The moon is bright, but even if it wasn't there are tons of lanterns set out on the ground and on poles to light the way to the festivities! The grounds are full of people tonight, all gathered around the different tables where Grayson Vassals have set out their wares all beautifully arranged in a lovely display. There's food, wine, lemonade, gin, flowers, you name it and it's out here on a table somewhere! Even the Bard's College is here, playing some nice dancing music over by a little area that's been set up for dancing. Sabella is making the rounds, beaming in her golden gryphon dress and making sure to stop at every table to admire something. Not that it's hard, just look at all the amazingness on display! "Welcome everyone! Please mingle and enjoy yourselves. There's plenty of food, drink, and treats for everyone! We'll start with the games in just a bit so for now enjoy the best of what Grayson Ward has to offer!"

Michael gets a praseodymium forged extended bracelet with tapered vines, leaves, and blossoms carved of black Seliki pearls from Pearl Chest.

Michael gets Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

Chub Chub, A fat black rat with an eyepatch, Witness, The Ashen Jackal, Scandal, The White Jackal, Vandal, The Black Jackal, Vandred arrive, following Jacali.

Kaia takes a praseodymium forged pendant with tapered vines, leaves, and blossoms carved of black Seliki pearls from Pearl Chest.

Bhandn gets Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Willow gets a praseodymium forged tiara with tapered vines, leaves, and blossoms carved of black Seliki pearls from Pearl Chest.

Being that she passes by here pretty much every day, in Liara's case, she's content not to explore too much, and instead idles over by an arbor, admiring the roses. She brightens at Sabella's announcement, gaze turning out across the grounds for a moment.

Gunner, the Leary Military Adjutant, Emilie, a slender lady's assistant arrive, following Iliana.

Gianna is over by the musicians from the Bard's College, having arrived earlier to oversee them setting up. This has robbed her the opportunity of making a dramatic entrance and has also caused the poor bards to be nervous. She seems satisfied when she turns away from them and they visibly relax. Gianna sets about finding herself a drink, pausing to incline her head to Sabella. "It looks like there's going to be a good turnout," she says, offering one of her hints of a smile, there and gone in a moment.

Vandred puts 'The Mortal Coil', A Bandolier of Diamondplate Throwing Daggers -- A Jacali Savantis Design in Compact leather satchel with hooks.

Monique gets a pair of praseodymium forged earrings with tapered vines, leaves, and blossoms carved of black Seliki pearls from Pearl Chest.

Vandred puts A Sweet Smelling Note in Compact leather satchel with hooks.

Iliana drops Eagle Chest.

Monique gets a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Willow gets a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Niklas takes a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Jacali gets a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Niklas takes Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

Donella pauses to admire the decor in her opening foray into the tasting party. It's to put off the fact that she has absolutely no idea what she out to try first. She just kindof hovers out there, considering the queues for this or that. "Oh, krakenballs. I need a guide."

Willow gets Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

Bhandn puts Grayson green apple wine in Gryphon Chest.

Monique gets a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

Bhandn gets a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Michael is /on time/ for this event. It helps that he lives just up the street. He is dressed exceptionally well, given his usual sense of diamondplate and leather sense of style. A very formal Aeterna doublet, with brocade and Brightroar peacetied at his waist. Upon his right arm, Lady Evonleigh Whitehawk has her hand twined and settled upon his forearm. She is dressed /magnificently/ in an Aqua brocade gown, with whisper-thin voile fluttering behind her like crashing waves upon the shore.

"Princess Sabella?" Is the quick call from Mikey, looking for the host.

Jacali gets Three Rivers Apple Butter from River Chest.

Jacali gets Three Rivers Perry from River Chest.

Niklas takes a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

Donella is overheard praising Sabella: What a delightful and dizzying spread.

Niklas takes Three Rivers Apple Butter from River Chest.

Jacali gets a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

Monique gets a cup of Ancient Forest Tea from Hawk Chest.

Gianna gets a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

Jacali gets potted Peahawk Iris from Hawk Chest.

Willow gets a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

Jacali gets golden shortcrust pie filled with Whitewood autumn berries from Hawk Chest.

Monique gets Embossed Eagle Journal from Eagle Chest.

Jacali gets a cup of Ancient Forest Tea from Hawk Chest.

Evonleigh gets Embossed Eagle Journal from Eagle Chest.

Liara gets an adorable corgi plushie from Hawk Chest.

Michael gets Embossed Eagle Journal from Eagle Chest.

Silas is stationed at the Whitehawk table, naturally, dressed in a level of white silken finery appropriate for the occasion - and unusual for him. No armor! But some of the Iron Guard regalia remain a part of his attire - namely the cloak and crest. Dash the Guard Corgi is there, too, dressed in a ridiculous pair of white feathered wings and chewing on a rawhide bone. Whitehawk representin'.

The selection at the table is primarily fresh-baked pies and fragrant tea, but there is also a selection of bright flowers and plushies.

He looks up, towards Michael and Evonleigh when they arrive, and offers the couple a smile. "I'm beginning to think you like making magnificent entrances."

Willow gets potted Peahawk Iris from Hawk Chest.

Jacali puts golden shortcrust pie filled with Whitewood autumn berries in Hawk Chest.

Donella has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Niklas takes an adorable corgi plushie from Hawk Chest.

Jacali gets an adorable corgi plushie from Hawk Chest.

Niklas takes Embossed Eagle Journal from Eagle Chest.

Jacali gets Embossed Eagle Journal from Eagle Chest.

Gunner, the Leary Military Adjutant, Emilie, a slender lady's assistant leave, following Iliana.

Kaia takes an adorable corgi plushie from Hawk Chest.

Liara gets Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Jacali gets Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Michael gets Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Desiree has joined the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

Kaia takes Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

Jasher arrives, on time for once. He looks around for a moment before obligingly moving to mingle, his steps moving him towards the ring of cauldrons, where logs and boulders serve as seating. He takes a seat and a bowl, content to linger there quietly, clearly not a people person by any means.

Pharamond makes his way in with Tabitha, having helped her carry some of the pies and such, and seems to be in good spirits. The couple seems to be close, and is clearly doing this courtship thing all wrong as they are full it seems of playfulness and adoration and cuddling - though kanoodling is strictly out of the question. And so helping her set the chest and the other items that Whitehawk brought down, he gives a gentle squeeze to her hand and looks about. "This one may take the cake, I think, as far as events go. Shall we check the chests?"

Waldemai gets an adorable corgi plushie from Hawk Chest.

Kaia takes Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Ilmia takes Embossed Eagle Journal from Eagle Chest.

"Just start walking around and you'll get the way of it," Sabella advises Donella with a big smile, "I recommend the Whitehawk table for their delicious pies if you like the start with dessert." Then she tiptoes up to wave, "Lord Michael! Is that Lady Evonleigh you're with!? What a gorgeous dress!"

"Oh, this all looks lovely," says Evonleigh, turning when Michael greets Sabella, and greeting the Grayson princess herself with a graceful curtsy. "Thank you for hosting us and being the force of nature behind this entire week of lovely events, Princess Sabella," she says warmly, then turns to smile at Silas. "And you snuck in early so no one would notice, cousin," she says brightly. "Do you mean me, or Lord Bisland?"

Waldemai zooms in on a specific chest and nabs the last plushie. "Lady Lucita's kids will love this," he explains, denying the entreaties of other corgi-lovers.

Willow gets Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Kaia takes a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

Evonleigh gets potted Peahawk Iris from Hawk Chest.

Pharamond takes a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Pharamond takes Three Rivers Perry from River Chest.

Pharamond takes a cup of Ancient Forest Tea from Hawk Chest.

Evonleigh gets a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

2 Ashford House Guard, 1 Ashford veteran guards, Bethany arrive, following Olivia.

Donella nods her thanks to Sabella, and sits down to remove her coat onto a rock. "Mmm. Strategy," she says, and considers the game plan.

Silas takes Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

Pharamond takes Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Exchanging armor for a slinky dress, Carmen Harol scans the grounds and crowds with a smirk. She could almost be mistaken for put together. Almost. Still, food and drink call her attention rather than any particular person as she wanders toward vittles.

Gianna puts a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy in River Chest.

Silas takes a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

Olivia drops Seeker Chest.

Seliki staff have been busy for over a day tending to a fire with a Pearlspire cliff diving goat burried deep within. The fruits of their efforts lie before you. Tender goat meat that you can peal off the ribs. What a mess. There are plenty of cloths here to clean your fingers if you don't lick them clean first. Miriam, the Seliki Head of Kitchen has outdone herself with her best chowder. Freshly baked bread is arrayed on a table, ready to be eaten or used as bowls for the soup. Lady Peri Seliki stands near all of this fuss. There are no fly-aways or tentacles of hair in the soup because she has peacebond it with an improvised net made of cooking twin. The knots were clearly tied under her expert sailer's eyes.

Evonleigh gets a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Michael gets Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

Niklas takes Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

Peri gets a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Ilmia and Iliana had been manning the Leary Chest. Given the journals inside they were sure that someone might like them. The tall redhead has a drink and is giving a look to those that are also around with a smile on her lips.

Carmen gets Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

Gianna gets Three Rivers Perry from River Chest.


It's hard to say why Jacali is here, all done up in vibrant reds in her rather strange yet signature style with Vandred not too far behind her, pacing in his super-average way in her not-so-average wake. Her eyes are guarded by dark spectacles, and the brim of her top hat is low over her gaze, arms crossing over her chest as she awaits the start of the festivities. As people start heading for the chests, one of her brows quirks in a high arch, and her attentions shift toward Vandred.
"... so long as we're here, ey? So long as we're here..." She murmurs, moving to pick herself up some treats.

Ilmia gets Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

Gianna gets Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

A quick bow is dipped towards Sabella at her approach, a smile. "This is Lady Evonleigh, in a very lovely dress. From some mystery designer I'm told. Sending gowns and loveliness to the object of their affections." Michael scrunches his nose and shakes his head towards Evonleigh and Silas. "Silas means you, I'm certain Lady Evonleigh. I'll only be noticed as the man who happened to escort you this evening. Which will be a very well needed blow to my pride."

Wandering in beneath the dangling lanterns, Willow does a slow circuit before talking to anyone. And for a rarity, she even seems to find some booze to drink. Rum and lemonade.

And following Pharamond comes Tabitha, smiling as brightly and cheerfully to him as he does to her. Hand-in-hand, they make their way over to the Whitehawk booth, with the artist sticking very close to her companion. Upon reaching her family, and the very famboyantly dressed figure of Michael Bisland, she waves with the hand that isn't holding on tight to the Ahsford Sword, and lets out a small breath as if to say, 'Oh, busy!' Then to Pharamond she smiles sweetly and says, "Well, if there's a lot of leftovers, you're really going to have to let your clothes out!"

Willow gets Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

Ramona - A Guard in Ashford House Colours, Bigsby - A Thoughtful Looking Young Man in Nondescript Clothing, 4 Ashford House Guard arrive, following Lisebet.

Kaia takes Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

Peri takes Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

Tabitha also curtseys to Sabella after waving with much smiling enthusiasm! "This is so perfect!"

Samantha stands over Deepwoods offerings with the air of a mothering hen. A pie, turnovers, moonshine, and cider are all on offer from Deepwood, and the Marquessa herself on hand to serve.

Ian gets a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

Ilmia gets Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

Kaia takes Embossed Eagle Journal from Eagle Chest.

Ian gets Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

Olivia settles in near the Seeker chest and kicks back with a bottle of gin.

Ian gets Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

Lisebet comes up from Ashford House, making her way along with some guards. The duchess-consort comes to a stop as she spies - everything, and just smiles.

Silas glances from Evonleigh, then to Michael. "Weeeell, both?" He nods sagely to Waldemai when he plucks the plushie. "A fine choice, good sir." Tabitha also nets his attention and he turns in her direction, and he nods at her and her knightly companion. "Hello Tabitha, Lord Ashford," he greets politely. "Thank you for the last minute pies, by the way, cousin. I really can't bake."

Khaavren, a dutiful assistant arrives, delivering a message to Donella before departing.


Vandred looks distinctly uncomfortable with this entire thing, trying his best to do a smile yet it coming off as entirely fake. He follows in Jacali's wake, either to just hold any items that have been picked from the chest, or to just make sure that he's not standing around awkwardly. "I suppose. I feel very under dressed for the situation." He states, followed by a muttered, "I think that's the point, though."


Gianna gets Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

Jasher gets Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

"I love your gown. I'm quite fascinated by those creatures of late," says Evonleigh with a grin for Sabella, her eyes sparkling just a little. When Pharamond and Tabitha enter, her expression softens at her cousin's sweet smile. "Cousin, and Lord Pharamond. How lovely to see you." To Michael she laughs. "The princess and I know each other well. We've suffered for our art together under the tyrannical directorship of the Playwright," she says teasingly.

Ian gets Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Silas takes Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

Kaia would simply be standing there, somewhere near the lion chest, handing over very detailed Arvum maps.

Silas takes Embossed Eagle Journal from Eagle Chest.

Desiree takes a long look around once she arrives. She smiles at those she sees and finds a place to sit.

Carmen gets a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Olivia waves Jacali and Vandred over to her little 'booth' with her big goofy smile.

Silas takes Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Jasher gets a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Ilmia takes a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Olivia has joined the a pink pansy blanket.

Jasher puts Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special in Lion Chest.

Ilmia takes Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Gianna offers one of her faint smiles and an inclination of her head to Evonleigh, and to Michael due to proximity, as she makes her way through the throngs and collects herself some gin, her eyebrows arching as she takes in the bottle's design. "Lovely," she murmurs.

Sabella beams at Tabitha and Evonleigh, bouncing on her toes, "It all came together so well didn't it? The event, not the gown, although the gown is quite lovely too! Marquessa Iliana, are those journals? You must flag my husband down if you see him! He's always in need of another writing journal. And Marquessa Samantha, I don't know how you still have food left there even this early in the night, it all smells and looks so delicious! Baron Silas! Are those little corgi plushies!?" She squeals, "They're adorable!"

Willow has left the a serene stone bowl fountain with accented grooves.

Olivia gets a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Willow has joined the a pink pansy blanket.

Ian watches his feet as he paces into the area. Ian doesn't do great in crowds like this, although the sense he seems to have, without looking, when someone's about to bump into him makes maneuvering through so many people easier. Following somewhere behind him is Zoey's secretary, making a cameo to collect alcohol. She's SUPER ENTHUSED to be doing this, probably.

Olivia gets Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

Kaia departs for a moment.

Kaia has left the Pearlspire cliff diving goat buried in a firepit surrouded by cauldrons of chowder.

Olivia gets a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

Ilmia gives a smile when some mentions the journals and there's a smile to Sabella, "Your highness, yes, we made journals for the event. Hopefully they will be well received." she offers with a dip of her head.

Pharamond laughs playfully at Tabitha, and hands her a cup of tea while he looks to the rest, enjoying as he doesn't take something from every basket. Some he can see are low on stock, and others empty. He does take a bit of the Perry, one of the maps, and some of the tea. A smile to Tabitha and then he waves to Evonleigh, "Lady Whitehawk," he says with amusement, since as they walk near he assuredly lets go of Tabitha's hand so that she can go over and greet her cousin properly. Seeing Sabella however as they're close enough, he bows to the Princess. "Every time I think you've outdone yourself, you outdo yourself. This looks to be a special event," he says in earnest and obvious enthusiasm.

Donella arms herself with a stick, and approaches the goat pit. She probably never considered she should ever do such a thing. Cautiously, she pokes, and can be heard to mutter, "Is it for warmth, to eat, or some sort of sacrifice to Lagoma...?" Jabjab. "Well, it smells good, anyway. Meaty. Just a hint of hair..."


"They're not looking at you, treacle," Jacali promises Vandred even as she's ransacking the chests without apology or shame to note, deep coat pockets getting stuffed with this and that, turning toward the man that's entered with her once hers are full and unceremoniously begins stuffing things into his coat, as well. Really, it's like she thinks nobody can see her, invisible in the shadows cast by the blinding light of the nobility that abounds. "... 'sides, enough peacockin' goin' around fer al--Aahh-heh-aye!" A grin springs to her features, a hand raising to wave toward Olivia before she leans toward Vandred, "Oy, hold my jewels, I'm goin' in."
With that, she's making her way toward Olivia to take her place nearby, settling herself in with an easy grace. "Chickadee, splendid to see you, been so long."

Donella has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Lisebet meanders from one spot to another, taking a look at everything that is going on, but not at the moment collecting anything. She offers a curtsey to Sabella when she spies her. "Princess Sabella, what a wonderful idea. This is amazing."

Donella has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Silas chuckles and nods to Sabella. "The first ones I made to get into the lucrative plushie business with Aiden. They're now a Whitehawk staple." He then, slowly, departs from the family table to go exploring the wares of the other houses. "Time to refill our cellar!"

"Lord Kennex," says Evonleigh, murmuring something to Michael before turning to Ian and catching him as he paces, and she moves closer to speak in a quiet aside to him, her expression softening as her voice does.

Bhandn is one of those people who feels absolutely naked without his weaponry, which is why he's brought both with him in a peacebonded format. They ride shotgun from over his left shoulder, and he has to take a moment upon his arrival to adjust the belt that keeps both scabbards pressed up against his back. While he's certainly not dressed the finest, he has made a few efforts to not look like he spent the whole day sweating, either. One touch of the white band on his left arm and a deep breath later, and he is finding himself the owner of a map and making his way toward the hostess of the festivities to pay respects.

A quick nod towards Gianna as well, polite and all. "Oh. Sabella and I have known each other for far longer. Our wars have raged....for this entire generation." A mock-glower and glare gets emitted towards Sabella from Michael. "Whitehawks do love their plushies." Mikey's hand reaches up and brushes at a scarf that is wrapped about his neck. He isn't one to hang tight to his companion, and lets Evonleigh meander off to go brother his cousin-in-law.

Olivia smiles to Jacali, "Too long it already feels like. I am hoping your gin will be a hit." She takes a nice long hard drink of her cup of gin. Staring. Right af Pharamond, making sure he isn't watching her.

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

"I heartily appreciate the presence of the corgis, too," Liara remarks, then, after fetching herself a bottle of apple wine, "There is really a stunning variety here. People have really outdone themselves." She steps lightly back towards the arbor after a thorough look about.

Taking a moment away from greeting people, Sabella steps up on a little platform and raises her voice, "We will have two contests tonight! The first will be a debate on a subject to be announced, the winner of which will receive a pair of steel silk gloves! The second event of the evening after you've all been eating and drinking, will be a relay race! So, start picking out your partners and definitely drink your fill to make it more entertaining for the rest of us! We'll be starting the debate in just a bit--enjoy yourselves until then!"

1 Grayson House Guards, Peaches, a lovely white war filly with a peach saddle, Deliverance, an albino falcon, Stormy, a silvery gray hunting hound, Rascal, a hyper terrier, Rosalie, a lady in waiting arrive, following Reese.

Kaia puts a very detailed map of Arvum in Lion Chest.

Kaia puts a very detailed map of Arvum in Lion Chest.

Liara is overheard praising Silas: Corgi plushies!

Kaia puts a very detailed map of Arvum in Lion Chest.

Kaia puts a very detailed map of Arvum in Lion Chest.

Kaia puts a very detailed map of Arvum in Lion Chest.

Kaia puts a very detailed map of Arvum in Lion Chest.

Kaia puts a very detailed map of Arvum in Lion Chest.

Kaia puts a very detailed map of Arvum in Lion Chest.

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

Golden, an Oakhaven bloodhound, Gunther, a Rottweiler, Micana, 1 Saik Guard arrive, following Lucita.

Ian looks up at the sound of his name, and turns towards Evonleigh. "Lady Whitehawk." He's careful threading his way closer, to talking range. He nods when she murmurs to him, and pushes a hand through his hair, lowering his voice as well.


Vandred is left there, with slightly bulging pockets. For a moment, he pushes out his bottom lip, doing his utmost to appear stoic as his greatest fear apparently becomes real. He takes a step away from the tables and chests, letting everyone have their fill, instead turning to make sure he can keep on Jacali's movements, and then listening to the announcement.


Lady Monique arrives in a flurry of honeyed silks and a smile that might be considered reserved, at least on the lips of the Greenmarch beauty. She spies Donella and that way do her footsteps go, waving to others, investigating the magnificent offerings of Grayson as she does.

Reese gets a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Kaia returns with a bag full of more very detailed maps and tosses them in the lion chest before going to sit back by the firepit.

Liara gets a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Kaia has joined the Pearlspire cliff diving goat buried in a firepit surrouded by cauldrons of chowder.

Meanwhile, after smiling brightly at all around her, Tabitha has winged her way towards Dash! She's currently at a half-kneel, fussing and ruffling around his ears, an adoring smile on her face as she does so. "Dashy-Doodle! You look so handsome!" Then after feeding him a random savoury snack from the Whitehawk table, she stands up and comments, "No wonder those plushies are so popular!"

Reese gets a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

Monique has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Samantha remains by the Deepwood table. Offerings? Apple Moonshine, Berry Cider, apple turnovers, and pumpkin pie. Apparently Deepwood is appealing to folks' sweet tooth.

Lucita gets a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

Sorrel gets a bottle of Riven Reserve pear brandy from River Chest.

Reese gets potted Peahawk Iris from Hawk Chest.

Reese gets Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.


"Course it will be, chickadee, all that I touch is golden, innit?" Jacali murmurs in quiet conversation with Olivia, a slight lift of her shoulders offered in a carefree shrug. She leans back comfortably where she's seated, that hard-to-deny charm of hers in full effect. There's a soft smack of her lips, "Don't you worry none, my tart, don't you worry yourself." A beat, "That'll give you wrinkles, that will. Worry. S'what does that." She insists, her attentions meandering toward Vandred and his halfway stoic expression as he stands there like a toddler that's been abandoned in the mall.
Her brows crease, her lips pressing to a thin, tight line before she jerks her head in a gesture that quite clearly suggests he should hurry his way over to her position.

Dash momentarily gets distracted from his bone and barks excitedly up at Tabitha. The ridiculous wings don't seem to bother him any, thankfully, but he may wanna play!

Grinning at Olivia as she sits nearby on the blanket, Willow sips at her lemonade and rum, she clasps her hands together briefly at the announcement and asks in an aside, "I am going after an apple turnover. You want me to grab you one?"

Reese gets Embossed Eagle Journal from Eagle Chest.

Sorrel gets Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

"A Relay Race? /AFTER/ the drinking?" Pharamond calls out playfully, even 'seemingly' challenging to the Princess but anyone who knows him knows this would be al in jest. "That...sounds like a perfectly bad way to ward off a perfectly good buzz, Your Highness!" He raises a glass though from beside Tabitha, a wink and a smile from the House Sword as it will probably take all of a 'ya wanna' from someone to get him to participate. He goes to tell Tabitha something only to find her hiding, over by the corgi and he laughs, "Go figure," he says with a sigh and walks towards her, waving to Olivia. He'll get there eventually.

Sorrel gets Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Reese arrives at the gathering while adorned in her rosy tunic and ivory leggings. She heads over to the chests and starts to collect things!

Lucita gets Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

Niklas steps out of the mansion, giving the grounds a sweeping once over, expression the unaffected neutral of the truly exhausted. Somewhat out of character for the colorful prince he wears all black, the only splash of color a violet pin of a sailboat his jacket's left breast, the sigil of House Kennex. With a deep breath he heads into the party, working to replace his resigned expression with a mostly genuine smile. As he passes people he recognizes he offers quick nods a slight raise of his hand. He stops for a moment in front of Ian, first giving Evonleigh a, "Lady Evonleigh. You look radiant this evening." Then a grim smile for Ian. "Ian. I'm glad to see you."

Ilmia takes potted Peahawk Iris from Hawk Chest.

Lucita gets golden shortcrust pie filled with Whitewood autumn berries from Hawk Chest.

"Thank you for coming, Duchess Lisebet," Sabella greets the new Ashford warmly, then turns to Ilmia, "Journals were such a creative and unique idea! I'm so glad you came. And Lord Pharamond! Congratulations on deciding to court my brilliant protege Tabitha! And thank you for the compliment. This really was the work of a whole group of us coordinating everything--I can't wait for us all to be together for the finale on Saturday."

Donella is overheard praising Niklas: Smooth operator.

Michael meanders off towards Deepwood's table very specifically, easing through people's clumps. Stopping momentarily to whisper at Liara before moving along. Leaving a jaunty smirk until he arrives at Deepwood's table to regale Samantha with his fantastic. "Hello sister. What are you fattening me up with tonight?"

Carmen has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Evonleigh steps away from her little murmur fest with Ian, just in time to be greeted by Niklas, who she greets with another dipped curtsy. "Your highness, lovely to see you as always. I totally didn't just call you a despot of a director," she says with a bright smile.

Olivia acks a little and drinks her Gin faster as she sees Pharamond getting closer. She turns to Jacali, "I have a cream for wrinkles.... somewhere in here..." She motions to her bag. Then an excited wave to Lisebet, which she cuts off to try and finish her glass quickly.

Jacali has joined the a pink pansy blanket.

Vandred has joined the a pink pansy blanket.

Sorrel meanders in to the event with style, dressed all in brilliant red embroidered with little sorrel leaves, the green picked out in metallic thread on the brocade fabric. She passes by the chests of alcohol and examines the bottles with interest before moving along to find somewhere to be social.

Gianna has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Lucita gets a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Sorrel has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Flashing Reese a grin and waving when her path to the table brings her close, Willow offers, "You should come sit with me if you want. It's nice to see you again." She grabs an apple turnover for each hand before heading back to the blanket.

Ian is looking a little out of his element at whatever Evonleigh and Gianna are talking about. "Prince Niklas." He nods to his cousin, and asks of Evonleigh before she can mingle away: "Did you see Aethan pass through? I was going to meet him here, but I'm thinking he might have taken one look at the crowd and gone home."

Lucita gets Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Reese heads over to Michael. "Lord Michael...do yo think that I could please also have your drink from the lion chest?" She says and seems to be begging for things for her collection! She then smiles over warmly over to Willow. "Oh, I should it is the pink blanket too."

Kheun arrives, following Ajax.

Kheun leaves, following Ajax.

Tabitha checked charm + animal ken at difficulty 15, rolling 39 higher.

Thea ventures into the large group of people, politely nodding here and there.

Ilmia gives a smile when people come over to take one of the Leary Journals from the eagle chest. She had fun designing those books. There's a sip of her drink as she watches the crowd. There's a smile that quirks her lips up when she sees someone in particular.

Samantha lets out a laugh. "Hello, Brother Dear. I've got... Moonriver Apple Pie 'Shine, a bottle berry flavored cider, pumpkin pie, and apple turnovers. All made by the manor's cook, who is very proud of her work. Can I offer you a sample?"

Kaya enters a short time after Princess Reese. She silently curtseys in greeting to nobility. She silently stands alongside Reese listening to people talk

Lisebet smiles and leaves Sabella to her hostessing, instead moving along. When she spies Olivia's wave, she heads that way.

Tabitha lifts another snack in her hand, and somehow manages to get the be-winged corgi to stand on his stumpy little legs. She throws him the treat. There's a little giggle of happiness as she gets called brilliant by her patron, and then she grins at Pharamond as he approaches. Then she beams at Gianna and nods towards the Nightingale, exchanging some words.

Lisebet has joined the a pink pansy blanket.

Samantha takes Apple Turnovers from Old Oak Chest.

Reese has a warm smile for Kaya. "Hi Mistress Kaya." She says softly in her direction. "You get one of each item from the chests." She adds. Her own arms are filled with things. She starts to hand some to Rosaie, who sighs a long suffering sigh.

Liara arches her eyebrows a touch at whatever quiet words Michael has for her, and goes on to offer a quiet reply, some amusement showing through in her features. Then when she spots Niklas over there, Liara moves his way, going to give - what's this? - a /hug/ to her cousin-by-marriage if she can get away with it, though it's probably thankfully brief.

Samantha drops Apple Turnovers.

Lucita quietly comes into the gathering, leaving her dogs behind, just a guard and her assistant with her. She glances from table to table and into the chests while walking by them. A curtsy is given any of the royalty when close enough to them for that to be appropriate and smiles and little waves or nods are distributed to those she recognizes.

At the mention of Aethan, Evonleigh looks around, before shaking her head. "No. I did send him a note to join us if he was able, but I suppose he got kept at his work," she says. "I imagine he is exhausted after socializing the other night. Two social events in a week might be too much to ask from him, don't you think? You'll have to share with him your secrets of how you manage, like a good little brother," she tells Ian.

Silas pauses in his step, when he hears of the upcoming contests. He moves to closer towards the hostess, in anticipation of joining whatever may be going on.


**********************************************************************
In the Lyceum, the war along the Oathlands and Lycene border appears to be spreading. After an early victory at the Wineroad Pass, Marquessa Magdalena Daveiga has continued to repulse Fournier attempts to dislodge her forces, and blocked most Oathlands travelers trying to reach the Lyceum along the Great Road. Despite many of the Oathlands being willing to treat the conflict as a private war between vassals of House Malvici and House Lyonesse, the interference in trade is changing that, with some Oathlanders considering it an outrage that Lycene forces backed by sellswords haven't yet been driven from the Oathlands. And that might serve to explain some of the other incidents.

In the city-state of Rivincita, House Daveiga's domain, the wedding between one Lord Marcellus Daveiga and the former Lumen Whisper is attacked by assassins, with several of the wedding party being slain and the bride and groom only being saved as the attackers mysteriously spontaneously combusted, which unfortunately left no one to question. Many are blaming House Fournier, but hiring assassins to attack holy ceremonies isn't really like the Oathlanders, so some believe it was traditionalists in the Lyceum giving an unambiguous vote of disapproval towards an ennoblement of an illegitimate child of Bisland blood. Others in the Lyceum are certain it was the Oathlanders, just relying upon their reputation to escape consequences.
**********************************************************************


Rohm the Blackguard, Avalanche, a Snow Shepherd arrive, following Caelis.

Pharamond laughs, and bows even more deeply to Sabella this time, teasing in response. "I am merely blessed that your equisite artisan and protegee is blessed with an eye problem that prevents her from truly seeing what a horrible, tragic mistake she is making. But her questionable life choices are surely to my favor," he says, teasingly, and in a playflu way pointing out that he absolutely knows how fortunate he is to have Tabitha having agreed to be at his side. They usually go to House Ashford for these things, but this time he will let Tabitha dictate where to next!

Lucita has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

"A sample /certainly/. PLEASE, even." A big smile as he Michael takes in all that is his domain. At least in the way of apple based treats. Then he is ambushed by Reese and retiliates by dragging her into him and pressing a kiss into her temple. "Definitely. Definitely, Princess Reese." A hand lifts a turnover for the eating.

Samantha takes a creamy rich pumpkin pie with a flakey crust.

"I wouldn't blame him," says Niklas, his smile turning wan. "If this were any other night I would not have come out. I am doing a lot of note writing, and pondering a proclamation. I do wish Connie or Cecilia were here. Octavia is not the ideal..." He lets that one sit there for a second, then turns just in time to be hugged by Liara. A hug he gladly accepts. "Thank you, Liara. It has been- eh, well, I am trying not to depress people too too much."

Kaya peeks at the chests curiously and nods

Wandering in, Caelis takes a look about at the gathering and lofts a brow. Hooking her thumbs on her belt she wanders further in to check things out.

Kaya gets Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

Samantha drops a creamy rich pumpkin pie with a flakey crust.

Reese gets Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

The slender form of Fiora Malvici makes her way slowly into the grounds. Sharp eyes flicking around, arms hugging around her center. Head tilted down lightly the Malvici starts wandering, apparently searching for some place to tuck herself away already.

Fiora has joined the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

Kaya gets Three Rivers Apple Butter from River Chest.

Ian snorts and shakes his head to Evonleigh. "Won't help. I just have a much higher tolerance for bul -- uh. For, um, things." He nods to Niklas. "She wants to step up and do it, though. I always gave the Marquis plenty of leeway when he'd get like that." Speaking of high tolerance.

Kaia stands up from her spot by the firepit and sways her way over to where Michael and Samantha are at. "What are we eating, cousins?"

Kaya gets golden shortcrust pie filled with Whitewood autumn berries from Hawk Chest.

Reese smiles over to Michael and seems all happy with his words. "Thank you, Lord Michael." She then gets a bottle of rum from the Lion chest.

Lucita lifts one hand toward Fiora and nods toward the seat near her should she wish to join them.

Kaya gets Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

Bhandn approaches Sabella by way of offering courtesy in the form of one arm over his chest and a bow. "Your Highness, thank you for the festivities," his deep voice says. "And also, please express my gratitude to those responsible for these." He holds up one of the maps he procured earlier. "A very thoughtful gift to offer, particularly for those of us who travel a great deal."

Ilmia is people watching this evening as she has been left by her Marquessa to watch over the journals. It's an important job! She doesn't seem to bother her any and she gets to make small talk while explaining the journals.

Kaya gets Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

"All right, I think we have enough participants!" Sabella claps her hands, smiling like a maniac! "So if I have everyone: Mistress Gianna, Princess Donella, Baron Silas, Princess Liara, and my sister Reese will be arguing about how pie is better than cake! Whereas Lady Monique, Lady Willow, Lady Kaia, Prince Jasher, and Duchess Lisebet will be arguing that no! Cake is better than pie! Please take a moment or two to put your arguments together. The most compelling will win the gloves!"

Samantha is overheard praising Sabella: A true gourmet, bringing Arx's flavors together!

Kaya gets Embossed Eagle Journal from Eagle Chest.

Jasher pauses mid-chew of chowderbread. He slowly lowers it from his mouth. "What," he says, flat.

Gianna has joined the line.

Thea drifts toward her Fiora comfortably, her green eyes silently watching,"Good evening cousin." A slight smile tugs at her lips.

Evonleigh has joined the line.

Jasher has joined the line.

Monique has joined the line.

Carmen calls up to Gianna, hand cupped to her mouth, "Good luck, Whisper!"

Reese looks over to Monique, then Willow and then Kay with an impish smile. "Oh, wow...this is going to be easy because got pie which is most certainly better." She says teasingly. She then looks over to Silas and starts toward him.

"I dare say nobody would fault you for a moment for being 'depressing'," Liara opines quietly to Niklas. "I am sorry for your loss." And then, she holds up a corgi plushie, which had probably been involved somehow in that hug, and in a bit of a non sequitur, "Fancy a marvellous corgi plushie?"

Liara has joined the line.

Reese has joined the line.

Brenlin, Aide-de-Camp arrives, delivering a message to Caelis before departing.

Peri takes Three Rivers Perry from River Chest.

Silas has joined the line.

Donella has joined the line.

Lisebet has joined the line.

Willow has joined the line.

Reese gives Silas her best wide-eyed look and might be about to ask for something. "Baron Silas, do you think I could get one of the pies form your chest too. Pie is better and I didn't get one because the flower is so pretty, but now I will feel like I will miss pie."

Peri takes a cup of Ancient Forest Tea from Hawk Chest.

Kaia has joined the line.

"Here's hoping she's ready to step up and change the new Marquis' nappies," drawls Niklas, turning to watch as his wife runs the party and smiles like her life depends on it. "She's in her element. Best thing Ford ever did was get out of my way and let me marry her." Liara's offer gets a laugh. "Oh, I believe I saw Sabella secreting away two of them. One for each baby, theoretically. More likely one for herself and one for Valor, who is becoming a cantankerous dog in his old age."

Kaia takes a cup of Ancient Forest Tea from Hawk Chest.

Monique rises, gives Donella a curtsey. "Remember when I'm beating your pants off that I do love you dearly, Your Highness. Same to you, Reese, my sweet Warrior!" For some reason, she brandishes a stick with an eyeball lodged on it.

Looking at Fiora, Caelis stops to receive a messenger. Reading it the Princess Consort turns promptly on her heel to stride out at a brisker pace than she entered on.

Rohm the Blackguard, Avalanche, a Snow Shepherd leave, following Caelis.

Peri takes Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

Silas grins and cracks his knuckles. For a debate.

Donella checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 20, rolling 35 higher.

Donella checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 7 higher.

Peri takes Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

"Lady Peri!" Samantha calls out, "Come have a turnover. They're my chef's pride and joy." She picks up a tray, holding them out in offering. (l apple turnover)

Michael has stuffed his face with an apple turnover, and goes looking for his accompaniment for the evening. But finds her getting ready to ARGUE and DEBATE about things, so settles upon moseying up beside Ilmia and and winking down at her. "Hello Lady Ilmia, what brings you out today?"

Turn in line: Gianna

Donella says, "I always try to smile when someone is beating me in a most friendly fashion, my lady. Just ask my husband... Wait, was that my outdoor voice?

Peri takes Apple Turnovers.

"Darion is with Duchess Vanora right now," Ian remarks to Niklas in an offhand tone, turning his attention towards the debate.

Kaya seems a bit overwhelmed by the free items. "This is lovely," she says softly to Princess Reese

Gianna checked charm + propaganda at difficulty 20, rolling 51 higher.

Peri drops Apple Turnovers.

Gianna checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

Reese peeks over to Kaya, giving her a smile. "My sister organized it, Princess Sabella. I will try and introduce her. She is the very very lovely blond princess." She says and points to Sabella.

"Very good, then," Liara offers in easy reply to Niklas, with a flash of a grin. "It's a marvellous function, isn't it?" She steps lightly away then, over to lean lightly against one of the boulders by the campfire.

Turn in line: Evonleigh

Evonleigh checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 20, rolling 35 higher.

Liara has left the a stately wooden arbor with a gently curved arch adorned in climbing roses.

Liara has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Evonleigh checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Turn in line: Jasher

Merek has come to observe the evening, with his vest on, and his black dress attire. Since it is a bit cooler, he also has on his cloak which is adjusted about him for comfort.

Ilmia gives a look to Michael, she's only a few inches shorter so she straightens a bit, "I'm just here for giving out the Leary offerings." she tells him. "I had sent a message to someone to see if they would come with me tonight. But I never heard back from them." she looks to him and then sips her wine. "How are you?" she asks after she has finished drinking.

Gianna steps forward and tucks her hair behind her ear, setting a ruby earring to swaying. "Pie is the superior dessert, of course," she announces, her voice clear and carrying easily. She has... presence. Quite a presence. "According to official Whisper handbooks. Pie can be filled with a variety of fruits, making it a healthier choice while still providing something sweet to nibble on. It is considerably gooier than cake, requiring skill to eat delicately. That, of course, does not mean that it must be a dainty meal. People all over Arvum tuck into pie with great enthusiasm." She manages to keep her face composed, speaking as if this is very, very serious business.

Jasher checked intellect + diplomacy at difficulty 20, rolling 5 higher.

Jasher checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Turn in line: Monique

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

Monique checked charm + manipulation at difficulty 20, rolling 19 higher.

Monique checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 25 higher.

Peri has rolled a critical success!
Peri checked command + leadership at difficulty 15, rolling 115 higher.

Turn in line: Liara

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

Liara checked charm + propaganda at difficulty 20, rolling 41 higher.

Liara checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 22 higher.

Ian's comment gets a sharp look from Niklas. "I'm sorry?"

Kaya silently watches the event happening around her

Evonleigh's narrowing her eyes at Silas playfully, mouthing 'you're going down!' but then it's her turn suddenly. Of course she'd step in line after Gianna. Stupid mistake. She steps forward after the Nightingale, lifting her chin thoughtfully. "Pie is lovely. Charming, really. But cake... is divine. Cake is what you want when you want something decadent and rich, something that is a little bit *sinful,* really, that makes you lick your lips and have to stop before you go a little too far. And," she lifts a finger, because no, she's not done, "it's prettier. Beautiful to look at. A baker's window full of beautiful cakes, like so many ladies in their ballgowns in so many colors."

Turn in line: Reese

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

Reese has rolled a critical success!
Reese checked charm + propaganda at difficulty 20, rolling 76 higher.

Reese checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Peri's head is on her chin. She is calming two cooks who are in a heated discussion over whether the soup should have been salted with salt from the north beach of Pearlspire or the south from the south beach. The cook from the north beach maintains that the cook from the south beach has ruined the batch in one of the cauldrons. "The taste is wrong! Where is the rockweed essence!" "Now, now," Peri says. "Why not make it a friendly competition and tell people who pass by the benefits of your salt? Let them decide." Her two staff grumble, but nod. Each go behind their favorute cauldron and glare at each other.

When it's Monique's turn, all she offers is, "Layers. And frosting." And she bows a solemn bow and then steps back, retaining her stick with an eyeball on the end of it.

Turn in line: Silas

Silas checked charm + propaganda at difficulty 20, rolling 12 higher.

Silas checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Turn in line: Donella

Turn in line: Lisebet

Lisebet checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 20, rolling 50 higher.

Lisebet checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 23 higher.

Turn in line: Willow

Ian looks towards Niklas. He seems, as usual, unphased by the sharp look. "I am, too. I was surprised to come back to the Kay and find him gone. I think it's temporary, though. His room hasn't been cleared out." He's seems philosophical about how little input or information he has. High tolerance.

Willow checked intellect + diplomacy at difficulty 15, rolling 22 higher.

Willow checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 11 lower.

Turn in line: Kaia

Kaia checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 20, rolling 13 higher.

Kaia checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.

Reese steps up when it is her turn and gives a rather well spoke argument for pies. "Pies use fruits from our gardens and our orchards which are very good for the land, more than so than fields of sugar and wheat. There use more different sort of crops and change with the seasons. Also there is nothing quite like flaky lard crust and a berry or a fruit at the perfect time. Pies are a celebration of each season and moment, using whatever is nearby, ripe and the best in that moment. They can be savory or sweet or anything in between and then they encourage crop rotation. They can be cooked outside in outdoor brick ovens too with greater ease than cakes. Pies are easier to make and easy to transport." Reese says, but her cheeks are very pink and her breathing hitches. She seems a bit shy.

Domonico enters the area, ignoring the fun and finds his sister, whispers in her ear and leads her away.

Thea leaves, following Domonico.

"This is ridiculous," Jasher gripes as he's goaded by stares and words to speak up. He takes a deep breath, schools his face to some measure of patience, and clears his throat. His words come out with an utter lack of emotion. "While I see the merit in both pie and cake, from the few times I have seen the kitchens, I have noticed that the cooks often have a simpler time ensuring cake does not burn. A burned pie has been a disappointment some of you are well aware of. A danger not easily avoided. Meanwhile, a cake allows more room for error when you are not experienced and

Defend pie? No. Donella goes on the offensive. Because she can. And also because she doesn't want anything to do with the eyeball on the stick that Monique is brandishing, looking at her, and JUDGING. Ewwww. "First of all, HOW DARE YOU malign the humble pie? What has pie ever done to you, anyway, other than satisfy your desires roundly?" She asks, "Has it not defended you from having to make some awkward answer to odious people with a satisfying mouthful? Can its crust not be puffy, or tender, or flaky? Moreover, cake is a one trick pony. Cake is sweet, whether it come off a griddle or out of an oven. Can you lay a slice of cheese over cake? Gross. Pie, though, can be served any meal of the day and requires no special occasion. Pie may be sweet, or savory, healthful or indulgent. COME AT ME."

Pharamond has joined the a stately wooden arbor with a gently curved arch adorned in climbing roses.

Tabitha has joined the a stately wooden arbor with a gently curved arch adorned in climbing roses.

"This is ridiculous," Jasher gripes as he's goaded by stares and words to speak up. He takes a deep breath, schools his face to some measure of patience, and clears his throat. His words come out with an utter lack of emotion. "While I see the merit in both pie and cake, from the few times I have seen the kitchens, I have noticed that the cooks often have a simpler time ensuring cake does not burn. A burned pie has been a disappointment some of you are well aware of. A danger not easily avoided. Meanwhile, a cake allows more room for error when you are not experienced and need to provide something presentable at short notice."

When Liara's turn rolls around, she goes on ahead to speak up, clear and easy, and totally straight-faced, "Over the centuries since the foundation of the Compact, pie has earned a position of utmost supremacy over cake. In the early years, cake sought time and time again to destroy the tastiness created by pie, but pie perservered. In defiance of the odds, not one bit of delectable crust or delightfully gooey filling was lost to the onslaught of unmanageable crumbs or whole cakes splitting apart along a layer of insufficiently sticky jam. Pie can now stand tall, proud of its delightful nature whether hot or cold, while cake has been relegated to a mere shadow of a dessert, prone to becoming stale at inopportune moments, and tantamount to impossible to divide into evenly shaped slices. Pie is simply the best."

Olivia has left the a pink pansy blanket.

2 Ashford House Guard, 1 Ashford veteran guards, Bethany leave, following Olivia.

Tabitha claps her hands together lightly in good cheer, her eyes shining brightly! But then she's quietly moving somewhere else to watch the debate.

Pushing up to her feet, Willow says, "If you were arguing overall, sure, pie, because of savory pies. But... If you are talking just desserts?" She shakes her head, "It's totally cake. Chocolate cake, for one. And secondly, you can put fruit in cake. See: pineapple upside down cake." She lifts a hand to scratch her nose, cheeks flushed, and just walks back to the blanket. Apparently that was it.

Merek gets Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.

Silas isn't going to win, but he looks like he may sincerely think he can. He stands up straight, tall and proud, and projects his voice to properly address the crowd. "Cake is layered sugar mush that easily turns to mush and makes a poor vehicle for moist fruit. Frosting is it's only redeeming quality, and only because it makes smashing it into someone's face particularly rewarding." He breathes in - too hard, perhaps. "Pie lasts more than a couple hours, and make much better improvisional weapons against disobedient guardsmen. I know - I tested it!" He claims. He concludes his argument, sits and looks too smug.

Merek gets Three Rivers Perry from River Chest.

Desiree has left the a pair of redwood benches with slatted backs.

2 House Wyrmguard Guards leaves, following Desiree.

Merek gets golden shortcrust pie filled with Whitewood autumn berries from Hawk Chest.

Merek gets Ashford Orangery Brand Dry Gin -- 'Ever Rising' from Seeker Chest.

Merek gets Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Lisebet, when it is her turn, steps up, and smiles. "Cakes. They come in a far larger number of choices than pies. Cakes can have fruit cooked in them, or placed fresh on top of them. They can be a multitude of flavours - ginger, chocolate, coffee, fruit flavoured or many other." She just grins at Donella, and adds, "Also, nobody ever takes the pie. Things only ever take the cake, thus cake is by definition better." She smiles sweetly, impishness covering her face for a moment, and then goes back to settle on the pink blanket.

Niklas stares at Ian, then says rather icily, though none of the frost is aimed toward his cousin, "It seems I have another letter to write." He turns and watches the debate with some interest, expression turning dubious at some of the arguments given. "The Nightingale and Reese give wonderfully impassioned defenses, but I think Lady Monique's simple argument sways me the most." He considers, then adds, "Cake is the best dessert, but once you take into account that pies can contain meat there really is no comparison." When Willow mentions savory pies he gives a nod, like, see? She gets it. Then with another look to Ian he turns and heads over to size up all that good good Crownlander food. "Ooh. Rabbit haunch."

Merek stocks up on some pie and alcohol while he makes his way to a seat to settle in and watch whatever contest there seems to be. He looks around for familiar people, then he waves to Reese a bit also.

Donella jabs a finger at Lisebet, at though in warning, though she does appear to be laughing.

Reese smiles over to Niklas at his words. She then turns to Merek. "Hi, Master Merek." The girl goes to sit on the pink blanket next.

Reese has joined the a pink pansy blanket.

Niklas is overheard praising Sabella: An excellent contest, and so much less controversial than my suggestion of 'which house is the SECOND greatest?'

Reese is overheard praising Sabella: Great Party!

Pharamond settles down next to Tabitha but cheers out loud for the Duchess, applauding Lisebet's argument. "Her argument takes the cake!" There it is, that loud cheerful clap and he puts his fingers into his lips, blowing out a whistle.

Gianna listens to the other debaters, her expression calculating. Sometimes she narrows her eyes, for particularly good defenses - for competition. She stands without fidgeting, the very picture of composure.

Monique sweeps a bow in Niklas' direction. She has lost the stick with the eyeball on the end of it, at least.

When the subject of the debate turns out to be pie versus cake, Sir Bhandn makes a noise in his throat that sounds like he just half-strangled himself. And then he's suddenly digging into the pouch he wears almost everywhere, pockets something in it into his head, reties the pouch shut, then ever so calmly puts on that little trinket he earned some few weeks ago.

And then he puts both hands up to his mouth and catcalls: "Let's hope the pie arguments win, otherwise I might be called upon to throw /more/ at people!"

Reese blows Monique a kiss, but then adds. "Pie is still better."

Liara is overheard praising Grayson: None Greater At Facilitating Unusual Public Debates!

Monique is overheard praising Sabella.

Monique is overheard praising Niklas.

It seems to take Ian a moment to put together the meaning behind what Niklas is saying. He looks pretty tired, so that probably has something to do with it. He looks like he's about to say something, but then seems to decide the better of it, and just nods and, shifting a little more weight over to his cane, returns his attention to the debate. He slips his flask out of an inner pocket of his coat and takes a drink.

Pharamond is overheard praising Sabella.

Silas is overheard praising Sabella: great pie event!

Tabitha is overheard praising Sabella: Best patron!

Evonleigh is overheard praising Sabella: a hostess that takes the cake (no matter what #TeamPie says)

When it's Kaia's turn, she simply says "Well cake is better because it's light, fluffy, and delicious with frosting! It can be multi-layered, multi-colored, infused with rum, can be also thick if desired, even pudding-like, it's quite versatile and can fit everyone's tastes! It could even be made out from ice!" she says, and continues on rambling about more reasons for why cake is better than pie.

Donella says, "It's on."

Jasher has left the Pearlspire cliff diving goat buried in a firepit surrouded by cauldrons of chowder.

Jasher has joined the a serene stone bowl fountain with accented grooves.

Kaya has joined the a pink pansy blanket.

Sabella and the other judges (beautiful people, truly, who everyone will totally remember later not as faceless nameless shadows in the crowd) listen intently to the appeals. Cake! Pie! From the beginning there's murmurings when Gianna Whisper speaks, because don't Whispers know all about these things? The nods would seem to indicate so. But then cake has some staunch defenders, but Princess Reese comes the closest to swaying the judges back to pies, if only she hadn't gotten so shy there at the end! The judges put their heads together and then Princess Sabella steps up, beaming as she presents the gloves to the winner, "Mistress Gianna, you started the debate on a high note and while there were several who presented very compelling arguments, yours was the one that stayed with us throughout the debate! Congratulations! And thank you to all our competitors!" She applauds everyone that had stepped up to present an argument, "Please go enjoy the food and drink for another little bit before we start our relay! You should start looking around for teammates! You'll need teams of three to compete! Carry on!"

Waldemai cheers the winner

Michael does not cheer the winner. Michael scowls. Michael scowls big time.

Donella is overheard praising Gianna: Most eloquent.

His part done, Jasher stalks over towards the fountain contentedly dribbling water, bread bowl in hand. He proceeds to resume eating quietly.

"I stole this blanket from Lady Monique a long time ago and brought it here." Reese says and then smiles to Monique at that. She then looks over to Sabella as the winner is announced, having a smile for her sister. "Woots, Whisper Gianna." She says. The girl curls-up on the blanket and folds her slender legs to one side.

Reese is overheard praising Gianna: :woots, great debate.

Lisebet aw wells, and smiles. "Congratulations, Mistress Gianna," she calls, a totally good loser, it seems. At least in this case.

Niklas is overheard praising Gianna: None Greater at being my protege. Except Simone, who is also pretty great.

Cuddles, a jumpy and cuddly puppy arrives, following Kanean.

Wrinkling her nose at some kind of smell wafting up from the campfire, Carmen sticks two fingers in her mouth and whistles shrilly for Gianna's tasty victory.

Gianna immediately brightens. She inclines her head graciously to Reese - "That was a very stirring argument" - and calmly takes her prize from Sabella, turning the gloves around in her hands with bright eyes. Biting her lower lip, she eases one glove over her left hand with a happy sigh, holding it up to admire it.

2 Ashford House Guard, 1 Ashford veteran guards, Bethany arrive, following Olivia.

2 Ashford House Guard, 1 Ashford veteran guards, Bethany leave, following Olivia.

2 Ashford House Guard, 1 Ashford veteran guards, Bethany arrive, following Olivia.

Tabitha is overheard praising Gianna: Most convincing debate skills!

Evonleigh tosses her hair with a scoff, but it's a bright smile she shoots at Gianna. "Well done, Nightingale. If I ever out perform you, I will die happy. Probably from shock, actually."

As the competition comes to its end, Ian stops listening politely with the blank look of someone who's letting all of it go straight in one ear and out the other. He puts his flask away and starts threading his way towards a place to sit down.

2 Ashford House Guard, 1 Ashford veteran guards, Bethany leave, following Olivia.

Lucita seems to enjoy the festivities but after some time, rises and with another curtsy and smile toward the others, slips out.

"None tastier than pie!" Liara calls over towards Gianna from where she stands by one of the campfires, then laughs brightly, attention then returning to those nearer to hand.

Lucita has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Golden, an Oakhaven bloodhound, Gunther, a Rottweiler, Micana, 1 Saik Guard leave, following Lucita.

Jacali stands from her place at the pansy blanket, casually neatening her attire as she allows a vacant smile to settle on lips paler than they've any right to be. "Right, we're off." She announces to nobody in particular, adjusting her fat pockets carefully before she begins on her stroll away from the festivities. "Aren't makin' me run, they're not, not when I aren't even taken nothin' what weren't bein' freely given."

Reese hmms softly. "I would love to run, but I need people to run with me." She muses, looking over those gathered here.

Silas looks mildly disappointed at his apparent loss. "Clearly team cake bribed the judges," Silas alleges in jest. He stands from where he sat and whistles loudly, in Pharamond's and Tabitha's directions. "Hey! Want to join my team and win?"

Gianna smiles warmly at Liara, Lisebet, Waldemai, Reese, Carmen, Evonleigh, Liara... anyone who's cheered her. She returns to her place by the fire, close to preening.

Jacali has left the a pink pansy blanket.

Silas is overheard praising Gianna.

"I'll volunteer to slow a group down," Lisebet calls out, amusedly, before glancing back to those nearby.

Peri doesn't look completely satisfied with the debate. "What do you think, Eina?" Eina shrugs. Peri notices that Lord Ian is no longer attending a debate. the debate is done. "Lord Kennex," she calls to him. "Come try some food from Pearlspire."

Vandred has left the a pink pansy blanket.

Chub Chub, A fat black rat with an eyepatch, Witness, The Ashen Jackal, Scandal, The White Jackal, Vandal, The Black Jackal, Vandred leave, following Jacali.

"Teams of three? Oof....I'm too full. I think that ninth apple-turnover did something very very bad to me." Michael is seen holding his stomach as if it might soothe the grumbly tumbly.

Reese rises to her slippered feet and pads off to Monique and Donella.

"It sounds like you think you couldn't outrun my sister, Lord Michael," Sabella teases, having herself a glass of sweet berry flavored cider from Deepwood's table.

His attention once again attracted by the sound of his name, Ian chooses a place at the Pearlspire table.

Ian has joined the Pearlspire cliff diving goat buried in a firepit surrouded by cauldrons of chowder.

For a moment or two, Tabitha peers towards Silas, then uncertainly nods. Nonethless, she's still smiling, and she raises her voice (quietly, still) to her cousin to ask, "Can we bring Dash? He'd love a run, I bet!" Then she turns to Pharamond with an eyebrow raise in question.

Reese hmmms. "Lord Michael cannot outrun me." She says, giving him a dimpled smile.


**********************************************************************
While the Wineroad Pass of the Great Road is being blocked leading into the Lyceum, many different Lycene domains see violent raids by unknown forces. A caravan moving some of the new luxury brocade from Fortezza di Iriscal is attacked by an overwhelming large force of heavy cavalry, far better armed and armored than one would expect from Abandoned thieves, resulting in losses among Tessere merchants. A village on Volkov lands is put to the torch by riders, and there's been similar signs of violet raiders even as far south as some of the lands near Tor, Brassfall March and Iasu, seeking to prey on travelers or less defended small towns or hamlets. Some patrols have gone missing, and many Lycene in both Malvici and Fidante vassals are calling for a full scale invasion of the Oathlands to crush whoever might be responsible for this.
**********************************************************************


Willow whistles already, cheering Reese on while she sits sipping.

"I don't... run," says Evonleigh. "Rather I do, but only if something is chasing me." She moves over toward Michael and glances down at the dress she's wearing. "I don't think I can run in this, either way." She looks to Reese, grinning in her direction. "Oh, no, the glove has been thrown down."

Kaia takes a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

"If the hostess allows it," Silas answers Tabitha, looking at the stubby-legged canine. "Might be an unfair distraction to our opponents, though."

"I think bringing Dash would be cheating. He is named Dash after all." Reese murmurs. She then blows a kiss in Willow's direction. She nods in response to Evonleigh's words. "It has."

Niklas looks around the food options. "You'd think there'd be more cake and pie options." Instead he grabs some strawberries in cream and wanders back over to watch the race.

Monique reaches out to snare two Princesses, lucky Lady that she is! To Reese and Donella, the Minx of the Marches says magnanimously, "I am willing to put our pie-cake grievances aside, though of course, cake is clearly still superior."

Pharamond hops to his feet before settling nodding to Tabitha. "Come on," he says, giving a playful salute to Silas. "We're in," he says, laughing, fairly sure that this is going to be horrible. "I just want to point out that running is very different than sword fighting. Cause...yeah..." he teases.

Michael finishes murmuring at Ilmia and gives her a kiss upon the forehead. Lightly. It seems to be his thing. "You damnable ingrates. I'm not wearing the right shoes. I drank too much. I ate too much. I don't like afternoon running.....Reese can beat me, I'm sure of it. Shes closer to the ground, that means shes faster." Michael reaches a hand out towards Evonleigh to invite her over. Please soothe the poor tubby-man. "Don't run in it, even if you'll look even more like an ocean wave."

Lisebet stays unchosen, alas, but that means she gets a drink.

Raising her voice, Tabitha replies, "Yes, I think that unfair distraction. I'm the slowest of runners."

Donella is already girding up her skirts, tying them through the middle of her legs, up and around her waist as though this is a thing she's practiced a hundred times. She's not at all athletic, but good gods is she game. And if you put her in the middle of a team, she doesn't weigh too much now that she has disgorged her twin terrors, and thus might be dragged in a pinch!

Evonleigh has joined the Pearlspire cliff diving goat buried in a firepit surrouded by cauldrons of chowder.

Jasher resolutely remains near the fountain, nibbling on his fare in the relative quiet.

Silas brightens when Pharamond agrees to be recruited. "That's alright - I literally used to run in my armor all day! Perhaps put me on the longest trek..." He considers, thoughtfully.

Reese looks over to Michael and her cheeks are pink at his words. "Oh, Lord Michael..." she says in his direction. "I am faster and shorter. I will own both of those."

Kanean slips in the grounds, watching the event happening.

With a smiling little nod towards Pharamond, Tabitha lifts her skirts an inch above the floor, then outright trots towards Silas in the daintiest fashion possible. This will, as Pharamond believes, be truly awful.

Ilmia gives a smile to those around her but shakes her head when someone asks if she's participating, "While I have long legs I am not running in a dress." she chuckles to that. Then she goes back to the people watching she so loves.

Bhandn might be big, but Carmen Harol is tall. Striding away from the campfire, she finds the big guy and gives him a light punch to his arm. "Come on, big guy. You and me. I bet we can talk the Princess into making us look good." She seems to mutter, under her breath, "Gods know we need it."

Merek stands up, and makes his way on after a bit and also noting the messenger which comes to him with something. He sighs a bit, making his way about also.

Feeling the tap on his arm, Bhandn just stands there and tries not to loom when he's shorter than a number of the people here. He does, however, quirk his lips upward. "I'm curious how many of them will try and misbehave with tripping, myself," he replies to Carmen. "Or we could be naughty and I could carry one of you on my shoulders while you lob pies or some of the larger berries at them, but I get the feeling that won't be allowed either," he adds blandly.

Sorrel's team is tall. Like, Bhandn isn't that tall for a man, but he stands at her height, and Carmen is even taller than she is. This is going to be a leggy race. "At least I don't have to run in armor," says the princess easily, even if she's wearing brocade.

Yet again after some mingling Princess Sabella steps up, looking incredibly happy with the way things are going, "All right, it looks like we have four teams! If I could have them line up on the track--" and indeed that dance floor that's set around the bards doubles as a track! How amazing! "This is going to be a relay with a bit of a twist. Instead of passing a baton, you will be passing these." She gestures and some volunteers head over to the person that is set to run first where they are handed...a cake or a pie! "I know they're delicious, but try to refrain from eating while running." She pauses for a soft round of chuckles that go through the crowd.

Donella says, "Oh, that's just mean."

Kanean looks interested with how the game works.

Reese's blue eyes widen. "Oh, it is going to be hard to resist stopping to eat the pie."

Grinning at the other two members of her trio, Carmen says, aside to Sorrel. "Never raced in a dress before. Shoulda put him..." And then, there is a PIE in her hands. Carmen gulps, balancing it between her hands, and murumurs something under her breath.

Silas strolls to the makeshift 'track', but looks slightly aghast at the notion of having to run with cake or pie. "I hate handling cake, but I'm hungry..." The most awful dilemma.

Monique accepts a chocolate cake with cherries and stares at it with a decided gleam in her emerald eyes. She brandishes it carefully at Reese and Donella like 'I told you so'!

With a sweet smile to the volunteer, Tabitha nonetheless looks a little uncertain when the cake is placed in her hand. She looks down at when she tests its weight in her hand, then sends a helpless look over to Silas and Pharamond as though she's offering her apologies for the awful performance that she's about to put in. Then she turns her attention down to her feet, her free hand (if there is one) pulling her skirts up just high enough that she might have a decent chance of not falling on her face.

Lord Michael Bisland the Steadfast, Sword of Pridehall, Heir to the Duchy, Voice of Bisland...waddles towards the place for the third relay runner. His face...is pallid, pale. Sweat curls over his brow and he mops it from his cheeks. He has removed his doublet and Evonleigh holds onto it. "Why...why did I eat an even twenty apple turnovers."

Reese looks to Monique and her lips curve into a pout. "We should have chosen pie."

Donella says aside to Reese, "So long as you keep running, Ribbons, I will not blame you if you get crumb-faced."

Niklas gets handed a wild berry Shav pie, glances around at the other runners, then goes ahead and has a bit. It's strategy! It will make the pie lighter!

Pharamond grins and gets in line as well, looking a little entertained as he finds their lane on the 'track' as it were and laughs, "Cake or pie, one of the two," he says with a laugh as he leans in and squeezes Tabitha's hand. "Have fun," he says with a chuckle. "That's the main point."

Painbow, a militant pygmy goat arrives, delivering a message to Fiora before departing.

"A minute ago he had only eaten nine, so his math is suspect," calls out Evonleigh.

5 Redoubt Buccaneers, Bengalo, the sneaky black cat, Luna, the sweet, studious assistant, Luca II, the laziest of the feline lot arrive, following Carita.

Tabitha checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 12 higher.

Niklas checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Monique checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 22 higher.

Willow calls out toward Michael with a grin, "Because they are /delicious/!" So says the Lady who had one for each hand earlier even while trying to convince everyone cake was better.

Niklas checked willpower at difficulty 25, rolling 9 lower.

Tabitha checked willpower at difficulty 25, rolling 18 lower.

Monique checked willpower at difficulty 25, rolling 10 lower.

Carmen checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

Carmen checked willpower at difficulty 25, rolling 21 lower.

Kaya blends in and goes unnoticed as she watches the event happen around her silently

Monique is a decent runner, go figure. Even in a gown and carrying a cake, the Minx of the Marches manages a good sprint. But those cherries. They look /so/ good. Surely just one cherry? No one will even notice one or two or three cherries. And some frosting. She has very quick fingers after all.

Monique checked dexterity + legerdemain at difficulty 15, rolling 67 higher.

Donella sighs, and anticipates her go around the track. "Alas," she says to Reese as she checks her skirt knots. "She loves her cake not too wisely but too well... Probably it will be okay. Probably. Go Mo! Go!"

Niklas is still eating his pie when everyone takes off, so he's got a slow start and then is just slow in general while the race happens. Fortunately for him the fact that he'd already eaten some of the pie means that while he DOES continue to eat more pie while engaging in the race, he doesn't gobble down quite as much his opponents. When he gets to Lisebet he hands her a partially eaten pie. "I found it like that," says Niklas, entirely unabashed despite the berry goo all around his mouth and on his hands. "Run!"

Reese nods in response to Donella. "Oh, yeah, look at that, she is the only one not eating the cake." Reese brags, being completely fooled by Monique's sneakiness.

For a minute, it looks like Carmen might just be treating this like a serious race. Tall, athletic, military training. It's a perfect competitie package. But then, there is pie. And this is a party. And, fuck that, she needs to get her priorities straight. So she slows to a jog, pleasantly taking messing scoops of the pie with her fingers and losing some of... most of... all of her advantage by the time she tosses the now dismantled pie to Bhandn. "All yours, handsome!"

Rysen walks in from the street, and watches the contestants line up and start to sprint. "Eh, are they carrying cake?," he mutters to himself, wrinkling his nose, and makes his way over to the side of Gianna.

"Miss, would you like to join us?" Evonleigh calls over to the petite Kaya, noticing her alone. "The more the merrier. We can tell you all their secrets when they're too far away to hear."

With a nose-wrinkly giggle to Pharamond and Silas, Tabitha lines up for the run. But she's eying up the cake in all its chocolately gooey deliciousness even before she breaks into a surprisingly speedy canter upon slippered feet to bring herself to hand it over. Thank the Gods, she doesn't trip on her skirts, or she'd be cringing for the next year. She fails to rein in her greed, though, and before she releases that sweet, sweet cake she pulls a bit of it once before it gets whisked away. In her mouth it goes! Yum yum yum!

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

Donella says, "I heard you can get a cramp, if you eat and run. I don't know about eating while running... oooh! Here she comes!"

Gianna raises her glass of gin toawrd Rysen in a sort of greeting. "They are. Or pies," she tells the young Lord from her place by the fire.

Right out the gate Lady Monique is in the lead! Look at her go! And no one can even tell if that's cherry juice or her hair, she's just a blur of red! Carmen is doing a decent clip behind her! Despite straiten late, Niklas is able to make up some distance maybe that sugar gave him some extra energy, and then Tabitha is slowed to the last by the temptation of deliciousness before her, being the last one to reach the second string.

Lisebet checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 38 higher.

Rysen has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Donella checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

Donella checked willpower at difficulty 25, rolling 10 lower.

Lisebet checked willpower at difficulty 25, rolling 3 lower.

Pharamond checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 22 higher.

Pharamond checked willpower at difficulty 25, rolling 15 lower.

Bhandn checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

"Go Tabby! Get some cake for me, while you're at it," Evonleigh calls, taking a sip of her apple wine.

Reese peeks over to Rysen and waves in the Lord's direction, even as she waits for her turn to run. The Princess is benefitted that she has ivory legging on instead of a dress. Reese looks all amused as Tabitha starts to eat the cake. "It does look very yummy. You can get cramps with that. I am not worried about this though. I can resist any cake, no matter how sweet.

Bhandn checked willpower at difficulty 25, rolling 8 higher.

Willow cheers enthusiastically for basically everyone at this point, her laughter warm as her grin as she starts on sipping at some brandy once her lemonade is gone. She lifts a hand to wave at Rysen.

Niklas licks his fingers clean. The perfect crime! "Goooo Lady Lisebet!"

Samantha takes a creamy rich pumpkin pie with a flakey crust.

Samantha takes a bottle of lusciously sweet, berry flavored cider.

Samantha takes Moonriver Apple Pie 'Shine.

Samantha takes Apple Turnovers.

Monique keeps running after Donella and the cake, "cheering" her on. And maybe swiping another cherry or two. "You can do it, Your Highness! Oh! Look, there's Reese ahead! Look!"

Carita's wrapped in her normal Thraxian black attire, though the added sparkle of jewels as she walks might remind one of the night sky. She pauses at the entrance, her blue-eyed gaze flitting from face to face, amusement evident as she watched the pie eating as she walks toward Gianna. "Nightingale, I hope the evening finds you well?" There's a pause, "You look absolutely breath taking tonight."

5 House Deepwood Guards leaves, following Samantha.

5 House Deepwood Guards arrives, following Samantha.

5 House Deepwood Guards leaves, following Samantha.

"Were you that hungry?" is all Bhandn replies back to Carmen from over his shoulder when she passes the pastry on over. He actually spends a moment of time to look at it before he's taking off with it in both hands. Just like that, his expression is now concetration, and all the while that little pie-shaped medal is bouncing on his left arm from where he's hooked it to the band wrapped around that arm.

Interestingly, though it may not be immediately obvious, Lisebet is actually not wearing a dress. She doesn't have skirts to hike, but she does remove her slippers, so they don't get in her way. As Niklas makes it to her, with what's left of the wild berry pie. She takes the half eaten pie, and starts to run. It does smell good though, oh so good. She does dip one finger in, and tastes it, as she goes, and then a second. That done, she continues to try to make up ground. But the pie smells so wonderfully good, she can't help it but - try another little bit. When she gets to Michael and passes it over to him, she says, "It was Niklas, honest."

Rysen cups his hands and cheers loudly for Reese as she prepares to run. He notices Willow, and smiles ear to ear, waving to her in return.

Pharamond looks over to Tabitha as she gets to the line and there's that cake. He knows she likes cake. He takes a bit of the chocolatey goodness and he slides some of the chocolate icing back towards his betrothed. "Here," he says, knowing she'll like some and so he scoops a bit, on a finger, and teases her by offering some to her. "Alright you," he says, "Give me the cake." At least, a little bit of it anyway. But he spends the playful time at th eline sharing chocolate, before finally getting to where he actually takes the cake and starts running. Of course, since there was some chocolate on the fingers there, he may as well clean that off also. It's for the best, right? And so he starts to run then finally, catching up to Silas. "Here...."

Niklas shouts across the grounds, "DON'T LISTEN TO HER!"

Gianna talks quietly with Liara and Rysen by the fire, but when Carita approaches, she offers one of her faint smiles. Less faint than usual, even. "As do you, as ever, Countess. Will you join us? Come, look at my new gloves."


**********************************************************************
Meanwhile near the Crownlands and Lycene border, House Gallo and House Groverfield are both demanding each other apologize and make amends to one another, while word spreads in Gemecitta that Warchief Wilbur the Excessive of Clan Stormstorm has described the conflict as 'hysterical'. Shortly thereafter some very crudely drawn and excessively vulgar bits of propaganda are found in Gallo and Groverfield lands, each aimed at stoking fury towards the other house. To his credit, Duke Malcolm Shepherd is already having House Shepherd help Groverfield with their lost crops so they won't face starvation, which might have averted immediate war but tensions remain high.
**********************************************************************


After a bit of dainty chewing, Tabitha wipes the stray crumbs from the corner of her mouth and then shields her lips with one hand. To Reese she says, "Very much worth it, though." Then she watches Pharamond when he legs it. A bit concerned. Come back, delicious cake.

Carita is overheard praising Grayson: Delightful event!

Evonleigh is overheard praising Grayson: worth its cumulative weight in cake.

Donella takes off at a messy trot, cake at first held high, high over her dark-capped head. "AaaaaaaAAAAAaaaaaaahhhhhhh!" she yells, galumpfing off toward Reese's position on the track. "AaaaaaaaaaaaAAAAohshitaaaaaaa!" She has to lower the cake, becaus her running space is a little slippery. And truth to tell, she hates chocolate, but the edge of the frosting is bumped against her upper lip, leaving a brown villain-stache. She tries to wipe it, but ends up elongating the handle bars. "Eeeugh," she is ulating as the thrusts the cake at Reese.

Carita is overheard praising Sabella: Delightful event and an even more delightful hostess!

Reese reaches out for the very delicious looking cherry chocolate cake and sucks in a soft breath as if trying to brace herself. "I will not surrender to you chocolate yumminess."

Tabitha is overheard praising Grayson: None More Cakesome than Grayson

Carita has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

In a surprise flash of speed it turns out the new Duchess of Ashford can really move! She makes up the distance lost in the first round and overtakes all her competitors to hand off her treat with time to spare! But is that a crumb on the corner of her mouth? Bhandn is not even slightly distracted by what he's carrying, but he just can't keep up with the Duchess's energy. Maybe there's something to be said for sugar overload! Pharamond isn't far behind him, licking his fingers as he hands his cake over, and then there's Donella, who is a little too distracted by possible stains to keep pace.

Peri is overheard praising Sabella: None better than our hostess today.

Silas has rolled a critical success!
Silas checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 99 higher.

Sorrel checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 39 higher.

"Yes!" Carmen calls after Bhandn, as she nearly wipes her hand on her leg before remembering she's still in a dress. She grabs a rag, wipes herself down and flashes an apologetic grin to Sorrel. "If you want, I can get you a fresh one. No one's going to say otherwise."

Silas checked willpower at difficulty 25, rolling 18 lower.

Reese checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 29 higher.

Sorrel checked willpower at difficulty 25, rolling 9 lower.

Michael checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 24 higher.

Reese checked willpower at difficulty 25, rolling 1 lower.

Michael checked willpower at difficulty 25, rolling 12 lower.

Michael checked composure + survival at difficulty 30, rolling 8 higher.

Waldemai slips off, having his fill of feasting.

Donella takes to trying to find a napkin for her face. "Did I get it? Is it off? GOOOOO REESE!" She did not get it.

Waldemai has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Kaia is overheard praising Sabella: An amazing and fun hostess!

Reese runs off with her cake and then she gets very distracted by the chocolate and the cherries. She dips a finger into the frosting and starts to enjoy such while she is running. Reese gets frosting on her lips and everything and there is no hiding this.

Kanean takes Three Rivers Apple Butter from River Chest.

Ilmia is overheard praising Iliana: For making our goods!

Michael takes one glance at the cake, all molten and gooey and runneth over and his shoulders hunch. "Uch." A /LOUD/ grumbly of a tumbly erupts and Michael turns now, turns to start to trod off to /win/ the race. Or finish the race. Thud, thud thud, goes the heavy footfalls of Michael. Just...just a bit more sweets won't do anything right? Won't hurt? Mikey's thumb dips into the cake and stuffs sweet berry into his mouth.

That was a bad idea. Michael immediately halts and his eyes go wide. Pale to a tad greenish goes his face. But he pushes through and just takes off running with even more vigor than the first! To /ALMOST/ catch Sorrel, but bringing his team into third place.

Sorrel might take a nibble of her pie thing or whatever it is that she might have been handed to run with, and she heads down the lane at a good and speedy clip. But the actual winner is nowhere to be seen, having smoked the competition and left them in his dust. Sorrel looks pleased enough to come in second, at the very least, and she holds up the remains victoriously at the finish line.

Silas impatiently waits for the now-mishappen cake to arrive in his hand, as the lovebirds share it amongst themselves in mid-race. He is competitive, and it serves him well! The -second- the chocolately mess finds itself in his palm he blasts off. He -does- get distracted - it's like his legs just don't seem to care and keep going... to the point where he careens right through the finish line and nearly knocks over a table. When it's finally done and he's a panting mess, he promptly stuffs his face with the remainder of the cake. Nailed it.

Donella is overheard praising Silas: That's commitment. Wow.

"You can do it, Reese! Go!" Monique calls, her stamina failing her. She stops running, finally, allowing the cake to outpace her. "Save me some cake!"

Ilmia is looking on with a bit of worry on her face, "He's going to be sick." she mutters before draining the rest of her wine. Oh this was a hilarious turn of events.

Reese is overheard praising Silas: So so so fast even while distracted by ekac!

Kaia says, "Go, Mikey! Whooooo!~""

"I guess he really took the cake?" Groan.

Willow whoops loudly and chants, "Reese! Reese! Reese! Reese!"

Rysen shouts "Go REEEESE!!"

Reese looks over to Monique with an impish expression as she speaks saving her cake and then she runs away from Monique with the cake! She does have a smile for Willow and Rysen as they cheer. Reese is running off the course though.

Niklas watches as Michael tucks into the thoroughly wrecked pie. "Gods, I'm glad I went first. That's pretty upsetting."

This night may go down in history and not just because it seems news is pouring in randomly from all over Arvum, but because on this night people swear they saw Silas Whitehawk actually fly! Did you see his feet touch the ground? People are pretty sure they did NOT and that the man was just a blur for the last few yards of the race! There are murmurs that his house is aptly named and absolute cheers from the crowd when he slams that cake home in more ways than one! Following after is Princess Sorrel's team, a split second later Lord Michael, and then Reese who doesn't seem to mind following the pack since she's got a delicious cake in her hands. And on her face. Mostly on her face. "Congratulations Baron Silas, Lord Pharamond and Lady Tabitha!" Sabella calls out, laughing so hard she takes a moment to actually approach them with their prizes.

Tabitha cheers politely (very mannerly) all through Pharamond's run, hugging him exultantly whenever he comes back. And she cheers for Silas too as her cousin totally legs it through the race, with no surprise on her face at all. He's going to be good at chasing criminals, after all! She looks absolutely delighted for him until he gets to the finish line. Her face falls as he devours the cake, though. Goodbye, sweet cake.

Sticky hands outstreched overhead, Carmen claps for Sorrel's speedy return. Aside to Bhandn, she says, "Told you she'd make us look good." Then she eyes Michael and, frowning, wanders his way. "Sorry, see a man in need of a bucket."

Jasher continues watching for a moment before quietly polishing off his bread bowl of chowder and rising to his feet. Without another word, he makes to leave, weaving through the festivities and people like a snake through brush, sealskin-clad boots rustling in his wake.

Oh, wait, they won! Tabitha squeals in delight and claps her hands lightly together. Prizes!

Gianna watches Silas take off and crash into the finish, blinking. It's even distracted her from new finery. That's how impressive it is!

"Whitehawks!" calls out Evonleigh, clapping, then laughs at Tabitha's sad face. "Oh, no. Cheer her up, Lord Pharamond. I cannot bear to see my cousin cry!" She looks over to Michael and shakes her head. "Tilt your head back and breathe through your nose, let the fresh air fan your face, Lord Michael," she advises, glancing with amusement at her tablemates.

Reese seems conflicted. She edges closer to the prizes, but still seems to be trying to keep the cake away from Monique. It is easy to tell she is a girl who wants to see the gifts, but also wants to have her cake and eat it too.

Monique glares daggers at Reese as the Princess takes off with the rest of the cake. "I swear vengeance, Reese! When you least suspect it!" she calls out to the Pink Princess, scowling. "Hmph."

Donella is fine with Reese absconding with the cake. More pie for her. She unties her skirts and tries to look dignified as she and her damp napkin head back to the campfire, the ends of her new mustachio smeared into curls. "She chases piglets to train. I seen it."

Jasher has left the a serene stone bowl fountain with accented grooves.

3 Thrax Guards leaves, following Jasher.

Lisebet did okay, she's a bit out of breath, and that pie was delicious. She grins impishly at Niklas, cheers Michael on, and then stays well back when Lord Michael looks about to throw up. "WEll done, everyone!" she calls out merrily.

Reese peeks over to the Whitehawks. "Woots Baron Silas is Dashy like his canine." She says. She then peeks to Monique and has a sheepish smile even as she now carries the partly gone cake over to the pink blanket.

Tabitha is overheard praising Silas: Always Soaring!

Tabitha is overheard praising Pharamond: Ever Rising!

Silas stands once he fully catches his breath, and bows to his audience... even if the regality of it all is marred by a smear of chocolate on his cheek. "Thank you, everyone, for the competition, a wonderful race, and the delicious cake. Perhaps I am too hard on cake." He inelegantly wipes the smear away with the back of his sleeve, and turns to Sabella to collect his prize. "Thank you, Your Highness."

Rebellion, a Graypeak Vanner Stallion arrives, following Elsa.

Rebellion, a Graypeak Vanner Stallion leaves, following Elsa.

Sabella is overheard praising Gianna: Undeniably radiant while debating!

Willow pipes up as Reese approaches. "Let me try a bite? I figure those have to be the tastiest cakes and pies in existence the way everyone tore into them." She grins.

Pharamond laughs and he hugs Tabitha, exhultantly, a bit of a chuckle as he says, "There is pie back at the house, so that you can drown your sorrows with more sweets," he says with a laugh before making sure the Baron is alright as well after that finish. Though looking towrads Michael he wrinkles his nose, not in disgust but just in concern for the man. The Princess is attended to though, smiling fondly. "That was fun. Thank you Princess Sabella."

Sorrel has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

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.

Sabella is overheard praising Silas: I didn't even see him cross the finish line!

Pharamond is overheard praising Silas: Fly like the wind!

Sabella is overheard praising Pharamond: Amazing restraint!

Pharamond is overheard praising Tabitha: So fast!

Sabella is overheard praising Tabitha: The best protege but maybe not the best runner but still the best!

Reese has a smile for Willow and he shares the cake with her.

Michael wipes his face of the very soothing berry pie. He left much of it alone, in place. Completely demolished though. Nobdy wants that. "Yay." A soft cry that is far and well drowned out. He trudges towards the grouping of Seliki and Evonleigh, then plops down beside her.

There's a whistle, mostly for the fact that Silas blazes faster than ... most people Bhandn has scene. He's just shaking his head after handing the pie off to Sorrel. "Ah well," he tells the air, but all the same, the knight is... rather amused by the number of people who seem to have had trouble with /not/ picking at the goods they were supposed to be transporting.

Silas is overheard praising Tabitha: She's nimble on her feet. Not her fault cake is delicious!

Reese then sends a message to Silas by bird, because she is too lazy to walk across the grounds or something.

Silas is overheard praising Pharamond: A skilled runner, and wise man.

"Thank you, Lord MIchael, Prince Niklas," Lisebet calls. "That was fun."

Deliverance, an albino falcon arrives, delivering a message to Silas before departing.

Willow offers over some of the pear brandy she was sipping to Reese in turn, eyes crinkling as she grins at the Princess. "That was great." She licks the smeary cake left on her fingers after her bite is taken. Apparently yes, it is that good.

Reese gets back up after getting a message from Silas. She has a warm smile for Tabitha and goes to take a pie from the Hawk chest.

Reese gets golden shortcrust pie filled with Whitewood autumn berries from Hawk Chest.

Silas offers Reese a salute and knowing smile... while he marvels at the star iron ingot he's received.

Ilmia gets Eagle Chest.

Iridescite! Beautiful sparklies. Almost bouncing up and down, Tabitha releases her hold on Pharamond and accepts her prize from Sabella with a giggle. "Oh, thank you so much! What a wonderful event! Ans such a lovely prize too!" She waves over to Evonleigh afterwards, reassuringly, "It's alright, I'm fine! Look what we won!" Then she hooks her hand in Pharamond's and grins. "Yes! That's a wonderful idea!" She waves over to Reese with obvious satisfaction when the Princess takes a pie.

"Thank you to everyone that competed in both events!" Sabella calls out, beaming that brilliant smile of hers out at the crowd, "I hope you stay and enjoy the rest of the evening here at A Taste of Arx in the Grayson Ward! While there have certainly been a myriad of interesting events happening in the world around us and sometimes in our streets, it is always nice to take time out to remember why the Compact and particularly Arx stand out as shining examples of what we should all strive for: diplomacy and teamwork from the ridiculous to the serious. We are better when we are together and celebrate each other. Thank you all for coming and enjoy!"

Reese then curls back upon the pink blanket. "A fun day. I am glad that I came, Lady Willow and I am glad that you came too." She says and then has a smile for Kaya as well, almost seeming to include her in those words. "Look at this pie the Whitehawks made?" She says, showing off the pie.

Gianna carefully arranges her drink so that she can applaud Sabella. "Well said!" she calls out.

Reese is overheard praising Tabitha: Great pies!

Peri takes a very detailed map of Arvum from Lion Chest.

Bhandn is overheard praising Silas.

Evonleigh grins at her cousin. "Very good job! I am glad you didn't have to be burdened with me as your partner again. You have a worthier one by far." Pharamond is given a bright smile.

Reese gets Three Rivers Apple Butter from River Chest.

Monique gets Grayson green apple wine from Gryphon Chest.

Silas is overheard praising Sabella.

Carita gets Lemonade and Rum, Michael Bisland Special from Lion Chest.