, a set of books. he little seamsress seeming on the hunt. A gasp and gesture to jessamine to head off to one corner as some diving screen and.... well that's a an interesting vase, is collected.

Felicia gets Queen Symonesse Marin'luna figurine from a wooden chest for various stuff.

"Princess Reese, it's good to sea you agian," Caspian says back to the woman, though his attention difts over to Sabella, giving the woman a smile and a dip of his head her way. "Princess Sabella, good to see you again. Are you helping your sister with this event or just watching?"

Cassima gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Bringers at the Badger from a chest of books by Reese.

Avaline hefts up a sword and tests the weight. "Not the best materials," Avaline says. "But wonderfully crafted. Perhaps a weaponsmith can look at this and do something with the design. Simple and to the point, I like it," she smiles a bit, looking to Echo. "What do you think?" she wonders, handing her sister the blade, hilt first.

Aiden's happy to merely ... scoop the books underneath his arm. Happy though is an exaggeration. The young man steps back from the chaos after receiving a peck to the cheek, standing off to the side with a glance toward someone in particular.

Silas gets an elegant Granato wine called Summer Blush from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Tikva checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 9 lower.

Looking to Reese she would smile as she chuckled a bit. "I adore the color....I simply don't have enough....." Catalana would look to the baby on her hip, bouncing her slightly. "Isn't that right, love?"

Tiber dodges around his mother's grasp, looking up at Reese with a slightly chocolate and crumb-smudged face, and yells, "Do!" before charging at Prince Luca like ... a small, excitable rhinocerous. Except without the horns.

Tikva squawks, lunges after him, and ends up flat on her stomach on the grass, cupcake remnants smooshed under her.

Cassima gets Limerance's Uncommon Prayer Book from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Caspian gets Limerance's Uncommon Prayer Book from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Sabella smiles at Caspian, dipping a curtsy in his direction. "I'm here to observe, Reese is a force that is much like a hurricane, she doesn't need much help." She folds her hands in front of her and glances around. "It sure seems to be turning out well."

Aiden gets 601 Azur Label Obscuro cigar from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Cassima gets a pair of two-color Gemecittan quartz silver earrings from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Caspian puts Limerance's Uncommon Prayer Book in driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Aiden gets Escaping Pirate Otter Painting from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Reese looks over to her sister, giving Sabella a gentle smile. "A big turn out." She agrees, seemingly happy with such. She giggles as Tiber charges at Luca, seeming to find her wake up plan funny.

Aiden can't help but go back and note, "Those Otter paintings are going up in the Menagerie."

Spotting a large gathering of people clustering around a few chests, Echo's airy gait and bounce to her step slowed. She shot a warm smile towards Reese and wandered over to the snow-haired woman, peering down at the presented sword. "If the design could be replicated using a higher quality steel it should do you wonders." She reached out to touch the blade, and if allowed, test its weight in her own hands.

Aiden gets Pirate Otter Booty Painting from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Caspian checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 7 higher.

Cassima gets Palm-sized Blue and White Crystal Star from a wooden chest for various stuff.

"Ohhh, nooo!," Mia said as she saw Tikva go sprawling, while in the midst of piling up a stack of books under her arm. "Tikva, are you alright?" Balancing the load on one hip like she were carrying a sack of dirty clothes, she offers the former-Riven/now-Grayson a slender hand up from the grass.

Seeing that Sabella bows, Caspian can not help but bow back to her, though his his attention goes to Tivka when the woman goes face first into cupcake. He somehow manages not to laugh as he heads over to help her up, "Hey, you okay there?"

Shard finds a spot near the edge of the crowd where she--settles is entirely the wrong word. There's nothing settled about her. But she stands in one spot, at least, even if she's balanced more on her toes than anything, with her shoulders slightly hunched. From there, she glances into the chests, but that seems to be the limit of the attention she's giving the actual giveaway.

A few paintings now tucked in underneath.... and then Aiden moves over toward Reese and whispers his thanks before he whisks away from the crowds.

Felicia throws the reins for her stallion over his broad back and settles her helm on his pommel. A toss of her braid over her shoulder before the knight elects to enter the fray. There's a smile and inclination of her head for Reese and Sabella, but rather than go for the weapons chest, it seems that figurines of the royal couple are what has caught her eye.

"I don't know what you are talking about. I am not eyeing you mischieviously," Caith replies, full of innocent as she 100-percent eyes Cassima mischieviously. She dressed much more plainly than her sister -- while her clothing is high-quality and well-made, they're clearly traveling clothes and nothing meant to catch a fashionable eye. But no matter, no matter. What she lacks in fashion, she makes up for in smiles and enthusiasm: as they arrive, her green eyes light up and go positively twinkly. Maybe it is not totally cool but she points. At that! And that! And thaaat! Look at all the thiiiings! And when she spots books? She squeaks excitedly. /BOOKS/.

1 Grayson Guardsmen, Severa, the Guard Shepherd, Dame Evie, Master Jacob leave, following Aiden.

Cassima gets Fuente Fuente Opus cigar from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Silas acquires a top hat and a bottle of wine. He eyes the poker table next. It's likely clear where his interest lies! He smiles when he sees the books underneath Aiden's arm. "I know I can rely on you to take the more... intellectual pursuits." He looks aside, to Avaline, when she admires her new weapon. "Hm. That's not too shabby at all. Might rust a bit easier than others, though - the steel seems a bit lower in quality." He cants his head. "Are you a warrior, m'lady?"

Cassima gets Cedarwood and Sage Incense from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Wilhelm the Iron Messenger, 3 Iron Guardsmen arrive, following Sparte.

Thump, thump! Lazy Prince Luca has now been woken up from a very small, very excitable miniature human that is doing their best rhinoceros impression. One cinnamon-hued eye opens, then the second. "Whoosat?" Luca rolls onto his side and pushes up into a sitting position, ruffling a hand through his messy hair before he leans in and peers down at Tiber. "Honestly, kiddo. Who set you up?"

Catalana gets a small, opaque pink glass vial of fragrant oil from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Alarie regards the rest of the things, before the seamstress is hoofing it across teh lawn with her, her shop girl and goodies in arm. "Thank you Princess Pink!" She calls over her shoulders, making a run for it with her goodies.

Reese smiles to Aiden. "Oh, I am glad. I got those and never had a place for them and I didn't think Princess Cara would want them hanging around the mansion." She says. "So everyone, I am going to ask for support for the military events ahead, but no pressure on that. I figure it can't hurt. I want to get us into the best possible position to fight the incoming fleets." She says. She smiles over to Alarie. "Oh, you are welcome." She says to her. She peeks over to Luca and Tiber, but tries to look innocent.

Tikva pushes herself up to one knee and reaches to clasp Mia's hand and take her help getting to her feet, even as she says, "Ack." Her bare feet curl in the grass. "Apparently I should not have let him have that cupcake."

Meanwhile, Luca is UNDER ATTACK. From a small, curly-headed human who is apparently trying to -- climb him. When asked to identify his captain, Tiber fails his spy loyalty check and points at Reese, hollering, "Aunt Ree!" at remarkable volume. He has his mother's lungs.

Reese checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 6 lower.

Jessamine, the innocuous shop girl leaves, following Alarie.

Silas gets blue-felted poker table with sturdy legs from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Cassima puts a pair of two-color Gemecittan quartz silver earrings in sturdy northern cedar chest.

Reese looks very not innocent.

Cassima gets an elegant pair of gold and sapphire earrings from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Catalana gets Toy Horse and Cart from a wooden chest for various stuff.

2 King's Own Guardsmen arrives, following Ectorion.

Tikva has joined the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

Caspian has joined the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

"Oh, hello!" Avaline grins over to Silas. "Yes, I was thinking the same thing. Perhaps having somebody use the design itself. Perhaps put something a little extra," she explains. "With far better materials, of course. I'm something of a warrior, but I find myself a far more able tactitian. Organizing the efforts is where the real battle is held, after all," she grins, looking over to her sister, as if expecting an introduction of some kind.

Tikva gets King Alaric Grayson IV figurine from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Ectorion drifts into the grounds from the west, looking curiously about, flanked by a couple of other members of the King's Own. He approaches with a curious expression, seemingly relaxed as he looks around.

2 House Wyrmguard Guards, Springbottom, the ravenous pygmy goat arrive, following Sorrel.

Leaning over, she would pick up that toy horse and cart then. "Look Cerilla....." She'd look to the little girl and then looked over to see the woman had fallen. "Oh no!!" A hand went to her lips as she made her way over then.

Titania moves over to where Tikva is and smiles, "Princess Tikva.." she gives her a curtsey and hen chuckles, "May I join you?" she asks in a soft voice.


"Mmmmm," Cassima says, apparently having lost interest in whatever mischeif Caith was TOTES NOT plotting. No, now she's plucking up a pair of Sapphire earrings, watching them glisten in the evening light. "Caith? Caith, where did you go?" Oh, over by the books. Casima sighs and shakes her head, making her way in that direction to hold one of the earrings up against her sister's face. "I think these will do quite well," she says, apparently having her in mind for them. She tucks them away, and then remains by her sister. She, it seems, is done.


Catalana has joined the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

Caith gets a plain dagger of excellent make from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Luca has joined the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

Luca has left the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

Luca has joined the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

Reese drops a wooden chest for jewelry gifts.

Felicia upnods in the direction of Ectorian and his fellows when she notices other members of the King's Own present, but with her choice already claimed she's content to retreat back to Wrecking Ball's side and observe the going's on.

A giveaway is just too interesting to pass up. So Theron approaches, checking out the chests for anything that might be of his interest. He pauses, considering what's for the taking.

Eirlys gets a small, cloth pouch, filled with some powder and minced dry herbs from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Ectorion gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Bringers at the Badger from a wooden chest for jewelry gifts.

Cassima gets When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a wooden chest for jewelry gifts.

Echo blink at Avaline's gaze. And then she looks over to Silas with another blink. "This is Princess Avaline Velenosa nee Igniseri, and I'd be Princess Echo Redrain. Nee Igniseri." Her lips pull into a wide grin and she lowers her head in a bow with added Lycene flavor, winking at the man as she rises. "I'm the one who swings the swords and she's the one who tells me where to go swinging them."

Cassima gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Silence at a Wedding from a wooden chest for jewelry gifts.

Silas gets Violet Delight, a powerful Granato wine from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Eirlys gets a small pot of tin, filled with some green-ish paste from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Tikva laughs with a little snort in her breath and says, "Of course, why not? Watch out for cake bits," as she wipes some red velvet smear off her front.

This isn't the first, second, or most likely last time Reese would be giving away things to the general public. Sparte shows up as he usually does. Not to get things for himself, but make sure people are being well behaved about it.

"Good job, kiddo." Luca looks over, offering Reese a lopsided smirk, "He sold you out, Ribbons." And back toward Tiber, with an affable ruffle of the kid's curly hair. "You pack a wallop with your charges too. Going to make for a great fighter if that's what you wanna be. Or, not. You get to choose." With a languid stretch, the Winged Fox rises to his feet and gives the gathering a weary, considerate look. "Way too many people here, Ribbons. Way too much stuff." He grins, shrugs. "Balanced out."

Caith gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 1 from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Sabella stands off to the side, watching the people with a slightly amused smile on her face. She keeps an eye out for anyone who might need help, but largely keeps quiet and to herself.

Caith gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 2 from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Cassima gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 1 from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Caith gets Limerance's Uncommon Prayer Book from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Cassima gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 2 from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Eirlys gets a small round tin pot filled with a sticky mixture from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Caith gets Crown of Wildflowers from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Titania gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Bringers at the Badger from a wooden chest for jewelry gifts.

Ectorion gets white silk cambric shirt with a deep-cut lycene vee from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Tikva casts an easy smile at Luca, though not unflavored by the faint scrunch of her nose at its bridge, and apologizes lightly, "Sorry about the sudden siege assault on castle Luca, there."

Eirlys picks up a chest of books by Reese.

Titania gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Silence at a Wedding from a wooden chest for jewelry gifts.

Caith gets A Block of Cheese from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Silas smiles at Avaline, then shifts his gaze to Echo when she opts to make the formal introductions. He offers a small bow. "I'm Baron Silas Whitehawk nee Mercier. It is a pleasure to meet you both." There is a pause, as he seems to remember an important detail. "Also, I'm the Lord Commander of the Iron Guard. Should either of you be interested in acquiring good equipment or protecting the this grand city, I'd be the one to speak with." He inclines his head thoughtfully now. "I take it you'll be swinging your swords at certain corrupted pirates in the near future?"

Echo gets an elegant Granato wine called Summer Blush from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Eirlys gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Bringers at the Badger from a wooden chest for jewelry gifts.

Reese's cheeks warm with a rosy hue as Tiber calls out and she gives the child a playful pout that suggests she isn't really upset or even surprised. She then sighs, a playful sigh. "I know, my own nephew." She says. "Anyways, you needed to wake up." She says if trying to present this pouncing as being for his own good. "Can never have too much stuff or be in the company of too many people." Reese adds to the languid prince. She smiles over to Ectorian as he takes the silk shirt, seemingly happy about that.

Eirlys gets Paladin of Concepts Tales - Silence at a Wedding from a wooden chest for jewelry gifts.

Caspian has left the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

Caspian has joined the a stately wooden arbor with a gently curved arch adorned in climbing roses.

Theron gets a bottle filled with a crimson salve from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Titania gets When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a wooden chest for jewelry gifts.

Eirlys gets When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a wooden chest for jewelry gifts.

Titania has joined the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

Reese has joined the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

Eirlys gets a simple velvet bag from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Felicia gets When Aislin Ashford Vanished - Tales of an Explorer from a wooden chest for jewelry gifts.

Sorrel is a little overwhelmed at the number of people and the amount of stuff there is available. She pauses absently to read a book, humming brightly to herself, tapping her foot in time. She seems to be in a cheerful mood.

Silas puts blue-felted poker table with sturdy legs in driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Cassima gets a pair of two-color Gemecittan quartz silver earrings from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Shard remains standing, because...she's like that. She does eventually cross her arms and settle back onto her heels, although that comes with a brief, sour pull of her expression.

Cassima puts a pair of fine gold serpent earrings in sturdy northern cedar chest.

Felicia gets a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - L-Z from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Reese goes to take take a seat at the bench even as she watches the give away continue.

Felicia gets a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - A-K from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Eirlys gets a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - L-Z from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

"Oh!" Avaline grins, looking to her sister. "You've known so many people since I entered, I just assumed you must have known each other," Avaline says, smirking a little before her attention is fully back on Silas. "Well not this sword, but a sword very much like it, I imagine will enjoy the sensation of swinging at many pirates. However, it seems you are the exact man that I wished to speak to since I came to the city. I was looking to join up with the Iron Guard. Anything to help keep the order, of course. Of course that seems like the kind of business to be spoken about in a far more quiet setting," she says, twirling the blade about a little more.

Ectorion snags a silk shirt from one of the chests, and looks pleased, carefully folding it up. It's not the sort of finery he normally wears, and he smiles a thanks to Reese before moving further away from the chests, starting to people watch a bit.

Eirlys gets a book honoring those of the 1007 Gray Forest Missions - A-K from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Sorrel gets a pair of fine gold serpent earrings from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Tikva gets an adorable boa snake plushie from a wooden chest for various stuff.

While her mother chats amongst people, Tiber has been divested by Luca, and now can wander around among the free things to be given away. He finds a toy. He takes the toy and grips it with extreme certainty. This is his now. No one can have it. "Mine!" he announces to the world. Thank you, Tiber. You have now established that that is yours. Taking the snake, he waves it in the air and very nearly hits someone with it.

Eirlys gets blue-felted poker table with sturdy legs from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Tikva * his mother, ops

Tikva * what are pronouns, idk

Eirlys gets The Language of Flowers: A Rose Cipher of Tor - 1 from driftwood marin'alfar chest.

Where did Caith go? Why, she's over by the books of course. She is very carefully going over the titles, picking up this one and that one and cradling her new acquisitions like they were precious children. Her babies! Her darling babies! Some women might fawn over silks and jewels? She loses her mind over stories and legends. And..

"Look Cassima! CHEESE!"

The Thraxian princess holds up a somewhat moldy block of cheese like it is the Best Thing Ever and trots over to her sibling. "Can you /believe/ that they are just giving this away? For /free/?!" Lunacy!

Titania grins, "Cerilla!" she moves to nose the little girl with her own nose and moves to sit with the small girl holding her carefully good thing Titania is not in a dress.

Shard glances down at the pronouncement and eyes Tiber more or less in the same manner that she eyes everyone else, which is to say, narrowly and with a great deal of scrutiny. She at least eases up on this after a moment or two, though now that he's caught her attention, she doesn't entirely stop watching him for the moment.

Luca flops back, utterly sullen, with his arms crossed over his chest. "I suppose, Ribbons, even if I would rather subject myself to all manner of threat before needing to be social." He removes himself fromthe bench, stretches again -- this time with a loud, wide yawn -- and starts pacing toward the House proper. "I'm going to finish my nap inside." He loudly calls out to the crowd, "GOOD NIGHT."

Ectorion gets Midnight Grove, a woodsy massage oil from a wooden chest for various stuff.


Cassima recoils from holding the gem up to her sister's face, showing a look of disgust that doesn't even manage to look Princessly displeased. No, it's a visceral reaction of "YUCK". "Put that down, Caith, you're going to get sick!" Little sisters are so gross. "Let me know when you're done, I'm going to go have a seat."


Avaline's remark gives Echo a lopsided grin. "I don't know /everyone/ Ava!" She shifts on her hell and extends that grin towards Silas. "I was actually considering joining the Iron Guard but I'm not one hundred percent certain right now. I'll definitely have to consider it!" She glances over at Avaline and nods. "We should probably talk about this in a less busy place sometime."

Caith gets Soap on a Rope from a wooden chest for various stuff.

3 Grimhall House Guards arrives, following Valdemar.

Tiber returns Shard's frank appraisal with his own. He waves the snake imperiously, and then suddenly plops down in the grass in the middle of everyone, assuming -- with childlike certainty -- that the people who are here to find things are going to not step on him, and starts to play an imaginary game of the hero snake versus the monster Tiber dragon, apparently, just by the noises he is making. "Rrr! Ssss! Rggggh!"

Eirlys gets Magpie Grayhope's Favorite Blackberry Wine from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Reese smiles over to Cassima and Caith. "Oh, I am glad someone took the cheese. I got it from Dame Thena. It is a bit old, but mostly good and she was giving it away for free." Reese says, sounding like quite the horder.

Ectorion plucks a bottle of massage oil from one of the chests with an 'ohh' sort of noise, looking positively mischievous as he does. A wicked sort of smile, then he's drifting again towards the edge of the group, watching again.

Eirlys gets a bottle filled with a crimson salve from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Eirlys gets Menagerie Plush Series - Brown Horse from a wooden chest for various stuff.

Theron swoops in by a chest, picking a bottle of salve and quietly stashing it away in a bag after reading the label. There is a smirk on his face, like he knows exactly what kind of prank he will play with it. Walking by Luca and Reese and their respective company, he flashes them a smile. "Nice giveaway you've got going. Looks like it drew a lot of attention." To those he doesn't know, a bow of his head, "Lord Theron Mazetti, Sword of Ostria, at your service."

Felicia is content to lean against her stallion, idly flipping through one of the books she's claimed. Not that Wrecking Ball needs her presence to keep calm in the general chaos, but that the knight's more comfortable keeping an eye on her stallion than hobnobbing in her plate armor.

"Princess Reese," Sorrel says brightly, distracted from whatever book she was standing around reading. "How do you manage to collect so many objects?" She grins, offering a nod to Luca as well.

Eirlys gets Murder of Crows throwing dart from a wooden chest for various stuff.

His smile inevitably widens when he hears that Avaline was looking for him. "I don't typically have an exhaustive interview process or anything - typically you receive training for the first week, and if you pass that you're in... unless you exhibit certain violent tendencies or prejudices which are unsuitable in a guardsman." He nods to Avaline and Echo. "But there's no rush. It is a commitment that requires dedication and time. If there's a will there's typically a way, though." His eyes skim over the label of one of the wine bottles he's picked up from the chests. "I should probably get back to the prince soon..." He nods to Echo and Avaline. "I will be seeing you both soon again, I hope."

Reese smiles over to Theron. "Oh, Lord Theron, nice to see you." She murmurs in his direction. "Have you met my cousin, Princess Tikva and her son Tiber? and Lady Titania and Lady Catalana?" She asks. She then turns to Sorrel. "Well...you should see my room. I got lots and lots more. I have issues."

Shard lifts her chin a little in response. Her mouth twitches exactly once before settling back into a thin line, and eventually her gaze moves off, though arguably she's still keeping the kid in her peripheral vision as she studies the other people present.

"Sorrel!" Tikva waves with cheerful enthusiasm. "Watch out for charging babies!" she adds, although Tiber seems pretty occupied right at this moment pretending to be a terror of the Oathlands, or something. She adds, "Hello!" as more people identify her, cheerfully.

Her big sister made a face? Mission accomplished. Caith grins a smirky smirk, looking wholly pleased with herself and her block of cheese. "Let me grab just ooooone more thing that caught my eye," she says. "I saw the perfect thing to send along to my cousin. He will love it. Ah! There it is!" She grabs a well-used bit of soap on a rope and then follows along after Cassima, swinging the item cheerfully as they go to find a seat.

And hearing Reese's words about the cheese, she gives the Princess a merry wave and then nudges her sibling. "Here that? The cheese is good! I chose well!" Beam, beam, radiant beam!

Cassima checked composure at difficulty 20, rolling 15 lower.

"Oh no!" Sorrel says, laughing brightly at what Tikva says and crouching down to play with the small child, utterly amused. "Come here, you!"

Caspian has left the a stately wooden arbor with a gently curved arch adorned in climbing roses.

Tiber ... thwacks Sorrel with the plush snake, and yells, "RRRRGH!" in his best angry dragon voice. He has never met this adult before in his life but apparently has zero fear.

"Oh of course. I'm free anytime to speak and perform whatever tests you deem necesary," Avaline says, dipping her head. "I'm not the strongest fighter, but I think with time I could be a valuable agent, and hopefully general someday," Avaline laughs, looking back to Echo. "Oh you should! We can do it together. Keep a lookout for each other. Besides, you're a far better fighter than me."


Cassima turns to Reese, still making the face. It takes a moment for her to clear the look of disgust from it, but oh well. That's one way to make an impression, right? "Highness, excuse me, forgive me. I suppose I am not quite the connosouir of cheese my dear sister is." She sends Caith a glare. Then she looks back to Reese and bobs herself in a gesture of respect. "Thank you for the most diverting afternoon, and I do hope I may be of some use to you in return for your generosity."


Eirlys gets Magpie Grayhope's Favorite Blackberry Wine from a wooden chest for various stuff.

2 King's Own Guardsmen leaves, following Ectorion.

Luca has left the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

Reese looks over to Cassima, having a smile for her that touches her blue eyes. "Oh, than you for coming. I don't think we have met? I am glad that you both found items that you like." She says, sounding sincerely pleased. Actually Reese seems to be in a better mood thatn she has

Catalana has left the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

"A pleasure to meet you, Your Highness, little Prince, Lady Titania," Theron's smile brightens, as he inclines his head to each, in turn. "I've had the pleasure to meet Lady Catalana, yes, Your Highness." He pauses, looking to Reese.

Reese looks over to Felicia. "I am glad you could come, Dame Felicia. I always consider it an honor when the King's Own attends my events and I feel a little bit safer too." She says.

Wilhelm the Iron Messenger arrives, delivering a message to Silas before departing.

"We should speak on it soon, Lord Commander. I'd like to take these tests." Echo gives a quick glance towards Avaline. "Hopefully I pass 'em though." The Redrain princess rolls out her shoulders and shoots a grin at Silas. "I'll send a missive within the day."

Sorrel falls over in the most dramatic way possible when Tiber smacks her with the plush snake, sprawling on the ground with her limbs in the air. "I am defeated! Won't some daring knight come to my aid?" she calls out hopefully.

Before Silas can get too far, Avaline is sure to crouch down to give Dash some pets.

With something of a wary expression on his face, Valdemar Grimhall enters the grounds of house Grayson, looking around at the people who have gathered here with more interest than any of the items, at least at first. Dressed in dark wool and leather, he eventually begins to glance at some of the objects that are on offer, upon seeing no one that he recognizes.

Felicia can't help but smirk at least vaguely at the little she catches of Silas' recruitment pitch, closing the book she was looking in and tucking it away so she can turn her attention back to the gathering at large once more curiously. It's the sound of her name that draws her attention to Reese with a dip of her head,"I haven't forgotten your skill at darts, your highness... but seeing as I'm off shift felt it... prudent, to stop by and make sure things are going. Between Sir Valardin, Lord Commander Whitehawk and everyone else, though... I doubt there's need to worry much. Gods willing."

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

Sabella ducks her head as people continue to come and go from the grounds, and she keeps close to Reese while still staying far enough back to avoid the crush of people.

Eirlys puts Violet Pastoral Day Dress in Blue Cloth Delivery Backpack.

Theron glances over at Sabella, offering a bow of his head to the Grayson Princess, along with a very brief, but very bright smile.

Tiber yells, "RAWR!" with enthusiasm, and stands in triumph over his fallen victim. He's grinning like a small idiot, though, white teeth and shining dark eyes flashing plain with delight.

Tikva hauls herself up from the bench, wiping more crumbs from her front and apologetically excusing herself from Lady Titania as she paces across the grass towards her yelling offspring. "Tiber, are you being awful?"

Eirlys gets Cream and light blue handkerchief from sturdy northern cedar chest.

Sparte continues to walk the edges of the gathering, keeping to himself. While he might not be dressed as any sort of Grayson or servant thereof, he is certainly looking the part of a guard on patrol. Maybe that just comes naturally to members of the Iron Guard.

Echo takes a step towards Sorrel, ready to help her fallen companion up. She squints over at Tiber, and when the toddler yells out, Echo slips back away to Avaline's side, "Sorry my Lady! I'm not powerful enough to defeat this one."

"The weeks ahead promises to be hectic, but I'm sure we can arrange something." Indeed, a messenger tracks him down before he can escape, causing him to pause to receive it. Dash happily accepts the affection from Avaline when the opportunity presents itself. He yips and rolls over, even! Silas clicks his tongue as he receives what appears to be a rather heavy pouch. "Silly..." He mutters under his breath. He gives the two ladies, Avaline and Echo, one last bow. "Be well, Lady Avaline and Lady Echo." Felicia and Sparte are given waves once he spots them, though he continues on his trip back to the manor. Other duties call!

Tikva has left the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

1 Grayson Guardsmen, Max, an emperor tamarin, Rosalee, The Champion arrive, following Ailys.

Looking to Felicia, Sorrel calls brightly, "Can't you see I'm being mauled by a toddler?" She laughs at Echo's comment and sits up to face her attacker, her evergreen eyes full of mirth. "Are you being awful?" she inquires of the toddler, making grabby hands at him without actually grabbing him.

Sabella shifts and spots Theron, and her head tilts as she winks in his direction. She turns back to study the chests that are set out on the grounds, watching people find treasures within.

The veritable flood of nobility and pretty ladies was easily able to be spotted from Michael's room at the Bisland Manor, and prompted him to meander down to the Grayson Grounds. He is dressed in relatively plain clothes, and stays relatively out of the way from the press of people, giving a nod to Sparte since they're both in the Iron Guard.

Eirlys has been poking through things obviously looking for books and other items when she finally gets near she heads to Princess Reese and gives the woman a dimpled smile as she says. "It's a pleasure to see you again Princess. You've so many wonderful things, I am gathering books for a friend. If you end up finding any other books you don't need please keep me in mind? Lord Percephon loves to collect books and any new book would be something he would enjoy."

Tiber says, "No!" and menaces at Sorrel's grabbing hand with the snake. His mother arrives at this point and hoists him into the air while he yells, "NO!" even louder, and thrashes around like a spaz. He loses the snake in the confusion and then lets out a long wail of dismay. "GIVE ME!" he yells, making grabby hands for the snake he /just threw on the ground/.

Tikva says, "/Tiber/. I am going to send you off to the nursery."

Tiber goes, "Miiiiiiiiiiiiiiiine." With that many Is. It's super impressive.

This has been a good haul. Caith has books. She has a dagger. She has a partially-used soap on a rope. She has a block of semi-moldy cheese. The Thraxian princess sighs happily. Here she is, just a few weeks arrived in Arx and such treasures she now possesses! Such wonders this city holds! If this is how this adventures begins, what do the days and weeks and months ahead hold for her? Gosh, what a time to be alive!

Sure, there is danger on the horizon. Danger. Uncertainty. But she has /cheese/ and can face anything. Cassima has left with her guards and it is time for her to head home too so she waves to Reese and calls over: "Thank you so much for holding this event!" She doesn't know her; she hasn't been properly introduced yet. But in time...

Reese looks over to Eirlys. "I can help with you that. Later I can try to get you more copies of the books that I ran out of and I can keep you mind when I write future books." She says in her direction. She then smiles over to Caith. "Thank you for coming."

"Toddler mauling is good for training, Lady Wyrmguard!" Felicia insists with an impish grin,"But I promise that I shall step in if it looks like you might be getting gummed to death?" besides, toddlers are scary. Certainly the redheaded guard isn't about to complain when Tikva steps in.

Shard's attention shifts back to Tiber, now that he's being loud again. Nothing in her expression changes though, it's still guarded and neutral.

It would seem messegengers keep finding everybody tonight, Avaline gives Echo a regretful look. "I must deal with some crisis back home as usual. My littlest princess is throwing something of a tantrum," Ava explains to Echo. "I will see you later, but I think I better deal with this alone," she explains, sighing a bit.

Sorrel picks up the snake that Tiber has thrown on the ground and gets to her feet, offering it not to the toddler but to his mother. "You can have it back when your mother says you can have it back," she informs him. "We acknowledge that it is yours."

"Now that I have something to properly prank my brother and cousins with," Theron shows Sabella the bag with the sedative salve inside. "I should take my leave." He grins again at the Grayson Princess before bowing to her and Reese, heading off.

Sparte offers a friendly wave to Silas and Michael when they come out, but doesn't hang about himself. It seems he has someplace else he needs to be, turning to make his exit without ever looking at the chests themselves.

Eirlys gives a bigger smile. "I appreciate that Princess. I very much do and please let me know if there is anything I can do to assist you in any way. It will be a nice surprise for Percy when I give him the books, I will make sure to let him know that you are trying to get copies of books you ran out of. He will appreeciate it very much." She offers her hand out to shake the other woman since she doesn't know the Princess well enough to hug her. "You've got such wonderful things and a warm heart to give what you don't need to others."

Wilhelm the Iron Messenger, 3 Iron Guardsmen leave, following Sparte.

"Imori--" Tikva waves one of her Confessors over, and ends up bundling the child into her arms. "Please take him off to his nurse. I can't have him coming unwound all over all of Reesie's guests."

The confessor sighs the long-suffering sigh of the sufferer, who definitely did not sign up for nanny duty, but turns her hand outward to Sorrel for the plush snake.

Tikva turns her smile on Sorrel and says, "Thanks, sorry about that."

Tikva picks up Tiber Riven, a human child.

Eventually, Valdemar passes near where the event's hostess is speaking with other guests, and there is a glimmer of recognition in his eyes. Approaching her, he bows before greeting her, "Your Highness, it is a pleasure to meet you under...less pressing circumstances. I don't believe we had much chance to speak the last time. My name is Lord Valdemar Grimhall, heir to Grihem's Point." After giving that introduction, he looks around at the others gathered near the princess.

Reese looks over to Eirlys, giving her a smile. "I am happy to help a scholar like Lord Percephon." She murmurs, looking over the books the woman already has as if maybe wanting to know which ones to get. "I think you are missing just two I had here, but I am planning to write more. I want to write more stories about Lord Killian, Lady Aislin and Dame Zhayla."

Echo's eyebrows lift and she watches Eirlys' stashing away a bunch of random things. Books, drinks, plushies - All sorts. The Redrain chevalier scoots up to her and a smile blossoms as she asks, "Would you like any help with lugging that all home? It looks awful difficult to carry all on your own, especially if you've gotta be making your way up some steps."

Princess Ribbons, Reese, seems relatively unput upon for the moment so Michael makes his way over to greet her probably. "Your Highness. Are you putting on a meet and greet to rival the upcoming gala?"

Reese turns her attention to Valdemar, giving him a somber smile. "It is nice to see you not covered in blood, Lord Valdemar." She murmurs. "I am Princess Princess, but you probably knew that. I was very impressed with you and you father both in the battle."

Wrecking Ball, a black stallion leaves, following Felicia.

Sorrel waggles the toy snake first at Felicia, noting, "He has teeth! And so does the toddler!" before bursting into giggles. She's more amused than anything by the small child, and hands the plushie over to the confessor.

"Thank you, he is a wonderful scholar and friend. We should perhaps get tea or whatever kind of drink really that you'd like. I would like a chance to get to know you better. I have only really gotten to see you in tournaments and such and you are fantastic fighter, I would love to learn from you." Eirlys offers sincerely, her ice blue eyes lighting up with enthusiasm. Eirlys of course quiets when Reese's attention is needed elsewhere. She looks around and waves to people here and there even if she doesn't know them.

Reese turns her attention to Michael. "Oh, no nearly, not nearly so grand as that. It is good to see you Lord Michael."

As Imori floats off with the kiddo in her arms and her snake burden, Tikva puffs out her cheeks and blows out her breath. "Whoof," she says. "Reesie had quite a showing here today! Did you get anything neat?"

Titania looks over and smiles, "Lord Valdemar." calls over to the man when she spots him then she looks to hercousin.

"Its nice that the Grayson grounds are so close to the Bisland Manor, so I can meander down here to pop in when you have more fun than we do." Michael glances across the people moving about before looking back to Reese. "Have there been any overwhelming offers of support?"

"She did!" Sorrel agrees to Tikva with a little laugh. "I found some kinda cool earrings, actually. I have no idea what I'll do with them, but maybe Prince Galen will like them. He was supposed to come, but hasn't made it over here quite yet. Said he needed to talk to his cousin."

Belatedly Eirlys realizes that Echo said something. The rush of people and the need to thank Reese has her head scrambled a bit. She turns to the woman and says. "Oh Thank you! I would appreciate it greatly. I actually came to get books and some items for some friends." She explains. "Lady Eirlys Greenmarch." She offers holding her hand out to Echo. "You can call me Eirlys."

Into the cluster of folks comes Silvio. The Lycene has a dubious set of motives for being here, OTHER than the fact that Reese is hosting, and she, of course, is marvelous. He notices that she's speaking with someone, straight away, and so he mingles and meanders through the crowd with his long, dark hair bobbing, and a refined manner about him.

"Yes, the blood washed off, and I'm feeling much better tonight, thanks to Lady Titania. You were impressive yourself. It was an honor to fight at your side, in spite of the circumstances," Valdemar responds to the princess, something of a smile on his face for a moment, before he goes on to add, "I didn't get a chance to say it then, but my condolences on your loss." He then looks around briefly. "This is quite a turnout, your Highness," he says, before hearing his name being called. Inclining his head in Titania's direction, he responds to her, "Lady K...Fireviper, congratulations."

Eirlys drops a chest of books by Reese.

"Ainsley gets super excited to buy me jewelry even though he thinks I'm going to yell at him about it," Tikva shares with Sorrel. She doesn't explain why Ainsley might think that. He's probably just weird. Totally strange. Definitely making things up. Not reacting to past experience at all. "I just sneaked an Alaric figurine. We don't have one. He has two mes, I thought about sneaking one of them out of the chambers to get rid of it but then I figured, no, he'd probably notice a missing me, and he once dueled Reese to get one, soooo...."

Shard finally meanders forward toward the chests, and nudges one with one foot before peering into them. There's nothing about her expression or posture to indicate any real interest in the contents, but she's at least looking at this point.

Reese looks over to Michael. "I think we will get good support." She says in his direction. "I am glad you could make it, Lord Michael." She adds toward him. "If you would be willing to support the Grayson military effort, that would be great. Any little bit helps." She then smiles over to Eirlys. "Oh, I am glad to have helped." She waves to Silvio a moment later. She then turns to Valdemar. "Thank you for saying that. Losing Lord Killian has been loss beyond words, but I know he would want us to fight on and continue on and that is the plan. Things such as this give away are all part of the plan, part of getting ready to act."

Lowering her head in a gentle bow with added Lycene flair, Echo shot Eirlys a warm smile. "Princess Echo Redrain, and likewise. Echo is fine. It's a pleasure!" The offered hand was accepted with a gentle squeeze as the chevalier shifted closer. "So, Greenmarch, huh?" She canted her head to the side and wrinkled her nose, "Somewhere in the Valardin ward, right? You'll need to help me out - I get lost all the time in the city."

"Is this because you've trained him that you're going to yell at him for spending 'too much money'?" Sorrel wonders curiously of Tikva, then giggles about the number of Tikva figurines. "Because that'll do that to a man, you know. Make him wary of doing something he enjoys, like buying you pretty things." She glances around momentarily. "This place was a madhouse earlier, but it's calmed down a bit now, which makes holding a conversation possible. Lots of people in and out."

Eirlys gives Echo a bright dimpled smile. "Aye we're in the Valardin ward near Telmar. I also get lost all the time in the city, I am much more used to the Greenwood. You'd think living here a few years would have helped but it hasn't so far." She chuckles. One might notice that she actually arrived on what looks like a large Elk. In fact it is an incredibly large Elk with antlers and everything. She gives a gentle squeeze back to Echo's hand before asking. "Are you sure you wish to follow me all the way back to the Valardin ward? I do have my War Elk here. I can put things in her saddlebags."

Valdemar returns his attention to Reese when she begins to speak of her fallen friend. "I did not know Lord Killian myself, other than by his reputation, which suggests that many loved him. But yes, we will absolutely be fighting on. I didn't know that this event was part of that effort, though," he says, a curious expression on his face. The Grimhall heir then inclines his head to Michael in polite, silent greeting.

"Look, all I said was that he wasn't allowed to spend the wealth of an entire county on wedding rings, and suddenly I'm like the monster under the bed." Tikva throws her hands in the air with great drama, and then smiles. "I was going to provide musical accompaniment but there's already such a thronging party here I don't know that we need to."

"I miss Lord Killian fiercely." Michael responds to Reese's statement, his fingertips slipping to maneuver around the pommel of his sword before Valdemar gets his attention and he bows his head towards the man as well. "Lord Michael Bisland, sir. Sword of Pridehall."

Sorrel laughs at this, shaking her head at Tikva. "I suspect no one would object if we sang, if you want to sing," she says brightly. "I should show you my songs to the gods at some points -- if you haven't seen my white journals, that is."

Reese sucks in a soft breath as she listens to Valdemar's words. "You would have liked him. I am just meeting you though, but Killian was the kind to never back down from a fight and I think that is something you would appreciate. I guess I met you before, but we were too busy fighting to talk." She says, sorrow and hope both infusing her tone. "I might be fighting near you soon again. Plans are not formalized, but I will likely join the fleet." She then turns to Sorrel. "I wouldn't object to a song right now." She chims in with.

Sabella places a gentle hand on Reese's shoulder and lens in to speak to her quietly. She casts a look back at the gathered folks before she moves towards the mansion doors.

The big elk gets an owlish look from Echo. There was a small smile playing on her lips as she returned her attention back to Eirlys. "Oh, that's probably why I saw you escaping from the Gauntlet that one day." Her shoulders lift to her ears in a shrug and her smile widens. "I don't wish to intrude, just thought it might be fun to visit. Tell you what, I'll help drop this stuff off at the Greenmarch place and if you're enjoying my company you can show me all the cool things you found."

a sleek white and brown spotted corgi leaves, following Sabella.

"I haven't been to the Archive in a few days," Tikva admits. "Really gotta get back there. Last time I think everyone was fussing about the Nox'Alfar and I was like eeurgh, drama, and ran away." She makes a little flaily hand-gesture up by her head, and then shrugs and reaches to pull her balalaika from the instrument case slung at her back. "I could sing Reese's song, I saw books of it getting picked up!"

"You saw me escape from the Gauntlet?" Eirlys asks Echo. "I don't mind you coming to visit at all. Please come with me and I can show you the Greenmarch lodge. We've got a Forest Solar and it is quite beautiful and very tranquil there." She waves the woman over, putting some items in her War Elk's saddle bag. "You can ride with me if you'd like?"

Tikva gets Amanita, a secunda balalaika from instrument case slung across the back on linen straps.

white-tailed eagle arrives, following Thesarin.

"A pleasure, Lord Bisland. I am Lord Valdemar Grimhall, Heir to and Sword of Grihem's Point," Valdemar introduces himself to Michael in turn, a slight smile on his face. He then nods in agreement at what Reese has to say, "Yes, it is an admirable quality. The stories I have heard of him say much the same. I regret not meeting him before that night. And we /were/ a bit busy to talk the last time we met for speaking, between fighting and grieving and me trying not join your friend. Those...dogs...bite hard."

Eirlys turns. "Princess Reese, thank you again for doing this! It was very kind of you."

Eirlys is overheard praising Reese for: For sharing a great many things with others be it knowledge or keepsakes.

Reese is just prideful enough to smile happily when Tikva speaks of singing a song about herself. She is a Grayson though! She then turns to Valdemar. "Have you recovered fully from the dog bites?" She asks. "You might have new scars? But you don't seem the type to mind." She says, before looking over to Eirlys. She has a gentle smile for her. "You are welcome.

Echo leaves, following Eirlys.

"Oh, now I'm going to have to find the book with Reese's song in it so that I can sing it too!" Sorrel says, starting to survey the chests once more. "Do you see it anywhere, Tikva?"

Echo arrives, following Eirlys.

Echo leaves, following Eirlys.

"Uhhh." Tikva tromps over to the chest to start rooting around. "Hm. Well, I have another one in my room if you want to wait a sec."

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

Confessor Imori, 2 Grayson Guardsmen, 5 Armed Confessors, Confessor Warren arrive, following Tikva.

Shard flips through one of the books still remaining, but in the end she turns away from the largely emptied chests without taking anything. Her attention returns to those still gathered, shifting slowly between them for a few moments longer.

Silvio hears the name Killian a few times, looks left, and right, then turns around to make his way back out of the place.

Sorrel reads the song curiously, then nods to Tikva. "I am ready whenever you are to sing the Lay of Princess Ribbons!" she declares brightly. "This is quite the song, I must say. Which brilliant bard wrote this?"

a sleek white and brown spotted corgi arrives, following Sabella.

a sleek white and brown spotted corgi leaves, following Sabella.

a sleek white and brown spotted corgi, Elizabetta, a lissome lady-in-waiting arrive, following Sabella.

a sleek white and brown spotted corgi, Elizabetta, a lissome lady-in-waiting leave, following Sabella.

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

Valdemar nods his head. "Yes, I have...and yes, I have something to remember those twisted mutts by. I /don't/ mind, but the story behind it would have been better if we'd managed to kill them face to face," the Grimhall heir remarks, though it is far from a forceful complaint. After a moment, he goes on to add in a more solemn tone, "In the end, we served them justice, which was the important part."

Tikva cackles a little. "I'm afraid it was me," she says. "You ready?" She starts picking out the opening chords on her balalaika, a quick, sprightly, martial-adjacent tune that would clearly be at home in a tavern -- or on the logs of a campsite right before a march, which is where she first made it up.

Tikva checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Thesarin makes his way slowly down from the Plaza, arms at his sides, shoulders square. He looks over those assembled, gives a few nods to thise he knows.

Sorrel counts out the beats cheerfully, rocking back and forth to the music that Tikva provides from the balalaika, then begins to sing. "Princess Ribbons rode to war..." she sings, and the rest continues. It is a marvelously silly song and she clearly enjoys performing it.

Sorrel checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 31 higher.

"Served them justice. Stopped them from being able to kill again. We did good work." She says in his direction, sounding somber. Still a smile is given to Tikva and Sorrel. She then turns to Valedmar once again. "Would you mind supporting the Graysons as we prep for war? Our families are not traditional allies, but me and Duke Harald are working toward being new allies. I would be happy to support a project that is being worked for House Grimhall if you wish? We still await orders from the King, but is our plan to join this fight." She says, before giving Thesarin a smile of greeting. "Count Riven." She says. She gets distracted as the song starts and her blue eyes brighten.

Shard gives Thesarin a single, unsmiling nod in return.

Titania ohs as Sorrel and Tikva start to sing, she puts her hands her lap listening now a small smile on her face.

other white-tailed eagle have been dismissed.

1 Greenwood Tribe Blood Warriors have been dismissed.

3 House Riven Soldiers have been dismissed.

Thesarin gives a low grunt to Shard, and a "Princess Grayson" to Reese. Tikva and Sorrell get a pair of crossed arms and a slow shake of his head. And he isn't grinning at all. Not a bit. "My wife make out well?"

Inquisitor Jonathen, 6 Veteran Confessors, a fire salamander arrive, following Laric.

Inquisitor Jonathen, 6 Veteran Confessors, a fire salamander leave, following Laric.

Nodding his head in greeting to Thesarin when Reese speaks to the unknown man, Valdemar then grows quiet to listen to the performance being put on by Tikva and Sorrel. Listening raptly, he politely waits for them to finish before turning his attention back to the princess, "I would be happy to help, your Highness. Whether or not our houses are traditional allies, we face the same enemy now, and I will be happy to have your sword on my side in this fight, even if the king's orders do not put us in the same place when the battle comes."

Shard offers a slight shrug. "I didn't see what she took, if she took anything."

Thesarin gets a plain spear of excellent make from a wooden chest with a dark cherry finish.

Reese peeks over to Tikva and Sorrel, having another smile for them. She then turns back to Valedmar. "Thank you." She says in his direction. "My prayers will be with House Grimhall. I believe you will see much of the heavy fighting." She says.

Tikva dances in place while she plays and sings the very silly song indeed, high energy and bright cheer. When the last notes die away, she bows to all points of the compass, and then straightens up again with a high sweep of her eyebrows and yells, "WHOO!" just for good measure. Tiber really does take after his mother in many ways.

After dramatically bowing and making much of the finish of the song, Sorrel hands the Lay back to Tikva with many giggles. "That was excellent!" she declares proudly, beaming at her friend. "We should do that sort of thing more often. Although I guess we're going to."

Reese loves being sung about, so she smiles over to Sorrel and Tikva yet again. "Thank you, that was very nice."