Sanya enters the Botanical Gardens, in awe of the decorations as she takes in her surroundings.

Sat upon an old wooden bench, Katarina engages in quiet conversation with her overzealous aide, expression one of mild humor. From time to time, her head lifts to look upon the tide of newcomers as they arrive into the park for the festivities. Familiar faces elicit a subtle smile to take root upon her lips.

Seryna, a charming Lycene handmaiden, 6 Grimhall House Guards arrive, following Vanora.

5 Grimhall House Guards, Gustav, a gruff Islander advisor, Vanora arrive, following Valdemar.

Ysbail has joined the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

"I think he's in his office," Lisebet says with a laugh. "I honestly did not try to get him out of there today. I may have gotten too used to coming places on my own." She waves as she spies folks she recognizes, or nods to them.

Arriving with Ian and Olivia, Jan removes the leather helm she is wearing somewhat absently as if she forgot she had it on. She keeps close to Ian, taking in the gardens quietly. She makes brief formal greetings to anyone close, but other then that does not attempt to engage in conversation straight off.

Appropriately more dressed for a garden stroll than a melee, Ouida enters along with her gangly squire. The Harthall knight's expression is as pleasant as usual, but pensive as well, flickering a little warmer as she joins the gathering.

Miella wanders around quietly with her hands clasped before her, golden eyes taking in the decorations and surroundings, nodding to people she recognizes as she weaves through the crowd.

Lethe looks around with a smile while she waits for things to begin.

The High Lord of Thrax is apart of the opening crowd that filters into the procession. Victus' coat hanging heavy on his shoulders, his ceremonial armor nowhere to be seen as he ambles toward the Arbor path. Hopefully somewhere that would be bereft of nagging fireflies.

Sanya turns to Vanora, beaming before leaning in.

Esoka has joined the An Ivy Covered Swing.

The botanical gardens are well-lit tonight, lines of white, gold and dark blue paper lanterns illuminating the plants and people therein in a warm glow reminiscent of the Gods those present have gathered to celebrate. The Inquisition (seriously, who invited those guys to this?) is punctual in its arrival, coming not a minute before the event was slatted to begin. Confessors in red coats set up a number of tables with pieces of parchment and writing supplies, along with several chests of lanterns. Not far behind them is Brother Tomwell Leary and Master of Questions Laric Grayson, each bearing a lamp lit from the Eternal Flame to be placed upon the tables.

Olivia has joined the An Ivy Covered Swing.

Gianna sweeps into the gardens, almost immediately procuring a glass of something or other. Hopefully something like wine! She poses near the entrance, tossing her hair over her shoulder and placing her free hand on her hip.

Perronne wanders the paths, moving towards where people are gathering, a smile on her face. She sneaks peeks at the finely dressed royalty and nobility, particular attention given to Sanya's outfit. Her path winds its way towards where the Confessors are setting things up, eyes alight with curiosity.

Ian leaves Olivia, Jan, and Lisebet to talk, and instead angles towards the arbor. He's careful, walking over the relatively uneven ground of the garden, marking his own footsteps as he walks.

Esoka arrived a little early but is still finding a seat for herself as the ceremony begins. She moves a touch awkwardly, figure full and plainly in the middle stages of her pregnancy. "Hello!" she calls in a cheery sort of way to the others near the swing she gravitates to.

Ysbail is quietly watching. Though she does occasionally chat with those around the Arbor path.

Ian has joined the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

Two of the Redrain royal family enter together, Helena's golden head tipped against her brunette sister's as she murmurs something. The shorter and younger of the two, Helena, looks up and around, smiling at those assembled, and pointing to the beautiful paper lanterns that twinkle like stars in the garden. "Oh, how lovely it looks. I'm so glad not to have missed this," Helena murmurs. The Redrain princess looks a touch too pale, a little more frail than the Northern princess normally looks, though she smiles brightly enough.

Jan has joined the An Ivy Covered Swing.

The Duke and Duchess Grimhall arrive with the latter lady's pale green eyes skimming the crowd until she sees Sanya, whom she beckons towards her with a gesture of fingertips and a smile. "Lets find somewhere to sit and settle. Over here?" She looks towards some benches that still have plenty of space.

Vanora has joined the an old wooden bench.

Arik arrives to the well-lite gardens arm in arm with Marquessa Eilonwy the pair of northerners both fair skinned and the Sword of Whitehold looking a bit underdressed for an outing save the signet ring on a chain to mark him out as nobility. "Do you think Lady Ysbail will be here to see you out and about Marquessa?" he wonders in a low rumble of a voice as they make their way over to the drinks, Gianna getting a dip of his head, "Softest Whisper or do you prefer Nightengale still?"

Valdemar has joined the an old wooden bench.

Shard is quiet and narrow eyed as she pads in with the rest of the crowd. She's studying the surroundings as best she can among all these people, and the Confessors get a larger heap of scrutiny than the rest.

Sanya follows her cousins to the old wooden bench, a warm smile on her lips.

Sanya has joined the an old wooden bench.

"It is very lovely," Elgana murmurs to Helena as the sisters take a momentary pause to look around at what the botanical gardens have been wrought into. Whatever is murmured between the two just gets the elder of the pair to smile and give a little wink before she threads her arm through her sister's and leads onward. "Shall we find a good place to settle?" she wonders to the other. Those she know get a little wriggle of her fingers as they move.

Lethe has joined the an old wooden bench.

Ysbail totally sees her out and about, arm in arm with the Halfshav Sword. Oh yes she does! Whether or not she approves she sees you Eilonwy and Arik.

Malcolm's trying to make it look like he comfortably belongs here - in these clothes - amoung peers and all that. His dark eyebrows see-saw, shifting through an assortment of exaggerated expressions until he settles with one: wide smile, sheepish glance. He offers deep bows of his head as he shuffles and weaves about until he finds a good place to sit.

In the midst of the flowering garden, amongst the flickering of the lanterns, Aureth stands bedecked in layers of finery, mantled in fine fabrics and various layers of glittering shiny objects -- mostly skulls and spiderwebs, to be frank, but not entirely -- and watches as others maneuver to get situated, smiling faintly as his coconspirators make their arrival. His voice pitched to carry as people seem to be mostly finding their places to sit, he goes, "Good evening!"

Malcolm has joined the An Ivy Covered Swing.

Arik has joined the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

Shard has joined the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

"I would hope so. If only to spare me further talks about being social." Eilonwy smiles lightly, keeping a hand on Arik's arm. "There just simply need to be more drinking nights about the Spirits. I hardly ever miss those." She adds and smiles when Arik greets Gianna. Letting her eyes wander she grins crookedly. "Oh, Ys is here. Good."

Eilonwy has joined the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

Ouida drifts towards the arbor path, apparently content to stay on her feet for now. She too looks out over the gathering, her smile blooming more fully as she recognizes familiar faces here and there amongst those gathered.

Ouida has joined the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

Miella has joined the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

Willow has joined the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

Gianna inclines her head to Arika and Eilonwy. "Good evening," she greets, raising her glass a little. "I rather like Nightingale. It's the one I picked for myself, after all. Sanya's outfit is given a thoughtful look, her eyes narrowing slightly, as if in calculation.

Helena has joined the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Elgana has joined the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Perronne moves to also find a place to sit, folding down onto the bright green grass, her legs crossed under the skirts that puddle around her. She gives an enthusiastically little wave towards Aureth, but doesn't attempt to interrupt the Legate.

Katarina turns away from her hushed exchange with her aide, golden eyes brightening immensely as the Duke and Duchess of Grimhall set sights upon the bench she solely occupies for the moment. "Ah, what a welcome coincidence. You've been in my thoughts recently. I trust all is well?" She glides aside, her eyes widening in mild surprise as Sanya and Lethe soon come into range. A welcoming smile crests her lips toward the pair. "Are you both excited to see the festivities begin? I'll admit, I have a few lanterns I'd like to light."

Adelphie enters with a lack of elegance that might suggest she'd be more comfortable in armor. Some of her movements are made with too much force and might benefit with the added weight of some steel plate. Hair pulled loosely from her face, she observes the goings-on with a lost but optimistic expression.

It's a warm evening for spring, the night carrying so few clouds when the sun finally recedes that it lets the first stars glitter clear and bright. There are attendants that circulate drinks, making sure everyone is well taken care of.

Carita's been here the whole time, was likely a little bit earlier, her smile warm as she greets those arriving, her Princely patron close beside her. Dressed to match Luca's sword, she seems to be in good spirits as she watches the Inquisition and Laric's entrance as he brings with him the eternal flame.

"Thank you all for coming! I know Father Aureth and Prince Laric are just as pleased as I to bring everyone together tonight. Could everyone please take a lantern?"

Tomwell, beside the Master of Questions, carries a lamp lit from the Eternal Flame. Dressed in his Godsworn robes, he bears the lamp to the tables with a steady hand and then steps off to the side.

Willow wanders in, just on the tail end of others arrivals, and drifts off toward Ysbail, lifting a hand to wave, before smiling at Eilonwy and glancing to Carita, grabbing a lantern when instructed.

Miella gives Malcolm and Olivia a little wave then turns her attention to Carita as she speaks, looking around before selecting a nearby lantern and holding it lightly between her hands.

"Then Nightingale that is how I will sign the letters, I'll be writing you again soon." Arik quips in a conversational and good natured beat. Aureth and Carita lift their voices and the Sword of Whitehold nods politely to Gianna with a parting, "Have a good evening Nightingale." and then he and Eilonwy are off towards Lady Ysbail and the arbor path, drinks snagged on the way.

Vanora speaks loudly enough to carry quickly, "Dearest Nightengale Gianna. I keep hoping to see you and here you are. I adore those earrings, truly." Once Carita addresses the crowd though, the Duchess Grimhall goes quiet, rising from her seat on the benches then to take a lantern as directed.

Blue eyes scrunch in a sort-of smile as they catch on those she knows, and Helena nods to one of the benches when Elgana asks for them to take a seat. Before doing so, she selects a lantern for herself and one to her sister, then slides into the bench with a nod for those already there.

Gianna gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Vanora has left the an old wooden bench.

Waldemai waits his turn, and picks up a lantern when it comes.

Merek has put on his best attire in white and black with his half-kilt. He also has his scarf on and upon his lower face while he looks around a bit, and finds a place to settle in to view and listen to the proceedings.

Vanora gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Vanora gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Willow gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Ouida declines refreshment politely, though she does take up one of the lanterns when invited to, studying it with contemplation for a moment, before she returns her gaze to the speakers.

Miella gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Vitalis gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Victus gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Helena gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Gilroy takes Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Elgana gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Valdemar walks with his wifer toward the benches after they arrive, though he is mostly quiet for the moment. Whatever Vanora and his cousin are discussing, his attention is directed toward Carita and Laric, and then takes the lantern that the Duchess hands to him.

Sparte gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Carita puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Lisebet gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Aureth gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Carita puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Carita puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Carita puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Carita puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Olivia gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Carita puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Carita puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Carita puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Carita puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Perronne gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Katarina gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Carita puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Shard takes Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Ian gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Carmen gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Lethe gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Gilroy comes walking out of the door to the garden offices, wearing loose breeches and what appears to be a bathrobe and carrying a clay mug of whisky with a little coffee splashed in. He gives all of the people on his front lawn a bleary look, glances down into his drink, considers and then finishes it. For a moment he looks like he's going to duck back inside, but then he shrugs and wanders over to plop down at the old wooden bench, offering the occasional lifted hand as he goes. "Lady Ysbail. Lord Ian. Lady Olivia. Lady Jan. Carmen!" She gets a cheerful wave. He walks over and grabs a lantern because who is he to turn down free stuff? Then he sets down with the grouping with the best social rank here, really throwing off the average.

Eilonwy takes Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Merek gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Sanya smiles up as Katarina greets her, rising to give the princess a curtsey. "I am in indeed, your highness. I have no doubt it'll be a sight lovely to behold." She offers Gianna a wave in greeting as she spots her in the gardens.

Ouida gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Carita puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Gilroy takes Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Carita puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Carita puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Carita puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Carita puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Carita puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Gilroy has joined the an old wooden bench.

Carita puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Carita puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Carita puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Carita puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Vanora gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Sparte has joined the an old wooden bench.

Carmen puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Gianna collects a lantern. Wine glass one hand, lantern in the other. She offers one of her brief smiles at Vanora, clearly pleased. The duskstones she's wearing glitter in the lantern light. "Why, thank you! I just had them made." Spying Elgana, she makes her way over to the Redrain princess. Redrain princesses.

Carmen gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Merek gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Gianna has joined the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Sparte takes a seat after selecting his lantern.

Somehow, Prince Luca got here. Did anyone see it? That's how it happens. There he is, standing next to Countess Carita Darkwater with a warm and sleepy enough smile for everyone she's greeting. As far as arm candy goes, he could stand to dress up a little more.. but, "You're lucky I dress up this dressing down stuff so well, or you could never bring me to anything this fancy..", he comments to her with a quiet laugh, flask in his free hand.

Arik gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Jan seems amused by Gilroy. "Hope we haven't woken you." She glances to his attire.

Luca gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Sanya gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Vitalis gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Malcolm has left the An Ivy Covered Swing.

Tomwell gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Sanya gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Esoka gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Lantern in hand, Elgana follows after Helena's wake. There is a polite smile offered to those already at the bench, the Redrain murmuring some soft greeting to those present before she makes ti sit.

Laric gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Merek walks to the place the lanterns are at, and picks up a couple as he does. He then finds a place to settle in amongst the gardens.

Katarina rises from her seat to join the line of attendees seeking to collect a lantern. Taking one up in her grasp, she offers a gentle bow of her head toward the event's hosts before slipping away to find a place to stand.

Luca gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Ysbail gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Katarina has left the an old wooden bench.

Katarina has joined the Silk Travel Camp Chair.

Elgana gets Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern from Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Esoka rises to take a lantern, hefting it so she can feel the craft of it between her callused swordwoman's fingers. She mouths a 'Pretty!' to Aureth, Laric, and Carita.

Willow looks from Victus toward the entrance before lifting a hand to cover her grin.

Most of the Confessors responsible for setting up take their leave after their work is done, but a few linger near the tables, and a few more move in amongst the crowd. With his hands free after setting down his lamp, Laric steps over to join Tomwell, watching people take their lanterns with a wry little smile. He speaks in a quiet aside to the priest.

Lisebet gets to her feet and goes to get herself a lantern, glancing back to see if Jan and Olivia are doing the same or not.

Jan gets Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance from a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Lisebet then returns to her seat on the swing, setting it gently in motion with a foot.

Aureth watches as people gather lanterns, and he tilts a crooked smile to Carita in her finery as she and her attendants work to organize the arrangement of

"Some of you may remember a night not entirely unlike this one, a few short years ago, when the Army of Silence marched upon the walls of our city, and the people came together to light lanterns and lift them in prayer to Death. They were filled with messages of love and regret, of memory and certainty, for the souls of the dead, for the souls of the living. Though we each came to this with our private, personal grief, together we created a new hope for the future, a new beginning for the men and women who would stand to fight the Silence, and the Queen of Endings heard our prayers and felt our hearts."

He lays his hand over his heart. "I remember that night with a full heart," he says. "But the night we have tonight is a little different, and the messages we will burn for the gods will also be a little different."

^the arrangement of people and lanterns.

Brady wanders through the garden, unfashionably late. He eyes the confessors left a bit warily, shooting waves and nods to various people attending. He tries to catch Aureth's eye with a not so subtle wave, but then meanders over to a bench after being handed a paper lantern.

Adelphie has joined the An Ivy Covered Swing.

Brady has joined the an old wooden bench.

Teonia Redreef, Aryka Wyrmfang, 3 Thrax Guards, Marquessa Pudding, a doughy dog, 2 Thrax Elite Guards arrive, following Sorrel.

Willow can't resist the urge to wave and smile over at Brady, glancing away from the muted conversation at the arbor.

Vanora has joined the an old wooden bench.

Carita lifts her glass in a salute, perhaps a few times, acknowledging others, a smile offered in return to Aureth as he speaks, her hand mirroring his as it's placed on her heart. There's quiet words for Luca, standing beside her, and a smile drawn out of her that produces the rare appearance of the dimple in her cheek as she responds.

She drains a bit more of her drink, and clears her throat, "And now, if you'll all very carefully light your lanterns using the eternal flame?"

Dame Rosario Nevarre of the Oathlands, Anouk Ardennes, Anais Ardennes arrive, following Sophie.

Sorrel slips into the botanical gardens a little late, but she goes to mingle with the crowd and watch the ceremony with great interest.

Harlen arrives, following Duarte.

Sanya rises to seek the eternal flame to light her lantern.

After the announcement is made, Valdemar rises too, following after his wife so that he can light his lantern. As they walk together, they also speak quietly to one another.

No matter how much Sophie attempted to make it on time, Mercy matters have kept her late, as usual, and even she enters it is quickly and trying to gather as little notice as possible.

Lisebet rises first from the swing, starting along after Sanya and Valdemar to also light her lantern.

Lethe carries the lantern to the flame to light it.

Olivia takes Jan's hand and tugs at her to follow Lisebet with her and go light their lanterns

Merek takes both of his lanterns to the Eternal Flame, which he lights them with, and nods a bit as he relaxes back to where he was.

Perronne rises, turning the lantern around in her hands. She glances down at it, and then takes her place in the line, to light her lantern. There's a small, gleeful sound when the flame catches, and then she moves out of the way to retake her seat.

As people move forward to begin lighting the lanterns, one by one, from the tapers that have been carried from Lagoma's shrine, Aureth waits for a moment until the murmuring and noise of people doing this begins to die down before he speechifies. He waits to be the very last among the Faithful to light his. "Please make sure to hold onto them and don't let them go yet," he says. "We're not done with them yet."

Ian hangs back a little bit, waiting to go and light his lantern until after the general press of people has thinned, rather than try to navigate the crowd.

Gilroy pushes himself to his feet, cinches his bathrobe and walks imperiously over to the eternal flame, lighting his Queen of Endings lamp. He pauses for a moment, looking down at it, then gives Aureth a quick nod before he returns to his seat.

Ysbail chuckles at something said near the arbor path, and makes her way over to light the lantern, very cautious not to let the newly lit lantern too close to anything else flammable. Almost as if there's a wager riding on it.

Vanora approaches one of the lights from the Eternal Flame and uses it to light her Lantern of Remembrance, stepping back once it begins to cast it's own strange glow, and holding it up with one hand.

Vibrant green eyes darting over the attendees moving to light their lanterns, studying what they do and trying as hard as a 6'3" woman can to not stand out, Carmen moves forward to light her own. She holds the fragile thing gingerly on her way back to her seat.

Shard looks just a little bit uncomfortable as she moves to light the lantern she took, and she does it just about as quickly as one can without dropping anything or lighting something else on fire.

Vitalis rises to his feet from the ivy-covered bench and moves to the eternal flame with the others, queuing quietly.

Gianna dutifully walks with the others, waiting her turn for Eternal Flame and managing to look patient as she does so. Once it's lit, she looks to Aureth for further instruction.

As others begin to get up to light their lanterns, Helena rises too, following on the heels of her sister. "I don't plan to light the garden on fire, of course, but my plans don't always go according to plan," she can be heard telling Elgana with a self-deprecating grin that blossoms into a silvery laugh. "I may just be prone to natural disasters."

Joining in the group to light her lantern, Eilonwy does so and largely follows along this Compact practice by watching others. There's a lot of copying others to ensure she's doing it right.

Valdemar carefully lights his lantern as well, waiting for it to begin to emit light on its own before stepping back. Looking around, he waits for further instructions from the event's hosts.

Victus is slow on his move to the eternal flame. In no rush while others begin to light. He eventually claims his own flame, staring at the interior of the lantern. All spidery. Gross.

Arik likewise ensures his Lady of Change lantern is not burning anywhere nearby lighting his after Eilonwy's own. Unlike Victus' it is not spidery and thus cool.

The long-haired priest raises both his hands into the air, palms up, and the shimmer of aeterna and spider's silk reflect in the light of the flickering flames as he paces the front, before the tables. Aureth says, "We stand upon the precipice of change. In this season of spring, Lagoma's season, with choices before us as a people, we look into an uncertain future. It is the gift of Lagoma, Lady of Change, that enables us to embrace the potential of that change. To recognize that though the flame may hurt, that it may sear, that it also may _cleanse_, and that from that cleansing, from that purging of the poisons that damage us as a people, as a community, as a _Faith_, that healing may come."

Aureth makes eye contact with no _specific_ person as he preaches about the healing power of potential change, but there is no denying the force of passion that carries his sermonizing as he declaims: "This is the fidelity between Death and Lagoma: for each ending brings a new beginning, and that each new beginning brings with it the open promise of a new future, into which we may yet grow."

"It is with this in mind that we hope that you will light your remembrances in flame. Remember those you have lost. Remember those you loved, and honored; those who fell. This is a moment of remembrance of the bereavement of House Darkwater, and all those who fell in the conflict facing the Gyre; this is a moment of remembrance for the bereavement of us all. Write or draw your memories onto these slips of parchment."

The Inquisition brought the slips of parchment paper, but the disciples are the ones who filter amongst the crowds handing them out. It's a team effort, guys!

Jan walks with Olivia and Lisebet silently, lighting her own lantern with a stoic expression across her features.

Vanora dutifully takes a slip of paper and begins to write something down. The lines flow freely, as if inspiration might be striking, and she works at the penmanship for quite a bit before folding the paper in half and waiting.

Olivia doesn't require much thought on this topic she begins writing a name down a tear in her eyes.

Esoka lights her lantern, murmuring something to it in a low voice, then bowing her head. She takes a slip, considering it, then begins writing in neat, blocky penmanship.

Sophie enters the queue to light her own lantern while taking a slip of paper. Once she's through the line and her lantern is lit she finds a quiet spot to scribble on her own scrap of paper, folding it in half afterwards and waiting.

Lisebet listens to Aureth's sermon quietly, her attention with his words until he is done, and then she takes the slip of parchment as it is handed out, making sure that Esoka and Adelphie each also get lanterns and parchment if they want it. She pauses to write her memories of her brother Armand, of those she knows she has lost, on her piece of parchment, and looks then back over to Aureth, her expression sober. She pauses, and then turns back to add a bit more, two more names to her list.

"Nonsense!" Elgana laughs as she takes Helena by the arm, giving a squeeze as they move to wait their turn. "You are just not meant to be a planner is all," the elder Redrain teases. She makes certain her sister and her own lanterns get lit without incident! And then it is time for the memories to be laid indelibly into paper so Elgana falls to quiet contemplation before she starts to fill out her slip, her smile soft. Once finished she glances over at her sister, curious.

Perronne takes a slip of paper with a murmured thanks, and retrieves her own stick of wrapped writing charcoal from a pocket. She looks down at the sheet of paper, thoughtfully. She's slow to move, slow to write, but when she does, there's an air of seriousness about it.

Lethe starts to write on the paper she is given. When she finishes she stands and waits wirh mournful eyes.

Gianna takes a bit of parchment and a quill and, after a moment's thought, writes something brief down. Her expression is aloof... which is kind of the default.

Ian seems to have come prepared. He unbuttons his coat just a little bit and slips a bit of folded parchment out of an inner pocket.

Adelphie quietly mouths her thanks for Lisebet's dutifulness, somberly. She is definitely participating in this.

Brady steps away from the bench to queue up for the Eternal Flame. When he's handed a piece of paper, he nods politely, but he's back to looking around with a grim expression, brow knitted tightly with consternation.

Katarina slips from her seat, lighting her own lantern and commencing to committing words down upon a sliver of parchment. All the while, she listens to the sermon with a sober expression and head bowed. Eventually, though, her lit lantern is left in the care of a friend and she rises to make her leave discreetly after a missive is delivered.

Katarina is overheard praising Aureth.

Sorrel gets a lantern and she gets a slip of paper, all intent to participate. She looks around at those assembled and then writes something down carefully but quickly, her expression fairly neutral but peaceful nonetheless.

Katarina is overheard praising Carita.

Katarina has left the Silk Travel Camp Chair.

Quiet, a Valardin champion, A dutiful Valardin aide leave, following Katarina.

Sparte rises up, lighting his lantern in turn. He remains quiet, eyes focused intently on the lantern in his hands as it begins to luminate. When the papers find him, he shifts focus to write. His lips move in silence as he adds them.

Ouida accepts parchment when it is offered, though writing what she does upon it seems to draw more of a soft smile of remembrance rather than distance.

Miella takes one of the slips of paper and after a moment of thought writes something down.

After lighting her lantern, Sanya sets it down to write on the paper handed to her, taking a few moments to jot down her thoughts.

The Kennex General has to write small. It seems a daunting task to name all the men under her command she might remember, although there are probably more then a couple things added to the list that has nothing to do with war. Scrawl quickly spills across the front and back of the parchment, all bearing tiny notations and little scribbles defining out each man and woman that she adds.

Prince Luca seems to have a few words for people who pass by to speak with him, quietly given and sometimes with a handshake. He doesn't linger on any of them as long as he does the flask he has out between greetings, or the conversation he seems to be having with Carita. And through it, he's keeping a good view of Legate Aureth, following the words that are offered to the crowd. It might just be the drink, but something does chase across the man's eyes during certain moments, old memories no doubt. It does a bit to sober his expression a touch.

Gilroy looks at the lantern at then at the slip, giving the sort of look someone who was eating cookies and then, without noticing it, popped a really burnt one into his mouth. Still, he takes a charcoal and writes something. Then a lot of something. It gets pretty involved.

Victus scrunches up his face as he's to now write with a lit lantern close at hand. It's a challenge he's up to nonetheless, as his gaze travels between those who share the arbor path with him. "Do you suppose they'll accept pictures...? I'm gonna try a picture..." With that he starts scribbling away, brow furrowed as he makes a one-handed piece of art.

Having managed not to cause any undue destruction or mayhem while lighting her lantern, Helena dutifully takes the slip of paper and a quill. She closes her eyes for a moment, perhaps in prayer, before opening them again and beginning to write, working hard to get the names she thinks of in the little slip of paper, before tucking it into her hand and looking up, offering a smile to Elgana; her eyes glimmer with tears that threaten that spill but do not.

Arik is overheard praising Carita: A return of an interesting tradition.

Sophie has joined the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Tomwell holds up a 'one second' finger to Laric, after a few murmured words. He moves away to light his lantern, returning to the Master of Question's side with further commentary.

"Now, think about something that you want to change," Aureth says. "A hope you have for the future. A change you will make for yourself, or a change you want to see in the world around you. Not something easy, like what pair of shoes you're going to wear tomorrow or that you plan to start eating salads." Aureth's eyebrows go up a little, and again he doesn't make eye contact with anyone as he says this, but there's a wryer note in his voice as he says, "I mean something real. Write it down. Write it for Lagoma."

Waldemai turns to someone standing nearby and whispers. The person writes something on a scrap of paper and hands it to Waldemai.

Olivia seems to consider this a moment, her eyes trail upwards and seem to fixate on Lisebet as she begins to write.

Merek writes some things on some parchment and places them to the lantern to be prepared as he watches the speakers, listening thoughtfully.

Shard took quite a while to finish whatever she was drawing--it was definitely drawing--on her slip of paper. This next part, however? No, she writes something down immediately, almost hard enough to break through the paper.

Ah, this one seems to be easier for Perronne. The merchant's expression lights up, bright and lively, and she scribbles with enthusiasm, without minding the residue left on her fingers.

Lethe looks at the paper for a moment before stating to write.

Lisebet gives Olivia an innocent look and a "what now?' sort of gesture. She doesn't say anything, but she does turn to write the next thing on her parchment, something she would like to change. Quietly and quickly.

Brady scribbles something down on the piece of paper, just in time to light his lantern. He turns to wander back towards the edge of the crowd.

Ian didn't come THAT prepared, apparently. He's forced to unfold his folded piece of parchment and add something on the bottom.

Again Vanora waits for a paper and writing utensil to come her way and begins scrawling something in a practiced hand. She has plenty to write down this time as well, and the scratching across the paper continues for several minutes while she tunes out the rest of the room. Once she's finished she folds that paper in half as well.

The second part of the required writing gives Victus pause. It's a long think he has. When the idea pops into his head, it's an instant reaction, as if he'd just struck gold. The word is written and the paper is folded up. Against the odds, he has not burned himself.

Arik is holding two lanterns to the Lady of Change aloft while Eilonwy is writing on some parchment for the pair of them. "Mayhap you can put sorry somewhere in the corner on the off chance these don't clear the city."

Esoka finishes her loss scribbling with a solemn bow of her curly head. Her eyes are still sad as she begins to write again, but there's a soft smile now as she scribbles about change. A hand is briefly touched to her stomach and she murmurs something that sounds vaguely like a prayer, then finishes her scrawl.

Jan grunts as she tries to find the space on her web of inky scrawl. She adds something quickly and folds it directly, her stormy gaze veiled as she stares into the flickering lights of the other lanterns.

A servant in Grayson livery minding two dark-haired girls, no older than five apiece, breaks through the crowd (by way of Confessor and guards mostly) to approach Laric and Tomwell. It puts a brief stop to the conversation the two men are having after the latter returns. Laric smiles down at them and takes to a knee, speaking quietly to them and listening to their response with all the due gravity one's children deserves. They're pretty well-behaved up until the point one of them cries out, "I want to find a GIRL SALLY," The Master of Questions looks rueful while the servant minding them hushes her, then rises long enough to write down their wishes. He passes them off to them like small treasures, suffers (fondly, how dare he) through a two-on-one hug, then rises as the servant leads them off to their lanterns. He resumes speaking with Tomwell.

That draws a soft snort from Eilonwy. "Maybe they're meant to burn if they land." She mutters back but writes as Arik requests before carefully printing her own.

Taking a slip of paper each time, Valdemar's expression turns intent as he writes something down, first for mourning, then something he desires to change. The second takes a little longer, and it almost seems as if he might run out of room on that piece of parchment, and he looks it over a second time before he seems satisfied with it.

"Now." Aureth lifts folded parchment in the air. He holds two rectangles of parchment now. "We aren't giving up our memories. We aren't giving up our hopes. But we share them together, in a devotion to the Mother of Beginnings and to Our Lady of Change. With these lanterns, lit from Lagoma's Eternal Flame, we light these thoughts and memories and hopes, and send them to our gods." He holds up the paper lantern with its dancing flame and carefully, carefully feeds the parchment into the dancing, flickering light. He has to move quickly to avoid burning himself, or scattering ash towards the carefully groomed plants of the garden. Face lit by the flame in the balmy evening light, he holds up the paper lantern--

And releases it, to let it float.

"With hope," Aureth says, gesturing for others to follow suit with this exercise, "with truth, we stand together in the light of the Eternal Flame, and we look into the future on the path of our choices. By this devotion, we reach out to Lagoma and to Death, and pray for the souls of those we remember, and for the lives ahead of us that we now face."

The question of something she wants to change has Helena biting her lip. A small shiver runs through her as she bends to put quill to paper again. Her free hand reaches to fiddle with the Copper brooch pinned at the shoulder of her seasilk dress, before she lifts her head again and folds the slip of paper as well.

Merek lifts up his lanterns to let them float as he has put his messages properly in them. He looks a bit sad while he does, watching them fly the whole time without much in the way of words.

Olivia holds her lantern up and releases it upward, she watches it with great attention as it floats upwards.

Brady feeds his paper into the lantern's flame, the flickering light illuminating his solemn features. He releases it to the sky, silently watching as the night becomes filled with lights.

Vanora slips both pieces of paper into her lantern, watching the flames consume them and drift slightly higher. She copies Aureth's gesture, holding up the lantern carefully and angling her body just so, in order to let the lantern float away up into the air with the others.

Sparte finishes his writing, consigning it to the lantern and lifting the lantern to float with all the others.

Gianna drops her papers into her lantern and reaches up to release it, duskstones at her ears and finger glittering in a fetching manner in all the flickering light.

Perronne catches her breath as Aureth lets it go, and it floats. She re-reads both of her slips of paper, mouthing the words quietly. Then, she feeds them carefully into the lantern's flame and lets it ago. She follows the floating with delight - first at her own, and then as more and more rise into the air, she cranes her head around trying to follow each one.

Hand hovering for too long over her parchment, Carmen makes a decision, evidently, and whatever she writes is brief. She looks nothing so much as tired as she lights the paper and lets her lantern take flight, head tilting back to watch her lantern and the others drift away.

Shard's expression might be guarded and closed, but her motions contain an odd sort of reverence as she rolls her paper slip and dips it into the lantern's flame, and then again as she lifts it up and carefully lets it go, with hands cupping beneath for a moment as though she's not entirely sure it /will/ float on its own.

Ian feeds the paper into the lantern, and then releases it, letting it float from his hands. His expression hasn't changed much through all of this. Maybe a bit of consternation when he found out he had to write something else on his paper. He watches, calm, as the lanterns float into the sky. This is a ceremony that should be profoundly moving, but he doesn't look especially moved.

Carefully, oh so carefully, Elgana feeds her little folded slips of paper into the flame. She even keeps an eye on Helena when her sister puts hers to the flame of her own lantern. Once satisfied, she lifts her lantern and then lets it go. "To the stars with you," she murmurs softly, watching as her own gently floats upward to join the others winking in the night.

Tomwell's brow furrows with thoughtful intention as he carefully writes on his scrap of parchment. He's done by the time the Grayson children approach, and he wiggles his fingers at them with a dimpled smile. Then he's burning his parchment and releasing the lantern into the sky.

Miella holds her lantern up then very gently let's it go, actually smiling for once as she watches them all lift off into the air.

Careful as he feeds the slips of paper into his lantern, Valdemar makes sure that both have been consumed entirely before releasing the lantern to float away into the night air. He then looks up, admiring the sight of all the others doing the same, taking flight above the gardens.

Jan follows suit, taking a moment to watch others first. It has been a while since she has participated in a tradition like this. Jan holds the paper until it is nearly consumed, releasing just a few scorches corned into the lick of the flame. She then releases and watches it with curiosity as it it rises with the rest.

Victus stands to release his lantern as well. Although he gives it a little 'bop' on the bottom with his fist, sending it on into the air with more urgency. The Prince snorts in satisfaction as it drifts away.

Sophie places the first paper in the lantern without much thought, but the second she seems a little reluctant to part with, but in the end she places a kiss on the paper, feeds it into the lantern and extends it over her head, letting it slip from her fingers and float into the sky. Blue eyes train on the lantern as she seems transfixed by it until she finally lowers her gaze to Aureth and she folds her hands neatly in her lap.

Attention turned mostly inward while writing, Adelphie looks up and outward only once releasing her lantern. The light reflects over her face, gradually fading off as it distances itself from her. Her hands find themselves folded up at her heart. Suffice to say she's probably eating this up.

Ysbail holds out the lantern, thoughtful as she watches it float beyond her reach, no further words given.

Lethe brings the paper to the flame and then releases her lantern.

Gilroy feeds one slip into the flame with a mild smile, then the next with narrow eyed concentration, as if making certain it burns all the way. Then he nods vigorously, stands and lets go of the lantern, watching it float away.

Esoka drops her paper into the flames, careful as she can not to burn herself. The very top of the fire brushes her fingers, but it only singes a little.

Sanya drops the parchment into the lantern and watches it as it catches alight before releasing the lantern.

Covering her hair and giving Arik a look, Eilonwy releases her lantern and says something quiet to him. She does idly pat her curls to ensure they're not singed still.

Elgana's words make Helena smile, and the younger Redrain sister lets her lantern go, watching it as it finds its way among the other lights as it makes its way into the heavens. Her eyes shine as she does so, the glimmer and glow of dozens of lanterns reflecting in the dark blue of her own eyes, so like the color of the sky that the lanterns float in. "May the gods and spirits will it so," she whispers.

Willow turns her face skyward to watch the lanterns drift.

Ouida has been a knight and soldier long enough to be well versed in following instructions (mostly.) And so she does! She releases her lantern somewhat dubiously, as if she isn't quite sure that it will rise, and at least she doesn't hop on her toes like a little girl when it does indeed--but a brief glow of simple happiness grows as her gaze meets all the other lanters now rising in a swirl of released stars. She watches them with unguarded delight, for the moment not much thinking of where they shall land, and it transforms her face into something far younger and more innocent than the mantle that so typically weighs upon her shoulder.

Sorrel lets her lantern go, watching it rise past her and join with the others in the sky, thoughtful and humming a little, soft and sweet, as she lets it go.

Borne aloft on the gently floral-scented breezes of the arboretum, the lanterns glow, lit from within by the dancing light of the Eternal Flame. Dozens of them rise, their sheening lit through the hued paper as they drift into the air, climbing lazily above the amphitheater. The hopes and memories of the City of Arx may not rise high enough to mimic the stars, but the warmth and light of the moment bloom on the spring evening, and just for an instant, there is wonder here in the darkness.

Arik is listening to Eilonwy's whisper and makes an *oooo* sound while sending the lantern off after hers a few seconds later.

Ian shifts a little more weight onto his cane, and dutifully watches the lanterns rise.

Olivia takes Jan's hand in one of hers, and one from Lisebet with ghe other as she watches the Laterns float up, a look of pure wonder in her eyes, she squeezes her friends hands gently and looks to her friends with a smile

Carita listens to Aureth with rapt attention and as her cerulean gaze remains there, she squinting at times. Not the sort that seems disapproving, but as if she were really thinking about what's being said. Her chin dips at the mention of Darkwater, a faint smile offered to Luca beside her before her attention turns back on the Legate. She writes something on a slip of paper, but also fishes in a nearly unseen pocket of her gown, producing an already folded piece of paper. She leans to murmur something to Luca, before her eyes find a familiar voiced Halfshav who earns /the look/ before her attention shifts back to Aureth.

As she slips her paper in to the flame of her lantern and it flickers a little higher for a moment, she holds it up to let it go so that it can join the other lanterns lighting the night sky. As one after another are lit and set free, the gardens are warmly glowing with the lights as they hover before rising higher.

It's a sight to see from any perspective.

Esoka lets her lantern go, head tipping up and blue eyes going wide with an almost girlish sort of look as it flits away on the breeze. "Gods keep us all..." she murmurs, more to herself than anyone else.

"Thank you," Aureth says, in a voice pitched much lower than the one he used to declaim. He lays his hand over his heart, sketches a little bow to all and sundry, and then says, "You don't have to tell anyone what was in your lantern. But I hope that tonight can be common ground for a lot of us."

Aureth is overheard praising Darkwater: Thank you for helping put together something special in honor of the gods.

Helena is overheard praising Carita: Lovely event.

Tomwell is overheard praising Darkwater.

Merek is overheard praising Darkwater.

Sophie is overheard praising Aureth.

Helena is overheard praising Aureth.

Merek is overheard praising Harlequins.

Tomwell is overheard praising Harlequins.

Merek is overheard praising Faith of the pantheon.

Brady is overheard praising Aureth: Did you know he's my cousin?

Vitalis is overheard praising Darkwater: A fine gathering to remember past and look to the future.

Merek is overheard praising Aureth.

Merek is overheard praising Carita.

Tomwell is overheard praising Faith of the pantheon.

Esoka is overheard praising Faith of the pantheon.

Tomwell is overheard praising Laric.

Esoka is overheard praising Aureth.

Tomwell is overheard praising Aureth.

Tomwell is overheard praising Carita.

"This was very beautiful. Thank you." Vanora states to Aureth, Carita, and the other organizers. She offers her arm to Valdemar to escort her back home, expression thoughtful.

Vanora puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Jan puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Merek puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Merek puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Ysbail puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Gianna puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Valdemar puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Carmen puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Olivia puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Vitalis puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Shard puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Ouida puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Eilonwy puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Vanora has left the an old wooden bench.

Helena puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Carita is overheard praising Aureth: For such a beautiful ceremony.

Vitalis puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Vitalis is overheard praising Aureth: Bolstering words.

Luca is overheard praising Darkwater.

Aureth is overheard praising Carita: For an inspiring idea, and efficient organization, of course.

Taking his wife's arm when offered, Valdemar then escorts her back to the Grimhall Longhouse, inclining his head to Sanya and Sparte along the way.

Perronne puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Valdemar has left the an old wooden bench.

5 Grimhall House Guards, Gustav, a gruff Islander advisor leave, following Valdemar.

Victus puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Carita is overheard praising Laric: For your wonderful help!

Sanya puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Aureth is overheard praising Laric: It's a good thing we're not burning down the city, right?

Sanya puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Sanya has left the an old wooden bench.

2 Grimhall House Guards, Ivan leave, following Sanya.

Adelphie is overheard praising Faith of the pantheon.

Eilonwy is overheard praising Laric.

Ian puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Ouida is overheard praising Aureth: Thank you so much, it's always a pleasure to see ceremonies and events like this!

Eilonwy is overheard praising Aureth.

Ouida is overheard praising Laric: Thank you so much, it's always a pleasure to see ceremonies and events like this!

Lethe puts Queen of Endings Lantern of Remembrance in a distressed ebony-stained oak chest with spiderweb motif.

Lethe has left the an old wooden bench.

Eilonwy is overheard praising Carita.

Brady is overheard praising Laric.

Ouida is overheard praising Carita: Thank you so much, it's always a pleasure to see ceremonies and events like this!

Aureth is overheard praising Luca: Good taste in proteges.

Brady is overheard praising Carita.

Willow is overheard praising Aureth: Glad I came. Beautiful ceremony.

Carita is overheard praising Harlequins.

Merek looks to some of the others that are there as he watches the lanterns, then he moves to where Jan is as well as some others, "Beautiful,' he says, while he places his hands to his pockets, his fireweave shifted about his face to keep away some of the night weather.

Laric is overheard praising Aureth: Second most holy hair, indeed.

Duarte is overheard praising Faith of the pantheon.

Laric is overheard praising Carita: A compassionate, proactive host.

Jan watches the lanterns drift away. She seems lost in thought a bit it seems, but Olivia rouses her attentions. She looks around at the people and now forces a polite expression over her hardened one. She might as well take the oppertunity to meet a few other people formally and get a feel for the strangers in the crowd.

Teonia Redreef have been dismissed.

Aryka Wyrmfang have been dismissed.

3 Thrax Guards have been dismissed.

Marquessa Pudding, a doughy dog have been dismissed.

2 Thrax Elite Guards have been dismissed.

Sophie has left the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Dame Rosario Nevarre of the Oathlands, Anouk Ardennes, Anais Ardennes leave, following Sophie.

Shard rubs her face for a moment, particularly the bridge of her nose. There's a slight grimace before she straightens up. When she goes back to watching, it's not the lanterns she's looking at, but the people.

Harlen leaves, following Duarte.

Ysbail leans over studying Shard's expression and murmuring something.

Shard turns her frown toward Ysbail, and murmurs something back.

Arik offers his arm to Eilonwy murmuring back and forth though Ysbail gets a look at some point before they head off of the gardens. "Well this was a wonderful event outside the Redrain ward, I wonder how long we can watch the lanterns." he remarks looking up while strolling along.

Arik has left the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

Eilonwy has left the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

1 Crimson Blades Lieutenant leaves, following Eilonwy.

Eilonwy leaves, following Arik.

Ouida watches how the lanterns continue to take flight, though she might well be as much entranced by their illumination of the wind currents and eddies as much as anything else. Her expression remains unguarded as she continues to look skyward, though she does blink very quickly for a few heartbeats, before she looks away, the pleasant courtly mask settling back into place.

Brady has left the an old wooden bench.

Brady puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Esoka has left the An Ivy Covered Swing.

Helena is overheard praising Gianna: best bench singer hands down, a voice as charming as a bangle, it could be said.

Willow has left the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

Esoka lingers to watch the lanterns drift up and up and up, enjoying the peace and light of the moment. She'll drift away eventually, though.

Willow offers a wave toward the arbof p

Brady is overheard praising Aureth.

Willow offers a wave toward the arbor path then toward Brady before stepping out into the night.

Ouida offers a graceful curtsy to Willow as she moves away, and to those others that depart the path.

Shard tips her head toward Ysbail now. She seems to be considering something, before she simply says, "If you want."

Helena says something to Carmen that has her quirking the faintest of smiles as she pushes to her feet. Looking down at Helena, Carmen gives a slow, lazy tip of her head. "Winner's choice, Princess. Doing that might just even take the cake." Her smile quirks, twitching as she turns to stroll for the entrance to the gardens.

Adelphie has left the An Ivy Covered Swing.

Helena has left the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Carmen has left the an ivy covered ancient bench.

As people start to clear out, Ian angles over towards Carita and Luca. "That seemed like a success."

Ian has left the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

Ouida has left the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

Brady sighs and turns his gaze to the ground, scuffing the ground with his boot as he walks around aimlessly, not engaging with anyone.

Carita makes her way closer to Ian, her smile lifting as she watches of his shoulder for Aureth. "Thank you, Lord Ian. I'm glad you liked it. Did you think up something significant to send up? Don't worry, I won't ask you what it was."

Ouida collects her somewhat awestruck squire, who still is looking up at the rapidly disappearing lantern, and the two make to depart the gardens, drifting unhurriedly towards the garden gates.

"Thank you for hosting this, Countess Carita," Miella says with a deep nod of her head.

Gilroy walks over to Carita and says, "This was very nice, Countess. Also a surprise. I really should read the memos you send out." He gives a chagrined look, then heads back toward the office.

Ysbail has left the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

Shard has left the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

Gruffudd, A ridiculously large and fluffy Blackwood forest Cat, Inka Brair, Shard leave, following Ysbail.

"Thank /you/ for coming," Carita's smile is turned on Miella, "I don't think I've caught your name?"

2 Harthall house guards, Niall RedTree, adorably awkward squire leave, following Ouida.

Gilroy has left the an old wooden bench.

"I had a lot more thanks to say than things to ask for," Ian allows to Carita. "It wasn't really in the spirit of the evening, maybe."

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

Prince Luca's right there with Carita still, having sent his lantern off toward the stars. If he manages to set anything on fire with his good intentions, well.. it won't be the first time. Ian's arrival draws a smile from the man, and he offers over his flask, "I'm sure the gods don't mind a good thank you now and then. Especially one so pretty as those paper lanterns were..". He offers Ian his flask.

Gilroy is given a once over, her laughter soft as she nods, "We didn't mean to disturb you," she jests, eyes twinkling. Luca's arm is given a little tug to snag his attention, "Prince Luca, have you met my protege, Master Gilroy?"

"That was lovely, thank you so much," says Helena with a smile for the hostess and the Faith, giving a nod to those still gathered in the garden as she and Elgana make their way to the exit. The two sisters depart, Helena glancing up to the lanterns now far from view, as if she could will hers onward and upward further with a glance, before she decides to pay attention to her path in front of her so she doesn't run into a bush or bench on the way out.

Ian takes the flask from Luca with a nod of thanks. He makes a huffing sort of sound that might be, if you tilt your proverbial head and squint super hard, a laugh. "I figure the gods must have been with me for me to still be alive after the last couple years."

2 Redrain Guards, Lucien, a bright-eyed pine marten leave, following Helena.

Elgana has left the an ivy covered ancient bench.

Lille, the dauntless companion, 2 Redrain Guards leave, following Elgana.

As people begin to sort of mill about and chat and move to collect drinks and socialize, Aureth absently pulls his hair back into a loose knot at the nape of his neck and binds it. He stops murmuring with the disciple at his elbow and moves to speak with some of the other people present, loitering near the lanterns at the front. "Lady Carita," he says lightly, "I don't know if I ever thanked you for proposing the idea, but I do think it's gone rather well."

"You and me both.", Luca promises Ian, "One day I should really stop relying on them and finish learning the sword or something..", and there's jest in his tone. Then he's glancing over to Aureth, who is speaking to Carita, "Legate Aureth! What a speech! You were really into it, you didn't even notice all the winking I was doing.". There is a quick grin for the Legate, and then he's looking around for Gilroy. Gilroy? To Carita, "Did you say Gilroy was here? I can't find him. Is he that short?".

With one more quick look-around, Victus takes the break in chatting to make his exit.

Victus has left the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

12 Thrax Elite Guards, Crow - Thraxian Steward, Lilybelle - The Claw of Arx leave, following Victus.

Carita's eyes light up at Aureth's approach, "Father Aureth, your speeches really moved me, thank you for everything." Her cheeks color at his praise, "Yes, I think it went well." She glances aside to Ian, "Have you met Lord Ian Kennex? And Master Gilroy Grayhope?" A pause, "Gentlemen, this is Legate Aureth Grayhope -- unless you're all aquainted...and everyone knows Prince Luca."

"Sorry," Aureth says with easy cheer, and a quick wink at Luca. "I have to save my outrageous flirting for _afterwards_, following the sermonizing and lectures, you know." He tucks his thumbs into the panels of his broad belt. "Gilroy is a cousin of mine, of course, although one I miraculously did not meet until this year," he says mildly. "Good evening, Lord Ian."

"He was here," Ian confirms to Luca. "I guess he's gone now. He might have been worried I'd throw something else at him." He nods to Aureth. "Evening."

Brady is seen backing out of the gardens, disengaging from the group.

From her place at the benches, Jan calls after Ian, "I'll catch up with you at the Kay. Thanks for your council earlier."

Lisebet puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Ian nods to Jan. "Good luck."

Aureth is overheard praising Harlequins: Good job, Harlequins.

There is a faint twitch of Luca's nose before he leans in a touch to murmur to Aureth, "What is that scent you're wearing? It has such a.. seductive grace to it..", and the mention of that causes another grin to blossom on his lips. "But more seriously, it was a fine sermon.", and then he's looking back to Carita, "I'll have to catch sight of this Gilroy person another time. If you're his patron, and I'm your patron, I guess I should say something inspiring to him or whatever. That's how it works, I think.". All that said and done, he spills over to Ian, "What did you throw at him anyway?".

Sparte puts Our Lady of Change Healing Flame Lantern in Intricate model of a Darkwater ship.

Over at the ivy covered bench, Vitalis has produced a lute and is accompanying Gianna as she sings. Quietly.

Ian takes a last drink from the flask and hands it back to Luca. What was in it? Who knows! Ian certainly doesn't! "Snowballs, mostly. He wanted to get better at dodging stuff." A pause. "He's better, now."

"He was the one that came out in his pajama's," Carita's smile is weak, but genuine, humor glittering in her eyes as she speaks of Gilroy. Her eyes shift from the Prince to the Legate, bottom lip bitten a moment, "Is it that new fragrance that's going about?" She taps her chin, "I ..can't remember what it's called."

"This stuff? Had it for years. Custom blend. I asked a perfumer to make me something to wear for Death," Aureth says gravely, hand upon his heart. "Possibly she thought I wanted something to wear on a /date/ with Death, but whatever." He scuffs a shoe over the ground, shaking his head slightly. "That first lantern ceremony that Beloved Aldwin collaborated with the shamans on was... ah ... an extremely vivid memory for me, so it was pretty easy to spin a sermon out of." He grins, crookedly, almost boyishly; a youthening expression, and then scratches lightly along the line of his jaw, through his neat beard.

Ian pushes his hand through his hair and eyes Carita. "What, the new Corsetina stuff?"

Carita's laughter lifts, but she leans as Luca in an effort to discreetly smell the Legate's cologne. Ian's question earns him a tilted head, "Which one is that? I think I recall something named ... naked.. something or other? Is that what you mean?" Then, to Aureth she asks, "What stood out about it the most, if I might ask?"

Ian rolls his shoulders. "Zoey's a big fan of her stuff, so I thought about getting it for her. But I'm not sure she'd have appreciated my bringing her something that says it smells like ass. She wasn't too amused by Master Grayhope's piss drink." The corner of his mouth quirks, and a slightest light of amusement lights his electric blue eyes. "I don't think she'd buy it twice if I made like I didn't know any better."

Miella has left the An Enchanting Arbor Path.

"Butt Naked, I heard it was called.", Luca chimes in, surely helpful here. Of course that's the name of something he'd remember, if he remembered any sort of named thing. Then to Ian, "As I recall, I was there for the Summer Piss. I can still kind of taste it in my memory..", and that brings a laugh out of him and a shake of his head. He makes like he might have something more to add, but when Carita's asking Aureth that question about which part stood out the most to him, the southern duelist actually settles in to listen for a moment.

"I mean," Aureth says, and he stands there and looks awkward for a moment as he scrubs at the back of his neck with the palm of one hand, and then says, "Probably the part where Death manifested before us all, wearing a mantle of fire." He sounds slightly boggled to be relating this, like he struggles daily with the part where it has faded into the fog of memory that lays upon this city like, well, so much fog.

That's definitely a glitter of mischief there, that look that comes and goes in Ian's eyes. He nods to Luca. "She didn't know what to make of it when the messenger showed up with the bottle. I don't think I could get away with that twice." He eyes Aureth when he starts talking about Death manifesting, and doesn't comment.

Sparte rubs at a spot on his chest at that last comment and looks slightly unsettled, as though reminded of something.

"Gosh, I don't think I was there for that one, or I might remember it. Maybe I was just that drunk?", Luca asks, looking for a moment like he's trying to think back to whenever the last lantern lighting ceremony was. "Funny how a memory will just chase off like that now and again.". The mystery of it all. Though Ian's words do cause the southern duelist's lips to pull into a brief grin. "Some things should never be gotten away with twice, take it from me. Especially when the first time is so priceless..".

Inquisitor Jonathen, Salvadore, a fire salamander, 6 Veteran Confessors leave, following Laric.

Ian unbuttons his coat enough to slip out his own flask, and takes a drink from that one. "It was tempting, though." He offers the flask to Luca.

"I think you and Reese were off waiting for Bringers to storm the wall, honestly," Aureth says with a slight narrow of his gaze as he considers Luca. "But. Yes. She appeared, wreathed in flame. Laughed at my awful joke," and his smile is beatific as he shares this part, because for serious, you guys, "and promised us that the dead warriors in the catacombs would rise to defend Arx from the Silence at my command. It was ... pretty ... unique."