She's only a little rushed; her staff has already opened the house up, guiding arrivals out to the garden, and the food and drink is all at the ready. Nothing waited for her to appear, so when she sweeps in only a few moments before everything is due to begin, Belladonna's concern is probably without justification. The little Duchess is trailed at a distance by some of the house guard, and she's looking around as she makes her way in, pauses to snag a glass of wine from one of the tables.

Parties are not Valkieri's forte, but he's here today in wool and silks tailored close to his frame. He steps out into the garden without his usual house partner today, his gaze noting the heavy guard presence with a flit of his gaze, and soon a servant has approached to offer a drink. He watches them taste it before taking the glass of wine.

It does not take her long to spot Valkieri; Belladonna watches him from a distance for a moment, then starts in his direction. "Lord Rubino," she greets as she approaches conversational range. "It is good to see you; thank you for coming." Her tone is warm, as is her smile. The servants are circling, though not so heavily yet; the crowd is as of yet sparce, so they're not drawing attention to that.

Ferrando trucks in amiably enough, pausing a moment to have a quick glance around at the lay of the land while his nose looks to orient towards the nearest source of Setarcean cuisine.

Juliana steps into the garden and pauses a moment to take in the decor. She gives a welcoming smile to those she sees before grabbing herself a drink.

There is a great deal of fish, with a great variety of sauces. Most of it is, at least, not very smelly.

"Duchess Belladonna," Valkieri greets in reply, turning towards Belladonna as she approaches. "Thank you for the invitation, of course. Your gardens are quite impressive."

"They are my favorite thing about my home here," Belladonna admits, turning away from Valkieri just a bit so she can better face the garden, looking around with interest. "It is so very much the perfect blend of Setarco and Arx. I admit that I will spend more time out here when it is warmer, though." He's offered over a playful smile, and when she sees Juliana heading for a drink she lifts her glass that way in greeting.

"The winters here are abominable, aren't they?" Valkieri complains, like so many hot-blooded Lycenes used to milder climes before him. "It's enough to make you hop a ship back home."

Ferrando situates himself amongst the fish dishes in short order and goes about identifying his favorites, engaging in some sotto voce murmurings with one of the servants in an attempt to get the skinny on which dish has been the least bowdlerized for sensitive Compact-at-large palates.

Damon makes his way out into the garden with a sort of lazy stroll, slowing only to pluck a glass of something alcoholic from a tray as a servant passes before carrying on. Sipping and looking around at the others.

Sylvie steps into the garden party late, not exactly dressed for spring with the gown of black velvet that drapes heavily against curves, dipping to the base of her spine to bare the expanse of sunkissed skin there. Her gaze sweeps the garden, of course, lingering for a moment on Valkieri and Belladonna with a tip of her chin in greeting to the latter. But as she claims a glass of white wine from a passing servant, she moves towards the food and finds herself near Ferrando. "My lord," she greets, her gaze sweeping him and then the table itself. "Anything good?"

"I did," Belladonna reminds Valkieri with a twinkling smile and a chuckle, tipping her glass his way. "I just came back a few weeks too early." There's a melodramatic sigh. The Duchess reaches out to attempt to brush his upper arm with a light touch before she turns. "Please, enjoy yourself tonight. I'm sure we will speak more later this evening." She sends a warm smile in Damon's direction, a dip of her head in greeting -- but she's meandering along after Sylvie, for the moment.

Juliana lifts her glass in return to Belladonna. She takes a sip from her drink and watches some of the new arrivals.

Ferrando takes a second to recognize that Slyvie is addressing him before doing a quick shouldercheck to the space opposite her to determine there isn't a lord behind him. "That is a fine question and one I am looking into thoroughly," he replies to her musingly. He gives up trying to narrow his choices down when he hits two and tries the first one, nodding quite emphatically. "I believe that if you are any sort of devotee of authentic Setarcean, you must try this." He also seems to believe that if you are as large as he is you need to eat quite a bit, as he motions the servant to pile a second helping onto his plate with a quite satisfied expression.

There is certainly no judgment on the staff's part; more food is provided when more food is requested. It's nice to feed someone that appreciates it, after all.

Damon continues wandering about, offering a smile to Belladonna as she passes, but he's off for more booze and foods.

Leo's arrival is a quiet affair, the Torean duke dressed in dark grey silks trimmed in red and gold threads, a doublet lending some formality to his more commonly utilitarian dress. He slips through the servants and guards toward a side table to take his bearing, summoning a servant with a small lift of his hand. The quiet conversation that ensues sees the servant disappearing back into the manner as the Fidante looks out on the gathering.

Carissa, a Malvici bodyguard have been dismissed.

"As I have asked, I certainly will make use of your knowledge," murmurs Sylvie in answer, a smile touching her lips as she lifts her gaze to sweep in a study of Ferrando. Of course, she only takes a small bit of the same, a mouthful really, before she catches sight of Belladonna making her way over. She smiles warmly, swallowing back the fish and greeting brightly, "My lovely duchess, thank you for having me in your home. Your gardens are beautiful, I must say." She gives back her plate to the servant, moving to greet the woman with brushed kisses against both cheeks. "I was just getting to know the master--?" She looks to Ferrando, before introducing, "This is the Duchess Belladonna Pravus. And I am Lady Sylvie Zaffria."

Mirari slips in without fanfare at some point. Drifting in, in her maroon off the shoulder dress. Her emerald eyes flickering over those who have arrived already. As she moves through the gardens she keeps an eye out for where Belladonna is and what the Duchess is doing.

Eirene's dressed up for the party; by dressed up it means she's clean, smells of orange blossom oil, and has her black and white braids of hair kept up the neck of her high guarded collar with mahogany hairpins. Otherwise the black leather coat with its' high collar and swordbelt is the same as ever. She sends her attendant out when she enters the gardens to let the woman mingle with other servants elsewhere. The Malvici looks tired, just shy of haggard.

Kima arrives, the blonde dressed casually, and decidedly understated. Dare we say, even poorly. Yet the Lioness has never let a lack of coin prevent her from stepping boldly. Proudly.

Sultr...ily?

She is totally arriving with Eirene, whether Eirene realizes this or not.

Eirene was with Kima the whole time.

Leo has joined the admiring the view.

Damon finds himself a bench that overlooks most of the gathering, putting himself on it and draping his leg over his other. Once there, he seems quite content with staying there for the time being.

Runa has joined the admiring the view.

When she catches sight of Mirari, Belladonna makes eye contact, then gives a slight nod of her head in Valkieri's direction. There's a quick flutter of a smile, and then she's turning her attention to Sylvie and the person being prompted and introduced all at once. The kisses to her cheeks are returned, her delight at seeing the other woman clear. Even so, it is to Ferrando that she speaks first. "Hello," she greets him, her smile warm with pleasure and amusement. "Thank you for coming." Then she's looking back to Sylvie, reaching to squeeze the other woman's upper arm. "I'm glad you're here. Enjoy yourself. Please." She spots Leo and is briefly distracted, smiling his way before she refocuses on those in immediate range.

Juliana watches Damon for a moment before moving toward his bench. "Hello!" She looks down at the bench but remains standing. "How are you enjoying the event?"

Sapphire blue eyes change targets when Damon realizes he's being spoken to. He rises with a smile, "So far so good." He says, extending his hand, "Lord Damon Wyrmguard, I don't believe we've met."

Valkieri watches Belladonna slip off to seek out his co-Voice for a moment before his gaze slides back away. Shockingly, he doesn't immediately find a new partner to chat with, but has a moment of letting his attention wander through the crowd to note those he knows and those he doesn't.

Ferrando straightens up politely with a respectful nod. It is entirely possible that he was a little too zeroed in on the food to be completely aware of present company, although he seems to be catching up like a champ. "I am quite honored to make your acquaintance, my Ladies. I am Ferrando Artiglio of Lenosia and it is my pleasure to serve the Whisper House as a remedial etiquette instructor," he declares cheerfully. There's something about the subtle way his arms flex while he says it that hints the pedagogy involved is something like punching misbehaving sorts in the face until they stop.

The servant returns to Leo quickly enough, a small tea service placed before the duke as he gives the young man a short nod of thanks, waving the staff as he moves to pour his own drink. It's a quick affair that leaves him with a cup of tea in his hands when he catches Belladonna's smile, lifting his cup in her direction, a greeting of his own.

Smoothly Mirari changes her course. As she drifts by a table with picks up a glass, and then as she passes by another she picks up a second glass. They are carried with her in the direction of Valkieri. When she arrives within polite conversation range, a warm smile is given to Valkieri and she says, "I seem to have somehow acquired two drinks." One is held out toward Valkieri, "Perhaps you'd relieve me of the burden of one too many drinks, my lord?"

Runa enters, looking fine and gussied up. Hair pulled up and away from her face, which is all the better to show off her pale neck. After a small tour of the fabulous place and noting some cosmetic accentuation has become smudged, she's rejoining Leo after doing a touch-up. A servant trails her with her small purse, and hands it to her, half-closed and with a napkin bearing a read 'mwah' permanently decorating it. "Oh, thank you." She's just in time to see the tea service for the Duke arrive.

Calista arrives fashionably late to the garden party but it has been well worth it. The Voice of House Fidante is resplendent in silks of delicate gold dust that cling to every curve of her body. Only a delicate overlay of diaphanous cerulean provides a touch of modesty as it flows and flutters with her steps. Long dark hair is swept up in a loose styling that allows for errant tendrils to escape and kiss down the side and nape of her neck. She remains standing near the entrance for a moment. Dark, shadowed emerald eyes scan and survey the room for the hostess with the mostess before engaging anyone else with her presence.

Juliana takes Damon's hand in greeting. "Lady Juliana Pravus. It's a pleasure to meet you." She shows a friendly smile. "This is certainly a good place to meet someone new. Do you know Duchess Belladonna well?"

Valkieri looks at Mirari. Then he looks down at the half-full glass of wine he already has in hand. "That seems a bit unfair," he says. "I mean, then /I'd/ have the burden." He is very charming. This is a totally true statement.

Kima leans in to murmur something to Eirene before guiding the medic to the place where they could each snag a refreshment. There's a faint snicker before she dips her pinky into the liquid, then examines the nail for several seconds.

Damon offers another smile as he lifts the woman's hand towards his face but stops it just short of his lips and her fingers actually touching, "The pleasure is mine." Then he looks off to Belladonna, "No, the Duchess and I have never actually been acquainted."

Sylvie's gaze sweeps briefly after Belladonna's, touching on the subject of her gaze, even as she murmurs in answer, "How could I not, my lady? Your party is lovely." But her own drags back towards Ferrando with a smile as well. "Master Artiglio. Any relation to the Sword of Lenosia, I suppose?" she questions with light interest, smiling towards the man. "And I do not suppose that makes you a Whisper yourself, sir? I can only-- imagine the interest you must get." Her smokey eyes drag over Ferrando, a light humor dancing there and shared as she glances to Belladonna. "I am sure the Duchess herself would love to contract you to talk."

Eirene leans in to the Sword of Southport and mutters a sarcastic retort, nostrils flaring in amusement. The Malvici woman gives Kima a shrug and says in more normal tones, "Eh. Let's just hit the bar then anyhow." She waits to see if Kima's test clears before she takes a drink herself. "Do you know the Pravus's... Pravii well?" Her warm blue eyes flit and flicker around the gardens, taking in faces and figures. Mostly noting who is or isn't armed but that's habitual.

Mirari gives a faint sigh, full of disappointment at Valkieri's words. Her emerald gaze turns to scan the crowd, perhaps looking for someone who does not already have a drink. To the man she says, "You're right, of course. I'll have to find someone else with which to share my bounty of drinks."

Most would take this cue to unburden the lady of her wine. Valkieri looks at Mirari a touch blankly and says, "Well, if you must, I suppose. I won't get in your way."

Leo turns to Runa as she returns, a smile for his vassal as she joins him, "Lady Runa." He turns a cup over for her and pours the younger woman's tea, before returning to his own and taking a drink. When Calista arrives, he lifts a hand, motioning for his sister to join him.

"Oh," Belladonna says, tone playfully thoughtful for the word as she gives Ferrando a once-over. "I imagine you are quite effective at your duties; I am well impressed." Her smile is sunny again, and she's dipping her head to he and Sylvie, before the other woman's words register. She considers a moment, looks at him again, and then nods easily. "I do believe you are right," she agrees. "But for now, I must continue greeting everyone. We'll speak later." She reaches to touch Sylvie's arm again before she moves away again. She does lift her glass to Calista when she spots her, though she doesn't detour from heading for Leo.

"Hm?" Kima intones, shaking her hand free of a few spare droplets before taking a drink. "Oh, no. Hardly. I've met with Viviana a few times, and watched her fight." She gives a non-commital shrug. "But my interaction has never gone much beyond that. It is, honestly, why I came here today." For that golden opportunity to meet and mix with those she normally did not interact with, for one reason or another.

Such is life for the socialite.

Juliana looks in Belladonna's direction before speaking to Damon. "Her event seems to be quite popular." She sits down on the bench. "So Lord Damon, what is it that you like to do when you're not attending parties?"

Mirari detoured by the lack of hint-catching by Valkieri. A tilt of her head is given and she says with a warm smile, "Well it isn't that I *must*, my lord. But surely I look silly standing here with two glasses of wine." She lifts one as if to point out the fact that she has two. "Is there no way for you to help me with this predicament?" Her gaze slides down to his half full glass, and then to his face once more.

Shifting off to the side a bit, Damon takes a breath as he considers the rather BROAD question, "I enjoy a great many things." He takes a slight sidestep, extends his left hand out and gracefully, and almost fluidly scoops up the spare drink Mirari is waving about in Valkieri's face. It's probably out of her hand and in Damon's before she realizes what happens. Problem solved. "Where would you like to start?"

"Then I suppose you shouldn't have picked up two," Valkieri reasons, but eventually even he must see what his designated role is. He sighs a long-suffering sort of sigh and is lifting his glass of wine to perhaps finish it off when Damon swoops in to snatch the extra drink in question. For all his earlier refusals of it, he does frown distinctly at the other man for stealing it.

"I will have to wait to say hello to Duchess Belladonna then. A good hostess is always busy. The garden looks amazing." Calista greets Leo and Runa with a smile and joins them. "Lady Runa, ever so illusive! It's lovely to finally meet you." Calista grabs a glass of wine from a passing waiter.

Eirene gives a single shoulder shrug as she drinks, pausing to peer in her cup before taking a second gulp. "I should just walk up to people and say 'Hello, I'm Eirene.' Otherwise I'm gonna stand around and just eat the buffett bare. At the very least, I should say hello to the Duchess. Isn't that the socially required minimum right?"

Sylvie nods to the duchess, warmly wishing her, "Good luck, my lady," before her gaze sweeps over the party again as if reminded of others here. It catches on Valkieri and Mirari for a moment, her lips briefly twisting into a frown as the smile disappears. She murmurs in apology, "If you will excuse me, it seems I have a situation to take care of." She drags her attention back for a moment to smile and add lightly, "It was a pleasure to meet you, Master Ferrando. Perhaps we may talk more later." And then she sets her path towards Valkieri and Mirari, black velvet sweeping over grass.

Calista has joined the admiring the view.

Runa offers Leo a bow of her head and then a warmer smile when she's the bearer of a nice warm cup to perch upon a saucer. "You're too kind. Thank you." She brings it up to her lips to blow over the surface and then take a tiny sip to echo the Duke in this. "Goodness, this event is certainly a success." With Calista's arrival, she lowers the cup and gives her a larger grin. "You've caught me. I apologize for being worse than a spectre in the House. I've been atop too many walls recently. We must all have a dinner of our own sometime."

"I suppose so," Kima replies. "That or we are akin to hideous lepers and have yet to realize how truly horrid we are and should leave forthwith. Alas," Kima feigns a sigh. "I've both a Baron and a Duke to represent." She slips her arm through Eirene's own. "To the Duchess, then, and if they hiss at us...then we'll know how vulgar we are."

Mirari is unburdened of her extra glass! A small laugh is given as it is snatched out of her hand and taken by the Knight of Scrolls. She tilts her head toward Damon and says, "Thank you, my lord." Her attention shifts smoothly back to Valkieri and she says with a warm smile, "You're right, of course, my lord. My hands should not be so eager." She sips from her glass of wine now that she isn't holding two of them. "It is a downfall of mine." Emerald eyes glimmer with amusement.

Oh, even better. When Calista moves in the direction of Leo and the person he's standing near, Belladonna lights up. She draws up to the little group, reaching to touch Leo's elbow as she steps up beisde him. "Thank you all for coming," she says, the words offered with considerable warmth. "It is so much easier to play hostess at these things when there are friendly faces in the crowd." She takes a drink from her glass of wine. It's disappearing a little fast, but there *are* a lot of people here.

Belladonna has joined the admiring the view.

Ferrando bows lightly to Belladonna's departure before regarding Sylvie's question with more than a little bit of good-humored practice. He seems to get that one a lot. "Indeed, my cousin and uncle have certainly put the family name on the map and deservedly so. It's fair to say that dueling skills stayed confined to their branch, though. I have my own sort of martial specialty, but certainly not on their level." He doesn't seem particularly bitter about the admission, lifting a shoulder in a good-natured half-shrug. "It's always good to hear about the Sword's exploits, however. I'm sure I'm not capable of even half the things he does. He's a fantastic talent."

"I'm sure," Valkieri replies to Mirari, the dryness of his voice suggesting ready comprehension of the double meaning in her words. "I suppose you're in the right ward, then," he says almost on a breath of a sigh.

Sylvie is there just in time to hear that great answer of Mirari's, her lips quirking into a smile as she injects herself into the conversation by offering, "I am sure there are not very many who would complain about such a shortcoming, my lady, but you'll have to forgive my co-Voice of Gemecitta; he is not a man who is able to appreciate others shortcomings truly for the gifts they give." She smiles, assuming that he hasn't introduced himself yet as she moves on lightly to introduce, "Lord Valkieri Rubino. Lady Sylvie Zaffria." The appropriate hand-gestures are given to name each, her gaze finally sliding to Valkieri.

Juliana watches with amusement as she watches the scene with the drink. "I do see that you like the drinks here Lord Damon. It is good to have many interests. I suppose we can start where you'd like."

At the touches at his elbow, Leo turns to give Belladonna a short dip of his head, the smile on his lips light, "Lady Belladonna, thank you for playing host so early in the spring. I'm not sure if I've made directions before, but this is my younger sister, Lady Calista, and Lady Runa is a vassal of House Hawkmour. Lady Calista, Lady Runa, our gracious host, Lady Belladonna Pravus."

Eirene finishes the rest of her drink in a single tossback. She's not even entirely sure what it was but it was alcoholic, the rest is trifles. She brushes her hand over her ebony and silver-white braids and says, "Right then. If they sniff, maybe it's the perfume Saed made that I'm wearing. Oranges remind me of home sometimes so I figured... right? Good Lycene scent."

Runa turns in place to regard Belladonna. "Duchess." Upon Leo's introduction, her teacup rattles against its mated saucer and Runa swallows hard. A blink and a barely perceptible hardening at the edges of her eyes in further reactions to the nickname. She composes herself and provides a bow to their host. "I am honoured to attend. You have a marvelous venue."

"Then I suppose it should be noted that these days I often don't find myself with much free time to do as I like anymore." Damon finishes drink number one and deposits it rather conveniently on a passing servant's tray, stealing the drink, and placing the empty one on the tray was all done without looking away from Juliana. He's soooooo impressive. And coordinated. "I enjoy a bit of swordplay, writing, reading, things of the like."

Mirari's smile does not falter, but her gaze does sober slightly. Her wine is finished and the glass placed on a nearby table. The smile she gives to Valkieri now is slightly sheepish, as if she had been caught being just slightly naughty. "I apologize if I have offended-" She shifts when Sylvie approaches and smiles toward the other woman, "It is my pleasure meet both of you." Appropriate salutations are given to their station. "I'm Mirari Corsetina, I serve House Pravus." Her hands are clasped infront of herself, arranged so the fingers of each are curled around the other, like hooks.

Cicero at the very least has arrived to make an appearance. He moves about the group, snagging a drink from a tray and going to inspect the food and it's likely sad lack of gelatinous worms.

Ferrando picks out a shadowy corner and trucks over not for camoflauge per se but more for the purposes of eating his haul of seafood in relative safety from interruptions. Socializing is well and good, of course, but getting good Lycean food in Arx is a top priority for the big guy.

"You smell of delightful citrus to me," Kima says to Eirene as they approach the place Belladonna has taken up residence, surrounded by a gaggle of others. She directs herself and Eirene forward with a confident ease, and never once elbows or shoves a single gentle personage.

When it appears as though they have half a chance to introduce themselves, Kima does so, smooth as the silk she so rarely wears. "Duchess Pravus," she begins. "Your garden is lovely. Allow me to make known to you the lady Eirene Malvici, and myself," there's a ghost of a smile tugging at her lips. "Lady Kima Saik. We come on behalf of the Duke Malvici, who, regrettably, could not attend your little party this evening." Her gaze slants to Eirene. Surely that was acceptable.

Ferrando has joined the a shadowy corner.

Valkieri shifts the angle of his body almost unconsciously to accommodate Sylvie in his conversation with Mirari. He glances at his co-Voice, studying her face a moment, before he returns his attention to Mirari with a snort. "You'll have to do far worse than that to offend me," he says. "I may be without charm, but I'm rather inured to entendre as a Lycene."

Niccolo steps into the garden, walking with hands clasped behind his back. The duke's dark brown eyes study his surroundings, and he finds himself offering a small nod to nobody in particular. From the surroundings, to those present, his attention focuses on those gathered as he makes a point of looking for familiar faces.

Juliana listens intently to Damon. "We do all have our responsibilities." She takes a sip of her own drink. "I'm not so good at swordplay or writing myself, but I've been known to read of course. What kind of things do you like to write about?"

"Nothing entirely specific, to be sure. I dabble in fiction, in poetry, histories. Things of that sort." Damon says with a nod.

"Mistress Corsetina, I am afraid that the whole of Arx, unfortunately, must exist in a perpetual state of offending the Lord Rubino," Sylvie murmurs in amused reply, even as Valkieri denies it. She offers the woman a conspiratorial smile, taking her place in the conversation beside Valkieri. "It is my lodestone, I must admit. I feel as if I am doing something wrong if the gentleman is not offended by what I am doing."

Eirene isn't going to curtsey to Belladonna while in trousers. And a salute seems inappropriate as well. She settles for a half bow with a curt nod of her head. "Thank you for hosting it," she replies uncertainly. She glances back at Kima as if trying to verify this is good.

Belladonna has left the admiring the view.

Belladonna had planted herself at Leo's side for a moment, speaking quietly with he, Runa, and Calista. She looks entirely pleased by the conversation there, but she doesn't miss the approach of Kima and Eirene. There's a light touch for Leo's arm and a smile at the two women, and then she's turning to step away, to meet the approach of Malvici and Saik before they close the entire distance. Her smile is warm, leant a touch of approval as she dips her head respectfully to them both. "Lady Malvici, Lady Saik. Thank you, both for your presence and for bearing word from the Duke. It is a pleasure to see you both, and I hope that you enjoy yourselves this evening. I do think we could all use a touch of fun, no?" If there is any offense taken or any disapproval there, she's giving them no indication of such.

Juliet is a late arrival, choosing to be garbed for spring by having her hair set in an ornate bun made up to resemble a rose (of course), and wearing hairpins in white-enameled gold that recall the City of Tor's Rose-and-Sword sigil. Diaphanous silks in puffy shoulders and a bare back spread into a flared, layered skirt, in peach and pink colours, and the bodice itself is a brilliant emerald green, the only piece of solid colour, with a deep plunging neckline. She picks up a glass, to offer bright smile and toasts to the various people, moving to join the other members of her family.

Juliet has joined the admiring the view.

Juliana nods once. "Perhaps I'll read something you've written one day." She smiles as she takes another glance around while paying special attention to Juliet and what she's wearing. She then returns to her conversation with Damon. "Have you lived here in Arx long? I'm still fairly new here."

Damon shakes his head, "Not terribly long, a year at most."

Kima inclines her head to Belladonna, then allows the Duchess to return to her previous conversation. "Fun, yes," Kima says quietly as she turns away, eyes passing over the rest of those gathered. A quick word for Eirene, and then she stretches out her arm to hail Valkieri, "Lord Rubino," said in a voice raised just loud enough to carry. "You and Sir Preston were impressive upon the field."

Mirari smiles toward Valkieri and Syvlie in turn, dipping her head in the direction of the lady. "Oh." She says with a bright smile at the female Voice. She unfolds her hands to gesture loosely toward Valkieri and ask him with an innocent expression, "And what does one have to do to offend you, my lord?" A glance is given to Sylvie and she asks in a small faux-whisper, "Is it a game to try and put a frown of disapproval on his face then, my lady?"

Eirene makes a subtle nod to Kima, permission for whatever they discussed. "I'm good, don't worry," she insists.

Though she is in the comfort of other Fidante's and Hawkmour's, Calista is enjoying her glass of wine and lightly conversing with Leo and Runa when Juliet arrives. She offers her cousin a warm smile and tips her head in the lady's direction. "So glad you could make it, Juliet. You look lovely." There's a couple of waggling fingers in Sylvie's direction, as well as Kima when she gets a chance to spot the Saik Knight. Also in her sightline is Niccolo to whom she bows her head gently and lifts her glass to in greetings from afar.

Leo has left the admiring the view.

Valkieri frowns when it appears that Mirari and Sylvie are about to enter into conspiring together about him. Directly in front of them. (Whether or not it constitutes a disapproving frown is up for debate.) He does lift his head at the sound of his name, gaze finding Kima. "Not impressive enough," he says with certain bland humor.

Tilting her head to the side, Belladonna watches Kima and Eirene as they move away. She chuckles after a moment and straightens, sending a long look around the party before she catches sight of Niccolo and smiles again, starting in his direction.

Eirene smiles back at Belladonna after she finishes with Kima, "Don't mind us. Socially inept and all." She gives an honest laugh and an amused wink. "The food is pretty nice, especially the foreign stuff."

The Velenosa duke continues on his way further into the garden, those dark brown eyes settling on the different familiar figures. He sees Belladonna first with Leo, Runa and Calista and then with Eirene and Kima. Rather than interrupt, Niccolo slows down his approach. Seeing Calista's silent greeting, he returns it. His eyes find the hostess, and seeing her now approaching, he steps to meet her midway. "My dear niece," he says, when he gets close enough. "Very well done," he offers to her, with approval and pride in his voice. He leans in to kiss her cheek, his hands coming to gentle touch her shoulders.

Sylvie's gaze sweeps the party again, taking in those that step into the garden, before returning back to her companions. "I would never play any such games, my dear, but if I were to consider it one--. It certainly makes the Lord Rubino far more entertaining," she replies with a light smile. She looks towards Kima at Valkieri's name, dragging her gaze back and placing her fingers against the man's arm in a gesture, murmuring to him. She returns her attention back to Mirari after, questioning, "Please, if you do not mind my asking, how do you serve House Pravus? A charming companion, is it?"

Leo has a few more quiet words for his family before he touches Runa's arm and indicates she should follow him. He leads the Hawkmour noble across the garden toward Valkieri and Sylvie, where they are engaged with Mirari, Eirene and Kima. He waits to insert himself in the conversation until there is a moment of quiet and then speaks, addressing the Gemecittans, "Lord Valkieri, Lady Sylvie. I'd like to introduce you to one of my vassals, Lady Runa of Hawkmour. Lady Runa, Lord Valkieri and Lady Sylvie, voices and heirs to the joint duchy of Rubino and Zaffria respectively."

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

Juliana looks down at her nearly finished glass. "So what brought you here Lord Damon? Was it your family or something else?"

"Fret not," Kima says to Valkieri, mouth tugged upward in what can only be described, politely, as a sadistic grin. "The first melee I participated in, I was the first to fall. This one was little better." The grin falters just a touch, hinting at something deeper - as though the Lioness had just bitten into something rotten and was trying incredibly hard not to let others know it. "After all, I still lost." Kima then strides away, allowing Leo to speak more directly with Valkieri and Sylvie.

She does, however, attempt to discreetly catch Niccolo's attention, if only so she much speak a brief word when he has the opportunity to do so.

Eirene is given an apologetic shrug.

There was a smile on Damon's face, "Family, yes." One that if, she had keen eyes, would betray the fact that what he just said was...not entirely the truth.

Cicero is here, among the crowd, quite content to watch, sip at wine and munch on something or other.

Mirari smiles in the face of Valkieri's frown at her, emerald eyes shining briefly with amusement. A nod of her head is given to Sylvie at the question, "Yes, my lady. I serve House Pravus as a companion for charm and comfort. I help with a variety of tasks.." Though she drifts off as Leo makes it apparent he's going to join the conversation. She gives a quiet, "My lord." and respectful gestures required, and lets herself drift backward as the Duke introduces his vassals to Valkieri and Sylvie.

When Niccolo steps to meet her, Belladonna smiles with clear pleasure. She stills when his hands rest upon her shoulders, lifting her chin and turning her head to offer her cheek for him to kiss. Once he's released her she steps in to brush her own lips to his cheek, offering a few quiet words to him before flashing a mischevious smile and stepping back. "I'm glad that you could make it today, my lord. It seems to be going quite well so far, though, yes." She turns away, but only enough to survey the garden again, gesturing out over those assembled. "I am contemplating offering a favor for anyone brave enough to be the first into the water, though. I have not seen anyone even look tempted." There's a little pout, for that.

Runa gives Juliet a squeeze and a warm smile before she's lead away. Juliet would probably note and feel the stiffening in Runa's posture over the nickname. An attempt to curl inward. "I'll be right back." To Calista, she nods and files that away seriously. How seriously is perhaps something that will be found out tonight.
Brought face to face with new souls, Runa bows her head to both with as much respect as she can. "Oh my...It's so very good to meet you both." She becomes rather serious in expression. "I hope you're having a splendid time. I'm very grateful to Duke Leo for bringing me along. He thinks I spend too much time with books and the written word. He's quite right."

Runa has left the admiring the view.

Juliana looks at Damon with a slight tilt of her head. "Which of your family? Do they live here too?"

Niccolo inclines his head to Kima in acknowledgment, and exchanges quiet words with Belladonna. A touch of a smile lingers on his features.

"Duke Leo," Valkieri greets readily when the Duke of Tor approaches. His gaze flits to Runa with the faintest twist of his mouth. "I do believe I made Lady Runa's acquaintance some weeks ago, but it's of course a pleasure to see you again."

Damon nods his head slightly, "My sister lives here, yes."

Sylvie's attention sweeps to Leo and the Lady Runa as Mirari drifts, though not without offering a smile to the companion first. But then she's curtseying to the lady as they are introduced, murmuring a reply of, "A pleasure, my lady. I have been known to attempt that myself, though I do not think anyone would accuse me of /not/ spending enough time socializing--." Her laugh is soft, self-deprecating as she smiles to Runa lightly. Her gaze slides back to Leo with the same smile still touching her lips.

Belladonna dips her head for Niccolo's quiet words of her, expression certain. "All is well," she assures him softly. He gets another warm smile, and then Kima and Eirene, and then she's withdrawing to let Niccolo has his conversation, sweeping the garden with her eyes before she starts in Cicero's direction. Oh, he was spotted.

Calista has left the admiring the view.

Juliet has left the admiring the view.

Calista steps aside from the view and saunters towards Kima and Niccolo now. It might just be a brief greeting but she slips up besides the blonde and lightly bumps her hip. "You are also illusive, Lady Kima! I'm happy I've been able to run into you here. Duke Niccolo, how do you do. Handsome as ever."

Juliana smiles politely. "A lot of my family lives here." She gives a glance toward Belladonna. "Although I'm mostly here because of my brother Sebastian. We've been all over. What is your sister's name?"

Eirene was going to also approach the buffet and Cicero but the lady hostess takes off in his direction. Eirene instead settles for grabbing a drink, waiting for the inevitable poison tasting, and then taking a place to the side to watch and drink. Mostly drink.

"Dominique." Damon offers, another slightly forced smile.

Leo's attention turns briefly to Mirari as she fades back, a dip of his head in apology to the companion, his response to Valkieri holding some surprise, "Ah you have? She has not spoken false of her love of the written word is no falsehood, so I can only be impressed she has managed to make your acquaintance." Sylvie's laugh is joined by Leo after only a moment, the Fidante lord offering to the pair, "I would like to invite you two the villa for dinner soon, but with Lord Prospero's need to return to Tor for family matters, I thought it best to introduce you to the lady here, who will be handling his responsibilities for me."

Eirene has joined the the gazebo.

Niccolo dips his head to Belladonna and touches her arm in a gesture of affection, before pivoting so he can face Kima. "Lady Kima," he greets the young woman with a dip of his head, "How are you today?" He asks, offering a touch of a smile to the young woman. He looks around them and spotting Juliet, offers a nod in her direction. His attention turns then to Calista. "Lady Calista, you are as beautiful as ever, my dear," he says to her. "I hope things are going well?"

Juliet moves away from the view as well, since everyone else is leaning, but not before emptying her glass of wine and actually spending a moment or two -admiring-. She wiggles her fingers in the direction of Calista and Niccolo and Kima, then moves towards Leo and Runa and the Gemecitta nobles.

Off Mirari goes, drifting perhaps to find something to nibble on from one of the tables.

Runa widens her eyes a tad. "Oh goodness." She looks at Valkieri as one would appraise a new piece within a gallery. Recognition comes fast and sharp like a rapier nicking the earlobe. She starts. "Lord Rubino. Minus your boisterous friend Pietro...and parchment. It is indeed a pleasure to meet again." The corners of her mouth dimple as she looks more cheeky.

"I'm sorry to hear that Lord Prospero has had to leave the city," Valkieri says, gaze shifting to Leo. "He has the rare accomplishment of common sense." He smirks faintly at Runa. "Yes, everyone does seem to remember Pietro."

Juliana nods. "I don't think I've met her." She finishes the remainder of her drink and stands. "It's been wonderful getting to know you Lord Damon, but it's time for me to go. I hope you'll stay and enjoy the party."

Kima hip-bumps Calista in return, her smile bright and welcoming. "You'd not believe how much time can be devoured by family matters." She reaches out to take both of Niccolo's hands within her own. If it is a bold move, then it is simply the way Kima has always been. "I wanted to ask your forgiveness, Duke Niccolo," she begins, voice earnest. "You wrote to me and I never replied. A chaotic personal life is no excuse. So please, allow me to extend to you an open invitation for a spar whenever it pleases you." His hands are given a faint squeeze as Kima smiles, and then released.

Damon dips his head, "Of course. It was nice to meet you."

Damon takes a deep breath and kills the entire glass of wine in a few deep gulps.

Cicero smiles to Belladonna as she approaches him and gives a deep incline of his head. "Duchess, good evening. A splendid party you have hosted for us" he says with a raise of his glass once his head turns fully upright. "I do not believe we have met before.. I am Prince Cicero Velenosa."

"My lord, I am sure we would be honored. Or, perhaps, you and yours may join us at the Palazzo; I have been known to host fabulous meals for the proper guests," replies Sylvie in a murmur, tipping her chin in a nod towards Leo. And she adds in a murmured question to the duke, "If you have time later to escort me about the pool perhaps, we may talk in private? We can speak to the specifics." Her gaze sweeps away at that, however, to study Runa and Valkieri, smiling for the connection the lady makes. "Lord Pietro's energy is not very forgettable."

"Well, I am happy to see both of you. I didn't mean to interrupt business, I just wanted to stop by and say hello. Lady Kima, let's meet soon to go riding." Calista glances over to Niccolo again and feels the heat of blush touching upon her cheeks. "You are always so kind with your words, your grace. Thank you, and yes things are quite well. I hope to meet with you soon as well." The young Fidante begins to step away. "I do not wish to impose. I shall leave you to your conversation."

"Lord Pietro is a delight, and this may be the brother he speaks so fondly of." Juliet concludes, offering bright smiles. "Apparently people make poor jokes around the two of you quite often?" She asks of Valkieri. "Lady Juliet Fidante - I've had the pleasure of meeting the Duchess before." She offers a bright smile to Sylvie. Looking to Leo. "I, too, should like a small word, when possible."

"Prince Velenosa; it is indeed good to finally meet you. I am, of course, Duchess Belladonna Pravus of Setarco," she introduces herself, sinking into a brief curtsey for him before she straightens again. "I am glad that you could make it tonight. You should come and be social, though, rather than standing here just watching. Please, allow me to introduce you to someone you might not know?" She offers a hand out in the man's direction for him to take.

"No, that would be the Marquis Igniseri, his twin," Valkieri replies to Juliet with distinct dryness. "I do hear you have a habit of asking people about their sexual exploits with their siblings. Have you bedded many of yours, then?"

Although there is a quirk of his brow when Kima takes his hands, the duke doesn't appear bothered by it. His eyes narrow, but his features soften. "Oh my lady, there's little to apologize about, but I thank you for the thought. Everyone, myself included has been very busy. We'll find time for that spar, and it's been a while since we've shared a drink as well." He reaches to touch the young woman's arm, when she reclaims her hands. "I have a couple of meetings between today and tomorrow, but I should be free the day after," he notes. Looking at Calista he offers a little wave dismissing her apology. "Please, my lady, you never interrupt," he assures the young Fidante. "We should get together very soon. I believe there are a few things you and I need to speak of," he tells the young woman.

Cicero gives a shake of his head to Belladona with an apologetic cast to his smiling features. "I am afraid I have other matters to attend to.. but I did not wish to offend by not attending your gathering. I have time for a polite appearance, a sip of wine and I must soon be off." he lifts his glass again in emphasis, "but it has been a pleasure meeting you"

Kima nods to Niccolo, appearing relieved that the Velenosan duke understood where she was coming from. She departs from his side in a quiet, unobtrusive manner before finding Eirene once more and sharing a few quick words with the medic.

"I only have the one brother, my lord, and I wouldn't want to kiss and tell without his permission, so I'm afraid I'll just have to leave you to speculate." Juliet retorts to Valkieri. "I think the Lady Runa's exclamation of seeing you without Lord Pietro had me momentarily confused." Her eyes glint, and she picks up another glass from a nearby servant, taking a sip. "What about you? How far out the family tree do you feel the need to go before intercourse is acceptable?"

Damon takes himself and his empty glass of wine towards the gazebo and sits himself down near Eirene, "My Lady." He says, "Care for a drink?"

Leo offers a small bow to Sylvie at her request, "Of course, Lady Sylvie, and it would be an honor to attend you at your home." As Juliet joins them, an eyebrow arches at the conversation that ensues, surprise written clear on his face. "Excuse me, Lady Runa, I must leave you a moment, I believe." A look in Calista's direction and a small wave of his hand given her before he turns to Juliet, "Perhaps we will take this moment to have that conversation, shall we?" He touches Juliet's elbow and moves to guide her away, if she does not resist, his brow furrowing.

Oh. Belladonna's expression floods with disappointment, but she doesn't insist, taking a step back and dipping into another curtsey. "I thank you for coming, then; perhaps we will be able to speak another time." He gets a quick, playful little smile, and then she's turning and..she looks over towards Valkieri and Juliet. She just sort of freezes, blinking that way for a moment. But Leo steps in and she is able to breathe again, clearing her throat and finishing her glass of wine. It is not to another person she goes, but instead to one of the side tables that holds tumblers of some clear liquid. Drink break.

Eirene leans against the edge of the Gazebo nursing something alcoholic, her second or third perhaps. Kima's message is met with a frown of dismay and a pout; a gesture that looks almost comical. She raise a hand in hello to Damon and gives a broader, more sincere smile as he makes the offer. "I do believe we owe one another one, yeah?"

Sylvie's smile lingers, of course, but she-- does not step into this part of the conversation. She smiles and sips wine.

Damon lifts his eyebrows towards Eirene in a conspiratorial way, "You're in luck." He reaches into his book bag and removes a bottle of his family's brand, "Empty your glass, if you please." He asks as he uncorks the bottle of scotch.

Kima clasps Eirene upon the shoulder, grinning crookedly. "I'll be seeing you soon, then, have one on me, eh?" The blonde then turns to depart.

Damon drops A bottle of Wyrmguard brand Scotch.

Runa's cheeks suffuse with colour. The blossoms rise at the talk around her. Lips part for a small exhale as she steadies herself. She mimics a mannequin, standing in place while Leo leaves her to have a word. "Hmm." She extends a hand for a drink from a servant that isn't actually nearby. "Ah."

Juliet offers a bright smile to Runa and Sylvie and Valkieri, but allows Leo to guide her away. Wiggling her fingers as she go, and shooting a bright smile to their hostess, too.

"Of course," Valkieri says graciously to Juliet. "I am sure no one will take your words as clear admission." She's drawn away by Leo before they can truly begin a conversation about family trees, which leaves him with Runa and Sylvie. (And Mirari?) "That was a bit disappointing," he says.

Calista waves to Leo and lifts her glass of wine to him with a bright smile on her face. Wait was that just a wave or is he waving her over? She squints.

Eirene's glass is quickly emptied. "Ah my dear sir," she says with a waggle of her eyebrows to Damon. "You can certainly take or make an apology with this," the glass is offered out to him. "So how are you enjoying the garden party? The food is pretty damn good I'd say."

>*|

"I am sure the Lady Runa will provide you with much more fascinating conversation, my lord Valkieri," Sylvie offers lightly, smiling in reassurance to Runa that possibly they are able to have a normal conversation. "If you will excuse me, however--. I look forward to seeing you soon, my lady." She tips her chin in a nod to the woman, before she draws away to leave her with the conversation prowess of Valkieri as she sets her path towards the Duke Niccolo.

There's a slight shrug, "It's fine, I suppose. The food is quite good.." he pours a bit of that beautiful caramel colored liquid into Eirene's glass before his own, "Though it would seem I'm not among the social tier to be conversation material." He then lifts his scotch filled wine glass and tilts his head, "Fuck it, I say. Bottoms up."

His duties to the hostess done, Cicero hands off his glass to a servant and heads out

Leo has joined the among the trees.

Juliet has joined the among the trees.

Taking up a glass, Belladonna brings it to her lips for a healthy swallow. There's a quiet word for the servant, a little smile, and then she's turning away to look over those in attendance again. While she certainly notes the bright smile sent her way by Juliet, it is not returned. She watches placidly for a moment, then looks away again. She takes another quick drink, and then she's heading towards Damon and Eirene, putting on a smile for the both of them.

Niccolo steals a drink from a passing server, the thief. He dips his head to Kima when she steps away, and side glances to Calista just as Leo leads Juliet away. He brings that drink to his lips and to Calista adds, "I'm going to greet some of the other guests. You're welcome to come along, although I think you already greeted them," he tells her, and with a glance to see if she follows, he steps towards Sylvie and Valkieri only to spot Sylvie stepping towards him. "My lady," he says to Sylvie, and then looks past her to Valkieri, inclining his head in her direction. "I was on my way to greet you and your companion. How are you today?"

Leo leads Juliet in amongst the trees, conversing quietly with his cousin.

Eirene's blue eyes flutter in bemused surprise. "Well, fuck it indeed," she responds to Damon, cackling in mad delight at his determination. "I don't know how to talk at these parties anyhow. All my best stories about amputation and what one does with severed limbs afterwards just fall totally flat." She tips her glass in his direction before taking a drink of the lovely smooth burn; her voice indeed husky with years of drinking such delights.

"Yes.. I agree." Calista turns back to reply with Niccolo with a warming smile. She is however sad to see Kima leave. "If you don't mind, I could join you. I've not yet greeted some of the others." As The Velenosa Duke moves to Sylvie and Valkieri, the young Fidante is more than happy to see the dual Voices. Well more happy to see one over the other. "Lady Sylvie, you look lovely as always. I pray you've been well." To Valkieri, Calista politely bows her head to him. "Lord Valkieri.."

Damon clears his throat a bit after that big gulp, and sits up a bit straighter. He waves his hand dismissively, "Please, regail me with stories of amputation and the disposal of dearly departed arms and legs. No story should go to waste."

Runa bobs her head to Sylvie once she's mustered her composure. "I look forward to sharing a conversation with you, Lady Zaffria. Be well." Momentarily dimpling her bottom lip with her teeth, she rounds gently on Valkieri. "I don't know about fascinating. Unless you enjoy books or bad analogies." She ressurrected smile for Lord Rubino. "The very best thing about these events, is swimming along with varied and diverse people. People we would not normally paddle with, don't you agree? Diversity can be bracing?"

Slowing and then stopping when she realizes what seems to be the topic of conversation, Belladonna looks briefly bemused, then shakes it off and chuckles. She takes a step back, then a second, and she's turning to ghost back away again, steps carrying her towards one of the garden walls.

Valkieri arches a brow to Runa's question and turns his gaze slowly about the room. "Honestly, I feel like I see the same people at every party," he says. He offers a faintly amused smirk to Calista for her greeting far less warm than the one she gives Sylvie. It is not a particularly surprised expression.

"My dear Calista," Sylvie greets warmly, moving to brush kisses against both of the younger woman's cheeks, catching her fingers briefly against hers before pulling away. As she pulls away, she turns to brush the same kisses at Niccolo's cheeks, murmuring something for the duke's ears alone. "I am well, your grace. I have had quite the-- interesting time, and the Duchess Pravus' gardens are lovely." She pauses, glancing towards Calista, as she adds, "Your cousin, of course, is always a delight."

From the trees, there's a small laugh heard, and then the shattering of a glass, as Juliet engages in furious conversation with her cousin.

Eirene is at least socially adept enough to keep the story down to a muted tone. There are hand gestures made of sawing and grimaces of faces. At one point she even mimics choaking someone with a hand that just seems to flop and forth. But she stops when the glass breaks; you can hear that sound over a lot of party ambience. Her eyebrows raise as she turns.

Eleyna is late. From the flat expression on her face and in her icy blue eyes, she doesn't seem particularly embarrassed about that. The Velenosa princess stops not too far from the garden's entrance and takes stock of who is who and where they are before committing to engaging with anyone in particular.

Calista casts a glance over her shoulder then looks at Sylvie again with a polite smile. "Mhmm. Would you all excuse me a moment." Her empty glass of wine is given to another passing waiter as she moves towards Leo and Juliet now.

"Ooh, there we go, now it's a party." Damon says when his attention is diverted towards the sound of a busted glass.

Catching the smirk to Calista, Niccolo settles his gaze on Valkieri and allowing a touch of a smile, inclines his head in the lord's direction. He briefly glances at Runa, before his attention turns back to Sylvie just in time for those kisses to the cheek, which he returns as he greets her. He tils his head to her, and is about to say something when the shattering of glass catches his attention. There's a glance towards the trees and fromt here to Belladonna. When Calista announces she's stepping away, the duke reaches to touch her arm, and lets her go. He looks back at Sylvie and leans in, speaking quietly.

Valkieri offers a respectful inclination of his head to Niccolo when the duke offers him the same, but his attention is too diverted by the sound of shattering glass. When he sees who it is among the trees, he can't help a quiet snort of almost-laughter.

Eirene mutters into her scotch, "It's all fun and games until someone gets shanked. Then it's hilarious..."

Runa clucks her tongue. "I had not accounted for how strong a swimmer you are, of course. I see everything through a personal limited scope. My own of course. This is still new to me." She twitches at the sound of breaking glass, her smile following suit and fracturing, becoming a grimace. "That must be dreadful then, Lord. But do you know, it is good you attended. I'm sure some could say...that your presence is a comfort or represents stability of a sort. A familiar face." Valkieri's amusement over what's happening over yonder has Runa making a small noise in her throat.

For all that several of the guards start to look alert, Belladonna lifts a hand to gesture them to stand down, a shake of her head given. They do move a bit, but only to get in position to keep others from intruding on the Fidante Duke's privacy. Calista isn't challenged, but others likely would be. Otherwise the Pravus Duchess doesn't bother with the breaking glass, instead drifting back towards where the groups seem to be gathering, stepping aside to go over to the warm pool.

Of course, Sylvie's gaze follows the rest of the crowd's towards the trees, though she only focuses her attention back on Niccolo with a smile rather than lingering over the drama happening. Her next words are not a murmur, only a light challenge, as she asks, "Do you not think there's something you could be wrong about, your grace?"

Broken glass can only hold one's attention for so long. Damon's returns to Eirene after a few moments, "But what happened to the foot? It just disappeared?"

"The damn dog," the medic replies with a cackle, taking another sip of the lovely shared scotch. "It comes running into camp and PLOP. Right at her feet. Foot."

Damon puts his hand to his chest, tilts his head back and releases a loud, wonderful laugh.

"I'm probably wrong about many things... Lady Sylvie," Niccolo remarks to Sylvie with a quirk of a brow. He turns away from the Fidante family, but he does look to Belladonna, his gaze lingering on his niece as she approaches the pool. He turns his attention back to Sylvie. "So you might need to be more specific," he notes and drinks from his glass, draining it and passing it to a servant walking by.

The sound of breaking glass as she enters forces Eleyna into the briefest of smirks, muttering something under her breath. She spots Belladonna and drifts through the crowd toward the Duchess, offering cool nods to those she recognizes. On her way, she snags a glass of wine from a passing servant, as she approaches Belladonna, "Cousin. Hasn't it been an age since we last laid eyes on each other?"

"Well, unfortunately I can't in good faith offer my presence at every social function you attend," Valkieri replies to Lady Runa. His gaze is still somewhat distracted between the Fidantes in the trees and Sylvie and Niccolo nearer him. It catches of Eleyna for one, long, darkening moment, transforming his expression into a distinct scowl.

Eirene is wiping a tear away from her eye as she laughs. "I know, it was terrible. We laughed for DAYS. The poor girl was always laughing afterwards when we'd bark at her." She grins at Damon. "We have the worst sense of humor. But hey, she didn't die of creeprot so that's the happy ending of the story. And? She got a leg carved out of dog-wood." Bud-a-bump!

That last pun at the end of her story earned a horrible groan, Damon closes his eyes and shakes his head, taking another drink. He glances around the grounds a bit, and then looks back to Eirene, "Would you like to take this bottle and get the hell out of here?"

Sylvie's lips only soften in a smile for Niccolo's answer, countering lightly, "Not /so/ many things, surely, my lord. I have found your advice and words often helpful." She does lean forward to murmur the true answer, her fingers brushing against his arm as she does. They linger as she pulls away, guiding him as she steps back towards Valkieri and Runa. She then introduces, "Duke Niccolo, have you met Lady Runa Hawkmour?"

Crouching at the edge of the water, Bella reaches to touch it, to test the temperature. Smiling to herself, she's just starting to straighten when she spies Eleyna's approach. She finishes standing, turning to face the woman as she approaches, a step taken to meet her. "Cousin," she greets. "It has been far too long, yes." She steps in to make the attempt at a kiss for both of Eleyna's cheeks, to give her a brief embrace. "I'm so glad you could make it."

Calista steps away from Leo and Juliet after a quiet word or two. She's careful not to cut herself on any broken glass as she moves through the group of party goers. Before she takes her leave, The Voice of House Fidante seeks out Belladonna once more. "Duchess, thank you for a wonderful time. I look forward to your next party." Eleyna is greeted with a soft smile. "Princess. Forgive me for intruding. I hope you have a wonderful evening."

Runa's smile widens at that. There's a twinkle in her eyes. "I appreciate your candor and position on the matter." She takes a deep steadying breath. A little flushed, but dissipating it through degrees, she turns to Sylvie and Niccolo. "Oh, how do you do?"

Eirene nudges her head towards the garden gate. "We came, we saw, we said hello. We were around long enough I think to not be rude," she replies to Damon. "You sure you want to beat it?" She raises her eyebrows at his question.

Eleyna endures the kisses and returns the embrace with the faintest of smiles. Over Belladonna's shoulder, she notices Valkieri's dark look in her direction and returns it with an expressionless one of her own, as if she finds his scowl exquisitely boring. As Eleyna pulls back, she murmurs in response to Belladonna, "I wouldn't have missed it. I needed to see if I could still compete fairly with you. Sadly, I think the years have been kinder to you than to me." Her tone is as cool and distant as the look in those icy eyes as she regards Belladonna evenly.

Leo has left the among the trees.

Niccolo listens to Sylvie and lifts his head in recognition of whatever she tells him. He whispers something back, before he turns his attention fully to Runa and Valkieri. "I have not, It's a pleasure to meet you, my lady," he offers to Runa with a small bow. "Duke Niccolo Velenosa," he adds in way of introduction.

Damon nods "Unless you'd like to stay a bit longer? Appearances and all." he kills the last of his glass and sets the empty on a nearby table, wincing as a big gulp of scotch started burning it's way down, "It makes no difference to me, but I think we've put in our time."

Juliet has left the among the trees.

Leo speaks a few more words to Juliet before striding out of the trees, making his way back to the small gathering he'd departed from moments before. Belladonna is given a single, grateful nod and a tight smile before he rejoins Runa.

Ferrando has left the a shadowy corner.

Mirari disengages from wherever she was quietly nibbling on food. Her gaze shifting around the party.

"They're used to me being a social misfit," Eirene replies with an amused snort, Malvici blue eyes drifting over the crowds. "I'm sure nobody here will miss me much. Duchess Belladonna has enough to deal with..."

Eirene's reaction to Valkieri's look just has him more irritated than before; he drags his attention back forcibly to his party in time for Leo to rejoin them. "Duke Leo," he says, a touch stiffly.

Juliet is hugging herself when she returns from her conversation with Leo. Moving back towards the gathering. She bows her head to Valkieri. "You have my earnest apologies, my lord. I have been appropriately chastised. The subject was nor proper and you are quite right that my answer only seemed to implicate myself and my brother, a stain the Sword of Tor does not deserve."

Suddenly a religious procession seems to be making its way through the garden. An elderly figure in plain white robes makes his way into the garden, leaving his escort at the gates. His back is slightly stooped, his walking staff as simple in its contruction as the light wool of his robes. Aldwin does not look like he intends to provide any Spring Rites, though. He merely turns his warm smile to anyone that looks his way and makes with the mingling of partygoers.

Runa offers a more respectful bow, and has to push back a loose collection of locks behind her ear where they belong, once she's level and upright again. "It is very good to make your acquiantance. Honoured. Your reputation preceeds you. I hope you're also having a splendid time. And..." She trails off, with Leo and Juliet back and some heads and attention turning their way.

Damon recorks his bottle and stuffs it back into his book bag as he waves a hand, beginning to rise, "I don't think I'll be terribly missed either, so let's split, find somewhere to kill this bottle hm?"

Eirene has left the the gazebo.

Seemingly a bit caught off guard, Belladonna shifts a step back and offers Eleyna a pretty smile. She watches Valkieri for a moment before shifting her attention back to the other woman, and she does breathe out a chuckle for her words. "I am certain that you have arenas in which you could still compete with me," she answers, with a gracious nod of her head and an entirely angelic smile. When she straightens, she gestures to the party at large, drinking again from her glass. "Is there anyone you would like an introduction to, Princess?" Oh. And then there's Aldwin. And. Blink. She stares for a moment before a delighted laugh escapes, and she reaches to touch Eleyna's arm. "You will excuse me." She's walking away from her cousin to move in Aldwin's direction. What's left in her glass is drained in the first few steps she takes. There is a clearing of her throat, once she's set the glass aside.

"The Hunnerd Cities is nearby," Eirene says as she sets her now empty glass on a passion tray. "The reflection gardens are nice too if you're not one of those freaked out by mirror surfaces." She motions for Damon to follow with a nod of her head.

"Lady Juliet, we appreciate your apology though I am sure we can all find the humor in the situation," answers Sylvie for Gemecitta, her smile offers to the younger woman and then shifted to encompass Leo as well. "Let us leave it behind us, for now." As she leaves her wine glass, handing off the empty for a new one to a passing servant.

Damon gestures for Eirene to lead on as he falls in behind the combat medic.

"It's been an interesting time," Niccolo tells Runa, wrapping that trailing off sentence for her. "And Lord Valkieri, is good to see you too," he offers to the man, with a glance to Eleyna and touch of a smile for her and Belladonna. He turns then to Leo and Juliet as they approach. "Duke Leo," he greets and lifts his head when Juliet speaks. He glances at Aldwin's arrival, inclining his head in his direction in a silent distant greeting and looking from him to his niece. Sylvie's voice brings him back to the group immediately around him.

Valkieri blinks rather distinctly at Juliet's apology. "I have no need of your apologies, my lady," he says with a snort. "But do try to not aggravate my vassals by asking if they engage in bedding someone at the same time as their sibling." His gaze flits to Leo. "I think your cousin found far more offense than I did."

It takes an amazingly long time for Aldwin to get from the the garden's entrance to Belladonna. Even once the Duchess begins to move towards him. The Archscholar just doesn't do anything quckly. "This is a fantastic garden, my lady," the old man says to Belladonna when the distance merits such covnersation. "Made all the lovelier for the gathering you're hosting." Catching sight of NIccolo brings an equally quiet dip of Aldwin's head for the Velenosan.

Eirene gives a nod to anyone who happens to catch her eyes and strides out,casting a final glance over at the Fidante to-do in the treeline.

Eleyna watches Belladonna walk away with an unperturbed expression, though she does give Aldwin a long look before turning her head away. She sips her wine and meets Niccolo's glance with a nod, the briefest trace of affection in her eyes before it is subsumed in icy distance. Unobtrusively, she moves a little closer to the conversation between the Gemecittans, Fidantes, and her uncle, but does not directly insert herself into yet. Instead, she drinks wine and looks around.

Leo nods at Juliet at her apology, some of the stiffness leaving his shoulders, Sylvie's words prompting a smile in her direction. "I am often accused of sensitivies more akin to an Oathlander at times, so I will merely look to have this moment pass, as the Lady Sylvie suggests." At Niccolo's greeting, the Fidante turns to address the other man, "Good evening, Lord Niccolo, I hope it finds you well?"

"Of course, my lord. I will convey my apologies to Lord Pietro the next time I see him." Juliet gets herself another glass of wine, taking a small sip, and gives a nod of thanks to Valkieri - and another to Sylvie. As Eleyna approaches, Juliet sketches a small curtsey in greeting.

Skirting around the edge of the gardens, Mirari makes her exit. Slipping out.

"I admit to pride in hearing that, Archscholar," Belladonna tells him, dipping into a curtsey and straightening promptly, offering up a playful smile. "It is my favorite part of the estates, I have to say. It is a delight to see you here; can I have anything fetched for you?" She makes to fall in beside him, to follow him wherever he might wish to wander in the gardens for the moment.

Runa steeples her fingers as apologizes are offered, sliding her digits and interlacing them. She too follows Niccolo's glance to Aldwin though. Perhaps she's just a social parrot or curious as to his own curiosities. There's an open look in her face as she sets sights upon the other figure. One might imagine a question mark appearing with the help of wisps above her noggin. A canting of her head and a private thought. "If you'll excuse me. There's a matter to attend to. Do have a fabulous day and may fate draw us all together again soon." Runa offers a bow and turns to head for an exit.

"Your highness, please. Join us; you are /always/ welcome," Sylvie greets with a smile as Eleyna lingers at the edges of the group, even shifting to allow space there that Eleyna could join between her and Niccolo. But her gaze drags back to Leo, lifting to him with a smile for his agreement, her smokey eyes lingering even as she takes a sip of her wine.

The arm opposite the one being used to move the staff is croked in offer to the Duchess. "I could not ask for any better of an escort," The Archscholar says to the Duchess. "The gardens tend to be my favorite part of the shrines as well. To see nature unfurled both in its untamed state and groomed by our hand with Petrichor's blessing is a marvel. And thank you, but no, I don't need anything. I just wanted to put behind the sadness of recent news and revel in the life that still happens around us." Leaning in closer to Belladonna, "Not to mention," is said in a lower voice, "some of my peers say I need to be less of a hermit."

"It finds me as well as once can be, my lord," Niccolo replies to Leo, those dark brown eyes lingering on the man. "Yours seems rather interesting so far," he remarks then. His eyes find Eleyna, and when his niece acknowledges him, his expression softens. He inclines his head in agreement with Sylvie's words to the princess. "Lady Juliet," he finally says, turning his attention to the Fidante noble woman. "We hadn't had a chance to properly greet each other today, yet. It's good to see you as always, my lady."

Valkieri shoots Sylvie a /look/ when she invites Eleyna so graciously into their party, but stays quiet rather than voice an objection. He finishes off his wine and snaps at a passing servant for another.

Fortunato slips into the garden with a hint of skulk, yes, as if a man can skulk with an easel and blank canvas held over his head, as if a man can skulk with a bright rainbow leather coat hung over his frock. Still, he does his best to keep to the outskirts of the party and set up the easel. Ready himself for some nefarious painting.

Eleyna nods to acknowledge Juliet's curtsy and offers the faintest lifting of the corners of her lips in a polite, formal smile. Her expression thaws a bit more when both Sylvie and the Duke make room for her to join the conversation. The look she gives Sylvie almost verges on a smirk before she shifts her pale eyes away to offer a polite nod of greeting to Leo. For some reason, she seems to be pointedly avoiding looking in Valkieri's direction.

"And you, my lord Niccolo" Juliet sketches another small curtsey to Niccolo. "And my apologies for my rudeness. I hope you can forgive me." Her smile still bright. "Since I do have ears, I shan't ask you how you are," There's some more of that customary glint in her eyes. "But I admit I am a bit lost as to what the topic of conversation is."

When Aldwin offers his arm, Belladonna takes it, settling herself at his side quite comfortably. "It is what I miss most of all, of Setarco; the gardens and the palace are all sort of built together, with little distinction between the two in much of it. It is so very green in a way that Arx cannot quite manage, at least that I have thus far seen." She laughs when he leans in to speak to her those quieter words, and she gives him a playfully skeptical look. "You, a hermit? I cannot imagine why anyone might say that." She does sort of guide him in the direction of the Lyceum grouping, no surprise there. Though she'll follow him if he seems to be following his feet somewhere else.

"Princess Eleyna Velenosa, have you met the Duke Leo Fidante? My lord, the Princess Eleyna," Sylvie introduces so smoothly as Eleyna looks to Leo, her smile caught still in the corners of her lips. It even brightens as her gaze catches on Valkieri for the look, before she shifts her gaze back between Eleyna and Leo.

"The blood of the women in my family runs hot, which has its moments, but is often the fire that keeps us moving forward," Leo responds, a glance Juliet's direction. He looks to Eleyna as she is invited to join the group, offering the woman a small bow, "I am afraid I have not had the opportunity to meet, Highness. I am Leo Fidante." It's hard to miss the look and non-look passed between Valkieri and Eleyna, though he has apparently had his fill of stepping into such curiosities for the evening, keeping his voice pleasant.

Towards the knot of Lycene nobles it is. Aldwin nods along to Belladonna's words while he's being moved in that direction. "The climate of the Lyceum is condusive to much longer growing seasons. You get less of the gray and white landscape in winter as we do in Arx. I should like to get back to Setarco though, sometime when all this chaos is finished with and we have time to breathe and truly relax again." His pale blue eyes look at the Lycene nobles, starting to match faces with names of those met before or glimpsed at a distance from Court. He has, after all, been Archscholar longer than most of them have been alive.

Fortunato draws out his wire, and begins a silverpoint sketch, his focus fixed on the large Lycene knot. How many figures can we fit on a canvas? Let's find out!

"I took no offense at your words," Niccolo assures Juliet with a lift of his shoulders. "There is nothing for me to forgive, but I'll let you apologize to me though, by sharing a drink at some point soon," he tells the young woman, his features as schooled as ever he then looks to Valkieri, and from him to Sylvie. "I don't think there's a given topic, to be honest," he offers in response to Juliet. "And of course, it's lovely to see you my dear niece," that is directed to Eleyna, waiting after the introductions have been made and answered.

Eleyna offers Leo a polite nod as she murmurs in a silken purr that doesn't quite match the icy delicacy of her appearance. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Duke Fidante. Lady Zaffria promised me an introduction. I am so glad she was good enough to do so." She takes a sip of wine and glances at Niccolo, favoring him with the ghost of a smile, "Lovely to see you as well, Uncle."

"Well certainly no one should look to /me/ for topics of conversation," Valkieri says. That's what he has Sylvie for.

"My promises are always kept, your highness," Sylvie answers with a laugh warming her words, her smile easy. She tips her chin in a nod towards Eleyna. "But with that seen to--. If you will excuse me." She sweeps a look around at the knot, lingering on each, before she steps away. There is one less, at least, that Fortunato will have to sketch as she moves from the group.

Fortunato makes a staccato series of movements across his canvas as Sylvie moves. Perhaps he's doing a rabbit trail instead of a figure there.

Stepping up to the little grouping with the Archscholar, Belladonna smiles around. "I admit that I've no idea who you might need an introduction to," she tells Aldwin, her smile toiuching apologetic before it settles back to lightly cheerful as she looks to the rest of the group. In time for Sylvie to depart. "Take care," she offers, before promptly saying Valkieri's way, "I do hope you are planning to stay a bit longer? Have you met the Archscholar?"

To the departing lady, "Good evening, Lady Sylvie," Aldwin says while taking his place among the throng. Hopefully that's far enough to the edge that if Fortunato needs the space he can leave Aldwin off. "And good evening to you all, Lord and Ladies," the old man says, casting that same smile of genuine warmth to those remaining. He gives Belladonna's arm a bit of a grandfatherly squeeze before letting go, trusting to just his staff to keep him upright. "I hope you do not mind another in such gentle company."

"Ah," is Valkieri's first answer to Belladonna, which is not terribly promising. He does tip his head to the second, though. "I have. A pleasure to see you again, Archscholar. I believe you've been--" He frowns when his gaze catches quite suddenly on Fortunato. "Is that that obnoxiously rude artist?"

Juliet offers a nod of greeting to the Arcscholar, and a bright smile. "I fear that I am the least among this esteemed gathering, and as such cannot speak for anyone but myself, but I am honoured by your company, Arcscholar." There's another sip of wine, and at Valkieri's calling attention to Fortunato, she offers another bright smile and a wave for the artist. "Messere Greyhope has his idiosyncracies, but he's a very gifted artist, my lord. If you'll permit me saying so."

"She did?" Leo asks of Eleyna, turning an arched eyebrow Sylvie's way before retuning his focus to the princess, the words on his lips falling away as Valkieri demurs regarding a topic of conversation and Aldwin appears with Belladonna. Instead, he offers to the princess, "Perhaps we will have an opportunity to speak soon." With that, he turns to the Arscholar and returns the elderly man's greeting with a dip of his head, stepping up to Belladonna as she's released. Fingers alight on her elbow as he leans down to give her a parting kiss on the cheek, "Lady Belladonna, this is quite the gathering, but I am afraid I must withdraw for the evening. Thank you very much for the invitation." A small bow at his waist is offered to the remaining people in the group, "I wish you all a fair evening."

"Archscholar," Niccolo greets Aldwin when he and Belladonna joins them, and offers a small dip of his head to Sylvie when she moves away from the group. His attention turns to the older man, "It's good to see you again. I hope the gods find you well," he says. "This reminds me, I need to speak with you in the next few days. I'll send over a messenger." He turns to Leo when he announces his departure, "My lord," he says, with an incline of his head.

Fortunato half-catches Valkieri's eyes on him, double-takes, and then fully meets the nobleman's eyes. He's suspiciously all deference, a low duck of his head that borders on being a bow. His wire keeps moving, though, sketching on, sketching on.

"I didn't call him talentless," Valkieri replies to Juliet, even as he frowns at Fortunato. "I called him /rude/. You should have heard him when I requested a commission months ago."

Turning the pout on at full blast, Belladonna aims it up at Leo when he steps over to tell her he's leaving. Even so she does tip her head to receive the kiss to her cheek, a melodramatic sigh escaping her throat before she leans up to kiss his cheek in turn. There are a few quiet words spoken to him before she draws back, a little reassuring smile offered before she looks to Valkieri. When he asks after someone being rude she clears her throat, not entirely able to keep the chuckle from escaping. Not that she actually says something about it, glancing to Fortunato before her eyes swing back and..yep. As he elaborates for Juliet, she chuckles again. One hand comes up to cover her lips.

The princess notes Sylvie's departure with the slight lift of a brow, but offers no further comment on it. Instead, she turns her gaze back to Leo. "I hope we do soon. Gods be with you, my lord." Eleyna murmurs to him as he starts to take his leave. Her pale eyes focus with icy intensity on the Archscholar, light curiosity replacing cool distance as she observes the older man and sips her wine. She looks towards Fortunato with this same expression, a if each word of condemnation that passes Valkieri's lips makes her more inclined to befriend the artist.

A furrowed brow is given for Valkieri's abortive statement. Aldwin turns his head left then right until finally spotting Fortunato. "Rude?" he asks in a way that indicates he's not experienced such himself. "He did a lovely painting of puppies that I keep in my office," the Archscholar says to Juliet. "I convinced him to forgo the gold leaf that someone had requested it have." Of the assembled, Leo then gets a nod of greetng and Niccolo earns a, "I would like that very much. I should be available when you have the time." Eleyna too receives further bennefit of the Archscholar's smile.

"I cannot say I had that issue with him when I made my request for comission, my lord Valkieri. He has been a perfect gentleman in all our dealings. Perhaps your wrath inspired him to learn better manners." Juliet offers, with a deferential bow of her head to the duke. She, too, sees fit to reach out to take Leo's hand, to give it a squeeze and lean in for a peck on his cheek. "Take good care cousin."

Fortunato smiles back at Valkieri. It's at least a carefully /modulated/ smile. It's, perhaps, a bit embarrassed, apologetic. He keeps on sketching.

"I haven't met the man, so I have no experience with his rudeness or lack of it," Niccolo observes with an incline of his head to Fortunato when the man looks their way. He looks to the others as they speak of their own experience with the man, and his gaze moves to Belladonna when she chuckles and then covers her lips. He lets his attention linger on a server, carrying drinks but the duke refrains from reaching over to snag one.

"That seems unlikely," Valkieri says to Juliet with distinct blandness, but he does finally take his gaze off of Fortunato. The artist lives another day. He looks to Belladonna. "Duchess, thank you for having me. I'm afraid I must take my leave as well."

"How odd that everyone speaks well of the artist but you, Lord Rubino. How very, very odd." Eleyna's tone displays nothing but a sort of boredom as she sips wine from her glass and passes a glance over the gardens. She almost seems as if she will say something more, but the rim of a wine glass at her lips restrains whatever further words might come.

Oh. Belladonna looks to Eleyna for her words, lifting her eyebrows. She makes no attempt to hide the displeasure on her face, giving her cousin a long look before she turns to offer an equally as clear apologetic smile up to Valkieri. "I will walk you out, if you would like? I was hoping that I could bother you for a dance, but I do understand if the company tonight has grown tiring." She turns partway from the group, ready to follow the man for the garden doors.

Fortunato turns his attention back to his canvas, but whatever he's done, he seems to have done enough of it. He sets the wire down, and begins packing up.

Juliet takes a step closer to the Princess Eleyna, offering her a bright smile and taking a sip of wine as she murmurs a few words.

"I hope my company has not grow so stale as to force everyone to flee. I had not planned a sermon of any sort tonight, I promise," Aldwin says with some selfdeprication to his humor.

"There are times I miss being younger. This is not one of them," Niccolo muses with a glance to Aldwin and chuckles once at his words. "Oh, it's not you, I assure you, Archscholar. The festivities have been going on for some time, and there have been a few interesting situations," he explains to the man with a lift of his shoulders.

"There's no accounting for taste, I suppose," Valkieri replies mildly to Eleyna. "You also seem to be quite popular, after all." He turns with Belladonna, allowing her to see him out. "You would not want a dance with me, my lady. I am not particularly charming company."

"You are young yet, my lord," Aldwin counters Niccolo. "Many years lay before you and your dottage." His hand adjusts around the staff and his weight leans more into the shaft. "Plenty of time to enjoy the life that youthful vigor allows."

Eleyna meets Belladonna's look with an expressionless one of her own, as if her displeasure has no effect on her. Then again, it's not like there is much expression on her face in general, so her true feelings on the matter are left to be revealed. She glances at Juliet as she approaches and returns a low murmur, but the distance in her eyes remains. Valkieri's parting shot is greeted with the briefest lifting of brows before she dismisses it with a slight flick of her pale blue eyes toward the sky. She refocuses on the conversation between Aldwin and Niccolo, maybe seeming -slightly- apologetic as she looks at her uncle.

Fortunato wraps his canvas up, holds in and his easel overhead, and with a last apologetic look at Valkieri (when the lord is safely not looking at him), skulks back out through the garden.

*in=it

"I am not in the habit of allowing others to inform me as to what I want," Belladonna tells Valkieri with a twinkling smile, making the attempt at taking his arm for all that he did not offer it. "And you may not be charming, but I expect that if I found the right topic of conversation, you would be interesting -- there are many moments in which that will trump charming entirely." She's not dragging her feet too badly, in letting him make his escape. Only a little bit.

Niccolo lifts his hands palm up at Aldwin. "Of all people here, you're the one I can't argue that point with," he accepts. "I feel ancient, but I suppose you're right, I have a good number of years ahead of me," there is a touch of nostalgia in his expression when he says this. Seeing Eleyna's look his way, he reaches for her hand and if allowed, squeezes it, giving it a small pat.

"A wise habit," Valkieri allows, shifting his arm to allow Belladonna to take it. "I /will/ allow you to suggest that there are topics in the world I find engaging; that, at least, is not so entirely inaccurate to suggest." He glances at her, gaze sweeping across her expression, and he murmurs something to her in a lower voice.


As others depart, one latecomer arrives, in the form of Sudara - the black-clad widowed Voice of Pravus leaving her attendant guards just outside the garden, as she slips inside, pausing just within the entrance to survey the scene before starting to wend her way towards her Duchess. Offering due respect to the hostess is all the more advisable when she is also one's liege, after all.


Some bit of amusement twinkles in Aldwin's eyes at Niccolo's answer. "You have just reached that unfortunate age where you are, as they say, old enough to know better. Leaving you with fewer escapes when youth leads you astray, eh?" He looks at the other two standing nearby - Juliet and Eleyna - and asks, "How has this spring found you?"

Settling in at Valkieri's side once she's taken his arm, Belladonna chuckles softly for his words, offering up a cheshire sort of smile. "I will just have to find them," she answers agreeably, quieting for his more softly spoken words. He gets a thoroughly pleased smile in response, and she leans in to answer him just as quietly. Sudara's approach catches her attention though, and she slows her steps a bit to greet her. "Lady Sudara -- I am so glad you could make it. I will be back in a moment; I've promised to see Lord Rubino out. The Archscholar is here; if you could ensure he is entertained, I would very much appreciate it." That's followed by another apologetic smile sent towards Valkieri, asking silently for forgiveness for the interruption.

"I'm so very glad to have some heat again, your worship," Juliet offers to the Arcscholar, with a little smile. "The winter in Arx may not have been the harshest, but it did terrible things to my skin." She reaches up, patting at a cheek, offering a little smile. Sudara's appearance causes her eyes to brighten, and she wiggles her fingers in greeting to the woman. Taking another sip of wine and murmuring quietly into her glass.

Eleyna squeezes Niccolo's hand in return when he reaches for hers. A surprisingly warm gesture from a generally cold woman. She glances at Aldwin and murmurs, "Grateful. I was born and bred in Lenosia. The cold has not agreed with me." Polite, cool words with distantly friendly inflection, but there is the faintest longing in her pale eyes at the mention of her home before it's gone just as quickly as it came. "And how has the Spring found you?"

"So it would seem," Niccolo concedes to Aldwin, and looks from him to Juliet and finally to Eleyna. He spots Sudara stepping into the garden and then her path taking her to Belladonna. "If you all would excuse me. I have more family to go greet," he points out, and dips his head respectfully to Aldwin. Then steps to Juliet, to kiss her cheek. Then moves over to Eleyna and kisses her cheek as well. He then steps towards Sudara.


Juliet's finger-wiggle goes *wholly* ignored... at least until Sudara is safely past Belladonna, who receives a graceful inclination of the head, a curtsey, and murmured acceptance of the honour done to her. Once the Duchess's attention is elsewhere, however, Sudara offers Juliet a cheery wink as she closes on the Archscholar and his companions. She meets Niccolo as he seeks to disengage himself from his prior conversation, again dipping into a curtsey. "My lord. I hope that the evening finds you well."


"The winter wind can be harsh and dry," Aldwin laments in agreement with Juliet. To Eleyna, "There were lemon groves outside of Lenosia where I once spent a winter, preparing some cuttings to help with hardier plants. I recall the time fondly, the scent of the blooms in spring was incomparable." A dip of his head is given to he departing Niccolo. "But this spring has found me... busy."

Valkieri offers Sudara a nod before she's gone, then turns his attention back to Belladonna. His voice remains low in its reply to her, but the line of his mouth is curved faintly upwards.

Eleyna receives Niccolo's kiss and notes his departure with a faint nod before turning her attention back to Aldwin and Juliet. Her eyes meet the Archscholar's and she murmurs in reply, "As are all of us. Plans made in the winter cold are now beginning to be sown as the ground thaws. We'll see what survives to harvest." She glances at Sudara as the woman approaches and offers a polite note before returning her focus to the conversation at hand.

It is clear that Belladonna's attention has been caught entirely by Valkieri; she smiles with clear pleasure for his quietly spoken words, gives a little dip of her head. His arm gets a squeeze and she offers a soft reply of her own before letting go of him with seeming reluctance.

"Thankfully, the Apothecary College has spent a great deal of time investigating how best to deal with the hurts and aches that may affect the skin. And our shipments have been a priority." Juliet muses, wiggling her fingers to the departing Niccolo and taking another little sip of wine. "And now I feel at a loss. My greatest ambitions are whom I should take to my bed next, and that rarely requires more than a season's planning."

Aldwin is spared the need to respond to Juliet's plans for beds when one of his Templars, left at the gate earlier, now approaches. The Archscholar tips his head and listens to some murmured words. "They are ready to transfer the Legate's Black Reflections to storage, and I need to oversee the matter." The Arscholar bows his head to Eleyna, then to Juliet, before turning to follow the Templar out. Sudara receives her own nod and smile in passing.

His goodbyes to the host spoken, Valkieri makes his departure from the party.

Lady cousin," Niccolo greets Sudara, allowing a touch of a smile to show on his features. "It finds me as it finds me," he remarks, but inclines his head to her good wishes. "I hope yours finds you well," he says to the woman. "We still need to make some time to have a drink or two," he tells her and glances around, snatching a glass of wine from a passing server. He looks from Sudara to the group and nods. "Don't let me stop you, though, you should go mingle."

Turning back to the party now that she's seen Valkieri out, Belladonna looks briefly disappointed when she notes Aldwin also heading towards the doors. She sends a smile in that direction, a respectful bow of her head -- and then she's turning to move towards Niccolo and Sudara.

Eleyna nods when Aldwin declares his intention to go. She fixes a curious gaze on the Templar and his murmur, but does not intrude with a question. Instead, she murmurs, "Gods be with you." She lifts the wineglass to her lips, passing a disinterested look over what remains of the party before offering idly to Juliet, "Do you think it's you or me that's driving them all away?"


"I was given a ducal commission to entertain the Archscholar, no less," Sudara says to Niccolo, lips quirking into a wry smile. "Though it seems that in that regard I have failed before I even start." She deeply inclines her head to the departing man in question, before looking back to her cousin. "But yes - should you wish to ply such a failure with drink, then I would gladly use up some of your reserves of wine at some point in the near future."


"Mm," Juliet agrees with Elayna's goodbye to the Arcscholar. Shaking her head at Sudara. "I am sure he was entertained by your introduction. Lady Sudara. Have you met her highness Princess Eleyna Velenosa?" Gesturing to the woman at her side, taking a step closer to Niccolo and Sudara, and making sure she's leaving room for said Princess. "Princess Eleyna, this is Lady Sudara Pravus, Speaker of the Truesworn and a -fascinating woman-."

Niccolo looks at Aldwin as he departs and offers a wry faint smile to Sudara. "You only failed because I stopped you," he tells her and then glances at Juliet and Elayna. "But there are two ladies that could still use your attention. I'll send a messenger, or better yet, send me one when you find yourself free," he says and leans in, to kiss his cousin on the cheek. "I'm going to nurse this glass of wine now."

"You can hardly be blamed that he chose to leave before you managed to engage him," Belladonna assures Sudara as she slips up to Niccolo's side, reaching to hook her arm through his. Just in case he gets the idea that he's going to leave, too. "I'm glad to see you, my lady." She smiles for Juliet and Eleyna, though she doesn't say anything to either of them.


Sudara gently leans into Niccolo's kiss as she rests a hand on his arm, allowing familial affection to override a more conventionally courtly response. "I shall seek to corner you and whatever wine remains soon," she promises to him. Then she laughs softly, flashes a smile at Belladonna, and sinks into a deep curtsey for Eleyna. "Your Highness. I dread to think quite what I have done to earn such a description from Juliet" - she flicks a playful glance to the lady in question - "but I hope that you will not be too direly disappointed by the reality."


Eleyna nods to Sudara, "A pleasure to meet you, my lady. I believe we might have met in the past, when I was a child. I had heard of the passing of your husband. You have my deepest condolences." Her voice holds a rare note of utter sincerity as she looks into Sudara's eyes for a moment before glancing away.

"...I don't know why everyone keeps saying things like that," Juliet offers, glibly, against her wine. In a tone of voice that denotes she knows -exactly- why. "But the Lady Sudara is well-read and an engaging conversationalist." She quirks a brow at Niccolo, canting her head slightly. "It looks like you may have been caught, my lord." Looking to Belladonna's arm, shooting the Duchess a small smile. "And I for one commend you, my lady. his lordship is far too much fun to let slip away so easily."

"Your duchess is wise," Niccolo tells Sudara off Belladonna's words to her. He allows his niece to hook his arm with hers, trapping him where he is. He looks at her with some amusement. Any ideas of leaving just seem to disappear, as he brings that glass of wine he grabbed to his lips. "It does appear I've been caught," but he certainly doesn't seem to mind. "I have my moments," he concedes to Juliet. "I'm sure some would disagree, mind you."

The look of amusement from her uncle has Belladonna smiling sweetly up at him, a little laugh escaping for the interplay between he and Juliet. His arm gets a little pat from her free hand, her attention going between Eleyna and Sudara, focusing on the former after a moment with a slight frown. She breathes out a sigh and shakes her head after a moment, watching Sudara for her reaction before she looks sidelong up to Niccolo again.

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


"I have the blessing and burden of my children," Sudara quietly answers Eleyna, her own gaze troubled... and sympathetic. "I see my late husband whenever I am with them. Which is pain as well as pleasure. And I must strive to be both parents at once for them, rather than... just myself. There are times when I am acutely aware that I am just the remaining half of what was once a whole." A somewhat unsteady breath precedes a forced smile... then she moves closer, intending to snare Juliet's arm if permitted. "By 'engaging conversationalist' I'm sure that Juliet just means that I talk to excess about the Truesworn. They do seem to be becoming the favourite 'barbarians' of a portion of Arx," she teases, trying to step away from darker thoughts.


Eleyna catches Belladonna's look of disapproval with a lifted brow but focuses the entirety of her attention on Sudara, murmuring something before she pulls back, finishes the last of the wine she'd been drinking. She passes the glass off to a passing servant and offers those gathered an icy smile, "It seems that my charm is not quite what it should be tonight. That's a good sign that I should take my leave. Lovely party, cousin. Hopefully, we can meet again in a setting where my lack of charm isn't so glaringly apparent. Good night." Eleyna offers both a kiss on the cheek in farewell to Belladonna and Niccolo, seeming to pause for an instant near the duke before she's pulling back and making her way for the exit.

A messenger steps in, making as low a profile as possible and delivering a scroll to Juliet, which she opens only after giving an apologetic look to the gathered crowd, then quickly slips into her sash, returning her attention to the gathering. "Please, we barely even talked about the Truesworn, Lady Pravus." Juliet insists to Sudara. Taking the woman's arm. Leaning into her touch. Giving a small pout to Elayna, and raising her hand in a wave. "I do hope we meet again, your highness. I should like to talk with you at greater length, some time."

Niccolo returns Belladonna's look. "You and I have some things to talk about, don't we," he muses to his niece and drinks from his glass, leaning a little towards his Pravus niece. He turns his attention to Sudara, listening to her, his own expression becoming openly sympathetic. When Eleyna offers her farewell, he leans into her kiss and then passes his glass to the hand hooked with Bella, so he can reach out to touch Eleyna's arm when she pauses near him. He dips his head, and then lets her go.

"We do," Belladonna agrees with Niccolo, sending another smile up his way. She dips her head to eleyna, the smile sent in her direction pleasant enough. "Good night," she answers, offering no commentary on the rest of the woman's words. Just a tip of her head, and she looks to Juliet and Sudara. "Thank you both for coming -- it seems to have been quite the successful event. Please feel free to stay as long as you might wish; enjoy the pool, the water is _quite_ warm. There is still plenty of food and drink to be had."