Charlemagne the Unicorn arrives, following Larissa.

Larissa arrives, following Angelo.

Angelo strides into the garden with his back wholly straightened and his chin lifted in lofty poise of lordly grace. Both of his arms are occupied, like all accomplished bookish lord should be: to the left looped to the arm of Larissa and to the right clutching to two books. His gaze travels across the garden to try and decipher whomever might've made their attendance. Clearly, he's trying to make a statement by arriving quite on time.

The atmosphere for the second summer celebration within House Pravus proves a good deal more sedate than the last, the late summer laziness leaving the afternoon feeling distinctly low-key. Attentive servants stand ready to cater to the whims of guests, but their minds seem to wander in the moments in between, occasionally caught staring off at the horizon in absent daydreams. Tables bearing an wide assortment of food and a wider assortment of booze stand closer to the house where they might be readily replenished as the party draws on.

At the moment, Lady Lianne Pravus, the birthday girl and guest of honor, is not precisely playing proper hostess. She has situated herself on a bench in her stunning midnight blue dress with its plunging neckline and near translucence... and is working on correspondence? Yes, she's writing one last letter to be sent off via a patiently waiting messenger. There is, at least, a glass of wine close at hand, settled on the bench beside her. To her other side sits an intimidatingly large dark-furred dire wolf with golden eyes, staring at the entrance warily, ready to keep all guests at a more-than-polite distance.

It's only after the letter's set off that she lifts her glass, looks up and turns a bright smile to Angelo and Larissa, glass lifted in greeting. Then whispers a few short words to the wolf who chuffs out a sound of what might be grudging understanding.

Felix is out in the garden with a tumbler full of Setarco Fire already, enjoying his time over by the booze tables while he patiently waits for Lianne to finish up her last bit of business. Silver eyes glance over her way as she writes, but his gaze does eventually find Angelo as he makes his way into the party. His tumbler is raised in greeting and he offers the man a warm, friendly sort of smile. There's another uncertain look back towards Lianne, though as his mind wonders whether or not he should back her up in hosting duties.

Pietro wanders into and then through the party in black and red silk, a faint, fiery pattern in the diagonal crossing of the shirt he wears open at the throat. He finds a glass of pale wine to carry with him, sipping at it thoughtfully as he explores the garden and offers a blithe and easy smile for the nearest fellow partygoers.

Larissa arrives on the arm of Angelo Fidante, his guest and companion for the evening. She's murmuring to him quietly as they walk arm in arm down the warm evening road, her smile bright and eyes alight and happy at whatever musings they discuss between them. When they arrive to the party, it is with a bemused little smile as she notes Lianne absorbed in her correspondence. Only when the birthday girl was finished does Larissa step forward and offer a curtsy "Many Happy returns to you, my Lady" she smiles, because birthday girls could cry if they want to! Or write letters!

Angelo is all smiles for Felix and Pietro as he makes his way over to the hostess, the birthday guest of honor, Lianne. Larissa greets her first before his own mellifluous voice travels across: "A Happy Birthday to you, my Lady Lianne Pravus, and may you have many happy more." His hand relaxes his tight clutch of the books so that they slide down to the palm of his hand and he extends them both. "I have brought you a couple of gifts, if this is the pause for gifts? Two books. One-- my favorite book, one which I feel goes in theme to exemplify the conversation we had when we met, and the other is a trade of my family, a show of cordiality if you may."

As Lianne gets to her feet, so does Blitz, his golden-eyed attention flitting warily among the guests, that scrutiny no less sharp for the comforting touch of her fingers settled into his fur. She turns a warm, uncertain smile of her own to Felix as she tips her head in the direction of the others, making plain where she and the beast at her side will be heading. She settles her glass on a nearby table before drawing up toward Angelo and Larissa, the latter offered the first, "Thank you," and the former, more familiar, earning, "And thank you as well, Lord Angelo. There are exceedingly few gifts I enjoy better than thoughtfully selected reading material." Which, strange as it sounds, seems wholly true, some soft delight finding her features at the very idea. "It is a genuine pleasure to see you again. Might you introduce me to your companion?" Her evergreen gaze flits curiously to Larissa before continuing on to Pietro. "Lord Igniseri. A delight to see you again as well. Have you tried the Setarco Fire yet?" That would be the red, fiery alcohol on offer today along side wines and whiskeys and meads and all other manner of inebriant.

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

He may not be a Stormborn, but at least he wears the colors of one. Jackson Brooks may not be Argento by blood, he only works for them. However he's made no illusions about his close friendship with one Lord Salazar. And well, he might as well say hello to his boss's boss. Which would be Pravus. So here the sea Captain arrives, carrying a sealed bottle with him. Nothing wrong with saying happy birthday to someone higher on the food chain than him. He knows how to hob-knob well enough with the best of them. The man does stand a moment, after entering as if watching the small gathered crowd and deciding who exactly to say hello to first.

"I haven't," Pietro says with the little sketch of a bow towards Lianne. He pours back the rest of his wine in a gulp so that he can investigate the recommended spirit. "But as a Flame, I can hardly do otherwise than try such a thing, my lady. Happy birthday," he adds on an easy laugh. "I was also going to buy you a book, but then I was struck with paralyzing indecision, so I'm afraid I'm going to have to either buy you /all/ the books, or else something will strike my fancy later and I'll send it to you for no apparent reason."

She is all dolled up, though Belladonna has chosen darker colors for this gathering, rather than her more customary fiery reds and yellows. The little Duchess drifts in after the party has already started, lingering on the edges to place several of the guards with her eyes. She nods to herself, scans until she spots Lianne -- there's a brief pause and a moment's staring at Blitz, but passes on again. When her eyes fall on Larissa they hold there a moment, then flick to Angelo; her smile fades for a moment before it returns as her gaze moves on.

Angelo checked perception against difficulty 20, resulting in 17, 3 lower than the difficulty.

"Larissa, the Softest of House Whisper," Angelo is quick to make introductions between Larissa and Lianne with a peek over at the woman looped around his left arm, before warming a smile back to the birthday lady. "I do hope you enjoy the reads. The one of the Count is statedly criticized for having no lesson nor theme -- but I trust that my lady will remember our last conversation and understand the gradiation used in choosing it. There is definitely a theme." His smile warms further at the edges before he allows the two women converse between each other.

Felix raises his glass in greeting to Pietro as well, the man familiar enough to the large smith as he's seen him at more than one party. "Lord Pietro, good to see you," he intones in his loud speaking voice. As people continue to arrive, he grabs another drink from the table and makes his way towards where they seem to be converging. He settles the extra drink down near to Lianne and gives her a look before tipping his own drink back against his lips.

Yeeeah, a lot of people that Jackson doesn't know. But hey, there's Belladonna. Does he know her? She looks pretty important. And since she arrived the same time as him, that's who he moves to first. "My Lady," he greets giving a vague salute from the tip of his brow. "My boss, Lord Salazar asked me to drop by, said something about a birthday. He's a bit busy at the moment, and I was told to deliver this to the...Lady Lianne, I think." It's quite old looking bottle of Lycene wine, likely some kind of fancy vintage. "Captain Jackson Brooks, in service to Argento and a long lost son of Arx."

Larissa beams a gracious smile to Angelo as he introduces her, and she too passes over a pretty book of poetry to the Pravus Lady "I hope you enjoy it, and that it may uplift you when you find you need it." she murmurs. "It is a delight to meet you, I've heard such high praise of you from Lord Angelo. I confess I am ever attracted to a studious and curious mind, it's one of the many reasons I delight in being asked to accompany him on his many adventures of the city." she smiles and steps back. When Belladonna arrives, Larissa smiles in her direction and soon enough she is looking around at the many faces she's not yet met, murmuring quietly in Angelo's ear.

Cristoph makes his own arrival rather late it seems, followed by a generic servant carrying a black velvet wrapped rectangular something, he lingers at the edge of the party for a moment as he takes in the unfamiliar guests. After this moment of hesitation the duke then approaches the obvious centrepiece of the proceedings and delivers a neat bow to Lianne in the wake of Jackson's own greeting, straightening to then direct a smile at the man. "I had the pleasure of a brief introduction to your lord earlier today." Then to Lianne. "I am thankful that my recent arrival in Arx did not miss your celebration my lady, I do not believe we have been introduced but I am Duke Cristoph Laurent, you may have met Arch Lector Cassandra my elder sister during your residence here in the capital." He motions to the previously mentioned generic servant at this point, who unwraps a leather bound , gold trimmed book and presents it to the birthday noblewoman. "I heard that you study natural philosophy and hope that this is a suitable gift rather than too dry a subject."

Bianca was lead by house servants through to the garden blessing Pravus Manor's external beauty. In her hand she carried a bottle of Dragon's Flame - Wyrmguard Signature Scotch, a simple bow of scarlet silk ribbon adorning its neck. Once outside, silvered gaze drifted idly about to take in the surroundings as well as the location of those present.

Someone is speaking to her. Belladonna turns her attention to Jackson, a moment taken to look him over before she increases the warmth of her smile and dips her head politely. "That is Lady Lianne, there," she offers softly, gesturing in the appropriate direction. "Welcome, Captain Brooks. I am glad that you were able to make it to represent House Argento. I am certain that Lord Salazar appreciates it." She watches Cristoph as he passes she and Jackson by. He's studied a moment before her eyes turn back to Jackson. "You may wish to get in line." She doesn't introduce herself, nor does she stay for conversation, drifting back a few steps along the path, turning to circle around and away from the entrance by way of a side path.

Belladonna has joined the a shadowy corner.

Bianca had just arrived, still sort of lingering near the entrance as she attempted to locate the belle of the ball and anyone else she may recognize. BAM. Larissa and Lianne. Right next to each other too! The scholar-knight carefully made her way toward the small gathering surrounding the birthday girl.

"Such a compelling choice," Lianne remarks to Pietro with bright-eyed delight. "To have more books than I could ever find time to read or to learn, on later whim, what might pique the interest of a man such as yourself. I do hope you aren't expecting /me/ to decide." When Felix slides that glass near at hand for her, she reaches out to take it with a grateful look turned toward the smith, glass lifted to him before she drinks. Little drink. Just a teensy sip. No bravado like last time. It leaves her ready to offer a bright smile to Larissa as the poetry is offered over and quickly situated atop the the others. She's growing her own little library, it seems, and utterly nothing could please her more. "Lord Angelo does have quite the way with words, doesn't he? And to have more words offered, from unfamiliar hands, you honor me. Thank you."

Surely, Lianne catches Belladonna somewhere amid the crowd, the duchess considered as she moves through the garden, but she has another approaching, tugging her attention from that thought and bringing up her easy smile again. Evergreen brilliance turned to Cristoph. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Duke Laurent. And to know that the reputation of my insatiable curiosity has spread so well. I do not know who I ought to thank for spreading such rumors, but they are most certainly true. Thank you." Another book for the stack, all too gladly accepted. "How are you finding Arx?" She offers a small smile to Bianca, a little somber, but tries not to divide her attention too much, empty hand again settling on Blitz who keeps wary vigil over his charge.

On her way to her out of the way corner, Belladonna does collect herself a tumbler of fire. She also pauses to speak to several of the guards, and it is a ripple effect that she leaves in her wake. Said guards move about and speak quietly to one another, and several of them find new places to stand as the rest slip out. It does not leave the party unguarded, but the heavy presence is dialed back considerably. Once she's found her space she settles down upon a bench, sipping from her glass and watching the assembled.

"Master Meadson, good to see you, too," Pietro gives Felix a wide and easy smile as he lifts his new drink. "I think that I'm more likely to be able to /carry/ a single book, my lady, for while I'm no slouch, there are quite a few in the world to manage," he says with an easy laugh. "Duke Laurent has clearly bested my future randomness with his fine-looking selection, however. Good afternoon, my lord."

Cassius steps out of the manor, into the garden, and the man looks many things. First, and likely most importantly, he looks not-shiny. While he wears a sword at his hip - the gunmetal grey pommel polished to a mirror finish - he is otherwise totally out of his armor. He's back to his usual KoS uniform jacket and trousers. Yes, even to a party, yes, even in summer. Second, he looks clean. Bathed and scrubbed, no stinking today! And third, he looks tired. But who cares. He carries with him a small package wrapped in paper. A present! Once out of the house and in the gardens, he stops, to look over the crowd.

Angelo's smile is shared between Larissa and Lianne, before complaining with a faint chuckle, "Oh, my lady, Softest Whisper, you flatter me so. I am just a lord with a bookish disposition -- but one who is very fond of fellow readers. I do wish you a good and happy birth-day. Do not let me meddle in the way of you greeting the rest of the guests, though." With that said, he takes a few steps back after a bow of his head, before he whispers something back to Larissa. The greeting the birthday lady gives to Cristoph catches his attention -- and then he looks over at Belladonna at the distant corner of the garden. He gives her a smile from afar -- albeit weighing if she will be receptive of his gaze, enough to approach at least.

"So it seems." Jackson eyes the said stated line, nodding to Belladonna who clearly seem to want to be left alone. So the captain will move forward, entering said cue in the line. He doesn't seem to be in any particular rush, considering the amount of people that seem to be swarming around Lianne. Reaching into an inside pocket of his surcoat, he withdraws a cigar case. Opening it, he plucks out one of herbal cigars, then pulling over a man with a light and getting the end to light, puffing slightly.

"The pleasure is entirely mutual Lady Lianne." Cristoph answers the woman in question, a glance given to the other's present. "As to Arx? It is rather a different prospect to visiting Sanctum. Might I appeal to you or one of your friends for introductions? I have relatives amongst the Lyceum, the Duke of Fidante is my first cousin, but have not had the opportunity to meet very many yet. You have assembled quite the collection of notables giving you their regards."

The small smile of acknowledgment was shared in kind to Lianne, not wanting to interrupt her time with the guest that had approached her. She would wait her turn, for now distracting herself with her approach to Angelo and Larissa. Bianca's head tilted in slight bow to the pair, polite smile present though never reaching the breadth of silvered gaze most likely due to recent events. "Good afternoon."

When Angelo looks her way, Belladonna considers him for a moment before she finally tips her head to him in acknowledgment. There's no particular hostility there, though she doesn't manage to summon up any warmth for her gaze for him, either. She sips from her glass, staying quiet and still over in her corner for the time being. Watching Lianne and those around her does seem to curve her smile up some.

Felix is all stature, but mostly quiet as he looks around to the others attending the function with a broad smile on his lips. When Pietro speaks up in greeting, he grins more brightly over at the man and inclines his head in a nod to him. That's not to say he doesn't regard the others. When he finally does speak up, it's in a playful aside to Lianne. "It's a shame Master Lucio couldn't make it, hmm?"

Larissa inclines her head to Lianne and moves out of the way to let her greet her other guests. As she does so, she catches sight of Bianca and her gaze morphs into something somber and sorrowful "My Lady" she murmurs quietly, moving over to the Noble Lady Knight and murmuring something in her ear. She sends a smile to Angelo and moves over to the drink tables, pouring them each a glass of wine as she hands one to her Lord and one to the Lady Bianca. "I hope if I can offer you any help at all, you won't hesitate." she nods to Bianca just as Cassius walks in. Ahh the Grumpy Knight. True to her promise she absolutely beams at the sight of him as she curtsies to him as well "My Lord Cassius, a pleasure to see you again." she murmurs as she retakes Angelo's arm, leaning in and murmuring somethign to him as well.

Cassius spots Lianne. If there's eye contact, he will merely nod, but his gaze continues on until he finds Belladonna. He starts towards her, but then pauses, when Larissa smiles at him. And talks to him. Gods above, the torture is nigh unbearable. "Miss Larissa," Cassius grumbles out in a rather unfriendly voice. As ever, the knight with the stern, grouchy sort of look is both stern and grouchy. Waisting no further time, he makes his way directly to Belladonna. Soon as he's within reach, he holds his free hand out to her.

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

Bianca accepted the offer of wine readily, svelte fingertips of free hand capturing the glass as if an anchor of sorts before she responded to Larissa's initial whisperings in a softened murmur, "Thank you, mistress. We share opinion on the matter and I appreciate your tact." Attention then lifted to Angelo, "Sir, I believe I have seen you in passing, but never met in an official capacity. Lady Bianca Wyrmguard, Voice of House Wyrmguard." Her head tilted in respectful nod of greeting.

When she spots Cassius approaching, Belladonna's face lights up with a mixture of pleasure and relief. She rises promptly and takes the hand offered to her -- but then she's stepping in to lean against his chest, tucking her head beneath his chin. Her glass is lifted to be held over his shoulder, her wrist resting on him carefully. There are a few quiet words spoken. She doesn't lean against him for too terribly long, and when she does draw back, she offers up a smile.

"A slight easily forgiven," Lianne notes quietly to Felix, "given how fine a gift he offered at our last celebration." She shares a small, conspiratorial smile with the smith before lifting her glass toward Pietro and asking Felix, "Would you be so kind as to see to it that Lord Igniseri joins us in our enjoyment of the Fire today?" Her gaze flits about those moving through the gardens, the nod toward Cassius reciprocated, before resettling upon Cristoph. "Every city has its own cadence, its own song," she starts, interrupted momentarily as a messenger delivers her a hefty missive, one she keeps with her, unopened for the moment. "I find Arx nearer a cacophony, as if several melodies were playing through its streets all at once, the challenge in finding the one you wish to follow. Now, if you will be so kind as to indulge me, which of the paths before us--" She gestures idly with her glass over the assorted guests gathered about the garden. "--might you wish to walk first?"

Angelo seemed like he was about to head towards Belladonna, but instead he is caught by the greeting of Bianca -- and receiving a wineglass from Larissa. Noting that Cassius has now approached the solitary duchess, he can focus wholly on his conversation. "My Lady, greetings," he tells her, noting the tone that Larissa uses for her -- somber and sorrowful. He seems to be trying to recognize why it must be so, but he won't make any guesses. He waits for her to introduce herself before he follows suit for his own name. "I am the Lord Angelo Fidante, and it is a good pleasure to acquaintance you, my lady. I have been talking with the Marquessa Dominique over the few weeks -- the start of an alliance, I am hoping. Let me extend my offer to help with anything you might need, should there be anything I can do." He doesn't offer condolences, perhaps out of tact for the birthday party, and sips from his wineglass. The murmur of Larissa before they engaged in the conversation is for the moment postponed, though he gives a small little nod.

"Lady Lianne? Captain Jackson Brooks, of Argento." Jackson eventually steps forward, offering her the bottle as a gift. "I should be apologizing for my boss's missing presence. Busy work an all that. So he's sent little ol me in his place. But Salazar promises that this is a prized bottle in his collection and he wanted you to have it as a gift. Fact is, I'm actually a bit jealous, because I've been eyeing this one for a particular number of years. Ah, well, spurned yet again." The end gets a little wink. "But! Happy birthday from a Captain such as myself."

Belladonna checked composure + manipulation against difficulty 15, resulting in 54, 39 higher than the difficulty.

Felix can't help but grin at Jackson, dipping his head in a nod to the man in quieter greeting. He's standing off to Lianne's side towering over most. The conspiratorial look is shared with Lianne then before he bursts out into a happy chuckle. "Happy Birthday, Lady Lianne." The large smith does glance over towards Belladonna and Cassius of course, studying them briefly before returning his attention to Jackson. "I do have to admit...that is pretty damn heartbreaking."

Cassius slips one arm - the one holding the gift - about Belladonna's waist to hold her close. He listens to her whispers, then turns his face, to press a kiss to her ear. It's subtle, it's modest, but it's entirely open affection. Lingering there, he whispers to her. One sentence, then the next, and then he finally draws back. He releases Bella's waist, but keeps her hand. "Should we approach Lianne? Or wait for her to move?" he mummbles aside, sounding just a little bit like a general planning to ambush an enemy. Surely, though, Lianne is not his enemy, right? Still, the man seems eager to rid himself of the gift he carries in his hand.

Cristoph hmms now, considering, as he rolls his weight back onto his heels some and makes a show of looking across the gathered notables. "That is a rather insightful way of viewing things my lady. If my home is a relatively simple tune, Sanctum a more complex and joined melody? Arx is every possible anthem thrown together at once then shocked into incoherence and jarring broken melodies by the unprecedented events of the last year." He gives an inclination of his head to Jackson then before noting of each group present. "I had the pleasure of briefly acquainting myself with House Whisper the other day in retaining them to host a salon for me and my sister to greet our cousins in House Fidante. I have not had the pleasure of meeting your liege Duchess Belladonna though? She is hosting this event and it would be amiss of me not to introduce myself."

Penelope arrives, delivering a message to Pietro before departing.

Bianca gave another small incline of her head, gracious as ever. "Ah yes, the marquessa mentioned to me that she had been in talks in regards to an alliance of sorts. I look forward to a mutually fortuitous future with our families." She paused at his latter words, a moment taken before her response. "I will keep that in mind, my lord. Thank you."

Whatever it is Cassius whispers to her, Belladonna's expression washes over with something briefly -- openly -- grateful. She looks up at him a bit wide-eyed for a moment, before she leans in again to press a kiss against his cheek. A few more quiet words for him before she shifts back again. When she settles in at his side with her hand wound with his, her demeanor has a bit more cheer than it did before, her smile brighter. "Let us approach her," she says. "Otherwise the party will be over before we manage to catch her."

Pietro sends a return message off with Penelope and runs his hand through his hair, sipping from his drink. He finishes it off, and then sighs a little as he abandons the glass to the care of a servant. "Alas, it appears business calls me away," he says, and then turns, ducking his head as he heads out of the garden again.

Ferrando trucks in all fasionably late as per usual. Is it free Setarcean food time again? Why yes, it's free Setarcean food time again. Into the queue of birthday well-wishers he goes, although it's probably kind of short by now. "Best wishes for your birthday and many more to come," he declares to Lianne warmly when it's his turn (when you're an essentially irrelevant commoner it's good form to move it along after all), and societal obligations properly discharged it's off to the grounds at large to get his fish dish on.

Angelo gives a faint smile to Bianca after a bout of thoughtful distraction. He returns to the conversation with a present and soft voice, "I look forward to it too, my lady. Please do not doubt to send for me should you need my help in anything." When Cristoph mentions House Fidante, he peeks his way for a brief curious moments, but doesn't seem like he intends to interrupt the conversation and he focuses back on Bianca. "I wish to take some air-- if you might excuse me?" He looks towards one of the corners of the garden longingly.

"Perhaps," Lianne offers with a little conspiratorial lean toward Jackson, a lean which has the entirely too large direwolf at her side rumbling a low note of disapproval for the unfamiliar man, "we will have to find reason to crack it open tonight. Like a birthday celebration. Or a fine late summer afternoon with strangers." She calls for a servant to collect the bottle of wine and open it, to pour glasses that might be shared among the guests, herself and Jackson most certainly a priority. She tells Cristoph, "Precisely," with a delighted glint in her eyes, so pleased that he understood and embraced that strange metaphor. When his curiosity is turned toward the duchess, she looks Belladonna's direction and asks of the duke, "Shall we?"

Before departing, Lianne offers bright, gracious smile to Ferrando and bids him, "Thank you," then looks to Jackson and Felix to promise, "I'll be back for that wine," which ought to be coming around momentarily. Then, last, to Blitz, that big direwolf at her side, she bids, "Stay here, handsome. I won't long. Try not to scare anyone?" With an annoyed huff, he flops down near the booze table, an ever-present challenge to any wishing to drink. But a challenge Belladonna will be spared as she and Cristoph head over.

Lianne has joined the a shadowy corner.

Cristoph has joined the a shadowy corner.

"Of course, my lord. Please do not let me detain you." Bianca smiled in her soft way, taking a half pace back to further emphasize her words.

Angelo has joined the admiring the view.

Angelo has rolled a critical success!
Angelo checked composure against difficulty 20, resulting in 47, 27 higher than the difficulty.

Angelo moves away from the crowd of the party after a whisper to Larissa, towards one of the corners of the garden with quiet and placid steps. For what it is worth, it might seem as if he actually seems like he needed to air himself admiring the view from the garden. He takes in a deep breath and sips from his wineglass.

Cassius has joined the a shadowy corner.

Larissa watches Ferrando with a little smirk on her face as she can all but see his tongue lolly-gagging out of his mouth and the drool salivating. Ew. Though if he looks her way, she would loft her wineglass up to him in greeting, perhaps looking him over to see his armor if he wore it. Again she looks over at Bianca and smiles, dipping her head in a nod and smiling. As Angelo moves to the window, she watches him carefully, ever attentive even as she flutters about and speaks to those she knew.

As if one needs more of a wink-wink nudge-nudge kind of gesture, Jackson just grins at Lianne. "A woman after my own heart." The wine is poured out and, yeah, he's going to take it. "Like a long-sought lover, this wine has been, not even going to deny that. And a taste that will leave one dreaming for more nights after she's left you." A long sniff at the fragrance. "The boss must've been in a good mood to let this one go. Either that, or he's got some that I don't even know of. Clearly, that needs to change at some point." Not something he drink, this is something to savored. Felix is given a nod. "Indeed. But heartbreak makes you grow fonder, I say. Especially when it comes back around."

Cristoph does consider the direwolf for a moment, eyebrows raising, a glance given down to claws, also fangs, this seems prompted by the rumble, his lips quirking with a hint of a smile. "I think that your companion can hardly help such actions." He notes to Lianne, before inclining his head slightly to Ferrando, Jackson and Felix. "Perhaps I will join you in a moment, talk of that wine has rather tempted me." One hand then shifts to the pommel of his longsword as he follows Lianne across to the corner with Belladonna lurks, guiding the weapon and avoiding it's scabbarded length hitting anyone. He executes a bow once they close, deeper to the hostess, shallower to Cassius though still respectful. "My Lord, Duchess Pravus. I have not been formally introduced to either of you but present myself, Duke Cristoph Laurent. Also my thanks for hosting such a prestigious party that has attracted such notables to attend."

Ferrando hums cheerfully to himself as he selects a plate of squid ink risotto and a plate of frittura di pesce and with a supercasual glance over either shoulder takes a second plate of the fried seafood and dumps it on the original. Make it a double!

Cassius offers Belladonna faint smile, a rare bit of warmth from the stony man. He then starts forward, only to spot Lianne and Cristoph heading their way. Cassius stops, and he kindly waits until they get closer. "Lady Lianne," he says. There's a glance past her, back over, toward Blitz. "You a dog watcher now?" he grumbles out, before refocusing on Lianne. He looks to Cristoph to give a nod. "Lord Cassius Nightgold, and my betrothed, Belladonna Pravus, Duchess of Setarco," he says, handling introductions in that gruff, displeased voice of his. A moments pause, then he thrusts the paper-wrapped gift at Lianne. "Happy birthday," he says. Like it's a bad thing.

Ferrando checked composure + stealth against difficulty 20, resulting in 31, 11 higher than the difficulty.

Ferrando strolls off with his unusually large haul of seafood and polenta. Hmm, wonder how that happened. His strolling takes him by Larissa, to whom he bows and does a little catwalk turn to show off some new gear.

Felix stands for a few moments enjoying his drink and regarding the guests with a smile. He's polite enough to not insert himsef into the ongoing questions, but it does dawn on him that he does have a matter to attend to. "Very true," he says to Jackson with a grin and a dip of his head in a nod. "The Lady Lianne did generously offer to share later, though, I believe." A warm chuckle is given then before he turns his attention to Cristoph. "The company is always welcome," he assures before looking thoughtful for a moment. "I shouldn't stay overly long," he thinks aloud. "Could probably make it back again, though."

There is no one that seems to resent Ferrando's raiding of the food. Belladonna certainly doesn't seem to, though when she does catch sight of the man (during initial plate piling) she smiles to herself. He's watched only briefly, her attention drawn back to Cassius when he stops. It only takes her a moment to spy Lianne and Cristoph heading their way, and she squeezes Cass's hand and leans lightly against him. "It is a pleasure," she offers up, when introduced. "You are most welcome; I am glad that you were able to add to their number. Welcome to Arx." And then she looks to Lianne, smiles warmly. "Happy birthday," she says. Blitz is for the time being ignored, no further glances sent in the enormous creature's direction, even when other people speak of it.

Larissa laughs at Ferrando and claps at the catwalk "Very nice, Ferrando. I quite approve. Though you will be absolutely worthless once you've eaten all of that. I expect you'll be in a coma for a week" she teases as she moves over back to Angelo, returning to his side and sliding an arm through his with a happy murmur in her ear "What a delightful Fete, don't you think so my Lord? Let us remember to send a bouquet of flowers to our Lady Hostess, perhaps some of your prized Fidante roses" she mumbles, stepping out with him towards the balcony as other voices faded and the party began it's full swing.

Larissa has joined the admiring the view.

"She's a damn blessing, is what she is." Jackson offers to Felix lightly. "I think I have to owe her for simply sharing it. I almost won one off of Salazar some time ago. Almost. Got an unlucky hand in that game. Or he's just that good with cards." Looking around, he gives a bit of a nod. "I might be doing the same here shortly. Can't say I really know many people here. Been away too long from Arx, few familiar faces these days."

Ferrando grins nonchalantly. "It'll take more fish than this to knock me off my feet," he observes cheerfully to the Softest Whisper as she departs. As is grand tradition at these soirees, he himself proceeds over to the grove of trees to eat in relative peace and quiet, although he does spot Felix and gives him a little upnod along the way.

Ferrando has joined the among the trees.

Angelo brings his wine-glass to his lips as he takes a moment to relax and enjoy the view. Today, he doesn't seem like he's in his most gregarious moods and he basks in the relative peace of the balcony. Those looking from behind would notice his chest rising and falling in a profound exhalation. His peace is breached when Larissa joins him, turning his attention to her and giving her a faint smile. He gives a small nod of his head and tells her, "It is nice. The Lady Lianne is a charming lady, and House Pravus' last two parties have been without a flaw from what I saw. I've been looking forward to this one, as a matter of fact."

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

"Oh, he can help it," Lianne assures, casting an affectionate look toward Blitz who's staring right back on her, intent on keeping careful watch of his charge even if she's going all the way over there. When they move to greet Belladonna and Cassius, the former is given a warm smile while the latter sees that bow of her lips skewing leftward with amusement. "Lord Cassius, it is the wolf who is watching me." When the wrapped gift is shoved her way, she collects it, holding it, along with the letter as yet unread, against her left hip as she might a stack of books. But the books have already been carted up to her room by staff for safe-keeping. Softer, she offers a, "Thank you," to Belladonna, which may extend to her betrothed given the shallow dip of her head. To Cristoph, she wonders, "Have you had the pleasure of meeting Lady Bianca Wyrmguard yet?" as she looks toward the scholar-knight, picking her out of the crowd.

A smile is offered to Jackson as well as a nod of Felix's head once in response. "Oh, I intend to come back, but aye. I do have to take care of a quick bit of business." The smith raises his glass to Jackson then before turning and heading over to the shadowy emo corner. He doesn't move in close, but rather just close enough to give a wave to those gathered. "I have to run and take care of some quick business, Duchess Pravus, Lady Lianne...but I'll be back a bit later," he anounces to them and regards Cassius and Cristoph briefly as well. He then turns towards the manor again to make his way out of the garden.

Bianca was currently keeping to herself in quiet observation of the attendees gathered. She sipped idly at her wine from time to time and beyond that didn't seem incredibly disposed to engaging socially of her own accord, but her body language wasn't denying it either. A bottle of Dragon's Flame - Wyrmguard Signature Scotch rested at the ready in free hand, a red silk ribbon decorating its neck.

Cassius turns his eyes over to Felix, then gives a nod to the smith. He looks back to Lianne and says a few words in a softer voice.

"It is a pleasure my lady, you do your house proud, of course." Cristoph addresses this to Belladona as he follows Lianne to where the duchess lurks. "My own family has marriage ties to the south but I have not had the opportunity to meet many residents of the Lyceum in person before my arrival here in the capital." Then a bow of his head to Cassius. "A pleasure to meet you Lord Cassius and my no doubt belated congratulations. My own marriage arrangements were..." He considers for a moment as if weighing what word is best suited. "Disrupted some years ago by my elder sister choosing to swear herself to the gods after she was gifted with benediction from Gloria. She now stands as Arch Lector but I was busy enough with adapting to my new role as Voice and heir then duke that nothing was found to replace. I envy you in truth and not just because of your paramour's inarguable beauty." A smile then to Lianne. "I believe I had met her before, but not recently and certainly not since my arrival here in the capital?" Back to Cassius and Belladona. "It was a pleasure to make your acquaintances but I shall not impose further."

There are quiet words spoken to those nearby before Belladonna's attention is caught by Felix. She sends a smile in his direction. "I'll see you later," she calls out for the big smith, lifting her glass to him before she shifts her attention back to those nearby.

Jackson will leave the party-goers to their affairs. He tilts his glass to Felix when he moves and takes a moment to really enjoy and savor his wine. But eventually he'll finish, and setting the glass aside. With his cigar still burning and clenched between his teeth, he'll make his way out quietly.

Larissa as Cristoph turns from Belladonna and Cassius she brightens at the sight of him, where she and Angelo sit overlooking the immeasurable beauty of the view so prettily framed for them. "Duke Laurent! Good evening. Have you yet spoken to your cousin the Lord Angelo Fidante?" she wonders, beaming a gracious smile in his direction before she calls Bianca as well "My Lady, come join us, please. I simply cannot stand to let this view go to waste. May I also introduce you to the Lord Duke Cristoph Laurent, he is only recently arrived to Arx after his family has been on a long hiatus from the city."

Ferrando casually leans back up against a tree and with plate in one hand and fork in the other diligently works on removing any evidence that certain individual fish ever swam the seas of the world. Occasionally, a somewhat nonplussed messenger ends out there at the tree line with him, and after a bit of quiet discussion is turned back to his point of origin with either a reply or maybe a description of the person they were actually supposed to find.

"Perhaps Arx will prove a compelling setting for a new chapter to that story," Lianne muses to Cristoph. Her own steps are headed toward Bianca, but she casts a bright smile Larissa's way. To the gentleman at her side, she notes, "I won't be too heartbroken if you go meet with Larissa." But it is the solitary knight-scholar whom she approaches, her smile soft and warm. "Lady Wyrmguard, I am glad you could make it. I've been hoping we might find some time to speak, perhaps another time, somewhere quieter?"

Lianne has left the a shadowy corner.

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

Cristoph musters a smile at the bright greeting form Larissa, blinks once, then composes himself and gives a bow of his head to Angelo. "A pleasure to encounter you Lord Angelo, I hope that you will be able to attend my salon at Whisper House in the near future? As the Softest Whisper just mentioned there has been no Laurent presence here in the capital for some time, discounting my sister Arch Lector Cassandra. Our family mansion is still being renovated before I can receive guests but that will no doubt give Larissa's guild an opportunity to demonstrate their unparalleled ability to host a refined and memorable event." He follows Lianne toward Bianca then before bowing his head to her. "A pleasure to find another native of the Oathlands at this event, I hope that the day finds you well my lady?"

Cristoph has left the a shadowy corner.

Belladonna lets go of Cassius long enough to take and squeeze Lianne's hand, offering a little smile. Then she's taking his hand again. She watches the pair of them walk off, then turns back to her betrothed and murmurs something to him quietly.

Bianca's brows lifted in unison as Larissa called to her, head tilting slightly for the brevity of a passing moment before beginning her approach to the Whisper and her company but diverted by Lianne. Her smile was soft as well, but still lacking in emphasis. The bottle was offered toward the birthday girl. "I would be remiss not to make an appearance, my lady." Her head dipped at the question. "Of course. I also wished to thank you for your kind letter. It was very much appreciated." Her attention turned to Cristoph shortly there after, "A pleasure to make your acquaintance as well... Duke Laurent, was it?" She squinted mildly as she seemed to try to recall the accuracy of the name.

Cassius dips a nod as Lianne and Cristoph depart. Then, along, he turns his attention to Belladonna. He starts to speak, only to have a house staffer come and hand over a stack of papers. He narrows his eyes at the man, but something keeps him from saying what he's so obviously thinking. He just turns back to Belladonna.

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

Serenity arrives, delivering a message to Cassius before departing.

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

Belladonna's lips twitch at Cassius's expression for the delivery, her eyes sparkling with sudden humor. She gives him an impish smile sidelong, and then she gives his hand a tug and starts for the doors back into the manor.

Belladonna has left the a shadowy corner.

Cassius has left the a shadowy corner.

"Yes," Cassius finally says, to Belladonna, as he pages through the messages. "By the Gods..." he mutters. "What is it.. why..." he takes a long breath in, holds it a moment, then releases it slowly. "Yes, I need to get to a desk," he mutters, to Belladonna.

Angelo turns his attention from the view towards Cristoph when Larissa addresses him. "Ah, my lord cousin Cristoph, I have heard of you," he greets him, his voice pitched with a soft musical quality to it, "only in books of the heritage of our two families. But here we are, meeting in bone and flesh." He gives the man's arm a faint squeeze of cordiality, even as his eyes study his face and his reaction to his words. "I have not met the Archlector of Gloria yet. I do hope you can acquaintance me to her in the salon, because I will surely go to it. How has she been faring? I read of-- your ascension. Few leave a ducal seat -- the calling she had must've been strong, and she must be a wise woman to choose to follow it." After a pause, he looks to Larissa and adds, "I haven't yet attended any events of the Softest Whisper, but I've an inkling that she's a meticulous woman with a keen eye for organization of these events."

Lianne accepts the scotch with a bright smile that doesn't quite find her eyes, some hint of sorrow therein. For the moment, though, she leaves it at that, in part because Cassius' not entirely unheard muttering pulls her attention away, but mostly because a messenger approaches. She takes the message and hands over the bottle, asking that it be sent to her room. She also, further, asks that the messenger deliver a verbal reply. "Tell her 'the blue of the deepest sea.'" With that, she looks to Blitz and tips her head, inviting the direwolf to rejoin her. With a languid stretch, the creature rises to its full, impressive height and strides toward its charge and nudges at her empty hand upon arriving, expecting payment in pettings for his dutiful work.

Ferrando eyes Cassius sympathetically from afar with a last forkful of fish in his mouth. Paperwork is rough. Not that he'd know personally being a bouncer and all, but it looks like it's rough anyway. Switching to the plate of squid ink pasta, he sets about the task of making that one go away as well. It's a rough job too, but somebody's got to do it.

Cassius leaves, following Belladonna.

"Likewise Lord Angelo, whilst your family is descended from my noble uncle this is the first time I have met any of you in person." Cristoph replies to the Angelo in question, a bow of his head given. He pauses for a moment as Blitz rejoins Lianne, then considers him for long moments before asking. "Might I touch his fur my lady? I ask because whilst I might aspire to be brave I do wish to retain both of my hands."

With Cristoph distracted by Angelo and the gift exchanged to Lianne, she took a small pace back. A half a bow was offered to the guest of honor, Bianca's slim waistline canting in accord with the motion. "If you will excuse me, my lady. There are issues I must attend to elsewhere. Thank you and we will speak again soon."

Larissa watches as Cassius and Belladonna leave and she turns back to the other party goers as they begin to speak and mingle "Ferrando, darling, are you going to hide away over there all alone for the entire party? You've such sharp wit, I couldn't stand to see it wasted at a party" she grins over at the Whisper Guard. She dips her head to something Cristoph murmurs to her and murmurs something back. She smiles always, her whole heart and her whole face bright as she speaks. "And how have you found the city so far, my Lord Laurent?" she wonders pausing when Angelo murmurs and she stands "So soon, my Lord?" she speaks, moving to return to his side with a smile "If you're quite sure." she nods, sliding her arm through his.

Ferrando regards Larissa with a bit of a well-obviously-yet cant of his head and a wink. "Sometimes in life there are tough choices where it's one or the other. Sink or swim, fight or flee, have a charming conversation or try and eat all the wonderful Setarcean cuisine you can before they kick you out of the Pravus Manor because the party's over," he explains to Larissa during a little pasta break. With the gusto with which he resumes eating, it's sort of obvious which end of that particular binary choice he ends up picking.

"So far, Softest Whisper." Cristoph addresses Larissa with these words. “I have found Arx an infinitely vast cauldron of possibilities and complexities. Of course the current dire events lend a macabre quality to things. I can only hope and strive for us all working together to overcome the challenges which lay before us." Then a nod to Bianca. "It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance however briefly my lady."

Angelo smiles to Cristoph and gives a small nod of his head to Larissa. "Yes, I fear I should take the eve to rest -- but if you wish to stay, please do not let me keep you away from it," he tells her, though his attention is stolen by Ferrando. "Oh, Ferrando," he realizes in a breathy voice, "Why didn't you greet me before? I didn't see you there."

Lianne offers, "I look forward to it," to Bianca as the woman departs, but her attention doesn't linger long. Cristoph's curiosity about the direwolf at her side demands attention. "At his discretion," she tells him. "If you hold out your hand..." She demonstrates, her own extended with her fingers loosely curled, earning a sniff and nuzzle from the beast who seems entirely comfortable in her particular company. Though she's mindful of that exchange, she's also watching the others intermittently, enjoying this quieter moment when there's less demand on her attention.

Cristoph does relax some now and smiles warmly, albeit a touch cautious as he considers the furred bulk of Blitz. He watches the gigantic wolf for a moment, relaxing himself as he does so, then extends out his hand with fingers spread, reaching for his muzzle then halting half way and waiting for the beast's reaction.

Ferrando seems a little bit surprised when Angelo addresses him, paused in mid-forking a moment before putting it back down. "Ah, good evening m'lord Angelo! Dreadfully sorry to have missed you," he says apologetically. "I'd ask if your evening fared well, but in the company of the Softest Whisper it's rather obvious that it must have."

Cristoph checked command + animal ken against difficulty 15, resulting in 22, 7 higher than the difficulty.

Larissa murmurs something to Angelo as her arm slips from his "Well if you're quite sure, my Lord" she says and then turns to Ferrando and grins "You'll have to forgive our esteemed Guard. He has a bit of a love affair with food, indeed it is his lifes dream to partake of all the many regional delicacies Arx has to offer." she grins. "And I suppose that he may now cross Setarcean off his list." She turns to Lianne and Blitz and murmurs "I believe I have met the large... hmm. What was the name... Direwolf? Amongst the Redrain once. He is certainly an impressive beast." to Angelo she murmurs "May I at least walk you out, my Lord?" she asks - flashing a grin back at Ferrando. "You charmer"

Angelo issues something akin to a chuckle at the words of Ferrando. "Indeed, you read my mind, my eve has been good. The Softest Whisper is an inspiring woman," he agrees with him as he looks over at Larissa with a faint smile, giving her forearm a pat of his palm. "Next event we cross each other, don't be shy, good Ferrando." He seems absolutely oblivious to the man's wolfing of the wood. "Gods be with you," he tells him. "My Lady Lianne and My Lord Cousin," he addresses the two nobles, "I am departing now." To the hostess, he says, "It has been a pleasure to come to your party. Thank you for your kind hospitality." To his cousin, he says, "I look forward to seeing you again cousin, perhaps talk more about our pasts and our futures." The question of Larissa is answered with a small bob of his head and a softly-voiced "You may."

Ferrando bows to Angelo and Larissa as they prepare to move out. "It is as she says, although I don't feel that Setarcean will ever be fully permanently crossed off the list. It's far too important to make sure nothing's been forgotten year to year. Good night," he declares amiably. Then gets to devouring the rest of that squid ink pasta.

"It's alright," Lianne murmurs softly to the direwolf as he sniffs at Cristoph's fingers, first just aiming to get a read on the man's scent and intentions. After a few seconds, the beast noses more directly at those digits and nuzzles his head beneath the duke's hand, aiming to direct those fingers to a spot behind his ear in hopes of getting some scritches. "He likes to be pet behind his ear. I wouldn't stray far." With a warm little laugh, brief and quiet, she offers a shake of her head to Larissa, noting of Ferrando, "He is free to enjoy what he will. Until we close up for the evening." Which, as the party seems to be winding down, may be soon. "And yes, Blitz is a Nightgold." A thought that inspires a faint smile from the woman. At last, to the departing Fidante, she offers, "We'll speak again soon, Lord Angelo. With more depth than we managed this evening, I hope. Thank you both for attending."

Cristoph keeps his hand very still, doing his apparently sufficient best to appear unphased as the gigantic wolf sniffs at his outstretched fingers, failing to waver them, lips quirking into a slight smile as he fails to have any digits ripped from him but murderous and slavering jaws. He then administers ear scritching to the lupine overlord. A quirk of his head then to Lianne. "A guest from the far north? That is now what I expected, though I certainly did not expect to be greeting a gigantic wolf at a Lyceum birthday party. However soft and luxurious his fur."

"I hope so too, My Lady," Angelo agrees with Lianne with a polite inclination of his head before he's departing out of the garden with Larissa.

Larissa has left the admiring the view.

Charlemagne the Unicorn have been dismissed.

Angelo has left the admiring the view.

Charlemagne the Unicorn leaves, following Larissa.

Larissa leaves, following Angelo.