Alessandro and Margret arrive together, as people generally do when they are married -- though, granted, not always. In this case, though, yes. They are here, and together, and the former is murmuring something to the latter in low tones, before straightening up to look around the baths. His eyes fall on Monique and Etienne then, and he starts them toward his cousin, with a smile and wave to Rowenova as he goes, as well as polite nods to others around them. "Monique," he says when they get close, "Archlector. Ready to lose, cousin?" This directed to Monique with raised eyebrows, his tone solicitous, though there is amusement lurking there already. Doesn't bode well for his own chances of winning tonight, does it?

Ramona - A Farshaw House Guard, Cullen arrive, following Lisebet.

Amari arrives with Lethe, her laughter perceding her. By the time she's in, she cleans the smile off her face with a gentle hand scrub and gets extremely serious. This is a serious bath party after all. No laughing! "I'm just going to change..." She explains, but she lingers there a moment to look for the Norwood of the hour. "Is he blushing already?" Wait, she almost laughed. Can't do that. "I'll be right back." And hopefully more on her game. She gives Lethe a solemn sort of nod and heads for a changing screen.

Seated squarely in the furthest corner from the entry way, Rowenova looks up from her diligent writing to quill wave to the Greenmarch couple before then dipping down her pen tip into the blue well of dark ink and writing away!

Amanda Whisper has been coming and going all day. Just minutes ago, she was busy instructing some Grotto staffer to make some minor change. Everything must be perfect, after all. But then the hour comes when the party is to start, and so Amanda emerges again from the back room. This time lovely Whisper, dressed in an ivory colored silk slip, is not alone. Beside her is the man of the hour, Baron Norwood, whose arm she hangs from so elegantly. "Good everyone!" she calls in a voice that's crisp and clear. "Thank you for attending. Give me just a moment and I will begin reviewing tonight's rules!" Beat. "We'll need a moment for Baron Norwood to disrobe." The Baron is, of course, wearing a literal robe.

Of course Jasper is here. What use is a very serious bath party without a very serious Steelhart Lord present? The thing is, he's not here to compete -- it wouldn't be much of a competition with a man that very rarely smiles, let alone laughs -- but instead to congratulate the new Baron. Which probably explains why he's wearing leathers -- standing near the entrance to the Grotto -- gaze casting about.

Corbit walks into the Grotto, his face stern, a look he's unaccustomed to, he's covered neck to toe in a heavy cloak, he walks over to the changing area, jingling slightly as he walks but doesn't go behind a screen, he simply removes his cloak and hands it to an attendant, underneath, he wears nothing, save a pink pair of tight, pink, linen underwear with a little red bow and two bells on the front.

Amanda drops A VERY SERIOUS BATH PARTY - IC RULES.

Amanda drops A VERY SERIOUS BATH PARTY - OOC RULES.

Scribble, a Delicate Social Butterfly arrives, following Delilah.

Lethe nods to Amari and takes a curious look around before also going to change.

Monique is frowning at Etienne. She's very serious, now. But she takes a moment to greet Margret and Alessandro as they arrive, just a brief reprieve for the handsome Archlector of Gild. "Al, Mags. Etienne just insulted my backside... in the interest of keeping me serious. So," her emerald eyes level on Alessandro, "you're going to have some /serious/ competition, cousin. /Serious/." Glare to Etienne follows.

From behind one of the blue silk screens emerges Princess Isabeau Valardin, clad in a pretty pink bathing smock decorated in a floral fashion for the sake of her prudish Oathlander modesty. She also happens to be wearing her Most Serious of Expressions<tm>.

When Ian emerges from behind the screen, and it does take a little while, he's wearing loose cotton pants that fall to just about at the knee. These are probably less designed to protect modesty, and more as a means of at least partially disguising the shocking difference between his thin legs and his powerfully developed upper body. Unique for a Thrax sailor, he sports very few scars, and the only one that could be called serious is a really nasty gash that healed poorly, leaving quite a gnarly scar, that runs up his calf. He walks very carefully without the stability that his boots usually give him, making his way towards the pool everyone seems to occupy. The whole issue of trying not to twist and ankle and fall on his face makes him, for the moment, deadly serious.

Norwood has the whole 'long-suffering-thing' is needed, Norwood has got that face on. He's as serious as one from the Oathlands could possibly be. Yes brush out and note all the faces before he shakes his head slowly. "Whisper Amanda, there's many things that those in this room do not need to say." That is deadpanned. "However." Careuflly he takes off his robe to reveal some very nice bathing shorts and a shirt that covers his torso plus some. Fully clothed. The robe gets set aside, "Shall we?"

Etienne looks at Alessandro, the look is .. a signal? a sign? Some sort of panic? It is at least one of those. "Welcome! Welcome, yes. We were just practicing and preparing for the competition. Won't you please join us and save me from an untimely demise." this last part is said very quickly, as if it will keep Monique from understanding.

Isabeau has joined the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Rowenova caps off the ink well as well as wipes dry the crow quill before packing away all those and picking up her written paper she waves around to hopefully dry as she gets up. Picking up her messenger bag onto one shoulder, the curious scout wanders over to listen up to all those regulatory rules. "So, gotta be in the bath water, yeah?"

Zoey waits quietly near the screens until Ian emerges. When he does, she smiles softly at him and resumes her patient, strolling pace by his side until he gets to the pool's edge.

Amanda looks aside, to Norwood, with a faint smirk on her lips. "My lord, I will need to spend time tending to this event. You, however, may find a nice bath to place yourself in," she says, then gives a soft squeeze to his arm. She turns to address the party-goers. a"Lords, ladies, goodmen, goodwomen, everyone who has joined us today... I have a few things to say on behalf of my honored guest, Baron Norwood. But before I get to that, I want to talk about the rules of tonight's party. We are, of course, being /very serious/. And the most serious shall win the night! I have written the rules down on the chalk board here, but I'll say it briefly... anyone that laughs is /not serious/ and must move to the baths of exile!" she says. "And our lack of laughing and merriment will being... Now!"

Lisebet enters, on Cullen's arm, as the two appear to have arrived together. "I should get changed, and you as well?" Lisebet offers to the Greenmarch Lord. She glances around to see who is doing what, and waves a hand. "Hello everyone," she calls out, letting her voice carry a little. "It's so good to see all of you." Mischief flares, but she doesn't smile. Somehow. And then Amanda Whisper is talking, and Lisebet bites her lip. Seems they are just on time.

Norwood has joined the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Ian doesn't sit on the edge so much as execute a very controlled, even graceful fall. Then, with a note of (very serious) relief, he slips into the water.

Standing up next to the large natural stone pool, Rowenova seriously considers the chalk board as she straps on her messenger bag over both wiry shoulders, analytically contemplating those /serious/ rules!

Bundle in hand, Delilah ventures through the throng of silks and commoners drawn to the baths. The tight fall of her braid is prim enough to satisfy any prim socialite's demanding canon, albeit at the cost of making it a touch painful to smile. A few moments spent to orient herself, and she covers her mouth with her hand. The mobile curve of her smile is already rising. She falls in near Rowenova, given the business of the rules is worth knowing. Gaze lifting to the Whisper, she halts somewhat. "The most serious of events, naturally."

Norwood bows to Amanda and firmly takes himself off to one time and the Garden Peacocks Bath. A roll of his eyes over all of those attending has him noting various people and those who he knows get nodded to quite properly... except Monique. He will FIRMLY IGNORE MONIQUE.

Jael swans in, sharp features set in determined solemnity, and disappears behind a screen. She emerges in bathing attire similar in asthetic to Isabeau's, and in fact chooses her pool...or perhaps Norwood's pool to slip gracefully into. "Congratulations, Baron Clement." It's so, so solemn.

Jael has joined the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Sorrel is trying to be serious, she really is. It's just so hard not to laugh at all these people trying to be so serious. Still, she schools her face while she changes into nothing but her a tiara. Because she's a princess and she's totally in serious princess mode. Totally. She scampers over to slip in the water, really ready to be serious. She can be serious.

Zoey is nowhere near as dramatic as Ian. She just steps into the pool and sinks down under the water for a moment. She finally emerges and pushes back her curls, settling in beside Ian with a look of curiosity.

Monique has left the Grotto in the Stone.

Jeffeth has joined the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Zoey has joined the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Sorrel has joined the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Ian has joined the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Monique has joined the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Jeffeth has left the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Corbit has joined the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

With a solemn, even morose, nod to Lisebet, Cullen intones in reply, "Yes, Lady Farshaw. Let us prepare for this most serious of baths, preferably with a cup of tea and wearing something boringly modest." At the changing screen, he returns with some very drab small clothes on to cover up anything that might be considered outrageously unserious, or at least outrageous, slipping his heavily scarred body into the Garden Peacocks bath.

Rowenova has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Etienne has left the Swimming Koi Bath.

Etienne has joined the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Alessandro has joined the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Jasper's brow furrows for a moment, as the Whisper announces the rules of the party. It even brings a little bit of a frown to his lips. Finally, he tracks the Baron Norwood as he enters the peacock bath and, murmuring apologies and stepping around other bath goers, crouches at the edge. "Baron Norwood," he greets. "I just wanted an opportunity to express my congratulations. If there's anything the Steelharts can assist with, I hope you'll let me or my cousin know." A beat, as his glance flickers around. "Uh. Enjoy the party..?" he doesn't sound sure. He clearly doesn't plan to stick around, starting to rise again.

Cristoph has joined the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Margret has joined the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Although Cullen changes his mind and heads for the turtles at seeing how filled the peacock baths are.

Cullen has joined the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Amari pops out from behind one of the screens wearing a black shift that falls to about mid-thigh. It's a very serious color, for a very serious Oathlands lady such as herself. She waits for Lethe to reappear and heads for the bath she spots Norwood has headed towards. There she dips her head politely to him, Isabetta and Jael. "Good evening. Congratulations, Baron Clement." It's terribly crowded in there already, so not wanting to get into that stew, she heads for another to be serious in. "Lethe?"

Rosalie arrives, covered from neck to toes in her cloak, keeping it wrapped tightly around her as she hurries towards the changing screen. When she emerges dressed in.. a linen cloak that covers her from neck to ankles. Hurrying over to one of the baths, she very seriously contemplates which of the baths to join. Finally picking one, she carefully sits on the edge and scoots into the water, keeping the cloak wrapped tightly around her.

Rosalie has joined the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

"I hope you're all ready to lose because I plan on willing." Margret says matter-of-factly to her family and the archlector before she starts towards the screens to change. When she emerges she is dressed in a bathing smock decorated in little yellow duckies. She climbs into the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath along with Alessandro.

Amari has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Jeffeth has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Lethe has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Rowenova settles down next to the large natural stone pool, checking out her simple writing she most seriously wrote before on her blue-inked paper.

Lisebet has joined the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Amanda has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Delilah has joined the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

"Of course," Norwood replies to Jasper. "Your support is very welcome." So serious, and actually honestly meant. "May you be well.

Jasper is a big fan of seriousness, and probably doesn't even comprehend this isn't about seriousness like /at all/. "And you, my lord," he replies to Baron Norwood with a respectful nod, as he picks his way carefully back through the baths and out.

Jael lifts a hand in greeting to Amari before sinking down in the water to her chin. Oathlands stew.

Lisebet slips to change and comes along, wearing a bathing shift in blue and white that is reasonably decorous and boring. Except that it does have little fishes swimming at the hems and cuffs. She glances about and heads to the little turtles pool, as Cullen is there, sliding in and closing her eyes for a brief moment, though her expression stays very serious.

Stormbringer, the Highhill War Hound leaves, following Jasper.

After the rules are laid down, it seems everyone is settling into the appropriate baths, Amanda flashes a smile. "Now then! I will yammer at you all for just another minute," she promises. "Today's event has been funded by Duke Cristoph, to celebrate his newest Baron. Baron Norwood has dutifully served Laurent, Valardin, the Oathlands, and all the Compact for years, and it warms my heart to see such a deserving man ennobled. I wish Baron Norwood and his lieges and his vassals and all his allies and friends all the success one can have in the world. Cheers, to Baron Norwood!" Of course, Amanda hasn't got a glass of wine to toast with, and for a moment looks all to aware of that. Quickly, though, she puts on a /very serious/ expression.

Amanda is overheard praising Norwood: Cheers to the new baron!

At the words from Amanda, Alessandro starts to applaud from where he's now seated in the bath, and lets out a cheer as well -- though keeps it appropriately serious.

"I hope everyone will avail themselves of the Tea, properly chilled, and Milk. There is honey available, of course, for those who wish it." Norwood adds to Amanda's words.

Cristoph is overheard praising Norwood: Cheers for the Baron of Duskshire!

"To Baron Norwood!" Jael calls and then appears to lose her...balance? Cool? for a brief moment and suddenly disappears under the water, surfacing with murder in her pale blue eyes. Murder...for the good Baron himself. Maybe not murder. Maybe more like severe vexation.

Ian is overheard praising Norwood: The new Baron of Duskshire.

Ian is overheard praising Cristoph: Couldn't have made a better choice

A look of polite horror grows behind Zoey's eyes with Norwood says that the tea is chilled. Still, she calmly waves back the servant. "I'll have water with lemon as well," she says quietly before applauding for the new Baron!

Cristoph is also cheering for Norwood! When suddenly he's being /pushed/ and he loses his balance and goes under the water. That's fine Norwood, drown the man that just gave you a barony. It'll buff out.

Zoey is overheard praising Norwood: A more deserving man there could not be. Congratulations!

A most serious and reserved clap that one would use in the sort of very serious sporting event where one perhaps would knock a small ball around with a club is given to Amanda Whisper and Norwood. "Bravo, bravo, Baron! No better choice, your wisdom and seriousness is of legend!" Motioning to a servant, "Tea with honey, please. And mmm, chilled. How excellent."

Zoey is overheard praising Cristoph: For giving honour where honour is due. Excellent choice.

Norwood sits nice and tall when the Laurents go under the water. Innocent to a complete fault.

Amanda lets out a gasp. "I forgot to mention the honey!" she says. She lifts a hand, the back of her wrist going to her forehead. "Lament... I'll surely be exiled from Laurent lands soon..." And after her dramatic show, she moves to the large pool, not to enter, but to hike up the silk slip and carefully sit on the edge of the pool.

Isabeau is overheard praising Norwood: A most worthy and honorable man!

Amari offers up a very reserved round of applause for the new Baron of Duskshire.

Corbit nods to Rosalie, "I understand, I wore my most serious outfit." he says, again, almost cracking, but schools his face, "This is obviously easy for me since I'm always so very serious." he says looking Rosalie in the eye, nodding... Very seriously.

"I like honey. Might I have a fat spoonful of honey, please?" Sorrel inquires of the server, serious and pert. "It's really quite delicious plain. So long as you don't get a bee in it." She turns to her pool. "Have you ever seen a dog that's had a fight with a bee? It stings them in the mouth when they bite it, so they bite it to get even, and it just stings them in the mouth again. Even dead bees. The dog's got to be live to do the biting, but some dogs don't learn quick that no matter how many times they bite a bee, it's going to keep 'biting' back. With its stinger. Bzzt." She blows out her cheeks like a dog who's been stung on the mouth, then accepts her spoonful of honey graciously.

Norwood checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

There is definitely not a whole lot of splashing in the Peacock pool. Jael is definitely not trying to drown Norwood. Everything is fine.

Norwood is overheard praising Amanda: Such a Serious Bath Party.

Norwood is overheard praising Jael: Learned her Lessons WELL.

Corbit has left the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Monique checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 4 lower.

Corbit gets out of the pool, laughing then sighs, cursing to himself before moving over to the LOSERS pool.

Corbit has joined the Grotto in the Stone.

Monique has left the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Monique has joined the Grotto in the Stone.

Amanda remains perched on the edge of the pool. She's talking, and she only glances away from the guests she's with to watching Monique and Corbit both take the walk of shame. There's a soft 'tut tut' from the Whisper.

Monique doesn't look at all disappointed to be joining Corbit where the wine lives, and she leans in to murmur something to the man with a flash of a grin, tossing a look back to the other pools.

Lisebet checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Cristoph has left the Garden Peacocks Bath.

From the natural stone pool, where much seriousness is occuring, two words escape and bounce off the walls thanks to Amari speaking them just a bit way too loud, "Sleepy penis?" Echo-echo---echo----echo.

Cristoph has joined the Grotto in the Stone.

Norwood checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 14 higher.

Sorrel laughs and laughs in her merry infectuous way, too jovial to be kept well-behaved for long. She draws herself out of the bath, admitting her loss. "C'mon, Duke Cristoph. Let's go have wine," she giggles.

Sorrel has left the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Sorrel has joined the Grotto in the Stone.

From the big pool, Amanda Whisper leans back and calls across the way. "Baron Norwood?!" She'll wait a moment to get the man's attention. "Sir Jeffeth is telling me that /sleepy penis/ is a condition of the elderly. Would you be able to confirm or deny if that is-..." And the pretty Whisper is going red-faced before she can even finish. Soon, she's snickering to herself, then throwing her hands up in the air. "Gods bless you, Jeffeth," she says, as she stands up from where she sits on the edge of the pool.

Isabeau checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 21 higher.

Jael has left the Garden Peacocks Bath.

"Oh no, you may keep my shorts as a trophy of your victory, as I shall lounge about in the winner loser pool quite naked with some wine," Cullen replies cheerily to Rosalie, then snags a glass of red and slides into the loser pool with a grin to Monique. "Victory in loss, I think."

Cristoph is laughing as he joins the pool of exiles with Sorrel. "Yes, /wine/. I could use a glass of that right around now."

Amanda has left the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Zoey cannot help the ghost of a smile that curls her lips at Cristoph and Sorrel's laughter and subsequent exit from their pool. She puts something back in her satchel, however, hands it to a waiting servant, and retakes her seat beside her husband.

Cullen has left the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Cullen has joined the Grotto in the Stone.

Amanda has joined the Swimming Koi Bath.

Rowenova languidly lounges upon the stonework tile, seriously contemplating before glancing down at her battle skirt after Amanda's talk of sleepy penis.

Rowenova has rolled a critical success!
Rowenova checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

Norwood is staring at a DART getting hit Cristoph, but manages to stay very very serious. So very serious. But then the words 'sleepy penis' are getting thrown around and his eyes go //very// wide. Sllooowwwlllyyy he turns away to fox on Amanda, opens his mouth, and.... just starts to laugh. Because he can't help it. "I wish I could say that is the first time I've been asked if my... equipment works properly. But." He pulls himself out of the pool with a small bow (he looks a little redic standing there all drippy and bowing), "May you all be well without me." And then he's going to go to ANY POOL that Monique is NOT IN.

Norwood has left the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Norwood has joined the Swimming Koi Bath.

Jeffeth doesn't seem too worried or bothered by the sleepy penis talk. He came up with the medical term anyways. He just gives a light nod to Amanda's calling out. "Sir Norwood may not be affected. It just happens as you get older. You may need to get older before it starts to get sleepy." The big man gives Norwood a thumbs up, got you. But then he's looking around. Falling silent, and then something has him turning very red. And all of a sudden he lets out a very stiled. "Ha-ah-hah-hah-hah." And quickly stands up to go lose.

Rowenova glances up with forlorn eyes of cobalt blue, "We will miss you, Sir."

"Norwood, Norwood! I want to show you something!" Cristoph begins to wildly wave his arms at the new baron.

"If it is your pants, my duke, I've seen them before!" NORWOOD IS NOT GOING TO FALL FOR THAT CRISTOPH. "I'm sure Nicia is still very impressed."

Jeffeth has left the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Jeffeth has joined the Grotto in the Stone.

Delilah's voice trills upwards in laughter at that turtle bath, signalling an absolute failure on her part. Very serious business surrounding matters, destroyed by a Crownlander. She slips her legs out of the pool and springs up, managing not to spill much -- or any -- of her tea. At least there are small victories. "Time for wine!" she murmurs with a merry note, seeking her escape elsewhere.

Once Norwood is gone, Ian, looking a little relieved, sets his tea-with-robe-honey aside. "Lady Regla asked me that question," he remarks. "One of my first days here." He pauses. "We were both pretty drunk at the time." Another pause. "She might not still remember, actually. She was more drunk than I was."

Delilah has left the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Delilah has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Cristoph keeps shouting, because he can be very loud when he wants to be. "No, no, it's not! This man over here said that honey from the Crownlands is better than /Laurent/ honey! Look!" Gasp. Who would dare?! The bees might be getting insulted, Norwood!

"He's wrong!" Norwood calls back to Cristoph, "I'm sure you can take care of it Cristoph. I know who is in your bath!"

"No, this is very serious!" Very serious, Norwood.

Lethe has left the Large Natural Stone Pool.

"I'm sure it is! But I'm not in a serious pool any more!" Norwood is taking a DRINK from Amanda he's so very not serious.

"But Barron!" Corbit calls out, "I don't believe you and I have met. Is that how you want to be remembered at your first party as a Baron? Someone who doesn't make proper introductions?" he asks grinning.

Quite casually, Isabeau is talking to Zoey and Ian. It's all fun and games until Zoey is staring at the Princess, mouth slightly agape and cheeks turning slightly pink. Ahem. Then... She turns and walks out of the pool, patting Ian on the shoulder as she goes. Zoey's tapping out. Bring on the booze.

Since they have been joking around about sleepy penile hammock time, then the young scout glances over to the PeaCOCKs bath and beckons slowly this way, as if to potentially dare those there to come over to the natural pool, instead.

Zoey has left the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Zoey has joined the Swimming Koi Bath.

Calling out to Corbit, "I'm afraid you will have to make your way over here my good man. I have rather... not serious business to complete first. Tell Lady Monique she should give it up." Just assuming it's Monique.

Corbit hitches a thumb torwards Norwood and stage whispers "I like him!".

Calling out from across the pools, Monique proclaims, "Never!"

Zoey waves over yet another servant. "Cognac, dear," she says airily. "A glass and bottle, if you please."

Ian looks over at the sea turtles bath, and then at the stone pool where Rowenova beckons. He looks decidedly dubious. Given how careful he had to be, getting to this pool, he's probably not looking forward to moving to another one.

Etienne has left the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Etienne has joined the Swimming Koi Bath.

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

Cognac arrives and Zoey pours her snifter halfway full. She looks -straight- at Ian. Wiggles the bottle temptingly. And then she calls out: "I can promise a lack of bathwater -and- bathrobe honey, if you'd care to join us."

Isabeau has left the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Monique has left the Grotto in the Stone.

Monique has joined the Swimming Koi Bath.

Monique rises like a very determined siren from the Grotto in the Stone, her entirely naked footsteps headed for the Swimming Koi Bath.

Ian might not have even heard Zoey. He's looking grumpy about having to get up.

Isabeau rises up from her seat, leaving Ian as the last 'competitor' in the peacock pool. While there was certainly no sudden outburst of laughter from the princess, she is wearing a little lopsided smile as she saunters behind one of the blue modesty screens, presumably to return to her dry clothes rather than to stay and drink with the others.

Cristoph is overheard praising Amanda: For being a fantastic hostess!

"What was that Cristoph? You need me right now? COMING." Norwood is pulling himself out of the pool the second Monique gets to his and hoofs it over to Cristoph's pool. "So sorry about before!"

Norwood has left the Swimming Koi Bath.

Norwood has joined the Grotto in the Stone.

:looks mildly amused but not altogether surprised when Norwood shows up in the pool with him.

Jeffeth clambers up and pulls his heavy robe closer before leaving the pool and also looking like he is about to leave. Going to one of the modesty screens as well to get his giant robe off and back into his clothes.

Jeffeth has left the Grotto in the Stone.

Noticing that he's taking up space that Monique most certainly could use, Cullen hops out of the pool to splash down with the Koi people, leaving Baron Norwood exposed! "Duke Laurent, Grab him!"

Cullen has left the Grotto in the Stone.

Cullen has joined the Swimming Koi Bath.

Zoey rises however, and darts over to the grotto!

Delilah has left the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Zoey has left the Swimming Koi Bath.

Zoey has joined the Grotto in the Stone.

Alessandro has left the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Jerome, a bodyguard leaves, following Isabeau.

Alessandro has joined the Swimming Koi Bath.

One of the staff finally picks up on Ian's plight and comes over. This is someone who might double for a bouncer, here, and it's good that the person who comes to help haul Ian to his feet is strong, because they wind up doing a lot of the work. Once standing, he steadies himself with the hand on the man's shoulder, and then thanks him. And then it's time for a very, very careful trip to the sea turtles bath with said staff member hovering around with a concerned look like he's not sure if he should help or not. Now he's without the steadying presence of his boots, AND his feet are wet.

Ian has left the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Delilah veers away from one of the pools, stifling a laugh and the colour blossoming high on her cheeks. Better to disappear into one of the further bathing areas, especially where the steam might surround her like a ghost. A passing glance for one of the screens and she shakes her head imperceptibly. Time to join the fishes.

Delilah has joined the Swimming Koi Bath.

Ian gets just about to the sea turtles bath when he catches movement out of the corner of his eye. He gives Zoey, who is making emphatic gestures his way, a confused look.

Rowenova raises up her gloved left in a slow wave without much energy behind the goodbye gesture before she turns back to her final competitor, Lady Keaton. Squaring down an intense stare with her chapped lips pressed firmly into a straight line, the young scout puts on an older attitude to thusly proclaim, "One way for them to stave off such malady would be to fight it vigorously: single handedly, you now."

Amanda turns her attention from where she sits on the edge of the Koi bath to those still being serious. "Well, everyone! It looks like the Garden Peacocks Bath is now open to us improper exiles!" she calls. "Just in case anyone needs another place to run and hide," she adds, with a glance over toward the other exile bath.

Once changed back into his dry clothes, and all his blades are where they need to be Sir Jeffeth bows to the room at large before making his way out.

Zoey sighs heavily at Ian's confusion, a look of fondness creeping onto her features. "It's fine," she calls over, motioning for Ian to join the pool after all.

Amari looks innocently up at Rowenova as if she's taking her advice straight to heart, "Oh, instead of herbs, you just go like - how do mean, like this?" And she starts to vigorously shake her hand up and down. To uhm, stave off maladies.

Norwood opens his mouth.... and nothing comes out. Nothing. Amari's comment has nothing coming from his mouth. He DOES shake Corbit's hand though. Because that doesn't require any words at all.

Ian drops down to sit on the edge of the pool with something at least graceful-adjacent before he looks over at Monique with a hint of concern. "Are you alright, Lady Greenmarch?"

Rowenova seriously nods, but she also demonstrates just like Amari does now, though, could probably use better form of her curled fingers. "Yes, exactly."

Ian has joined the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Monique laughs to Ian, giving a shake of her bright red head. "Only parts of me, Lord Kennex. Only parts."

Zoey raises both eyebrows at Amari and Rowenova. And then Monique. And Ian. And oh, look. It's cognac. She drinks and lounges back in her pool.

Rowenova reaches down, to her booted ankle, pulling up her bent leg even closer toward her resting rear whilst seated sideways. "Now, what if we combine that with the herbal remedy? Do you think it would ever go to sleep again?"

Norwood checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 5 lower.

"I don't know. Would it not be doubly effective if you used both hands?" Amari asks, a twitch of a smile threatening even as she continues to sound perfectly innocent and earnest. She's trying to learn how to treat a serious thing, like a very serious, serious, serious problem that could get very serious if left untreated. Of course, she's not sure how to go about it since she's such an ingenue, just a simple Oathlands lady from a small rustic county, so she raises both hands to about ear level and starts to vigorously shake them back and forth, up and down and just about any which way. She's very thorough, or confused, or both. There's some splashing.

Norwood just can't right now. Someone distract him from the conversation between Amari and Rowenova. Please. The old man might have a heart attack.

Zoey just hands Norwood her cognac and motions for another glass.

Norwood doesn't usually drink in public. This is an exception. Hello Cognac.

Rowenova quietly rumbles before nodding slightly and lifting up both hands, too, which are completely empty but lightly curled about imaginary rods, maybe? Then, most likely to Norwood's dismay, she also pumps both her gloved hands in every which way!

Rowenova checked dexterity at difficulty 25, rolling 1 lower.

Rowenova suddenly smacks herself in the wolf-pelt-covered forehead before then falling over onto the stonework tile below her. Coordination mishap!

Marius, 2 House Mazetti Aspirants arrive, following Giulio.

Rowenova checked willpower at difficulty 10, rolling 14 higher.

Amari's mouth screws to the side and rather than laugh at her instructor, she looks frankly quite concerned for her well being. Some murmurs are murmured to poor Rowenova, and thankfully, that ends all the vigorous hand shaking. Norwood is given a respite.

Trailed by his guards, the young Mazetti lord makes his way into the Grotto. He whistles a tune, off-key perhaps, as he steps in. There's a glance about, before he meanders towards the bathing screen. A few moments pass, before his clothed attendant and guards step back. A glance is shot towards the rules and the man... sighs. The earthenware jug he carries is handed to Marius and he shakes his head.

Rowenova leans down to the approaching woman to sneakily whisper her way.

As Giulio enters, Amanda rises up to go greet the man. She's not been in the water, so she's mostly dry, save for wet silk clinging to her backside. "Good evening, my lord..." And she'll continue speaking quietly to the man through the screen.

Giulio has joined the Swimming Koi Bath.

Alessandro replies to something said at the koi bath, before he stands up, starting toward the stone pool at a quicker pace. When he gets there, there's no hesitation before he jumps in right near Amari -- and with all that that proximity entails, considering that she's in a pool of water. Splashing, one assumes.

Alessandro has left the Swimming Koi Bath.

Alessandro has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Rowenova looks over toward the other pool of serious people then back to Amari.

Margret stands up from the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath in a fit of giggles. She climbs out a little awkwardly before holding out a hand for Ian to take.

Rowenova says, "Greetings, Lord Greenmarch."

With a shrug, the figure meanders towards the pool of the least serious, sliding in. "Marius. Seeing as I'm already far from serious, would you be as so kind as to bring that jug? And a few of the tin cups?" The nude Mazetti lord slips into the pool. And yes, Marius is approaching, pouring his lord a few fingers of the pear scented glory.

Ian didn't audibly laugh, but he did pinch the bridge of his nose. He's been broken, one way or another. He takes Margret's hand and, for a second time, gets uncertainly to his feet.

Lisebet is still hanging in there somehow. Very seriously. She and Rosalie now left in their pool.

Margret has left the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Margret has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Ian has left the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Rosalie gives Lisebet a very serious nod, then reaches a hand across to her, "I do believe that makes us the final two. Congratulations, my lady. You are truly a Very Serious Person, and I salute you."

Ian has joined the Grotto in the Stone.

Rowenova warmly welcomes with beckoning arms all those who come over here.

Still standing sort of in the middle of the space is Amanda. She watches as Alessandro drops into the pool right next to Amari, and she has the decency to gasp. "Oh, my lord! You've broken the rules!" she says, before giving a soft laugh. Then Margret and Ian are leaving, so Amanda gives a little wave toward that... "That leaves... Lady Rosalie, Lady Lisebet, Lady Amari, and Rowenova!"

Margret has left the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Ian paces carefully over to where he last saw Zoey, all his attention on his feet again.

Margret has joined the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Delilah is overheard praising Amanda: For a lovely event and hosting things wonderfully.

Zoey looks up and smiles as Ian shuffles their way. Ironically, the grotto seems to have mellowed out to a companionable chatter over drinks. She waves at the servant to bring two glasses, and they arrive before Ian does. Because, let's face it, Ian moves slowly. Drinks are poured and waiting to the side for when the man gets settled.

Alessandro rises with a shake of his head to get the water out of his eyes, and he laughs -- because yes, he did, and also he's out. He does give Amanda a significant look, though it is still amused. "How silly of me," he remarks, his eyes meeting hers for a long moment, before he starts to climb out of the pool with an apologetic look to Rowenova and Amari. "Forgive me, Lady Keaton," he says, "Scout Rowenova. Good luck." Then he starts over toward the peacock bath with Margret.

Alessandro has left the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Alessandro has joined the Garden Peacocks Bath.

Delilah has left the Swimming Koi Bath.

Glancing towards Amanda, Giulio says, "I don't suppose you've heard the tale of the woman who had a certain condition? The one where every time she sneezed, she had a moment of pleasure?" There's a wry little smile on the man's lips.

Scribble, a Delicate Social Butterfly leaves, following Delilah.

Lisebet checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 40, rolling 16 higher.

Amanda drifts over closer to Giulio, her brows lifting. "I do not believe I've heard it, my lord." Beat. "But do tell. Loud enough for Lady Amari to hear it?" she asks, sweetly.

Rowenova head tilts in her wolf pelt when seriously regarding Lord Alessandro, but then she straightens up and respectfully bows her headdressed noggin.

Rosalie has rolled a critical success!
Rosalie checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 18 higher.

Unflappable. Amari, maybe tired from treating maladies earlier, doesn't laugh. Her reaction to Alessandro plunging into the pool next to her is to go stock still, scrunch her eyes shut and try not to fall over when the waves wash over her. She's a sentinel of seriousness. A sober, soaking statue of soberness. She will not be shaken or stirred. But she does, slowly open her eyes when it's over and she hears an apology. "Thank you, Lord Greenmarch. It's obvious you got a little overexcited. I forgive you."

Giulio checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 15, rolling 33 higher.

Giulio checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 40, rolling 18 higher.

Lisebet looks at Rosalie, and she says, "Shall we?" And then Lisebet gets to her feet. Steps carefully over towards the natural stone pool, though moving more swiftly as she goes, until she follows Alessandro's example and jump-splahes in.

Amanda has left the Swimming Koi Bath.

Rowenova grimly regards Lisebet, speaking dully in monotone voice, "Greetings."

Lisebet has left the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Lisebet has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

"Well then," Giulio says, his head tilted towards Amanda. " There was this lovely young woman. A truly beautiful lass. But she had this habit of sneezing. Then shuddering violently. This happened several times along their journey. Finally, however, noticing the particular... demeanor, one of her travelling companions asked if she was okay. Well, she paused and said, 'I've a condition. You see, every time I sneeze? Well... I orgasm. So the man asked her, 'Oh, that sounds dreadful. Are you taking any medicine to help with it?'" The man smiles faintly and reaches for his cup. After a swallow, he says, with a grin. "She replied, 'Yes. Pepper.'"

Amari checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Rowenova looks up toward Guilio during his sordid tale, but she simply hmms, as if not truly impressed before shaking her head under the wolf pelt she wears.

Zoey rubs at her brow for a moment and then leans against Ian once he has his drink.

Amanda watches Giulio, and listens to the joke. There's no crack to her facade this time. To be clear, it was Amanda that made Amanda laugh! She just nods along, then glances to the pool, brows going up.

Rosalie nods to Lisebet, and rises up out of the pool. Padding her way towards Amari and Rowenova, she doesn't pick up speed, or attempt to leap into the pool. Instead, she finally, FINALLY, removes that wet linen cloak. Underneat is a perfectly acceptable bathing smock, light pink in color. But it has something extra. A pair of fabric flowers over either breast, and an embroidered clam, complete with pearl, placed appropriately. "Ladies. I do hope you don't mind if we join you." To top it off, she STILL has Cullen's bathing shorts worn hat-like upon her head.

Lisebet checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Rosalie has left the Lazy Sea Turtles Bath.

Rosalie has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Lisebet is overheard praising Amanda.

Lisebet is overheard praising Cristoph.

Lisebet is overheard praising Norwood.

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

Lisebet is overheard praising Rowenova.

Lisebet is overheard praising Rosalie.

Lisebet is overheard praising Amari.

Rowenova again lifts her fair countenance to fully view the unique fashion of Lady Redtyed, doing so with a stern gaze as she analytically eyes her. "Welcome aboard." says the serious scout!

"That sounds potentially dangerous." Amari says of the woman improperly treating herself with pepper. She doesn't laugh.

Zoey looks at Ian and murmurs something quietly into his ear.

Amanda has joined the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Lisebet settles into the pool. "Lady Amari, it is very good to see you," she says. She looks over as Rosalie comes over, blinking owlishly but still holding strong and serious. "And Scout Rowenova, you look quite intriguing." The story about the woman with the pepper gets a glance, and a nod of her head. "A good medic might be required, I should think."

His adjutant making her way to the side of the pool and handing Cullen a message, the Greenmarcher reads over it quickly with a slight furrow of brows, then nods, dictating a quick message to Theodora before climbing out of the pool. "Baron Norwood, Amanda Whisper, thank you both for holding this quite amusing and very serious gathering. But, I must depart. Lovely seeing you all and meeting some new acquaintances. Please, do take care." Rapidly getting dressed, the Sword gives a quick wave before heading out!

Rowenova dully notes, still doing her Gareth impression, "Thank you very much, Lady Farshaw. How have you been?" She slightly adjusts to sit sideways upon her opposing hip for better comfort now.

Norwood raises a hand in fairwell to Cullen as he goes, "Be well my Lord!"

Amanda gives a wave toward Cullen. "Good night, my lord!" she calls.

Rowenova says, "Yes, you should tell one. But, I won't laugh."

Zoey nods. She murmurs her farewells to the pool and rises. After swiftly changing, she's gone.

Cullen has left the Swimming Koi Bath.

Zoey has left the Grotto in the Stone.

Amanda has joined the large pool, with her glass of wine. She's clearly a not-serious rule-breaker. But at the moment she looks quite stiff and serious. She clears her throat, takes a sip of wine, then starts, just as seriously. "There were two cakes inside an oven. The first cake says to the second, 'Sure is hot in here!' ..."

Amanda checked charm + manipulation at difficulty 50, rolling 6 lower.

Amari checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 30, rolling 10 higher.

"And the second cake says, 'AHH! TALKING CAKE!'" Amanda abruptly yells, decidedly breaking her very stoic facade. Which is probably more absurd than funny. But Amanda? She starts cracking up at her own joke.

Rosalie checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 14 higher.

Rowenova checked willpower at difficulty 20, rolling 2 higher.

Rowenova checked willpower at difficulty 10, rolling 27 higher.

Lisebet checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 17 higher.

a lithe, dark-cloaked Lycene woman, Loden, a hulking Mirrorguard Adjutant arrive, following Mirari.

Giulio checked willpower at difficulty 10, rolling 11 higher.

a lithe, dark-cloaked Lycene woman, Loden, a hulking Mirrorguard Adjutant leave, following Mirari.

Rowenova solemnly nods about the tale told by Lady Keaton about her battle scars which cut out any ability left to ever laugh again (except those who know her very well know better). She languidly laments, "It is true. I am broken." Glancing up toward Amanda's outburst, "I would eat it." so matter of factly.

"Hm... I don't know, Rowenova. Presumably it would be a sweet-talker," Rosalie comments, almost idly after Amanda's joke, reaching for her glass and taking a sip

Rosalie checked intellect + riddles at difficulty 40, rolling 2 lower.

Rosalie checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 7 higher.

Giulio has rolled a critical success!
Giulio checked wits + manipulation at difficulty 52, rolling 39 higher.

Amanda laughs for a good few moments, then the laughter settles, and she clears her throat. What, she's the only one laughing? Her brows lift, and then she's just looking embarrassed. It's okay, she has wine! She upends that glass to gulp down whatever's left.

Lisebet considers for a moment, not cracking a smile at Amanda's joke. "It is a difficult crowd in this pool," she says. Rosalie's input gets a blink, and then Lisebet adds, "Speaking of baking goods, have you heard the joke about the butter?" A pause and then, "I can't tell you. It might spread."

Rowenova checked willpower at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Lisebet checked charm + manipulation at difficulty 30, rolling 1 higher.

Rosalie checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 16 higher.

Rowenova checked willpower at difficulty 21, rolling 5 lower.

Lisebet checked composure at difficulty 21, rolling 1 lower.

Amari checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 1 higher.

Amari checked composure at difficulty 21, rolling 6 lower.

Rosalie checked composure at difficulty 21, rolling 1 lower.

Raising his head, Giulio starts to call out. "My former armsmaster was a lovely fellow. I was mostly interested in his tracking and all that. But, there was this time I do recall. Where he said, 'Now, I want all of you to be prepared for tomorrow's lessons. The only excuse I will allow is either the death of a close member of the family. Or... a certification of illness -- from two members of the physician's guild."

The man pauses for a moment, sipping at his drink. "One fellow than said, 'Does extreme sexual exhaustion count?' The woman looked at the young man quellingly and said, 'No. You can still parry with your other hand.'"

Amanda checked composure at difficulty 21, rolling 11 higher.

Okay, THAT gets a snort of amusement from Ian. He finishes his drink.

Amanda recovers from her own joke (which only Amanda found very funny), then looks to Giulio. Her brows lift. "What's the matter with his hand?" she asks, entirely composed.

Despite being a serious scout, Guilio's joke is inherently relatable as well as ties back to earlier jokes at the Large Stone Natural Pool. Despite being incredibly competitive, Rowenova finally cracks with a wolfish grin as well as the smallest laugh, but it certainly sounds, and she is quite out! Getting up from the tile floor below her, she dusts off her leather-clad rear before then wandering over to where there might be an alcoholic beverage, or two!

"As an aside? She's fucking terrifying," Giulio says, lips twitching slightly. There's a glance paid towards Amanda and the man says, "Let's talk later, I'll walk you through it." Then, he's pouring a few fingers for Rowenova, a tin cup slid her way. One eyelid shivers in a wink.

Perhaps its the joke itself, perhaps its the timing, maybe its the delivery. For whatever reason, Rosalie looks over to Giulio. She blinks, Once, then twice. Her lips start to twitch at the corners, then to quiver. Her eyes crinkle at the corners. And finally, FINALLY she breaks. Snorting out a laugh that turns to a rich symphony of giggles. Amanda's straight manning the joke only makes her laugh all the harder. "Okay. I can happily lose to that one. That was good. Very good."

Rowenova has left the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Rowenova simmers down after a little while then picks up the offered cup, glancing down and sniffing softly of the contents therein. What kind is it?

Lisebet listens to Amanda's joke, and then of course tries to play on it, but that doesn't work so well. Mind you, as Giulio gives his next joke, she blinks, blinks again, glances at Amari with perhaps sudden understanding as she had not been paying attention to that table previously. And there is still Rosalie with Cullen's shorts as her hat. Lisebet can't help it, she fights it, fights it, and then that small laugh from Rowenova, and Lisebet cannot help it. She giggles. "Oh, botheration and damnitall," she exclaims aloud. "Well done, my lord!"

Lisebet is overheard praising Giulio.

Amari hmms softly to herself and nods to Rowenova's pronouncement. "I do enjoy cake." She doesn't have a cake currently, so the mention from Amanda illicits a disappointed sigh. No laughter. There's another ho-hum sort of sound at Rosalie's follow up, and seemingly bored, she reaches up to fix her hair, which was mildly, mildly disturbed by all the horseplay, which should have been forbidden. This is a serious party, after all. And then she cracks, because everyone else cracks, it's infectious. A brief laugh slips out, turns into a groan and then she bows her head to the ladies in the pool with her, "Frankly, Lord Mazetti doesn't deserve to win this. He showed up at the very end, while we endured and endured from the very beginning. In my opinion, we four won. Well done." She turns and climbs out of the pool, heading directly for the changing screen. On the way she dips her head politely to those in the grotto of stone. "Thank you, Baron Norwood."

Ian is overheard praising Giulio: Okay, THAT was funny.

And then there's laughter?! Amanda gasps, as she turns to look at the women who lose their composure. She, then, laughs, and claps. "Well done, my lord!" she declares. She's quick to climb to her feet. "Well then! Lovely attendees... we have all been found to be ''not serious''. Lament! ... And as we've no two winners, I am going to decide that our first winner tonight is Lord Giulio!" she declares. "And our second... My ladies, Rowenova, would you care to guess a number? One, two, three, or four?" Beat. "Oh, Lady Amari... you can pick the first number?"

Grinning towards Lisebet, Giulio says, "Well, one has to be good with their tongue in these competitions, no?" A laugh follows, before he glances towards Amari. "Oh, of course not, my dear. I never once entered the serious pool. I'm more about dirty pool. I'm simply here to do the Lycene thing. And cheat." His cup is lofted in the Oathlander's direction and he winks. Sipping at the drink, he sighs, before looking back towards those at his pool. A dry smirk toys his lips. He glances towards Amanda, one shoulder rising in a shrug.

Cristoph has left the Grotto in the Stone.

Norwood shakes his head slowly... Amanda's got this. Norwood is just going to let them figure it out. "If any of you ladies would like some honey after, let me know."

Corbit grins, "Hear that ladies? Baron Norwood is offering up his honey."

Lisebet chuckles and inclines her head. "Certainly, Baron Norwood," she calls good naturedly. "Honey sounds quite decadent. I would love some." A glance over to Amanda and then ot Amari, thoughtfully.

After having sniffed the strange drink in the tin cup, she slightly shrugs then drinks down a good swig with Northern ease. After Amanda's request, then the not-so-serious scout quickly shakes her platinum noggin under the wolf pelt, "Am good. Thank you, though." says she. "I did not even get in the water." And, she never has.

Ian looks a little bit doubtful. "He's been keeping it in his robe." He says, his voice still flat.

Rosalie rises out of the pool and finally pulls the shorts form her head, padding over to collect up her sopping linen cloak along the way. She smiles across to where Margret is at and holds up the shorts with a wink and a grin, "Let Lord Cullen know I'll return these to him the next time we meet to.. measure!" Moving along, she offers a smile towards Corbit before ducking in behind the changing screens to get dressed. Calling out from behind the screen, "I would have to have it sent along, I'm really quite late!" Handing the soaked linens to one of the serving people with quiet instructions, she makes sure they get some extra coin for their trouble, she looks to Corbit and grins mischeviously, "Shouldn't the ladies be offering the gentlemen some honey?" To Amanda and NOrwood, she offers a curtsy, "Thank you for a very fun time and for the trouble you've gone to for our amusement. And congratulations, Baron." With that, she's turning and fleeing from the Grotto!

Amanda has rolled 1 3-sided dice: 1


**********************************************************************
Reports are extraordinarily confused, but there was some very bizarre incident at the Tragedy in the Lower Boroughs involving Ectorion, Astraea, Violet, Jordan, Sparte and Luca who survived some sort of altercation. Apparently dozens of individuals were killed in some sort of freak swarm of insects, with Brother Martin being one of the individuals lost while he was seeing to the healing of a very young girl, and while the details are unclear, it's said he died saving the child's life.
**********************************************************************


"Indeed, which is why you should be disqualified, not lauded." Amari replies to Giulio, she doesn't even reply to the request she pick a number. She's tucked behind the changing screen by then.

Oh, and people are leaving. So Amanda scrambles. "Oh, just a moment... if you could draw a straw-..." because she's quick! And has servants to get drink stirs as straws. So she goes through it... and, there it is. Amari is the winner! "Congratulations, my lady..." she says. "And now, your prizes..."

Amanda gets an aeterna bath towel with a black and yellow patterned trim from a white canvas tote.

Amanda gets an aeterna bath towel with a black and yellow patterned trim from a white canvas tote.

Rowenova grunts softly as she happily applauds, "Well done, Lady Keaton!"

And Amanda quickly draws out a pair of ridiculous towels out of a tote. She hands one off to Amari, then comes over to toss the other at Giulio. "There you are, my lord! A towel that will stay far cleaner than you," she says, with a smirk.

Norwood applauds! "May both of you BEE lovely in in them!" Norwood, for the obvious pun.

Rosalie has left the Large Natural Stone Pool.

Amanda is overheard praising Giulio: For the best joke of the evening!

Amanda is overheard praising Amari: So serious!

Rowenova almost loses her lovely drink whilst clapping around her tin cup, but then she swigs down the remaining moonshine before it is set aside. "Thanks!" says she and finally laughs, rather brightly!

Ian applauds politely as the prizes are produced. Something he hears from people gossiping nearby has him pushing up to sit on the edge of the pool and motioning one of the staff over. He says a few soft words.

A wink is shot towards Amanda. "Indeed," Giulio says, with a flash of a grin. Catching the towel, he regards it for a moment, before setting it down beside him. "Oh, my dear Whisper, when I wear it... I shall do so with pride."

Lisebet tucks in to get changed as well, coming out in time to see the prizes. "Very nice," she says with a smile, before she moves over towards Norwood. "now then, did I hear something about honey?"

Norwood checked dexterity + sewing at difficulty 9, rolling 2 higher.

"Oh, my lord, you should! Perhaps take it on a stroll throughout town, and let anyone who might stop you know that it was a prize for a very serious party?" Amanda asks Giulio, with a sweet smile. "Or just let them know it's Duke Cristoph's money well spent?"

"Yes, of course. If you'll give me a moment..." Norwood pulls himself out of the pool and goes for his robe and the small pot of honey there. "Here you go My Lady."

"No, no, my dear," Giulio says, with a grin. "That would be ill-apropos. Such flaunting for an Oathlander's gift. I may be crass, but I do, from time to time, possess... some tact." He takes a swallow from his moonshine. Not that much, though.

Ian shakes his head to Corbit when he says something. "I'll be alright. But thanks." Having had a word with one of the staff, he slides back into the water. Not in a huge hurry to go anywhere just yet, clearly.

Corbit nods to Ian, "Have a good night." he says climbing out of the pool, then "It's been a pleasure meeting everyone." he nods to Norwood, "Truly congratulations Baron Norwood." he says before collecting his cloak and wrapping it around himself and heading out.

Corbit has left the Grotto in the Stone.

"Thank you, m'Lord Norwood," Lisebet says with a mischievous grin, as she accepts the small pot of wildflower honey. "I shall definitely think of this night whenever I use that honey. Congratulations once more. Although I should perhaps take my leave now." She glances around, offering a curtsey, and a "Thank you all, this was a lot of fun."

Amari slips out from behind the screen after, with the prize towel Amanda gave her. She hasn't used it. It's still folded neatly and hugged to her. "If you had tact and some sense of decency, you'd give that prize to one of the rightful winners, Lord Mazetti." She turns then, to murmur a thanks to the hosts and even work up a smile that looks slightly forced. "It was a lovely idea for a party. Quite fun." With Lisebet curtseying and saying her farewells she smiles warmly to her, "I'll see you out. Wait!"

Monique has left the Swimming Koi Bath.

Etienne has left the Swimming Koi Bath.

Dandy, the red fox leaves, following Etienne.

Kit, the grey fox, a tiny man with a BIG unpronounceable name, 1 Greenmarch Guard, Q, a very tall man with a very short name, Etienne leave, following Monique.

Amari has left the Large Natural Stone Pool.

"Well..." Amanda says, after flashing a smile to Giulio. Her eyes are back on Norwood. "Baron Norwood, congratulations again. But I believe that about wraps up this event. At least, my part in it." She pauses to offer a smile and dip of her head to Amari. "Everyone is free to stay, but I will be putting on something much warmer to drift along to Whisper House, and then take my rest. Thank you all for attending!"