Sasha kindly responds to Amari "Thank you, I find it quite lovely as well. I would love to see your home sometime." And as Arik brings up the present for herself, she looks like she is about to bounce up and down for joy but is managing to not do that! No that wouldn't dignified but she does happily say "Oh yes I do still want to watch that, pity there is no snow but... perhaps on the dance floor before the music starts to play?"

"Congratulations to you, Sasha, Cirroch. A year goes by so fast, doesn't it? Percephon sends his regards and wishes you many more years of wedded bliss, as do I." Khanne smiles to them then looks about as she hears her name called. "Hello, Tesha," she smiles, walking closer to her, opening her arms to take her sister-in-law into an embrace. "You are well, right? How have you been?" She looks over her shoulder towards Arik and rolls her eyes. "Brother dear.... stop announcing your strip tease or all the ladies in the city will come running."

"Lord Mirk Halfshav," Mirk replies to Amari with a brief smile. "You're right. We haven't been acquainted yet. I'm not much of a person for these kinds of occasions." He gestures to the party, as if to encompass it. "But it's a pleasure, Lady Amari." He raises an eyebrow at Arik's comments, and glances to Rowenova and Khanne bemusedly, clearly wondering if he should even bother to ask.

Sir Alren arrives, following Bianca.

"Undressing? Yeah, I suppose we can at least take off our shirts, that should provide enough entertainment for Sasha and the ladies," Says Arik with a laugh, moving over to the dance floor with Arik. Once there he turns to the crowd, calling out, "Greetings! And welcome to Sasha and my first annversery party!" He looks over to Sasha, giving the woman a warm smile. "I never really expected to fall for a woman like Sasha, she was nothing like any other woman I had been with before. But she won me over with beauty, grace, a sharp mine and a heart of gold," he says back to the group, waving his hand towards Sasha. "I fell in love with this woman and never regretted it. Thank you, my love, for giving me your heart, and taking mines, and I hope we have many more parties like this." He turns back to the crowd, calling out, "For the first event, I promised my wife there would be wrestling! So Lord Arik and I will wrestle, then people are willing to wrestle as they wish!"

Mirk has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Cirroch has joined the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Bianca slipped in, leaving Sir Alren with the house guards... unless the old Templar felt like dancing, but that was highly doubtful. she proceeded first toward Sasha, leaning to murmur something to her before proceeding over to the cozy alcove.

Bianca has joined the a cozy alcove.

Rowenova merrily greets Khanne, "Hello to you, Vala Khanne!" The young scout nods to Mirk. "I am in good spirits because it is a good day." She may smile but that goes unseen due to her wolf pelt and is mostly heard in vocal tone. Rowenova steps back to be beside Amari, "Well, I am not sure the little ones would have stopped for sea silk, but I appreciate you having noticed this... Marquessa Sasha kindly gifted them to me." She smiles up toward those who are being celebrated this day. before glancing back to Lady Tesha with a nod.

"Lord Mirk Halfshav," Amari repeats as if to commit the name to memory, "It's a pleasure to meet you, and that would certainly explain why we've never met before. You're welcome to sit with me, if you like. I'll only talk your ear off a little bit." She promises with a pleasant smile as she makes her way to one of the couches at the hearth and settles in, all prim and proper like, as Oathlanders do. There's a grin for Rowenova's reply, "It suits you!"

Sparte steps in still in his iron guard colors. He smiles towards Cirroch and Sasha, lifting a hand in a brief finger wave. Tucking off his helmet he gives the room a nervous sort of look, the nerves he always gets when there are a lot of people around. Then off he makes his way, grabbing a seat and evading the dance floor.

Sparte has joined the a cozy alcove.

Cirroch is overheard praising Sasha: She's the best thing in my life.

While Cirroch is announcing the first festives Arik is already walking over to the Comfortable couches and unbuckles his swordbelt to give off to Mirk. "Don't lose the family blade cousin, no bargain, sales, or deals" he teases the older Halfshav with a rumbling voice before shedding his coat, tunic, and undertunic to reveal a slimmer than you'd expect frame with healing bruises favoring the right side and fresh scarring on the left near his hip. Now it's just fair skin, coppery hair, scandalous snug trousers, and boots for the Sword of Whitehold as he leisurely makes his way back to the dance floor. "As my gift to the couple a match with Marquis Sanna... If he wins I will be providing him a brand new siege engine for his holdings. If I win he will be supplying me with armaments and supplies for a squadron of Halfshav's finest soldiers." there is a roll of those broad shoulders and a dip of his head to Cirroch letting the man get prepare himself. "At your ready then, My Lord."

Rowenova has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Vale, A Baby Arctic Fox, Pearl, A Baby Arctic Husky arrive, following Clara.

Cirroch is overheard praising Sanna: Mountains do not yield!

"Or his sister-in-law is going to run out the door." Tesha tells Khanne is a soft tone and a chuckle as she hugs her fellow redhead. There's a soft sigh and a smile to her, "I'm alright. How are you doing?" she asks her. Then there's a bit of a look to where Amari has went and there's a smile to her. Then back to Khanne, "We might want to grab a seat." she tells her. Then she moves to watch Arik and Cirroch as they prepare for things.

Tesha has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Making an appearance this evening, Vercyn enters the Sanna Manor, flanked by a minion messenger. With his fur-lined cape flowing behind him, sword at his side, the Duke stops to take stock of who all is present, and where everyone is, patiently stroking his beard. The messenger is the first to be addressed, a sidelong glance to the flunkie, a murmur with a dismissive wave of his hand, and the minion scurries to wait by the entrance.

Mirk accepts the swordbelt from Arik and flashes him a grin. "There goes my plans for the night," he says. "But I suppose I can manage that, Cousin. Try to place nice. It's a special occasion, not a competition."

Cirroch begins to take off his cloak, then his his boots, and finally his tunic and axe, handing it all over to his guards for guarding, now down to just his pants. "I don't remember that being the wager, but sure, I'll go with it," he says back to Arik with a little grin, stretching out his arms. Then he spreads out his legs and gets low, telling Arik, "I'm ready whenever you are, friend!"

Arik is overheard praising Sanna: A True Vassal, Always helpful, Never Complains.

Cirroch has left the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

5 Sanna House Guards leaves, following Cirroch.

5 Sanna House Guards arrives, following Cirroch.

Cirroch has joined the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Sasha happily says to Khanne "Thank you Vala Khanne and please let Lord Percephon know that I thank him as well for the best wishes." She gracefully slips into her seat as she says "I do indeed vote for no shirts. Please." Her cheeks flushing as giggles emitting from her lips. Her eyes then solely focus upon Cirroch with a loving gaze, her cheeks only flushing more. "And after your match I have a present to give you as I tell you of just how enamoured I am with you." As Bianca comes towards her, she smiles warmly and offers an excited wave, and softly says something back. And as she sees Sparte, she waves to him as well looking quite happy. And soon sitting on the edge of her seat. As Vercyn arrives, she gets up from her seat and says to him "Duke Halfshav, it is an honor, thank you from coming, please help yourself to some refreshments. And join in on watching my present."

Arik checked dexterity + brawl at difficulty 15, rolling 31 higher.

Cirroch checked strength + brawl at difficulty 15, rolling 15 higher.

Rowenova leans up against one sofa by Lord Mirk, not sitting down because it is a better view when propped up. She peers out the eye holes of her wolf pelt, completely transfixed on Lord Arik and Marquis Cirroch.

Hannah has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Clothing removed and the pair of Northern men meeting on the dance floor they.... Don't dance! Instead Arik crouches down a bit and begins to move to the left with a few hopping steps. "Just look at it this way, if you manage the yield you can use the siege engines to blast Sasha's name into the side of mountain. Isn't that romantic?" he teases his fellow Lord and hopefully when he's distracted the Halfshav ducks in and rushes Cirroch. At the first exchange both men are angling for position, muscles straining and notable one is beardy with a lot of hair and the other is clean shaven. Fortunately Cirroch doesn't tug on Arik's beard because the man manages to slip Cirroch's arms and get behind him now with his chest against the mans back and his arms around his torso. Now begins the footwork to try and get him off his feet!

It's clear that Cirroch isn't actually a trained wrestler, his form of wrestling is the kind you do with your sibling when you're teenagers and are horsing around while the staff who are suppose to mind you are not around. He lets out a laugh when Arik gets behind him, and begins to struggle, trying to muscle his way out from his grasp, "I should have smelled a swindle! You're actually good at wrestling!"

"Lady Sasha." Vercyn rumbles to the lady of the house, holding out a large hand expectantly for Sasha's; if he has her hand, it will be gently lifted to his lips for a kiss on the knuckles. "I have been remiss in visiting your hall since your arrival in Arx; I would not miss another opportunity. I see the festivities have already started." He adds, gesturing at the wrestling match with a point of his /magnificently-bearded/ chin. "Well then, I will go fetch a drink, my lady." And with that, the Duke heads for the refreshments table first.

Khanne has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Cirroch checked strength + brawl at difficulty 15, rolling 22 higher.

Arik checked dexterity + brawl at difficulty 15, rolling 51 higher.

Clara makes her way into the party. She's dressed up for her but still rather casually. She's wearing a high cut maroon dress made of a fine silk and her very long hair is pulled from the front and pinned with a silver and ruby clip that is in the shape of a dagger. Decorating individual strands of her hair are ruby, quartz, and onyx beads in the shape of little skulls. Her dress falls just above her knees revealing a pair of stylish black boots on her feet. Unable to part with a weapon, she has a diamondplate axe strapped to her back. She's silent as she walks in, nodding her hellos to people before standing off to the side and watching Cirroch and Arik.

Tesha gives a wave to Duke Vercyn as he heads to the refreshments table. But she doesn't call out rudely across the hall. There's also a nod to Clara as she comes in and a warm smile for the woman.

"Yes, let's find us a nice seat..." Khanne says to Tesha, walking towards the hearth where some very large, very comfy couches reside. She seems a little out of it this evening, but she is sure to wear a smile as she greets everyone and begins to watch the wrestling match. She shakes her head at her brother's antics, but soon her eyes see Vercyn there as well. "Uncle. I think you've gained at least fifty more gray hairs since I have seen you.. in your beard alone. It is good to see you out and about though!"

"I can wrassle men but bears are to much." Arik jokes while the pair strain and the Sanna Lord manages to get one of his arms pulled away from his body. Arik yield the hold and instead his boot slips in and Cirroch's foot is suddenly tugged backward and the men tumble down to the dance floor in a heap! There is a quick scramble then to regain position the Halfshav Lord not minding being a bit of a flop because he doesn't even get to his feet, as soon as he is on his knees he pushes off to tackle and drap himself over Cirroch taking him from the side and trying to flip him over onto his back with both arms around his left thigh.

Sasha giggles at Arik's words about blasting her name into the side of a mountain. And she gasps as Cirroch's arms are brought behind him by Arik, her attention quickly back upon Vercyn as she indeed gives him her hand, smiling more as his kisses upon her knuckles and kindly responds "They have indeed and it is quite exciting!" Her eyes back upon the wrestling now, soon they are opening up wide as her mouth is partial agape in fascination.

Rowenova pipes up, "Greetings, Duke Vercyn!" before then going quiet because the giddy scout is right back to peering out toward the wrestling match!

grits his teeth at the effort of fighting Arik. No skill, just pure muscle, there is a bit of hope in his eyes when he gets his arm free! ...and then it's dashed as it, and him, crashes into the floor. Now he's trying to fight to push himself up while Arik is on him, letting out a grunt of effort as he proclaims, "You are not going to beat me this easily!"

Arik checked dexterity + brawl at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Cirroch checked strength + brawl at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.

Clara offers Tesha a smile in return and offers Nova a brief wave in return to the one she's given. After that her white eyes turn back to watch Arik and Cirroch curious to see who is going to win the match.

It isn't an easy win. Although the momentum has been going one way since the start the Marquis has been putting up a fight. This isn't any cake walk and it's obvious from the amount of straining both men are doing. Where Arik might have technique on Cirroch, the bald brown toned man has the bodyweight and muscle on him. There's one point where he almost manages to slip out from under Arik but that's when the Halfshat Lord adjusts the grip and in a five count there is the pin... then the straining ends with Arik rolling off of Cirroch onto his back on the floor panting for breath as he rumbles "Well Fought." there's more than a little sweating going on for the opening bout... Someone might want to wipe down the dance floor lest necks are broken.

Bianca has left the a cozy alcove.

Bianca has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Sasha has left the House Seats of the Marquis and Marquessa.

Sparte has left the a cozy alcove.

Sparte has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

"Ahh, damn!" Calls out Cirroch as he lays there on the ground, sweating from the effort, chest heaving as he reaches over to Arik to playfully smack him on the chest. "You fooled me. I didn't know you were that good. Now I know not to make this bet again," he says with a laugh. He pulls himself up and offers a hand to Arik, telling the crowd, "Anyone else want to wrestle? Challenge anyone you want, or take all challengers! Have some fun!"

Vercyn ends up with a tankard of (what else?) mead, but even as he brings it up to his lips for a taste, his attention is drawn from face to face as he is waved at or called. Unhurriedly, he heads towards the couches where most have gathered, nodding to everyone in one fell swoop as he takes a seat. "I think you mean silver hair." He rumbles to Khanne's comment first, his other hand reaching up to stroke at his beard proudly. "And it adds distinction and sophistication, I might add." Once he sits, he glances about to acknowledge everyone at the couches. "Scout Rowenova. Lady Amari." And towards Mirk. "Nephew." And Tesha. "Lady Tesha. I have yet to catch up with your father! And Khanne says I don't go out much." Finally, there's Hannah. "I don't believe we have met."

Vercyn has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

"I challenge Duke Vercyn Halfshav!" Amari announces almost as soon as Cirroch has called out for potential wrestlers. Then more quietly, to the Duke in question, "It's nice to see you again, My Lord."

"Amari!" Tesha gasps out.

Rowenova stands up from having been leaning against the nearby sofa, and then the young lass prowls sideways away from the sofa situation toward where her lovely landlady is, kindly hugging Shaman Clara. At first it is a light hug before finally becoming a tighter one (not too much, though)!

Rowenova has left the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Arik uses Cirroch hand to get back to his feet and then brushes off his chest and pulls up his trousers a smidge. "I'll take any challengers if you don't have a partner to challenge." he declares in a breathy rumble of a voice while taking a few steps away from the spot they'd be wrassling and gives the Sanna Lord a pat on the back after getting the smack on his trim chest. "Ah well... House Sword, it behooves us to be unpredictable no? It was a closer match than it seems My Lord, mayhap next time you should oil up so I cannot hold you." that seems to be for the Marquessa benefit because the Halfshav flashes a wolfish smirk at the young woman. And then Amari challenges the duke and the Sword of Whitehold peers over to his Uncle.

Clara has joined the a cozy alcove.

Arik has left the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Arik has joined the a cozy alcove.

Arik makes way for the potential challenge of Duke vs Lady.

Cirroch has left the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Cirroch has joined the a cozy alcove.

Rowenova has joined the a cozy alcove.

Sasha quickly slips from her seat and towards Cirroch as she says "It was well fought by both of you indeed! But now I have to give you my present. I had it commissioned as a token of all of the love that I have acquired for you since we met and up until now, I am sure my present next year will indeed be much larger than this but. I do hope you like it Cirroch." Her hands carefully taking a bracelet out of her bag and offering it to him with a bright smile. She teases to Arik "Now you are giving me ideas for my birthday party."

Sasha has joined the a cozy alcove.

Sasha puts a tray of scrumptious treats in a cart filled with things to nibble on.

Clara returns Nova's hug and looks over at Arik and Cirroch, offering a bit of a clap and a smile to both men. She doesn't say anything though, not until Arik makes his way over to the alcove where she lets herself lean casually against the wall.

"My Liege! It's good to see that you have made it," Says Caspian over to Vercyn as he moves to the alcove, though Sasha intercepts him and he takes the gift with wide eyes, looking it over with a couple blinks as he says, "My love, this is quite the gift! My own gift can't compare to yours." He slips on the bracelet, motioning to the guard, who hands him a small wooden box. He opens up the box and takes out a ring, which he slips on Sasha's finger after grabbing her hand.

Rowenova follows along after Clara to hang out somewhere in the corner by her without being in anyone's way and simultaenously watching the gift giving!

Khanne checked perception at difficulty 7, rolling 13 higher.

Sasha looks upon the ring as he slides it on her finger, gasping at how breathtaking it is before she says "Thank you my darling and your compares in waves. I assure you. I adore it so much I will never let it leave my finger."

Bianca checked dexterity + stealth at difficulty 15, rolling 6 lower.

Sparte checked dexterity + stealth at difficulty 20, rolling 12 higher.

Arik gets a friendly kiss on the cheek and a hug despite being sweaty from Clara and the pair appear to be looking at Sasha and Cirroch as they exchange the ring and bracelet, speaking quietly

Vercyn quirks a thick brow at Amari's challenge. He clears his throat and chuckles wolfishly, but shakes his head. "Thank you for the vote of confidence, Lady Amari, but no. I would rather avoid a scandal with Houses Keaton and Tyde by grabbing one of their ladies in all the wrong places." Clearly he means what he says, as the Duke sits back comfortably in his seat to gulp down his mead. The call from Caspian gets his attention, and he looks over. "Ah, Master Caspian. Didn't see you come in...."

Sasha is overheard praising Sanna: My husband is a wonderful gift giver!

Vercyn quirks a thick brow at Amari's challenge. He clears his throat and chuckles wolfishly, but shakes his head. "Thank you for the vote of confidence, Lady Amari, but no. I would rather avoid a scandal with Houses Keaton and Tyde by grabbing one of their ladies in all the wrong places." Clearly he means what he says, as the Duke sits back comfortably in his seat to gulp down his mead. The call from Cirroch gets his attention, and he looks over. "Lord Cirroch. Congratulations on your anniversary!"

"You need not wear it that often," Says Cirroch with a laugh, leaning in to catch the woman's lips in a loving kiss. Then he sits himself down, shaking his head over to Vercyn as he calls out to the man, "No one would accuse you of such a thing in a wrestling match, my liege, and if they did, you have Lord Arik to fight for you."

"Not only does my Family seek me to stand for them but our vassals happily push me in front as well." Arik quips with a look at the Marquis and a low throaty chuckle.

Amari looks terribly, terribly disappointed. "I suppose that's sensible of you, if not very fun. I'm sure it would be awfully embarrassing to be bested by a frail Oathlands Lady as well. You'd never live it down, Duke Vercyn." She's even throwing shade! At least she does so with a smile to suggest she's not being overly serious about it. She doesn't demand her challenge be satisfied.

Sasha happily returns Cirroch's loving kiss, though briefly to kiss it publically decent. She then looks to Vercyn as she asks "Please Duke Halfshav, it would be ever so grand to watch." She then curiously inquires "Would anyone else care to wrestle before the dance floor is used for it's proper purpose?"

Vercyn is starting to talk to those at the couches, but he does look up to both Cirroch and Sasha. "I could name Lord Arik to fight for me, yes. But if I wouldn't live down being bested by a frail Oathlands Lady, it would be much worse for Lord Arik. I think it best not to take that risk, no?" He notes with a wolfish grin.

"Alright then, let us dance!" Cirroch signals to the bards, who begin playing a quick, jovial tune, perfect for a celebratory dance. The Maqruis takes Sasha by the hand, gently pulling her up, "Don't work yourself too hard, my love, and if need be, I'll carry you as I dance," he says with a wink given her way.

Arik is delivered his undertunic by a Sanna servant and the man pulls it on before dipping his head to the pair of hosts and begins to lead Clara over towards... Vercyn!

Rowenova suddenly springs into action mode. She moves over to the dance ring, quickly unhooking the metal clasp on the braided ribbons and opens up yet another entrance to go inside as she steps back.

By the way, Cirroch hasn't put back on his clothes, he is, like all northern revelrers are, half dressed.

Rowenova has left the a cozy alcove.

Rowenova has joined the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Cirroch has left the a cozy alcove.

Cirroch has joined the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Clara nods her head to Arik and offers Cirroch and Sasha a wave before she follows Arik over towards the Duke. She offers Nova a smile as the woman moves with some manner of excitement to go dance but then turns her attention back to Duke Vercyn.

Arik has left the a cozy alcove.

Arik has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Clara has left the a cozy alcove.

Clara has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Rowenova holds open the 12 feet of braided ribbons, dutifully doing so for any party goers who would like to go dance. "Marquessa Sasha and Marquis Cirroch, hopefully you will not mind that these fox statues are my gift to you both, hopefully providing a dance floor now and in future times, too!"

Cirroch has left the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

5 Sanna House Guards have been dismissed.

Arik wields Frostfang the Sword of House Halfshav.

Arik wields a frosted steel longsword of the north.

Sasha has left the a cozy alcove.

Sasha has joined the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Rowenova has left the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Rowenova has joined the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Sasha gracefully gets up from the alcove and makes her way to the dance for with Cirroch, a bright smile curling her lips as the band begins to play and the music starts up

Khanne:laughs lightly and grins at Bianca before murmuring a bit to her quietly.

Rowenova deeply bows to the passing Marquess and Marquis before standing up then carefully wrapping the braided partition around the nearest fox statue, essentially leaving an open place in the dance ring for future entrances.

Amari is overheard praising Cirroch.

Amari is overheard praising Sasha.

Clara has left the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Vale, A Baby Arctic Fox have been dismissed.

Pearl, A Baby Arctic Husky have been dismissed.

"Thank you for them," Says Cirroch to Rowenova as he dances with Sasha, moving to the quick beat by being the lead, and even doing most of the moving, trying his best not to wear out the woman with less stamina then himself. "Now we have a place for entertaining guests in future parties! Didn't even think of it."

Rowenova sing songs, "You are most welcome!" She then shuffles away toward the fooding tables to pick up some lovely cake, a little bit from each one onto a single plate!

Sasha softly giggles before she says "We do indeed and soon we can entertain in the gardens as well. I just need to have some of the flowers spruced up a bit is all." She continues to move with Cirroch, barely touching the ground almost as she clings onto Cirroch's shoulders. Perhaps her toes are even a top of his so she doesn't exhaust as quickly.

Bianca has left the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Sir Alren leaves, following Bianca.

Sparte has left the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Sparte has joined the a cozy alcove.

If Sasha wasn't touching the ground enough, she's not touching it at all when Cirroch picks her up and spins her around! holding her to his bare chest as he twirls with her in his arms, letting out a laugh. Is this a very pretty dance? No way? Is he having fun at least? Hell yes!

Hannah has left the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Hannah has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Arik offers his arm in a courtly fashion towards Tesha and decides, "Their loss." and then they're off to the dance floor!

Arik has left the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Arik has joined the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Tesha has left the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Sasha clings tighter upon Cirroch as he spins her back, giggling as her all her aeterna skirts flutter. Her eyes closing for a moment as the spinning continues.

Tesha has joined the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Tesha gives Arik a look, "It's alright. Completely understandable." she tells her brother-in-law with a bit of a smile as she takes his arm and follows him to the dance floor.

Cirroch has joined the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Rowenova perks up as more dancers join up on the dance floor over yonder before stepping closer while feeding up cake bites underneath her wolf pelt to her hidden mouth below there.

Arik checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 3 higher.

Sasha checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 3 lower.

Sasha checked charm + performance at difficulty 18, rolling 5 higher.

Rowenova has left the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Rowenova has joined the a cozy alcove.

Cirroch finishes Sasha's spin by grabbing her by the legs and hosting her up in a prince carry, and now rocks her as he moves across the dance floor in some kind of attempt to dance while he carries his dance partner, looking into her eyes with a playful grin. He looks over to Arik, giving an approving nod, "She does look lovely. Not as lovely as my wife, but she is hard to compete with!"

Arik and Tesha are in a slow dance and it looks to be a formal one. vidently the man knows how to do a courtly slow dance there's even a books worth of distance between them. Chaperones would be pleased.

Vercyn has left the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Rowenova suddenly dashes to the food table and picks up a second fork before dashing back to the corner alcove all over again.

Sasha giggles as she is spun about and now being carried by Cirroch, blushing deeply but not minding in the slightest. Her head resting on his shoulder as she lovingly look up at him as he is being silly dancing about with her.

Vercyn hands his empty tankard to a house servant, and heads towards the exit. Ah, but the Duke isn't going to just leave without announcing it; he moves towards the dancefloor and advances upon Cirroch and Sasha, interrupting their dance if necessary. "Thank you for the invitation, Marquis and Marquessa Sanna, and again, congratulations on the anniversary. Alas, I have another meeting I have put off, but I must attend to now; otherwise I would certainly steal and embarrass the lovely Marquessa for a dance."

Khanne lifts a hand to wave to Vercyn. "Good night, Uncle."

Cirroch turns towards Vercyn, giving him a wide smile as the man bids fairwell, giving him a nod, "Shame you are leaving so soon. I hope we can meet up soon and talk about future plans and our places in them." He says to the man with a smile his way.

Vercyn nods to Cirroch and Sasha. "Absolutely. We will arrange something soon." WIth that, the Duke turns and heads out.

Rowenova shouts out, "Goodnight, Duke Vercyn!"

Sasha says to Vercyn "It is a pity you must leave so soon but thank you for coming by it really means a lot to Cirroch and myself." She continues to dance with her husband however her deems to be fun, soon looking over at Arik as she says "I never knew you were such a wonderful dancer." Then to Tesha "Your umbra gown it quite lovely upon you."

"I'm not, but I can not step on toes." Arik confides in Sasha while moving in a simplistic step step step turn step step step turn style dance.

Rowenova wise cracks, "The cost of shoes is not worth it!"

Khanne rises up from her seat and says, "I should see myself home... " She looks tired, perhaps a little melancholy, mostly tired. She smiles, however and says, "I wish for you another wonderful year, Sasha and Cirroch... and many more after that." She waves to Arik and Tesha, and says to her sister-in-law, "we need another sisterly chat soon." Then a nod towards the others. "Enjoy the evening and festivities... I have a letter to write... then sleep."

Khanne has left the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Drysi, a young shaman apprentice leaves, following Khanne.

"Thank you, Marquessa, I've not had it for long and wanted to see how it fit." Tesha tells Sasha with a smile as she manages to keep up with her brother-in-law as they dance in that step step turn style.

Sasha gracefully is set down from Cirroch and she happily says "For those who wish to continue dancing, feel free but I wish to play my game now before Cirroch holds his drinking contest." She makes her way from the dance floor to the hearth and slips into her favorite spot as she asks "Who wishes to play Never Have I Ever?" Her light blue eyes curiously looking about as she holds up three of her fingers with a smile.

Mirk has left the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Sparte has left the a cozy alcove.

"I will play, obviously, but you might have a leg on me," Says Cirroch back to Sasha with a laugh given her way, moving to his spot in the hearth, which is right next to his wife. "I've never played before though."

Cirroch has left the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Cirroch has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Arik wraps up the dance with Tesha since Sasha is proposing a game and he just chuckles while murmuring something back to her. "I'll play I suppose." he offers and then looks aside to Tesha, "Paperwork or?"

Rowenova has left the a cozy alcove.

Arik has left the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Arik has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Rowenova has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Mirk rises to his feet and starts towards the exit, though he pauses as the others make their way over. He dips his head to Cirroch and Sasha, and says, "Congratulations again on your anniversery. Thank you for having me." He offers a less formal wave to Arik and Tesha. "And good night."

"Cousin I will see you soon." Arik rumbles with a lif of his hand while claiming one of the comfy chairs and offering a grin for Hannah and Amari.

Cirroch offers a wave back to Mirk when he hears that the man is leaving, bidding him fairwell with, "Good night to you, my lord. Hope we get to properly speak with each other soon."

Tesha leaves the dance floor with Arik and there's a bit of a look to him, but she nods her agreement to something. Then the game is spoke on and she doesn't know it. "I should be going." she states to them. "It was lovely to come and celebrate with everyone. Thank you for allowing me and others to join." she states to the Marquis and Marquessa with a bow. Then she gives a wave to Mirk, "Good night my Lord." she tells him with a smile.

Tesha gives a look to Amari and Hannah, "I'm heading back to the Tower, you ladies have fun." she grins. Then she gives waves and heads out.

Amari has popped up as if she's going to finally take to the dancefloor with Hannah, when it clears. "I think we've missed our moment, Lady Hannah!" She waves after Tesha, "Good night, Lady Tesha!"

"Thank you for the bringing me," To Tesha, then a grin goes to Arik as well. "Nice dancing."

Sasha has left the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Sasha has joined the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Tesha is overheard praising Sanna: Throwing a good party!

Hannah laughs as she shakes her head, "If there is no music then we make our own I say!"

Tesha has left the a dance floor sectioned off by braided ribbons between fox statues.

Wilhelm the Iron Messenger leaves, following Sparte.

After swallowing down the last bite, Rowenova sets aside the cake plate along with the couple forks she previously acquired. She then turns back toward the comfy couches and clasps together her calloused hands. "What kind of game?"

Rowenova says, "Never have I ever?"

Sasha nods and explains "How Never Have I Ever Works is we all hold up three fingers, the goal of the game is to be the last one with fingers up, it means you win. To get fingers down, we each take a turn saying something we ourselves have never done but think everyone else has. I will go first to start. Never have I ever had a pet cat. Now if any one has ever had a pet cat, they have to put a finger down. And now it is the next person's turn to go."

Never have I ever, once that's mentioned Amari's eyes widen and she slips her arm through Hannah's, whispering, "Let's dance." Or flee. She dips her head to Sasha, explaining apologetically, "The last time I played that with alcohol involved, it was, well it was bad. Good luck!" Fleeeeeing!

A surprised sort of "ack!" comes from Hannah but she goes along with Amari as she is dragged, or led, to the dance floor and she laughs, "Seems a dangerous sort of game to someone?"

Arik watches as Amari whisks away with the other young Oathlands lady and lazily lifts up three fingers while relaxing in one of the chairs. "Don't see a drinking element." he remarks while they begin the party game and Sasha can re-explain the rules for her.

Arik has joined the line.

Rowenova has joined the line.

Cirroch has joined the line.

Generally happy to stand up, Rowenova leans sideways against a comfy sofa, rather than sitting down on the weakening cushions. She holds up three fingers before putting down the third one because she must have pet cats before!

At Sasha's question about owning a cat, Cirroch's fingers do not go down! "Never owned a cat. Cats are boring pets."

Rowenova ohs quietly, "Own not just pet?" She puts her finger back up total 3.

Amari gets a few steps from the hearth before she stops again (sorry Hannah!), she regards her dance partner and looks indecisive. "It's actually fun if there's no drinking involved. You should play a round, Lady Hannah." She doesn't volunteer herself, mind, just the Lady Wyrmguard.

Clara has joined the line.

Clara returns from her brief call away to work and rejoins the group just in time to catch Sasha's rules for the game. "Oh, I've played this before... with alcohol given. " She steps up to Arik's side and places a hand on his shoulder before she takes a seat on the arm of his chair, adjusting her axe so it doesn't wack him or poke him. She places three fingers up and watches everyone's response to owning cats.

Looking entirely amused Hannah shakes her head, "Very well, but now you will owe me a dance in future."

Turn in line: Arik

"No one else owned any cats?" Cirroch wonders back to the group, lifting his brows. "No cat lovers here, it seems."

"I do. You can come collect any time." Amari smiles at Hannah before shooing her back to the couches while she slips over to the refreshments for a drink. Not dancing is thirsty work, after all.

Arik looks up as Clara rejoins the group and offers a lazy smile while holding up three fingers, "Welcome back Shaman, I have never... Shaved my beard." he decides with a pointed look at Cirroch and his smooth as a baby's butt chin!

Sasha has joined the line.

Sasha giggles as she keeps her fingers up and muses "I have no beard to shave. And I don't shave my husband." More giggles escaping her lips as she leans against Cirroch as they sit upon the couch.

"Sabotage!" Claims Cirroch with a laugh as he puts down one of his fingers, looking to Arik with an amused grin, shaking his head. He looks to the other people, wondering, "I hope you avenge me against Lord Arik."

Rowenova pipes up, "I absolutely love cats, but I never had nor owned one..." Then, she laughs softly toward Sasha, "Me, either!" All three fingers stay up!

Turn in line: Rowenova

Rowenova says, "Never have I ever dipped in any waters at The Grotto!"

Another finger goes down for Cirroch, and he's holding up only one finger left, his middle finger, pointed at Arik with a grin.

Arik immediately ticks a finger down with a sidelong look at Rowenova and a rumbling remark, "I am going to order you into the cold pool one of these days."

Clara offers Arik a smile and then slips from the arm of the chair and into Arik's lap. "I fear the reaction to the individual who threatens to cut yer beard, Arik." She laughs and reaches up to give Arik's beard a gentle twirl and a just as gentle tug. Her fingers remain up though... she's an unmarried woman with no beard to call her's in any way. However, at Nova's words a finger goes down.

Sasha giggles and puts down a finger as she says "Guilty." Now only two fingers remaining?!?!?

Turn in line: Cirroch

Rowenova mock complains, "Nuuuuuuuuuh!" after Arik's reply but then just laughs while holding up her three fingers and turning toward the next contestant!

"Hmmm..." Cirroch hums as he looks over the group, then grins to Arik, saying, "I never flirted with Lady Tesha on the dance floor."

Settling down at the couches, Hannah gets comfortable to listen to the game. While not taking part she laughs at sections.

Amari fades slowly into the background, watching the game playout from the sidelines looking amused as she drinks and nibbles on a treat. When it's over, she'll offer congratulations, thanks and polite farewells.

Arik blinks as Clara slips into his lap and given his is a tiny woman she fits pretty easily. It takes a moment weight to shift to get comfortable underneath the Crovane Lady and then he is chuckling low and deep. "I'm afraid I'm trying to find a good match for Lady Tesha. So any flirting you may think is familial encouragement. I assure you." he says in about as sincere a way as a man can he even has another woman in his lap! Thus the two fingers remain.

Amari has left the Large Hearth surrounded by over-stuffed comfortable couches.

Sasha giggles at Cirroch's never have I ever as she curoiusly watches Arik to see what his response is. And she looks quite amused at his answer.

Rowenova keeps up all three of her own fingers. She cracks up ever so softly!

"If you flirted with Tesha, Marquis, then I'll concede I did. You'd be out though." Arik offers.

"I think you're full of shit, but know what? I'll let it slide, no one's fingers goes down," Says Cirroch back to Arik with an amused grin his way.

Turn in line: Clara

Clara smiles at the men and their bickering about flirting with Tesha. "If one of you don't flirt with her I might just do it for you. She's pretty." She looks to Tesha. "They just can't decide who thinks you finds more attractive." She looks at both men then. "Never have I ever argued about who was flirting with Tesha on the dance floor."

Clara smiles at the men and their bickering about flirting with Tesha. "If one of you don't flirt with her I might just do it for you. She's pretty." She looks to Nova. "They just can't decide who thinks she's more attractive." She looks at both men then. "Never have I ever argued about who was flirting with Tesha on the dance floor."

Cirroch lets out a laugh over at Clara, putting his last finger down, and uses that arm to wrap around Sasha in a hug. "Well, I'm out. Rather then learning about other people, this is a brutal game of who can be most clever," he says with a chuckle given to the group.

Rowenova laughs louder, doing so right away, quickly nodding her wolfy head! Still up are three fingers!

Sasha giggles even more as Clara trumps both Cirroch and Arik with the game, knocking her poor darling husband out of the game! Now he can not give anymore never have I evers!

Arik relents and lowers another finger leaving only one and he does glance to Hannah with a briefly curious expression before wondering, "Have you learned anything about us, Lady Wyrmguard?" he teases in a mild rumble of a voice before whispering something in Clara's ear it is very close afterall.

Turn in line: Arik

Sasha hugs Cirroch back as she says "We can always practice though it would only give you an advantage in knocking me out in truth." Her gaze curiously looking to Hannah as Arik poses his question with amusement dancing in her features. She then ponders for a bit as she says "Never have I ever... fought with a weapon."

"It would seem so yes. I think I find you all wonderful company and hope to know you better still." Hannah answers Arik with a laugh, "And you clearly have fun party games, as well as fun parties."

Still leant against the couch backing, Rowenova puts down her third finger, holding up the first two. She even has a couple weapons on her leather belt!

Arik looks at Sasha with an extreme skepticism even as Hannah replies, "You've never fought with a weapon, not even a hairpins or needles?" it sounds like he's asking if she's ever spoken or had her first breath or been kissed before. Boggled.

Sasha shakes her head no and explains "As the beloved Fainting Goat of Valardin, I was not allowed to even pick up a weapon. My hairpins are merely to look pretty, never once had I actually had to use them in my entire life." It is true, she has never sparred once, only watched.

"Doesn't surpise me," Says Cirroch with a shrug of his shoulders to Arik. "I don't even think she can swing my axe.

Clara clicks her tongue and lowers a finger. One left. "Interesting. We might need ta fix that."

The line has been dismissed by Cirroch.

Arik lowers his last finger and makes a tut sound before wrapping his arms around the diminutive woman in his lap and reaching up briefly to fiddle with the star iron tiara in her dark curling hair even while replying to Hannah, "So Lady Hannah, your cousin is seeking a marriage in the northern fealty. Are you likewise seeking a marriage or are you still in mourning?"

Rowenova peeks out the eye holes on her wolf pelt toward Shaman Clara then Marquessa Sasha before then piping up, "Never have I ever... met or known at least one of my birth parents."

Arik says in Northlands shav, "In a room full of nobles... Cheeky."

Rowenova quickly adds, "...as far as I can remember!" She does not sound sad.

Arik makes a musing perhaps mildly chiding remark to Rowenova in a language that marks him for a terrible inappropriate edgy man.

Crossing her hands in ladylike fashion, Hannah smiles at Arik and shakes her head, "I will of course do what I need to to help my family, but I am not actively looking. I am uncertain of the formal mourning period."

Sasha still has two fingers for now and kindly says to Clara "Once I am cured, I am willing to try to learn but until I can gain muscle, it isn't safe for my to attempt with my ailment." And at Rowe's she is now only holding up her index finger and that mothering look Sasha gets sometimes is upon her features as she reaches over to gently squeezes upon one of Rowe's hands and offer a soft smile of support.

Sasha says in Northlands shav, "It is only fair, I pulled a cheeky one too. Just means I am rubbing off on her."

Clara lowers her last finger. "That's depressing." She says to Nova with a frown. "I'm sorry you've never met yer parents."

Rowenova gently squeezes Sasha's hand, doing so more for the Marquessa's sake, before quickly shaking her wolfy head, "It should probably bother me, but it never really has. I love my adopting parents. They were the best I can imagine ever having, anyway!"

Sasha smiles as she says "I know my dear scout. And you can also pick new family you call friends and allies. And you already know I am one. Though I have to try to win. Never have I ever... killed something."

"That is understandable. I did suggest Lady Desiree speak with Lord Cadern. He may be a good match in a promising House. They even have boats a rarity in the northlands." Arik explains conversationally to Hannah before giving Clara a gentle nudge against her stomach and adds, "They're in the vasslage of House Crovane actually. I forget if they are sworn to Crovane or Blackwood,"

Hannah looks rather surprised, "A good match? Are you already trying to set me up with a husband Lord Arik?" Hannah asks with a small laugh, "But what if I am terribly irritating and horrid company for poor Lord Cadern?"

"A good match for her, Lady Hannah. I would never play matchmaker unless it was a formal request." Arik explains to the young woman with a low chuckle. "Lady Desiree wrote Redrain hoping for some advice on who is available and suitable."