It is time for the dance lessons to start! Guests of Whisper House are escorted through the comfortable and lavish receiving room and onward into the ballroom. It's here that a cadre of musicians and Whisper attendants wait. Central to them is Amanda, a woman that's tallish and blonde and terribly put together. "Welcome, please, come in, come in... if anyone wishes to have some wine before we begin, please do so!"

Waldemai fortifies himself for the ordeal with an ale or three.

Saedrus is present already, though he is clearly letting Amanda take the lead as Hostess. The Radiant does at least greet the guests, or students as the case may be, with a warm smile. "Welcome and thank you for joining us this evening." To those that catch his evergreen gaze. He is dressed in seasilks in a clearly Lycene design; a slit through the skirt of his robe permits the flash of pale thigh and delving neckline open over his chest. The fabric is dyed so deep a blue it resembles the midnight sky and dappled in diamond beading it catches the light and glitters as if brushed in star light. Winged sleeves presently cover his hands as they are folded delicately at his front, while the length of his snowy white mane is braided loosely down his back.

Entering the ballroom with Lady Rey Laveers on his arm, Jophiel smiles warmly as the pair arrive at the ballroom. "Isn't this lovely - and it is a good evening to come out as well." he points out to her, picking up a pair of wines, offering one to Rey as he continues to look around. "I'm sure you can find a better dance partner than I. After all, you should experience dancing with all manners of different people."

Grady walks into the ballroom speaking quietly to a woman by his side. "Think of it as an investment," he says to Josephine, "which is exactly what it is. It's smart. Sound, even. You'll have to tell me what it has to say. I bet it has interesting stories to tell." And then he's falling silent as the lessons begin.

Lethe steps into the ballroom with a smile for everyone she sees. She goes to enjoy some of the wine before the lesson begins.

Has brought a small contingent of musicians from the Bard's College; she's mostly occupied managing them. She's carrying with her the famed citole discovered during the College's tour not all that many months ago and wears a magnificent feathered gown.

[Fashion] With talented modeling, Gianna displays 'songbird' around Arx, garnering flattering conversation and murmurs throughout the city about the fine choices made by Bard's College for sponsoring someone with such exceptional taste.

On the list of people Who Probably Should Have Stayed Home Tonight, Sir Jeffeth ranks quite high. The large man is slow to move this evening. The hulking figure is hunched slightly, and favoring one leg. It's quite clear that the man has recently enjoyed a plethora of physical punishment. If the diagonal slashes on his face, the fading fang marks on his neck, or the fresh red scratches of claws are visible just past his sleeves. While his appearance may be a little jarring, his attitude certainly seems to be in good spirits at least. As is evident by the applauding and short cheer let out in response to Saedrus just... doing anything. GO SAEDRUS! Giving Saedrus' welcoming words a very unnecessary round of applause, the hulking form of Jeffeth Bayweather hobbles into the ballroom somewhat. Close to a wall. For leaning.

"Demetria took it back before I could really get a good listen. II am thinking of having her bring it home so that I can get its pure sound. Unfetterd by the ores or other gems. Find out what it wants to be." The old woman in attendance with her Patron, she's falling silent when it's time to start.

Rey steps inside on Jophiel's arm and they make something of an impression, light to dark, pale violets to dark green, and tiny to tall. But the small lady gives a soft chuckle at his words, "You simply do not wish me step on your feet all night.." Her voice is soft, sweet even, but also bright as she smiles at him and moves with the sweeping sleeves of aeterna that move along the floor as she moves. She is graceful enough to sweep them out of the way of others it seems, atleast so far.

In contrast to the well-dressed Radiants in their exquisite garb, Nuala seems fit to prefer simplicity. Grey silks without much to recommend them except very good tailoring to her height will never set her apart. The sooty cloud of her hair keeps falling over her face, and she swipes back the midnight fall. The tall Redrain does not turn aside any possibility of wine, thank you. She chooses a flute, red as they get. Her leggy, easy stride probably speaks fair volumes of her reason for being here. So be it, a huge man is leaning on a wall? She goes to lean near Jeffeth then, more than arm's reach away.

"Thank you one and all," says Amanda, after offering a warm smile to Saedrus. "Before we begin, I'd like to say just a few things about Whisper House. First and foremost, we are dedicated to serving Arx and the Compact. We offer our services to one and all - noble and common, regardless of fealty. We do things like..." And she gestures about. "Give instruction on dance. We give courses on etiquette. We help plan parties and host events. If you should need a Whisper, you need only ask." There's a pause, then Amanda is looking back to Saedrus. "And... we have a new Radiant! Two of them, in fact. Saedrus Whisper has to be one, and I'd like if we could take a moment to offer a round of applause to a man who has helped so many of us so greatly."

Waldemai is willing to lend a hand to giving a fellow a hand. He applauds politely, as appropriate to a ballroom.

Garibaldi, the Lycene swordbearer arrives, following Theron.

Lethe smiles as she looks to Saedrus and claps.

Gianna holds the citole carefully and manages to applaud, her lips curved up at the corners in the faintest of smiles. It's not the loudest applause - the instrument makes things too awkward for that - but it's appreciative nonetheless.

Jophiel gives polite applause to the introduction of Saedrus, the budding diplomat in quiet words with Rey at the moment. It is appreciative, but restrained, as it seems all things are with the Bisland.

Saedrus looks out across the room to all who have gathered with a warm smile, a polite dip of his head and elegant bow to the guests trickling in, of Jeffeth though there is a small play of colour in the Radiant's cheeks, a cheerful little laugh despite a gentle concern for the way the man came in. He'd move to speak to Jeffeth but, there are introductions and greetings and Amanda is stepping up to talk. There is a sense of pride in the curl of his lips to his cheeks as she speaks on the House, as the topic draws to him the man bows gracefully. "Thank you, Amanda. You are very kind, but I would not wish to take the focus of the evening. Thank you everyone, though might we also thank Amanda as well, and Gianna Whisper too for organising the evening and music to dance by."

Waldemai lifts his mug, and calls, "Hear hear."

Rey speaks softly to Jophiel but with a flush she turns and looks back to Saedrus, a raises her delicate hands to clasp for the new Radiant! Those sea-green eyes looking over towards him and peeking for a moment as if something catches her attention but then Jophiel says something else and those watching will see her mouthing. "Ohhh.." no sound though.

Nuala's applause is not ladylike or restrained. She cups her palms to allow for a reverberating pulse of sound to form in the space between them, a round orb that bursts in punctuated cracks of percussion. It's not abysmally loud but wholeheartedly provides Saedrus and his fellow Whispers a fanfare quite at odds with her otherwise watchful manner.

The large figure keeps his back pressed against the wall. How he plans on dancing when standing seems to be a chore is a wonder, but here he is all the same. Scarred face and all. At least his hair is combed, flecks of water in it evidence that he has recently bathed and he's dressed up in his finest almost-silks. When there is movement by him, Jeffeth pulls up an easy, almost lazy smile to the approaching Nuala. Immediately shoving off the wall, he goes into a bow, injuries or no, fist pressed to his chest. "Sir Jeffeth Bayweather. Knight of Solace, at your service." Straightening up slowly, he adds with a bit of a warmer smile, "Hi."

"Thank you, Radiant," Amanda says, with a warm smile sent over to Saedrus. "And the man is correct. We have music tonight provided by Gianna Whisper and the Bard's College. Which... Gianna, if you could start something light while I organize our attendees?" she asks. Then she looks back over to the gather. "Now then! Who here has some experience with dance? A few lessons, many a gala under their belt? ... I want everyone who is an experience dancer to please step over to this side of the floor!"

Waldemai raises his hand slowly. "I've done some dancing, but you know..." Folk stuff in the bar. "Nothing fancy, though."

Gianna inclines her head in Saedrus' direction, then bows in Amanda's direction. "Thank you," she says. And then she does as she's bid, and begins to play the citole. The bards immediately join her, and a light tune provides a pleasant background to the organizational efforts.

"Sorry, Lady Laveers, for the moment, we must part ways." With that, Jophiel lifts the pale maiden's hand and presses a kiss to the top of it before he moves to the trained or being trained side of the room. "Piano and dance." he offers quietly. "Though I have a ways to go in both."

Josephine offers applause to the newest Radiant, a smile on the jewelers face before her attention returns to the lesson at hand.

Grady leans over to Josephine and murmurs, "I have a little experience but nothing to write home about. I thought this might be a nice time to learn, for Jessa who is always so graceful." He gives his companion an amused grin. "I thought she'd appreciate not always having to lead."

Jophiel has joined the line.

Jeffeth has joined the line.

Waldemai has joined the line.

Grady has joined the line.

Rey is left alone after she nods gracefully to Jophiel and she already biting her lower lip as she gracefully moves slowly to the other side from those who are being put in line. She moves well, but clearly dancing is not a skill the Mercy has... yet.

"For Jesse, the world." Josephine laughs, gesturing for Grady to joint eh one side, while she remains firmly where she is.

Lethe looks to those who are trained with a tilt of her head but doesn't join them.

Amanda watches as the crowd spreads, a smile on her lips all the while. "Now! Everyone who has no experience in dance..." She pauses to look amongst the room. "Please go help yourself to a partner! If we're lacking in partners, or if you don't like the looks of your choices, myself and Saedrus are available."

Waldemai crosses the floor to stand in line with the other gentlemen who know something about dancing. "This seems unlikely," he says.

Saedrus glances along the group to one side of the room, those more comfortable with dance, and slips in that direction also. All men. Saedrus chuckles a little, "I hope you are all quite comfortable in leading," he says with a smile, drawing up alongside Jeffeth. He turns about to the room, a bow of his head, "I am more than happy to take a partner should there be any remaining persons. But please, this is also a chance, perhaps to meet someone knew, so do not be shy."

Slipping in clad in sable and black silk, though complete with twin swords on his back. Theron stops just within to gain his bearings. His head cocks to one side as everything is becoming organized. He looks on with a look of fascination upon his features.

Nuala's cloistered serenity could be considered judgmental or a mask over uncertainty. Her watchful gaze takes in the attendees and the ballroom as separate facets of a very attractive gem, and she the woman in need of a loupe to distinguish all the hidden characteristics. The gesture from Jeffeth does not go unnoticed, nor that he took the time to bow when obviously harmed. Healing or not, it counts. She ignores the midnight lock that slides off her brow in front of her left eye. "Hi, Sir Bayweather." If that isn't a little casual? "Nuala Redrain. Adventurer. Not skilled at this sort of dancing." She takes her assessment of all those sorts waiting to pick out a partner, and that makes an easy point for her to assess. "You care to show a princess the steps?"

You ever been to one of those dances where everyone is on one wall on one side of the room, and others are on the other side of the room and noone seems to want to break ranks? That's what Jophiel is seeing. But he's also feeling out the room and those around him, simply because he can't help himself.

The music, led by Gianna Whisper, continues. Maybe she'll take her turn dancing if there's need for it, but it doesn't seem that way just yet.

At the call for those experienced with dancing, Jeffeth bobs his head and starts to limp across the floor. The behemoth lumbers across the floor to where Amanda had directed, now that he is without the support of the wall, he stands a little taller, widening his shoulders and broadening his massive chest. As Saedrus approaches him, Jeffeth's smile goes luminous for the Radiant. He hunches some to mutter over to the Whisper, though the end of it is a little too loud and audible to hose in the immediate vicinity. "You're doing a great job." Then his eyes are floating up to Nuala. The smile dampens into something more appropriate, still warm, but glowing embers rather than solar. "Ah. Hi. Your Highness." His fist brought up to his chest once more, he doesn't bow this time, but does bow his head. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance." As she selects him as her partner he nods. "Of course, Your Highness. It would be my pleasure. A lot of people like to compare fighting to dancing." His massive shoulders creep up into a light shrug. "I'm not really fond of that metaphor. Dancing is much harder." And with that he offers his hand to Nuala.

However, with Nuala breaking the ice, Jophiel nods his head in approval before approaching Josephine. "I find it hard to believe that such an experienced and elegant woman would not know the slightest about dance." There's a smile towards Rey, they'll find each other in a bit, but as Saedrus said, this is a time to mix and mingle. "May I have a dance? Jophiel Bisland. Recently arrived to Arx."

The tiny Mercy has slowly straighten her shoulders as if going into battle. But even for that Rey is not sure about this having to pick a partner for a dance. It shows in those eyes as she glances at the males across from her. Moon shy would be a lovely way to describe the pale ethereal lady as she sways in place before stepping slowly towards the other side. A dip of her chin with a smile as Jophiel passes her and she looks to see who is yet dancing.

"Oh Lord Island. I was too busy making beautiful things and singing to the gems." Grady is going to have to seek out someone else because as Jophiel offers, there's a bow to the noble and the old woman is moving forward to go through with the lesson. "And you are welcome to disbelieve. But I assure you, your instep will relay quite a different answer you dear boy." She offers her hand though.

Grady just met Jophiel recently, and so as Jophiel snags his friend he says easily to Josephine, "If I'd the power, I'd give it to her indeed. Enjoy your dance, Lord Jophiel's a gracious man." And then he's turning to Rey, bowing to her in greeting. "Lady, as your companion has deprived me of mine, perhaps you'd be willing to join me for a dance?" Hazel eyes sparkle with enjoyment and warmth as he holds out his hand.

Lethe takes a look at those in the line with uncertainty before approaching Waldemai. "Would you like to be my partner?"

Amanda drifts about, looking left and right, considering the crowd, checking, encouraging. Once Lethe has selected a partner, she gives a little clap. "Lovely! ... Is anyone lacking a partner?" she asks. Her gaze drifts over to Theron. "My lord, are you without a partner?"

Breaking the ice comes naturally to northerners, doesn't it? They call that a morning walk. Nuala is not short, not by a long shot, and the way she carries herself over the ballroom floor speaks to a certain innate sense of posture. "You stand to teach me, I think we can do away with some of the titles," she says, a candor there contained at a low volume. "Unless that makes you uncomfortable." Forthright, she extends her hand to take Jeffeth's, and otherwise waits on him to signal where to begin. Her fingers are long and pale, her skin warm, and the callouses evident from the first touch indicative she has a history in life different from flower arranging. "Fighting has a purpose different from dancing. Unless you plan to start something."

Saedrus draws back, watching and waiting as each person finds a partner. While Amanda makes sure everyone present has a partner, Saedrus weaves elegantly between the paired parties. A little gala etiquette like he just can't help himself, "introductions made to your new partners," he says softly. "Polite and cordial. Such is as much a part of the dance as the steps taken.

Rey let's out a long breath and gives Grady a beaming beautiful smile. "Thank you, I would be very pleased to dance with you.." She says to Grady in that soft voice, a hint of amusement as she glances over her shoulder at Jophiel and Jose, "Well he does lean towards beautiful woman, I am lady Rey Laveer, and do forgive me for any damage I do to your feet, atleast I am a Mercy if this goes horribly wrong.." She is used to taller males so places her fingers in Grady's offered hand, so very grateful for not having to ask another to dance.

Waldemai bows politely to Lady Lethe. "Yes, of course, my lady." My lady, not m'lady. Boy are we all hoity-toity today. "I'm a little uncertain on this ballroom stuff but I imagine we'll have good teachers."

"And did the gems sing back, and what did you find in their song?" Jophiel asks curiously, slipping his arm into Josephine out onto the floor. "As for making beautiful things? I would like to see some of your work sometime. There is those I sometimes spoil." he says with a soft chuckle. "Though I am also attempting to build my modeling skills." comes the admission, before he turns to face her. "We'll wait for Mistress Amanda to tell us what step we are attempting first. I will try to make sure my insteps remain uncrushed."

"Errr." Begins Theron without a trace of eloquence. Shaking his head from side to side he clears his throat and tries again. "Sorry. Dry throat. No. No I do not have a partner yet." He looks towards the others. "I was not sure I should even learn. Perhaps though, I should change my mind, broaden horizons and try something different for a change." Theron gives a large smile towards Amanda. "So. Whatever you suggest, then? I promise I am more graceful on my feet than my tongue is in my mouth at the moment."

"A pleasure, Lady Rey. I am Lord Grady Deepwood, a newfound friend of Lord Jophiel's and quite pleased to make your acquaintance as well. I am not myself a Mercy, but I'll leave myself at yours - though if you tread on my feet I promise not to tell a soul." Grady beams at Rey pleasantly enough, relaxed and at ease. "What brought you tonight? Any particular reason to learn to dance, or simply a whim?"

"Well, my lord, both myself and the Radiant-" That's Seadrus, "-are available," Amanda says, to Theron. "So, whichever of us you'd like to dance beside. The choice is yours!"

The scarred man flicks his gay over to a certain name, his eyes falling on Rey. His lips once more pull into a radiant smile in her direction even as his hand goes to rest on Nuala's waist. He tries to wave towards Rey with his other hand, but discovers it is currently holding Nuala's hand. So Nuala is now also awkwardly waving to Rey. "Mercy. Good to see you!" Jeffeth shoots off that way before looking back to Nuala with an apologetic grimace. "Sorry." Nuala's warm skin slides over a few of the relatively fresh cuts dug into the man's hand. He grins lightly at her words, looking down at himself, then back up to her. "I probably shouldn't be dancing, much less fighting." And then, he's guiding her along, slowly, without verbal instruction. Simply expecting her to follow. "But say I was going to start something, you think you could finish it?" He inclinces his head with a light smile and an arch of a brow. Polite and cordial, just like Saedrus said.

Lethe smiles as she speaks with Waldemai. "I don't know much about it, but I'm sure the teachers know what they are doing."

Grady is overheard praising Saedrus: A fine dance instructor indeed!

"come to the velvet box, I am sure you will find much to ooh and ahh over." Josephine offers to Jophiel. "BIsland? Of what relation to lady Zoey?"

See, it's a double wave. Nuala adjusts to that with ease, her fingers interlocked among Jeffeth's mostly. She looks back over her shoulder to the pale Mercy and nods, the restless depths of her gaze darker than any night fallen over her homeland. That smile, if controlled, is not impolite. "Why do you apologize?" she asks the knight. A directness to her could level the question with the force of a boulder from a mountain slope, but it instead comes softened by a hint of amusement. Just a little to spice it. "I thought the Knights offered hospitality to all. And Mercies, they succor everyone. It's a natural bond there." She rolls her shoulders slightly. Her skill for formal dance really isn't apparent - non-existent would be a kind word - but that striking self-control over every movement she makes goes bone-deep. Unconsciously she mirrors the steps after the first ten or so once she has a basic pattern to follow after him. "I will see someone patches you up if you fall over," she promises Jeffeth. The other dancers she will look at -- later. When she isn't distracted!

"Ah." Theron looks from Amanda, to Saedrus. "Perhaps I could reserve a dance with the Radiant later? I think, yes. I will choose you." Theron smiles as he gets over that moment of awkwardness. "After all, you did come and check upon me. Seems only fair and polite."

Rey flushes a soft pale rose at Grady's words, "Well, as your promise to tell no one then. And you've meet Lord Jophiel? I hope it was a good meeting?" She says this as she tries very hard not to trip over him when her name, or atleast title is called. She glances over her shoulder and smiles at the large Knight, "Sir Jeffeth, I will over look you are dancing..." she can tell he's wounded but other than watching from time to time that he is well, she tries very hard not to make something of a fool of herself, really, no falling....

Amanda flashes Theron a smile. "He is a bit intimidating, isn't he?" she asks, as she regards Saedrus. She steps forward, all the same. "Good evening, my lord. My name is Amanda Whisper. Might you care to join me in a dance?" she asks. Then a pause, and she looks back over the gathering. "As Saedrus has said, introduce yourself! This is a very personal affair, even if it is ... not. You are inside another's personal space. Share your name. A few words. Take a hand when offered, but do not go putting more hands upon your partner unless the dance calls for it!"

Saedrus continues to weave between the dance partners. Evergreen eyes are sharp though and as he moves there are careful adjustment to the hold of hands, the placement at waists or shoulders. "Remember swords are not being held, but people, it does not need to be white-knuckled. And leads, do not force your partner to step, guide them. This is not a duel." He chortles pausing here and there to watch the placement of feet. To Theron, Saedrus dips his head with a smile. "A wise choice, my Lord. Amanda is an wonderful dance partner." A blink as he's called /intimidating/. A look that innocently asks: am I?

The question about Zoey causes Jophiel's face to light up. "She is a cousin of mine. But you will have to coax any stories from her, I tend to hold those things in confidence. And yourself, how do you know Zoey?" he asks curiously as the pair move slowly on the floor, keeping to a simple box step. "As for the jewelry, yes, I'm sure I will - do you make any men's jewelry by any chance? I have been looking for a few pieces for myself." There, Rey, there's your hint. "You are doing quite well at the moment." Even if it's four steps in a square, he hasn't had his foot crushed yet.

Waldemai is really uncomfortable having to hold a lady's hand. "I hope you'll excuse me, my lady," he says to Lethe. "Most of my dancing is of the jumping around variety."

Grady takes a step in the pattern of the dance, leading Rey with a warm smile as they talk, attempting to put his new acquaintance at ease. "Indeed it was. He is going to be part of a diplomatic delegation to the Gray Forest soono, on a mission of mercy. I'm gathering a few diplomats, as it happens but he mentioned your name as someone who might be interested. I know Marquessa Reigna is gathering healers and Mercies for triage at the Lodge as we prepare to defend it, but if you've a mind to do something a little more dangerous you'd be welcome to come with us. Where we're going, Mercies are almost always needed, after all. Even though we intend not to see combat." Apparently Grady, for all that he is a self-avowed non-dancer, is good at mixing a little diplomatic chat in with the more standard small talk.

"I'm not sure I'd use that word. It is not quite right. I mean no offense. Something similar but not quite the same. Aha. Command Presence." Theron nods sharply as he latches on to that and makes up his mind. "Oh! Apologies. I am Lord Theron Mazetti." He tries for his best rogue-ish smile. His head inclines at the instructions over his hands. "I promise to be the best gentleman I am capable of being." There is an amused look in his eyes. Then there is Saedrus there. "Thank you, Sir. Though I did ask to reserve a dance with yourself later." Squaring his shoulders he turns back to Amanda, to formally bow to his dance partner.

Gianna continues to provide background music; the bards seem to be doing alright, and so she can pay a bit more attention to the guests of the House. Spying some familiar faces, she inclines her head that way should any of them glance toward her. Granted, they are all likely focused on their feet at the moment. The tune is an easy one to dance to: very simple.

To the question, Jeffeth looks to their hands. "I waved. You may not have watned to wave. I made you wave. But I'm glad you were ok with it." Double wave business finished, Jeffeth moves on. But then he realizes that Rey is a Mercy. And he probably shouldn't be here. He shouldn't have waved. There's a hint of crimson into his cheeks that isn't the slices into his flesh. Whoops. "Sorry, Mercy." He mumbles out looking back to Nuala. Whoops! Looking down at Nuala's feet, he slowly looks over her form and figure as his eyes rise up to meet on hers. "Thank you." He murmurs to her promise. "I'm not a very good teacher. But for me I just..." Pulling her in a little closer, he makes an easy turn. "I just do it."

Lethe seems fine with Waldemai holding her hand. "Jumping around dancing sounds fun, but I suppose we'll have to make do with this kind of dancing."

Who is holding a partner white-knuckled? Nuala looks around for any such clutched figure, some stiff-backed person being squeezed half to death. That departure allows her to take in the other dances around them. Grady and Rey seem easy enough on their feet together, and she continues on to take in Theron in his utterly dark silks. Lessons to be learned everywhere, foremost her partner. She does well not to step on anyone's foot with soft-soled boots, not that there may be overt threat from her doing so. Shadowing his lead is not an intensely difficult thing but one that she has to manage with concentration. "Not everything needs explanation, yes? You just do what you do. I am able to learn." Practice makes perfect?

"Until the next dance then," Saedrus chuckles Theron's way before he continues his steps about the dance floor. "It can be a touch uneasy, at first, being so close to a relative stranger. This is not a courtship, this is something done of enjoyment. Consider that more than holding another's hand, or waist, or the steps of your feet. I found when I first learn, following the music made it far easier." Saedrus offers as gentle instruction, "confidence, however will often see mistakes overlooked."

"She is a favourite client, one who likes to procure a lot of raw materials and then works with me to see it made into this or that. Don't worry, I'll not get her to speak of your secrets" He speaks too soon and there's a foot coming down, accidentally, on his foot. A faint roll of her eyes at what's happened. "I warned you" She points out.

"Positively intimidating, /sir/," Amanda says, to Saedrus, with a smirk crossing her features. Then she's back to Theron. "Alright, my lovely students. We'll be engaging in a very simple dance. Four steps that go mostly... back and forward. You'll want to take your partner's hand like so... and then, whomever is leading, place a hand on your partner's waist here." And Amanda proceeds to lay that hand on Theron's waist. "And then your step is going ot be simple. The lead will start on their right, your left. Step forward. Step to the side. Step back. Step to the side..." And Amanda demonstrates just that, leading Theron along with Gianna's music.

Waldemai listens to Saedrus, and it's almost as though the man is saying, "You're DOOMED, DOOMED, I tells you." "Confidence, right," he mumbles as he tries to keep moving to the citole while not stepping on Lady Lethe's feet.

Rey listens to Grady as he speaks of the mission and she nods slowly, "I am a field Mercy, I have seen, front lines more than most in the last few years. If you wish to have a Mercy travel with you, I would be honored to. The Marquessa is a better Physician than I am but because of her greater skill I would hate to see her in the front, but Mercies move a little differently and I give my own to those wounded.." She glances towards Jophial once but then smiles up Grady, "So as long as you don't mind a tiny slip of a Mercy, simply let me know when we travel.." Jeffeth is watched from time to time but she says nothing only offering a smile. It's probably a trap tho

There's a wince from the diplomat as Jospehine's foot strikes home, and he finds his foot throbbing inside his boot. "Yes, you did. Don't watch your feet." Jophiel instructs. "You look at your feet, you start to think on it too much, and then you are out of step." Making sure that his dark eyes meet Josephine's own, he grins at her. His hand moves to her waist to settle, and he nods. "We're going to pick it up a little. Are you ready?" Though his movements do not seem to be going as fast.

Another quick look at the other participants, including a quick smile and nod towards Nuala. Then he is considering instructions both from the Radiant and Amanda. So he is a bit slow on the uptake when he realizes, he is not leading, but following. There is a brief involuntary look of confused panic, but he makes his feet catch up. There is a faint mumbled mantra from the man, spoken with confidence, but a mantra nontheless. 'Follow the music. Forward. Side. Back. Side.'

Lethe listens to Saedrus and tries to follow along with Waldemai. "We can do this." She does her best to sound confident.

Saedrus draws back from the dance floor, all the better to see everyone, as Amanda starts her instructions proper. A smile cast towards Gianna, "exceptional, Gianna," he smiles warmly to the woman and her bards.

Waldemai is glad Lethe has enough confidence for both of them. "Let's hope Lady Valencia doesn't have us doing this after the next Sip 'n' Spar," he suggests.

There's a slow advance on Nuala, before Jeffeth falls back, bringing her back with him. "You're right." He gives her a quick nod and goes to send Nuala into a practiced twirl, before bringing her back. "Not everything needs an explanation." He agrees in a low rumble. His eyes flick over to the other dancers before back to Nuala. Jeffeth leans in close to murmur some advice to his partner quietly.

Jophiel checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 19 higher.

Jeffeth checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 37 higher.

Lethe checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 20 higher.

Rey checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 7 lower.

Theron checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Nuala has rolled a critical success!
Nuala checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Waldemai checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 1 lower.

Grady checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 7 lower.

Grady checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 11 higher.

Josephine checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 7 lower.

They're going to pick it up a little. This, is probably not going to end well for Josephiel, not in the least as Josephine looks sorrowfully at the mans feet. "It will be your funeral, I only pray that I do not get hauled in by the iron guard for assault." She teases before the old woman takes a deep breath and tries to pick up the pace. Unsuccesfully. This is not going to go well for Josphiel.

Grady checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 30, rolling 13 higher.

Jophiel checked composure + empathy at difficulty 30, rolling 5 higher.

When Amanda changes the tempo Grady goes with it, following the mood as he talks. It's entirely possible he's missing steps, but he doesn't notice in favor of making interesting conversation with his dancing partner. And if she's stomping all over his feet he's far too diplomatic to say anything about that too. "As I said you're certainly welcome. We'll be doing outreach to abandoned tribes in the Gray Forest on a mission to help the Inquisition. I imagine bringing a Mercy with us will only make us more popular among them."

Lethe continues to be positive even if they aren't the best on the floor. "She can change the name to the spin n spar. It might end with a lot of sore toes."

Gianna inclines her head to Saedrus at the praise, then tosses her head so her hair is back over her shoulder, never missing a note. It's a very easy song, after all.

The grey-clad princess does not look aside too often. She has to manage the balance of keeping up and sweeping a step or rotating without colliding with anyone else. Points shall not be demonstrated too fluidly or efficiently, but she can match steps. She can match steps right up to the point the slip-slide of her soft-soled boots take on a life of their own, and she is no more attached to the moment than the undulating cyan bands leaping and undulating through the Everwinter skies behave according to mortal whims. Rotating through a spin brings her neatly apart, holding the tension of distance until it draws up sharp enough to snap. Then a step in. Fingers slip higher, regaining their placement. "Feel and know," she agrees, voice lowered a nick. That moment of transition is not an abrupt transition, but the gradual gradient where everything shifts to narcotic blues away from blood-dark reds. Her lowered gaze anchors to somewhere about two degrees up from Jeffeth's shoulder, and it might as well be as far as the stars.

He //knows// that Josephine doesn't mean to do it, but when her well heeled shoe comes down into the center of his foot, he hears - rather feels - the slight crunch. Jophiel's face cringes and he fights off the wave of pain to smile, albeit weakly to his partner. "I have a meeting I should attend to tonight. Thank you for the enlightening lesson and dance." Don't dance with old ladies, they stomp on you. With a polite bow of his head to the jeweler, Jophiel breaks ranks and his hobbling steps start him towards the door, though he tries to carry himself in dignity - less his slight limp catch the eye of the Mercy in the room who he wants to enjoy herself.

Rey is not stepping on Grady's feet, well only once and she weighs nothing, but she is stepping on her sleeves and there is a ripping sound that makes her wince as she glances up at Grady, which will see her missing Jophiel's escap..departure. A little breath from the tiny thing and she nods slowly to Grady, "You might be surprised who is willing to work with a Mercy.." she trails off as there is a little more ripping and the large male has to grab her before she falls and takes him with her.

Amanda continues her instruction, giving pointers here and there, along with Saedrus. Gianna surely keeps the music simple. But after a few songs, she's stepping away from Theron. "Apologies, love," she says, to the nobleman. She needs to inspect dancers! And after a moment... "Well!" she declares. "I must say, you are all doing wonderfully! Some... more wonderful than others. But... It is Princess Nuala that has taken well to these lessons! Thanks to her partner, I am certain!" A pause, then another smile. "As my most improved student, your highness, I'd like to offer a reward, by way of bolts of seasilk. You'll need to have a new lovely dress made, to match your new dancing skills."

Waldemai doesn't exactly stomp Lethe's foot, but there's definite foot-to-foot contact. "Sorry, my lady," he says.

Jophiel is overheard praising Amanda.

Jophiel is overheard praising Josephine: Foot killer.

Lethe winces but just shakes her head. "It's fine Waldemai. We're both still learning."

'oh dear, please, do get that seen to." Josephine's apologetic and moving off tot he side so she doesn't interrupt dancers, a smile on her face for Nuala who's apparently the most improved. Which prompts a clapping of her hands to the woman.

Saedrus sees Jophiel having to step away from the dance on account of work. There is a bow Jophiel, "thank you for attending, my Lord," he smiles and steps up to Josephine. "Mistress," he greets softly with a gracious bow before the woman, "if you would care to continue, I would be most honoured by a dance." Never mind those sandalled feet don't offer the same protection as boots might. "I am Saedrus Whisper," never mind the Radiant part, "it is a pleasure to make your aquaintance." Pausing then to look back towards Amanda as she drifts about the room. There is a small applause, a delicate little clap, for Nuala. "Very well done, your Highness, and to your dance partner as well. Sir Jeffeth you should consider instructing with us more often, mm?" Saedrus chortles.

"Of course, I understand." Theron nods towards Amanda with a smile. "You know I think some of this footwork could be useful with sword in mind." Theron muses and there is Garibaldi, getting a messenger to him, "Wait, now? Oh." Theron skims the message and utilizes Garibaldi's back quickly for a hastily penned response. "Appreciated." He murmurs and turns his attention back towards Amanda and her announcement. His hands collide together in polite applause, coupled with congratulatory grin.

Jophiel is overheard praising Gianna: For the wonderful music!

Jophiel is overheard praising Saedrus: The other host with the most.

Rey leaves, following Jophiel.

"Hmmm, you don't want me stepping on your feet. I'm afraid the music may be a bit much for me today." It's apologetically offered to Saedrus. "But thank you dear child, for the offer. It makes my heart sing/ I'm afraid you'd need far more protected feet." She pats the Radiant

on the forearm.

"Very, /very/, good." The big man rumbles as he moves in time with Nuala. Their dance becomes less of a slow instruction and more of a smooth dance. The big man despite his injuries leading Nuala along gracefully. Though it becomes less formal dance the longer it goes on and starts to resemble something than one would be more apt to see in the Lowers. Moving along with Nuala, the big man may well forget that they were a part of a lesson because suddenly Jeffeth is pausing and looking up to Saedrus with a blink. "Oh. We're done." Jeffeth states dully with a light warm smile before looking back down to Nuala. "Very well done, Nuala."

"Who wouldn't want to work with a Mercy," Grady wonders aloud as the dance comes to an end. "You are valued for your skills, and those skills are valued everywhere." He bows to her. "Thank you very much for the dance, and for joining me tonight." Ripped sleeves go unmentioned as well, and he smiles. "This was a charming dance," he states with another bow to Rey. "And I thank you for your company. It has been a pleasure to meet you but I suspect my companion is ready to return, and I would be a poor friend if I didn't offer to walk with her home."

Grady is overheard praising Amanda: What a charming dance she hosted!

Grady is overheard praising Rey: A charming dance partner indeed.

With the song over, Gianna lowers the citole and very carefully arranges her arms so that she might applaud as well.

Amanda is overheard praising Bard's college.

Her name snaps her back. Habit... Nuala blinks twice for good measure, shifting her chin in Amanda's direction. The news of winning any form of contest causes a momentary surprise to form. Not an unwelcome one, however. "How generous of Whisper House. I thank you for such generosity," she says with the gravity that's usually reserved for presenting a high lord his firstborn heir. Northland customs can take certain elements a bit more to heart than other people might, right? Her hands are still settled around Jeffeth, one at his shoulder and the other poised lower. If he hasn't stopped, then obviously neither has she. "I will keep these lessons up. This agrees with me, I think." It's a small commitment but a significant one. She nods to Jeffeth. "I owe you much thanks." They are done? How delightful! And... odd.

Saedrus smiles warmly to Josephine, chortling soon after at her concern for his feet. "I gave lessons to the Highlord of the Oathlands before his wedding, Mistress, and I assure you his Grace carries far more substance in armour." Saed's poor delicate feet. "Perhaps next time then."

Nuala is overheard praising Whisper: For conducting an excellent dance for those in need.

Josephine is overheard praising Whisper: A lovely evening of dancing and pulverized insteps.

Nuala is overheard praising Bard's college: Beautiful music to set the inner spirit free.

Amanda is overheard praising Whisper.

Amanda is overheard praising Nuala: A wonderful dancer!

Theron is overheard praising Whisper.

"Oh, I think you underestimate a jewelers penchant for stomping out cinders on the floor from the forge. Please, You should see to my patron's dance partner. I would surmise she could use your tender ministrations far more than I"

"Now then, please, we needn't stop!" Amanda declares. "But I do believe we've covered all we can on our first lesson. So, please, dance as you'd like to! And make sure to sing the praises of Whisper House and the Bard's College!" says the blonde, female Whisper. "Whisper House is always ready to offer lessons, should anyone need it." Then she turns back to Theron, and her dark brows lift. "Do you need to leave, my lord? Or have time for another dance?"

Rey smiles slowly to Grady, "Thank you, my lord for the dance, hopefully next time we see the other, I will be using skills that I am comfortable with.." SHe is still blushing as she gathers her long sleeves around her arms so none might notice the tiny foot prints.

Saedrus looks across to Grady and Rey, "I believe there is improvement made though," he says with a smile and looks back to Josephine. "You are a jeweller then? I should come by your shop sometime, I am always looking for something new and glittering to wear." He says literally wearing a robe dappled in diamonds.

"I didn't know there was a contest." Jeffeth admits softly to Nuala. "I'm glad we won though." His energy pipes up a bit at that, his lips pulling up into a more bright smile. He looks over to Saedrus, then to Amanda and finally back to Nuala. He likewise has yet to release his partner, waist nor hand. At Amanda's announcement, Jeffeth purses his lips and then slowly looks back over to Nuala. "Would you like to continue for a little while longer?"

He'd returned to looking over the others once more with a slight amused look on his face. Then there is the announcement from Amanda and he considers. At her direction question he blinks and then nods. "Oh. Ah. I should attend to this matter. I apologize." He inclines his head slightly to Amanda. "I promise though I will seek out another dance sometime. It's good to learn from the masters. I also suppose I should knock some rust off my social skills and graces."

Lethe looks to Waldemail and smiles. "Thank you very much for being my partner. I had a good time, but don't worry I don't plan to show off our dancing at the sip n spar."

The bards will, of course, keep playing for as long as people want to dance. Gianna, however, has acquired herself a glass of wine, and for the moment seems to be taking a break.

"You should. I just procured a dragonweep, a lovely purple shade with hints of red within. It's song would put your robe's chorus to shame." And it is loud, that dress. Which is why she keeps just a bit of polite distance. "I apologize, I should see to Lord Grady and return to my home. We've new children to prepare for as well."

Grady is overheard praising Gianna: Beautiful music indeed! Once again, the Nightingale does not fail to impress.

A low laugh follows from Nuala upon hearing the jeweler. "That sounds like the dances I know," she says, low and thoughtful. The dreamy softness lasts for a moment as she concentrates again on the moment. "I am pleased at the outcome." A nod reinforces that possibility; yes, she is indeed pleased. See, even smiling, brave girl. With the other dancers in their tight turns and more timely paces, she listens to the music long enough to remember the beat. "A drink is called for afterwards. But now? Continue."

"Thank you, then, Lord Theron, for that dance," Amanda says, with a warm smile. She returns his slight bow. Then she turns to give a look around a room, and eyes fix on Saedrus. She steps over to the man. "Oh, Sir Saedrus..."

Waldemai looks relieved at the idea there will be no ballroom dancing at the Sip 'n' Spar. "Maybe if Lady Lucita will play us something light we can do some proper dancing," he tells Lethe.

Grady smiles. "Thank you for the lessons, and the hosting," he says with a bow. And then he's taking Josephine's arm and escorting her with a grin. "Wait until I tell you what Livia did this week," he says to Josephine as he escorts her from the Whisper House.

Demetria Arcuri leaves, following Josephine.

2 House Deepwood Guards, Mortimer Ridgewattle the Third, Josephine leave, following Grady.

Saedrus bows graciously to Josephine, "thank you for attending, Mistress. It has been a pleasure." He farewells before she and Grady take their leave. His attention is pulled though by Amanda's voice, a chuckle, "yes, Dame Amanda," he teases sweetly.

Lethe grins and nods. "I think I might like that. I need to be going, but I'll probably see you again soon."

Waldemai bows politely. "It seems likely, m'lady," he tells Lethe. "We seems to be ending up in all the same places recently."

3 Tyde Houseguard leaves, following Lethe.

Theron gives another sharp nod, and turns to depart rapidly.

"Would you care to join me in a dance?" Amanda asks Saedrus, with a sweet smile. She offers him her hand, and waits for him to take it. No being /too/ overly presumptuous.

Garibaldi, the Lycene swordbearer leaves, following Theron.

Saedrus steps back with an elegant bow before Amanda, "it would be my honour, Amanda Whisper." He says on rising, reaching to take the other Whisper's hand. It's a svelte hold that, but apparently Saed has every intention of falling to lead. As they step to each other, he'd cradle one of Amanda's hands in his own, and his other goes to settle at the slip of her waist. "A lovely evening, Amanda, thank you so much for hosting the evening." Saedrus compliments in a warm tone, rich with the purr of his southern drawl.

Waldemai has a forge to get back to. "Good night, all," he says.

Waldemai has left the Semi-circular Bar.

Dancing is taken up once again, even if their fellow dancers have dwindled or gone to nothing the dance continues. As Jeffeth turns with Nuala, he removes his eyes from her and instead looks over the rest of the room. A light frown pulls down his lips. "Looks like we're on our own." The Knight rumbles quietly. "Drinks, then?"

"Good evening!" Amanda declares, to her departing guests, before she turns attention back to Saedrus. She steps in intimately close, though her expression remains composed and polite. "It was Gianna's idea... passed to me. A wonderful idea," she agrees. "Thank you for hosting it. For allowing it to be hosted here? ... Not that I exactly asked permission ... But you value initiative, I trust."

Nuala raises her shoulder slightly, agreeable to the suggestion made by the knight. "Let's not keep the Whispers too busy." This much requires no further thoughts. She disengages from the dance, spinning around once and coming to a halt to watch how Saedrus and Amanda make the night come alive with the rotations of twin moons. For a few moments there is nothing else for her to see, unless someone wants to brain her with a stick. She might not notice. "Thank you ever so much for a fine evening," she says. Then a nod, arm offered of sorts.

Saedrus checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 23 higher.

Amanda checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 11 higher.

Jeffeth checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 9 higher.

Alizarin, an ethereal skald, Jeffeth leave, following Nuala.

Whether they are left alone on the dance floor or not, Saedrus doesn't seem to mind at all. He takes the lead as the bards play and his steps are graceful, not that Amanda makes any mistakes for the man to cover with careful footwork. The pace is far faster then that of the lessons, intimate but quick. "I do indeed, and of course the ballroom is always available for events." Saedrus chuckles, looking over his shoulder to Sir Jeffeth and Princess Nuala without missing a damn thing. "You two dance wonderfully together, have a lovely evening. Please do take care of yourself, Sir Jeffeth."