While many hosted gatherings in the Capital have a refined feel to them, the festival celebrating the hunters' return here in Fair Harbour has a decidedly rustic country fair feeling. As a gift to the festivalgoers and in celebration of the recent marriage into the Harthall family, all of the food, beer, wine, and ciders are free of charge and amply served. There are children running everywhere, young (and old) people eyeing each other for a potential ask to the dancing area, and just the general excited chaos one might expect.

There's been enough time for the last of the hunt party stragglers to be brought in from the woods and have had the opportunity to have scrubbed up for venturing out to the festival. Guarded and expertly prepared are the two prize catches of the hunt-a beautiful black and sable colored buck with fur as glossy a still pool, and a huge and majestic silvery pale White Hart, almost something out of legend. Alongside them are other catches of the day, from rabbits to pheasants, and even a wild pig. The work is done! And now it's time to party!

The great hunt draws many citizens of Fair Harbour however there is one that should be there and dressed in the dark silks of his house colours with hart and coins embroidered in gold thread, the Marquis wanders slowly through the tables greeting people and taking moments to listen to something someone else says along the way.

Merek had picked up some game to cook for food sometime, but he doesn't quite tell all about it. He has on his black dress attire after changing into it, with his vest upon him also. He makes his way to the tables to find a place to settle in and relax also.

Harlex returns from his hunt and offers back the loaned spear before amending himself with washing and brief, if reflective solitude, for he came alone to the festivities and despite his yet undeclared success the Sword of Lenosia has a bleak mood which he tries to chase with one of the stout beverages provided by the gracious hosts. On the occasion he wears his leather jacket, opened at the front, with an umbra shirt beneath. Trousers of dark hide leather and hard riding boots. About his waist is a wide swordbelt where rest on the left peacebound Mirror Blade and Silverfang. His knife tucked behind a clasped sheathe. Every bit a sellsword and one of such dark presence, hints of masculine jewelry on his throat and two of his fingers. He moves through the party-goers, coming to a tree and resting his back against it; a breath taken and a sip of his drink as the wolf falls into repose. Observing, with more calm, the joyous occasion.

Acantha arrives with Benny in his little backpack, she wasn't here for the hunting, but she did want to see how things were going for the others. If she tried to hunt anything she probably would have cut her own foot off. She finds a drink and a place to settle down to people watch for a bit.

Lisebet promised she would come for this event, so here she is. She also conveniently enough came with family - as her new husband likes to hunt. She is dressed in spiffy armour, but it's definitely not Ashford armour, and it looks wonderful on her, the Farshaw Blue suiting her colouring. No children with her, well, at least not little ones. She glances around, glad to be here, relaxing and enjoying the atmosphere. A small child nearly runs her over, and she pauses to scoop said child up, turn him around and send him running off back to his friends.

There had been plans for Thorley to bring his daughters to visit Fair Harbor before Violet's sudden return. While he was eager to bring his wife along, the allure of the bed and the woman getting to rest in her own quarters for the first time in almost three months was too great. It was decided that Thorley would continue with his plans, and come to Fair Harbor to represent the Farwatch Barony for Ouida - a show of support for the Lady and her recent marriage. With Sorcha bundled up at Thorley's side, the knight turned Sword turned Baron is holding Tala's hand as they walk through the harbor towards the festival site.

Much like her adopted mother, Tala has a bow and quiver slung across her back. "Do you think they will have games tonight, papa?" she asks hopefully. "I'm not sure, Tala. But it's always good to be prepared." he advises his daughter - after all, he's carrying his sword with him. "Tonight, we're guests of our leiges. We need to be on our best behaviours, and make sure you say 'Yes my Lady and Yes my Lord' when addressed. Because it's polite. Now, if it's one of your cousins - they may give you leeway. That's up to them."

Tala gives a nod of her head, her hair pulled back into a braid as the ten year old girl walks next to her father, and he adjusts the bundle that is Sorcha Farwatch. "And we may not be able to stay long, you do have a bed time." he says with a wink, as he notices Harlex. And there's a sense of relief. With the Dire Wolf here, things will go easier, after all, he's one of the best about. Lisebet gets a raise of his hand from Thorley - though he's not going to accost his cousin with children yet, instead he's guiding them to a table to gather food and find a place to take a seat.

Kaya arrives with a collection of bunnies she was able to gather and brings them over to where other people are gathered and settles in quietly as she watches everyone gathering

Rhiannon is with the Ashford contingent. She's in Ashford scout leather, which means it's comfortable, well-worn and meant to not be seen in the forest. Her golden bright hair is covered with a large scarf and there seems to be dirt in it and on her face where the gold comes through. There are slight scratches on exposed skin, detailing that she surely was at the hunt, though she has no trophies or other indications that she was a part of things.

Olivia wanders in not too farbehind Lisebet. She is in armor afain! This time her leathers made for the woods. Rhiannon demands it every time... She looks a little disheveled. Hair a mess dirt on her face. But as she comes to the fair grounds she holds a toad above her head in defiant victory, for all to behold it's fabulous glory.

Ouida is working the crowds, strolling along in a gown no less, and sometimes on the arm of a Lycene-appearing lord who is now wearing Harthall colors just as she is. A servant scurries up to the couple with some franticly whispered words--and the new lord of Harthall goes quickly off with the servant, as Ouida continues on for the moment. "Congratulations, Captain, it is good to see you," she greets Harlex. Merek too is noticed as he settles down to his dinner, and she offers him a smile. The Ashfords' arrival is greeted with a waves across the field as they arrive, and then there's a Thorley and minions to greet with a similar wave.

Arriving a little late with Rukhnis, Rysen, dressed in his northern style mantle, and with weapons peacebound with shreds of Asger's cloak according to tradition, makes his way onto the festival grounds, rather carelessly, perhaps, given all that's transpired at the Last Bridge. He searches about for Ouida, and smiles to see the bounty of the hunt. He helps himself to a stout mug of ale. Noticing Harlex first, he begins to make his way over to the recent champion of the Tournament of Roses.

Olivia has joined the Seating Under a Canopy of Fall Leaves.

Rukhnis follows Rysen in at a short distance, footfalls soft, countenance expressionless and remote. Dressed somberly as ever, she is like a silent shadow drifting across the grass in her lord's wake. Her dark gaze flicks about, observant as ever, though made darker still by a certain weariness.

Rhiannon has joined the Seating Under a Canopy of Fall Leaves.

Acantha gives a smile when she sees Thorley with his children, "Baron Thorley." she waves to him. Then there's a bright smile to Tala and Sorcha, "My Little Ladies, you are getting bigger everytime I see you." she states with a smile. Then back to Thorley, "How are you all doing these days?" she asks the Baron. Then there is a noticing of a few other faces and she holds off on greeting Rysen as he goes to greet another.

Lisebet has joined the Seating Under a Canopy of Fall Leaves.

Acantha has joined the Covered Seating Near the Food and Beverage Stalls.

Harlex settles his spine on the bark and folds one ankle over the other. His drink is savored, features set in their vast gloom before the intensity of his bright, green eyes. Ouida's greeting earns a smile however, "M'lady, it was a fine hunt." A small toast is made before he looks toward the approach of Rysen and lifts his chin a bit, coming off his restful lean. "M'lord."

Hadrian hadn't gone out on the hunt. No, Hadrian remained where the drinks flowed and there is conversation to be had. A glass of wine in hand, he waves it about merrily. The liquid contained within it sloshes about within the bowl when Hadrian abruptly surges up to his feet. One hand rises up to make use of two fingers to nudge the resplendant jewelry adorning his crown, though it falls away quickly enough as he begins to leisurely meander his way in the direction of Marquis Orvyn Harthall. As Hadrian slides into the presence of the Harthall's ruler, Hadrian's charcoal-whitened smile flashes to life and he offers a lift of his glass in gestured salute, "Marquis Harthall, so wonderful to see you, as always. Cambria will be along soon enough, she had to go do something or another," he explains with a free hand that flaps about in a random direction away from himself, "and while I'm sure she'll extend her own thanks for your hospitality, allow me to do so now just in case!" Hadrian's grin persists for a moment before he lofts his glass toward Orvyn, "The Hydra thanks you and is so very happy to call you friend". He says this even as his harlequin eyes begin to slash away and toward the space that Lady Ouida occupies.

A group of very burly looking men makes their way onto the field, lugging what seems to be a giant shallow oaken tub filled with water, with a couple of kitchen boys following them pushing a wagon full of a few bushels of bright red and gold apples. They appear to be setting up near the seating area that has the leafy canopy, finding a place a safe distance away to set the giant tub, and the boys gleefully dumping the load of apples into it.

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

Ouida continues to make her way across the field, though she stops at the tub where now hundreds of apples merrily bob within the water. She pauses there for a moment, as if to gather thoughts, or breath. Though when she catches the sight of her brother and the Mazetti Marquis-Consort, she waves to them as well, her thoughtful expression brightening into a grin.

Eurion is not one to hunt in the field. He much prefers the open waters. But damned if he wasn't going to be out to support his family in spirit at least. He makes his way with a broad grin over towards the canopy and the other Ashfords

Eurion has joined the Seating Under a Canopy of Fall Leaves.

A pleased greeting for Thorley and Violet, a nod of understanding. "When you need to, that is good. Though perhaps when we are not all of us so busy, we shall find a time to discuss some things?" Orvyn offers. To Hadrian, Orvyn bows his head and raises his glass, "Friend and familynow," the glance to Ouida and her recently wedded is noted before he grins again, " And I should likely speak with you at some length in the future as well. Though this Hunt was well organized by the Lady Ouida this year, so I believe that this is the first time that I have the pleasure of just enjoying it."


It's hard to say why Jac is here.
Then again, it's hard to say why Jac does anything.
Whatever her reasons, the lady in red arrives with a stoic fellow, making idle conversation here or there, making sure everyone knows that she's provided one thing or another to the festivities in some blanket explanation of why she's here. Or, more probable, the fact that everyone should know what fabulous treats she has on offer. "Aye. A bag're sommit. Booze maybe. Dunno, I do so bloody much for so bloody many it's a damned trick to keep track of what's helpin' whom. But, there you have it, me, ol' Jac, so splendid, so fair, so generous is all." She can be overheard easily, it's not as though she's quiet, but she never really seems to be talking to anyone in particular.

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

Ouida earns a swift smile from Thorley, and he was about to join her for a few words before Acantha addresses him. With a bright smile, his attention is turned to the young woman. "Lady Clearlake, a pleasure to see you as always. You are looking well. All is going well back home?" he asks, knowing that her land is dear to Violet as he turns his attention fully to her, adjusting the little Sorcha bundle. The bright blue-eyed girl looks up at Acantha and gives a soft coo.

"They seem to sprout a little more every time I turn around." Thorley admits with a laugh, before patting a hand on his stomach. "Though I think they are likewise making me grow too! I'm not getting to adventure as much as I used to - with the duties to Farwatch, and the family, and Violet's commanding of the Blades, and her own things she's taking care of, someone has to be the sacrifice to raise the family." There's a warm and rich laugh at that, as Tala tugs on Thorley's hand, and gestures towards the water feature. "Papa? Can we go over there?" she asks.

"It seems our place has been chosen for me. Women have taken complete control of my life." It's said in mock chagrin, before he starts to head over to take a seat at the water feature to let Tala play with the toy boats. And frogs.

Kaya has joined the Covered Seating Near the Food and Beverage Stalls.

Thorley has joined the Covered Seating near the Water Feature.

Rysen smiles warmly to see Harlex, then immediately frowns to see the man cease his customary lean. "It is good to see you," he says, and raises a mug in toast, "and, of course, congratulations on earning fame, glory and a million silver coins." He take a long drink, and asks, "were you a part of the hunting party?"


Vandred is the one that's accompanying Jac this time, and he does his best to look comfortable, there's another bright celebration on a pretty day, and the man has a blank smile plastered on his face in his attempt to blend in with everything. He even smiles while he's talking, muttering back to Jacali. "Probably booze, Brewmistress. They do so love your alcohol out in these parties that they have. A little liquid happiness here and there never hurt anyone, though."


Have no fear for even though he has ceased his tree-lean, he stands with a rider's lean. Someone accustom to horseback. Harlex returns the toast with an appreciative nod and a small, weary smirk. "Seein' that it goes to a good cause." With his free hand, he flicks the wolf fang on his necklace, made of well forged star iron. "I was, that one is mine." And he indicates to one of the slain beasts on display. BUT WHICH? Find out soon.

Merek looks for something to drink while he is there, then he pours a cup for him self, while he takes a sip of some milk and whiskey while he sighs, relaxing back.

Olivia smiles and waves to Jacali

Jacali doffs her cap toward Olivia.

From her customary place just behind and to one side of Rysen, Rukhnis offers a bow to Harlex that looks sincere in its respect for the man. Following Harlex's comment and gesture, she glances over her shoulder at one of the beasts he's just indicated, which she observes solemnly for a few moments before returning her attention forward.

"Glory and praise be unto her, then," Hadrian retorts playfully at Orvyn's admission that Lady Ouida was the organizer of the year's hunt. He glances off toward Ouida, regards her from the distance, and then casually turns his attention back around to Orvyn. A nod is conveyed and then the Mazetti's marquis answers, "You'd like to speak with me or you need to speak to me?" The question is presented with a wink, but Hadrian answers it the original statement first, "I look forward to it, as always. Write to me when you're ready for it and we'll put our heads together. Hands, too. High fives, you see".

Lisebet moves to greet Ouida, not settling down with the rest of the Ashfords just yet. Catching Ouida's wave, she smiles and returns it, and her steps take her that way. As she makes her way along, she gets a glass of wine. Thorley and children get a smile and a wave, as does Rysen and Rukhnis. She nods to Harlex, and well, the list goes on. Social butterflies outside to join perhaps some real butterflies?

Acantha gives a smile to Thorley, "Kids tend to be like that. I hope that they have fun with the water." she gives a nod to him and wiggles her fingers in a wave at the girls as they depart. For the moment she is content to watch. Then there's a look to the faces she doesn't know. Eurion and a few others get looks and smiles, then she goes to procure herself a drink.

Rysen laughs heartily when Harlex flicks his necklace. He glances over the bounty of the hunt and whistles low. "You may be the most dangerous living mortal, Harlex." Glancing at Rukhnis, Rysen's expression grows grave, and he turns to Harlex and mutters something in a low voice, and takes another long drought of ale.


It seems very sudden, the way Jacali is near to Orvyn -- she's a speedy one, she is, when she's got somewhere to be it seems. She peers over his shoulder toward Hadrian, "Another party, ey, issit? S'at it? Aren't even invited me, diddums, didn't even once, tshhh," Jac pulls a bit of a face up toward Orvyn, then back to Hadrian, "I'm hurt, I am, deeply wounded, mortally so," A beat, a breath taken in quickly through the teeth, "S'a good pain." She concludes.

Rhiannon looks over at her brother as he joins them and she looks up and down as though looking for evidence. "You didn't come hunting with us." An obvious statement that reveals nothing as they all know he wasn't with them. "Working on those plans for Lisebet's project?"

Eurion holds up a finger, about to say something. But then just nods "Yes, that sounds much better than the excuse I was going to give." He grins and gives his sister a hug in greeting "How did it go?"

Elsbetta seeing Lisebet moves towards her sister as well as waves at Ouida.

Kaya quietly observes the event and conversation, letting the bunnies she collected join the other lesser noted pile of animalz

Harlex offers a nod to Rukhnis at her appearance. A slow drink is taken until his cup is emptied and he looks to Rysen. "I don't know about that, but I get by." There's a look around and catches Lisebet's greeting with one of his own before looking back to the Crovane.

"I fear with all that you say that you are in pain and hurt, Mistress Jacali, that one wonders how you are able to walk, let alone function," Orvyn teases Jacali, but nods to Hadrian, "Indeed, another time, also should you wish to find a rather interesting and competent brewer with a flair for the peculiar, look no further than the Black Cauldron and its Mistress here," Orvyn handles introductions, but looks to be dragged off to another section.


Vandred doesn't bother introducing himself to Orvyn, Jacali has all that handled. Instead, he turns and makes his way off to purloin a drink, or two. He returns to Jacali's side after those moments, and lifts up one drink to take a sip from it. He holds it for a moment, swallows, pauses for effect and then offers the drink to Jacali. "To numb the pain, Brewmistress."


Rysen smiles when Lisebet waves, and he returns her greeting with a raise of his mug. He nods to Harlex, and says "I'm not certain, but if you receive a messenger with some desperate scrawl, come look for us," he says with a wry grin. He gazes back out over the festival grounds, watching the children laugh and play, and he seems to relax a bit, before he downs the rest of his ale, and requests another from Rukhnis.

Lisebet catches sight of Elsbetta, but she does go to give Ouida a hug first. "Congratulations," she simply says. "And this is wonderful." She then waves to Orvyn before she goes to give Elsbetta a hug. "hullo, sister," she greets. "Do say hi to everyone, and feel free to come join us sitting over there." She points over to where her friendly Ashfords are hanging out.

Kaya has left the Covered Seating Near the Food and Beverage Stalls.

When Ouida speaks up finally it is with the loud boom of someone well accustomed to having to shout commands across a chaotic and noisy battlefield. "Welcome one and all to the festival of the Great Hunt! Each year we open our fields and forests for all to enjoy the bounty of the land granted to us by the Farshaws for the loyal service of Sir Orvell Harthall generations ago. May our loyalty grow ever deeper, to both liege and Compact, and to our people! And also we celebrate and honor Lord Andreas Harthall, and House Mazetti, as we form new bonds of friendship and cooperation between us, by oath and honor."

She pauses for a moment, smiling at all gathered before moving on. "Now for those who crave the sweet bite of autumn ripe fruits, and have a bold and competative spirit, I invite you to join in a game!" She indicates the bobbing apples. "If you would like to test your mettle at how many apples you can collect with your hands tied behind your back in two minutes, please step forward and do not be shy. And do not worry, grown ones, we know the little ones will run circles around you, so we've provided a special prize for the adults."

Ouida returns Lisebet's hug tightly, hopefully after not blasting her cousin's eardrums out, and offers her a kiss on the cheek as well, before Lisebet's off again.

Harlan enters a bit after the rest of the Ashfords, having clean himself -- although he's still wearing his armor, with Stormbreaker in one hand, the string removed. He walks over towards where Lisebet is, with a warm smile. He looks much relaxed.

Thorley has joined the line.

The arrival of Jacali and the salvo of words which she casts forth seems to draw Hadrian's attention with a curiously lofted brow and lips left slightly apart. He considers her for a moment, even while Orvyn speaks aloud. Then Hadrian's attention returns to Jacali as Orvyn expertly slips away. One arm drapes across Hadrian's midsection, while the opposite elbow slips forward to rest within the cup of his hand. All so that his hand may come to rest against the curve of his jaw. Vandred makes a departure, only to return, and Hadrian's left looking to the pair that is Jacali and Vandred with raised brows and a distinct glint of curiosity shining in his eyes. He does not speak for a few seconds, but finally does nod head and speaks over a ring finger which runs between chin and lower lip, "Well then, that was an interesting introduction. You'd like to come to the meeting which Marquis Orvyn has asked to have with me? I mean... if he's okay with it, I see no reason to deny your presence". Hadrian follows this with a light chuckle. Then Ouida begins to speak and Hadrian turns to regard her. Her words earn some applause from Hadrian, but not enough to be disruptive. The Marquis-Consort of House Mazetti does, however, make it a point to lean aside and a little-too-loudly announce, "Lady Ouida's a real peach! Very pleasant, but also tough! And she clearly possesses some social acumen -- just look at this festival!"

Hadrian is overheard praising Ouida: Lady Ouida's a real peach! Very pleasant, but also tough! And she clearly possesses some social acumen -- just look at this festival!

Lisebet has joined the line.

Thorley is overheard praising Ouida.

Harlex makes a 'tch' at Rysen's comment but it follows a genuine look of amusement, if brief. He sets his cup aside and upnods toward the beginning of the games, "Come on, young fella. Let's go." The black-clad swordsman, all grim and tenebrous, moves on ahead toward the apple bobbing. One cannot simply brood /all the time/ after all.

Olivia has joined the line.

Harlex has joined the line.


"I'm a stalwart one, me, diddums, a fair bloody champion with how I soldier on in the wake of your most thoughtless of actions... denyin' me the way what you do, ey? Ignorin' ol' Jac when she do so much for y--" There's a pause as she's introduced, her strange gaze once again flicking toward Hadrian, her lips pursing before the edges quirk upward in a vacant if undeniably charming smile. "Him's modest, he is," She begins, thrusting her gloved hand forward toward the man, "I'm exquisite." She admits, "Sure you've noticed, 'course you have, keen of eye and mind that you are." The possibility of silver, it seems, makes a proper lady even of her.
"Pleasure's yours, that it is, though I aren't one to complain."
That is a terribly cheeky grin.
Even as she's 'conversing', Vandred arrives with her drink, the hand that isn't thrust toward Hadrian in cordial greeting moving to take the already tasted cup, "So kind, Treacle, and so thorough. There's a reason I aren't ducked you in a bog just yet, right? Knowin' my luck, mind, knowin' it as it is, you'd probably bloody float to the surface like airy leavin's." Her smile doesn't fade, her tone maintains that pleasant tone throughout, and to even the keen observer it might seem that this is, in fact, just the way they communicate.
Her attentions shift toward Ouida as she speaks, "I'm a slip of a thing, me, chickadee... them weeans ain't gunna know what hit 'em!" Whether Hadrian has decided to shake her hand or not, she's turned to march off toward the line, a rolling skip to her gait and an off-key tune hummed for good measure. Over her shoulder she calls back to Vandred and Hadrian, "Don't you despair none, diddums, I shall return to grace you with my loveliness anon!"

Jacali has joined the line.

Rysen has joined the line.

Acantha is overheard praising Ouida.

Olivia skips her way over the apples, blowing right past Rysen and nudging him with her shoulder. A grin on her face. "I shall beat you dear Lisebet."

Rukhnis nods in acknowledgement to Rysen before turning and making her way through the crowd and back to the nearest table stocked with tankards. Choosing a keg of some variety of autumn ale seemingly at random, she fills the tankard to the brim, grimacing faintly as it foams over onto her fingers. As she turns to plunge back into the mob of people separating her from Rysen, she pauses by the great beasts slain in the hunt -- it almost looks for a moment as if she's inclining her head towards them with as much respect as she had just displayed towards Harlex shortly before. A few moments more and she's returned to Rysen's side, offering him the ale with a bow.


Vandred smiles at Hadrian, his eyes flitting from Jacali, back to the man. It goes a few times as he does his best to keep himself following the conversation, before Jacali turns and decides to compete with those poor folk at bobbing for apples. As she passes by, Vandred's free hand snaps out and takes the cup from the woman as smoothly as you'd please - apparently he's quite used to taking and holding things for Jacali when she's done with them for the time being.
"The Brewmistress is a hurricane of activity." He states to Hadrian, before he turns to look off towards the line. He takes the second drink and lifts it up, before repeating the procedure of sipping, waiting, swallowing, pausing and then taking another drink. "I wonder. Do we get to keep the apples afterwards?"


Lisebet promptly goes to get in line, because she can only fail. And hey, it won't be the first or last time for that! She glances over at Elsbetta and shrugs delicately. "Come play!" she encourages everyone.

Acantha finishes her drink off and there's a look around to things. Benny gives a thump and there's a look over her shoulder to him. A nod is given and then she gathers herself up to make a quiet exit.

Acantha has left the Covered Seating Near the Food and Beverage Stalls.

Following after Tala after she's very much wanting to go bobbing for apples, Thorley follows after and sighs with a warm laugh. "Okay, okay, but if your dress gets soaked, it's not my fault!" he teases her playfully.

Elsbetta follows her sister. It been a while since she bobbed for apples but she is willing to try

Rysen glances at Olivia as she brushes past him, and he smiles, shaking his head. When Rukhnis arrives with more ale, he thanks her, and nods to the tubs of water and apples. "Care to play, Rukhnis? This is game is not as pleasant in Stormwall where it's cold as the Abyss this time of year, but I think the goal is to get apples out of the tub without using your hands."

"No, Lord Rysen, I am well enough as I am," Rukhnis declines the apple-bobbing offer politely. She's made of much sterner stuff than Harlex -- she /so can/ brood all the time.

Hadrian's none too shy in returning Jacali's handshake, though he clearly shows some amusement at her antics as she promptly departs to pursue other endeavors. Hadrian's attention casually slides around toward Vandred and a cool, silken smile easily trickles across his sharp features as he nods along with Vandred's words, "She makes that abundantly clear in only a few sentences". Hadrian's attention travels back after Jacali, considers her for a time, and then back to Vandred his focus returns, "Something to request of the hostess, perhaps," Hadrian remarks on the topic of the leftover apples. A brief pause and then Hadrian adds with a glance back toward Vandred, "Looking to make a lot of pies?"

Lisebet is overheard praising Armani: So kind and generous!

Coming to stand beside Hadrian, Cambria folds her arms along her abdomen and peers towards the gathering of those preparing to bob for apples. She murmurs something aside to Hadrian, then shakes her head, lips turned down into a pout.


"Cider. Or pies. The Brewmistress is getting into baking recently, but I wouldn't want to say outright what she's going to be making - it's usually whatever the ingredients tell her they want to be, as far as I can surmise." Vandred replies to Hadrian, and he takes another quick drink. "I will make a request after the fun is over. I don't think they would complain too much." The drink is sniffed once, before he licks his bottom lip. "The Brewmistress doesn't like to beat around the bush when it comes to making introductions."


Turn in line: Thorley

Thorley checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 21 higher.

Elsbetta has joined the line.

Rysen removes his mantle and gives it to Rukhnis. He squints competitively at Olivia.

Thorley checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 30, rolling 39 higher.

While Thorley is slow and methodical in his apple grabbing, Tala is more than hapy to go splashing face first into the water, sloshing it all over the place as she's chucking apples over the side. She /wants/ to win this contest! Thorley ends up stopping, pulling up to look at his daughter in blank amazement. "Okay, fine. You get all the aples."

Turn in line: Lisebet

Lisebet checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 15, rolling 26 higher.

Rukhnis accepts Rysen's mantle, folding it neatly over one arm as she looks on with a detached air. She continues to observe the apple-bobbing game for as long as it takes the first couple of contestants to thoroughly drench themselves, but doesn't seem to find all this terribly compelling. Her gaze drifts instead to the part of the field where commoners young and old are merrily performing the steps of some energetic country dance, and watches this with just barely perceptibly more interest.

Lisebet watches Tala and Thorley, cheering them on. And then it's her time, and she gets to try. She's still laughing at Tala's determination, but she does get going, making a reasonable attempt at it despite her small stature. Wait, maybe that's what's helping her? She's small enough, she's close to one of the kids? She bobs and grabs, bobs and - yes, she can do this. Though two minutes feels like a long time. She does come up with a laugh, when she's stopped, shaking her head. And then her gaze goes to Harlan. Because she's gotten a little bit wet.

Turn in line: Olivia

Olivia checked stamina + survival at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

Olivia watches the people go before her. When it is her turn to go she stands over fhe apples. She dips a finger in and... Nope way too cold... She spends the majority of her alloted time trying to build up the courage to dunk her head and get an apple... by the time she does... times up... one apple.

Turn in line: Harlex

Harlex checked stamina + survival at difficulty 15, rolling 51 higher.

Olivia walks off taking a bite, looking awful proud of herself.

"Cider or pies," Hadrian repeats with a soft dip of his chin. He glances after Jacali once again and then, again, back to Vandred as a grin easily splits the Mazetti's features, "I knew a prodigal - claimed to be some sort of medicine woman or some such - back in Southport. She had this concoction of apple cider, cinnamon, spirits, and juice from apples that she made. She claimed that the alcohol was tasteless, that it could be used to clear floors and leave them with a fresh apple smell, and that it would rid the belly of angry spirits. I can confirm at the very least the first of her claims". Hadrian's attention drifts aside to regard Cambria and her arrival. When she leans aside to speak quietly at him, Hadrian tilts himself aside and down to offer a quietly murmured answer.

Merek has joined the line.

Harlex settles up to the barrel and takes in a breath. He dunks his head and seems to be able to catch no less than two apples per dip between his hard teeth. The wolf is hungry. He scores near at least fifty-one of them before his time is finished and his beard and thick black hair run with water droplets that swim down the length of his strong neck. He digs his fingers back, pushing his strands flat and laughs roughly at his results. "Well I'll be. Not to bad."

Turn in line: Jacali

Orvyn is overheard praising Harlex: A bushel bite, though we wont say he has a large mouth.

Jacali checked dexterity + legerdemain at difficulty 15, rolling 18 higher.

Harlex checked perception + survival at difficulty 15, rolling 12 higher.

Lisebet counts her apples, of course, and then takes a few, since she can. She heads over to where the Ashfords are, just behind Olivia. She tosses an apple to everyone there, and then moves to hug Harlan and kiss him on the cheek with an impish grin. Water dripping everywhere!

Harlan moves to hug his wife before he realizes she's damp. He then laughs, and instead pulls her closer to a hug, accepting the kiss on the cheek before giving her one back on the lips! Mwah!

Harlan has joined the Seating Under a Canopy of Fall Leaves.

Jacali checked dexterity + legerdemain at difficulty 15, rolling 32 higher.

Vagari - Cinder Kitten arrives, delivering a message to Rysen before departing.

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


As Harlex is going about his dunking business, Jac is somewhere nearby with that winning smile of hers; she's cheering him on, she's such a good friend. In the fray of his savage hungering, surely he won't miss a handful of apples. Though by the end of it all, the pockets of her coat are a little fuller for her deft-fingered efforts, a hearty slap papped against the wolf's back as she gives him some super-encouraging thumbs up before pulling her hat from her head and neatly handing it off to him.
"Fair went at them, ey? Aren't the only one what's hungry, diddums." She murmurs to him as she turns toward the tub, straightening herself, centering... before she unceremoniously plows her face into the water, hands clasped neatly behind her as she pulls out one after the other to fling them out onto the ground with a soft 'ptew' to accompany each. When her time is up, she straightens herself midway through her best impersonation of the girl from the ring: That is to say, her hair is all over her face, and she's sopping wet. She snorts softly, lifting a gloved hand to shove her hair back out of her face before approaching Harlex, "Quite sure that's me won, my tart, quite sure -- positive, in fact, aren't never more sure of anythin' in my life." Huff, she flicks some water droplets off her face before reaching for her hat daintily. "No matter what them lot say... we'll always know the truth, us."

Turn in line: Rysen

Rysen plunges his head into the water with more zeal than skill. Managing to amass a small amount of apples, he looks for Olivia to brag. Instead noticing that everyone around him seems to have a much larger collection, he sighs, and steps over to a decidedly less crowded area, and shakes the water out of his dark hair, before walking over to Rukhnis.

Turn in line: Elsbetta


"I wouldn't profess to know all of the Brewmistresses skils, but I can state that she is a very accomplished alchemist and healer. I think she could have been a Mercy, if her inclination took her that way." Vandred replies to Hadrian, before he turns his hands over - stacking one cup atop the other - before he then extends his left hand towards the man. "Please accept my apologies for not introducing myself. I am Vandred. I think the best descriptor would be that I am the Brewmistress' assistant. I do the heavy lifting of objects." His smile turns genuine for a moment, causing all the correct wrinkles, then fades back to that plastered on smile.
"I think that the Brewmistress and I would have been delighted to have met this prodigal. Knowing how to get rid of stains on the floor and upset stomachs would be a fantastic bit of know-how."


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

Elsbetta gathers the wisps of her hair that are loose back as she bends over the apples. As she remembers it she really wasn't very good at this and as she dunks her head into the water she inhales some of the cold water in shock. Sputtering she comes up looking like a drowned kitten and laughing at her herself.

Turn in line: Merek

Before she ducks back down and grabs one. YEY!!!

Merek checked dexterity + survival at difficulty 15, rolling 12 higher.

Rukhnis returns Rysen's mantle to him, along with a handkerchief that she's produced from somewhere within the folds of her sash. Having done this, she proceeds to wait with great patience and attentiveness for whatever else he might ask of her. She's still got half an eye on the dancing, though.

Merek moves to the barrel to do his looking for any apples next, while he manages to find some! He is not an expert, but he manages that well enough while he does also.

The wet wolf of Lenosia wipes down his face as Jacali approaches. He flashes a sharper grin and comes up in time to cease any further /theft/ but definitely not quick enough to actually notice. Harlex looks very proud of his apples. "Well, food chain and all that -- eaters and the eaten." He replies before giving an exaggerated bow and letting her step up to the task. "Don't mess up that pretty hat of yours, yeah?"

Finally he looks toward his fifty -- er -- forty? Forty five apples. That seems right. He nods sternly and rubs his jaw with some thought as Jacali finishes. He squints and taps the side of his nose, before he grins a bit more dryly and shakes his head. "One of a kind, Jac." He mutters. But Rysen earns an applause and Elsbetta too. "Good head soak'll do you fine. Well done."

Once the feeding fren--her apple bobbing contest is over, what was once a pristine tub of water and glossy fresh apples is now frothy with discarded apple chunks and gods know what else from the round of grown up and little contestants. Ouida is watching the proceedings, though it's with a general eye and so the knight is TOTALLY CLUELESS that anything untoward might be occuring. Apples are counted by the pair of kitchen boys, as other helpers hand out warm towels and shrugs to help warm up cold participants. After a brief consultation, Ouida's voice rings out again. "For our outstanding youth competitor, may I present Lady Tala Farwatch! And for our larger contestant, I congratulate Captain Harlex Valtyr, Sword of Lenosia! Perhaps in a few years time, we will have to have a rematch, I have a feeling that you will have quite a fight on your hands in the rematch, Captain Valtyr!" She holds out a beautiful bottle of brandy for Harlex, and then an adorable and soft stuffed animal deer, complete with little antlers of bone, for Tala.

Ouida drops Limited Brandy Brew - Harthall's 'All That Glitters'.

Harlex takes Limited Brandy Brew - Harthall's 'All That Glitters'.

"Thank you," Rysen says quietly to Rukhnis as he dries himself off with her handkerchief. He hands it back to her and sweeps his mantle back over his shoulders, clasping it at his shoulder. Rysen grins at Harlex, and shakes his head looking at the sellsword's still enormous pile of apples. He lifts his ale in salute as Harlex is named the champion.

Rysen's gaze follows Rukhnis's toward the people dancing. "Care to give it a try?" he asks without looking at her, and taking a healthy sip of ale.

Thorley checked perception + empathy at difficulty 15, rolling 6 lower.

"If you are disappointed in your loss, may I recommend you speak to our second place winner, Mistress Jacali, whose handiwork it is. You will never be disappointed in her work, I promise you!" Ouida smiles and offers a bow of her head to both Harlex and Jacali, and to Tala as well. "Take a few moments to enjoy some refreshments and dry off. And then if you'd like to partake in some sailing around our wee litte island here--" she indicates the water feature with the toy boats, "We will start that race in just a little while.

The line has been dismissed by Ouida.

Lisebet is sure she came second, even if she didn't really. She cheers from her spot over there, where she's now warming up and drying off. And then Ouida bursts that bubble and Lisebet pouts for only a moment. Then she laughs. "I see I shall have to take some lessons from Tala."

As Tala accpets her prize, the young girl hugs the stuffy to her chest and jumps up and down for a moment, happy with it. For a moment, she looks over to Jacali, considering her, and she looks from the stuffy deer to Jacali. And then she goes over to the woman. Holding up the stuffed animal to Jacali, she offers, "I have a lot of stuffed animals at home. You can have this one." Did she catch Jacali stealing? Maybe - she was a girl of the streets once - and orphaned abandoned.

"I do not think any of those people out there are wanting a partner such as myself," Rukhnis returns blandly to Rysen. "Besides, it would not be suitable when I am on duty." She accepts the return of her now very soggy handkerchief, wringing it out before slipping it back in her sash.

Harlex takes the offered brandy and holds it up to the cheering crowds (which probably exist). He does look toward the direction of the younger champion with a warmer smile. "I don't doubt it," the Sword admits before he takes his trophy and steps away while young Tala goes off to be adorable. He shakes his hair loose and smooths it back again. A nod given to Rysen and a corner grin. Then he goes to find someplace to sit.


"Aren't the world all the worse for it? 'Course it is," Jacali grins wide at Harlex and his statement about her being one of a kind, securing her hat back in place as Ouida is making her announcements. There's a raspberry blown in her direction as Harlex's name comes out, leaning toward the much larger man. "Oh, aye..." It's nearly growled out, "This aren't over, monkey..." There's something about that wry smirking of hers that tells any and all watching that that's the truth of the matter, but there is mirth in those odd green eyes as she turns to meander back toward Vandred, Hadrian and Cambria.
"Refreshin'." She announces as she nears, grin broader yet, dimples formed in her cheeks. She stops dead in her tracks as Ouida mentions her name, a quick turn on her heel direction her attentions back to the others, her hat raised high up before a low and elaborate bow is given to the crowd. "Black Cauldron," She offers, "Lower Boroughs. Be not afraid, children, for though many might bark at your approach, the only bite I'll let ya feel is that which lingers in my bitters, ey? Aye, 'course." Her hat is popped back on, her fingers giving an audible tap to the top of it.
And then the child is approaching her.
She blinks, looking down toward Tala with a quirked brow, her head tilting to the side, her smile idly fading from the grand gesture it is, "Aw, chickadee..." A gloved hand reaches to brush her thumb pad across the lass's cheek, "You're a wee treasure, you are ... bright like the bloody sun, ey?" She snoots out a bit of a sound, giving glarey side-eyes to any that dare look her way before she crouches down to mutter something to the small child, reaching out to claim the stuffed animal for her own.
"You remember that, aye? Aren't never not true, that."

Rhiannon pushes Eurion forward at the mention of a boat challenge. "Oooh! Something my little brother can jump into that will showcase his /particular/ talents. Go on, Eurion!"

Eurion's brow raises as he eyes his sister "-Ships- I sail -ships- dear sister. Though to be fair I probably put out enough hot air to send the little toys spinning away most days."

When Jacali accepts the gift, Tala listens to the woman and nods. And Jacali is not quick, she may find herself hugged. And then Tala is stepping back and she gives a quick curtsey before she approaches her father. "Can we go home? I'm tired." she offers. Apparently she took Jacali's whisper to mean RIGHT NOW. Thorley glances down at the child and gives a nod, slipping his Sorcha bundle back in place. "of course, sweetheart." he offers, taking Tala's hand and offering a bow of his head towards Ouida.

Thorley has left the Covered Seating near the Water Feature.

The tub and...apple remnants are cleared away--perhaps there will be many happy horses in the stables tonight! And preparations begin near the pool of water and the island mockup nearby. Those wishing to participate begin to gather, each allowed to pick out one of the toy sailboats moored in the harbor, and given both a fan and a wide reed/straw. This time the newly minted Harthall lord comes to stand beside Ouida as they look out on the preparations.


Vandred's attention turns down towards Tala and Jacali, and the man looks a bit frozen in place for a moment - like he's not entirely sure what he should do here. So instead he freezes up and looks ultimatey conflicted. His plastered on smile fades away, and his bottom lip trembles for a moment before he manages to capture some composure and coughs. The cups stacked up wobble for a bit, before he then regains his plastered on smile as Tala goes on her way. Then he takes his cup and offers it out to Jacali.
"Here you go, Brewmistress."


Hadrian's attention drifts aside to regard Jacali and her return. He lifts his chin in silent acknowledgment, though his hands lightly pat at the opposite, "A novel display". Then his attention turns around to regard a stocky, bald-headed man in bold red attire who arrives to murmur at both Cambria and Hadrian. The latter leans aside to listen to a quietly spoken something or another, then Hadrian nods, and he turns his attention around to regard Cambria. He lifts his chin at her as a hand lifts to rub a gloved finger beneath his chin and then around to idly scratch at the curve of his jaw beneath his right ear. Again he looks back to both Jacali and Vandred, a smile smoothly transitioning across his features, "If you'll please excuse us. I'm glad you were able to meet me, finally". Then Hadrian extends an arm toward Cambria and begins to move off after Luigi.

Rysen glances at Rukhnis, and then finds a comfortable spot for his ale. "On duty?" he scoffs, returning to her side. "We're not on campaign with Harlex, drinking that gods awful excuse for coffee he brews out of ash and burnt hair. You're allowed to have fun at a festival. Let's try it. I'm feeling better after the lessons," he says, and starts walking toward the part of the field set up for dancing, waving her to follow. Approaching an older couple, he asks, "Master, Misses, do you mind showing us the steps to this dance?"

Cambria slips her own arm through the one Hadrian has offered, and without much more than that, departs with the former Duke of Southport.

Rukhnis doesn't quite suppress an exhalation like a sigh, but does manage to not go so far as to shake her head at Rysen in despair for his lack of perfect propriety. She follows after him with an expression of resignation, but as they reach the dancing portion of the field she says helpfully to Rysen, "It is not so different from the steps which Lord Martino taught, except that instead of merely stepping, it is more of a series of skips back and forth and slantwise." She ponders a moment. "Also some turning. And clapping. I am sure it cannot be very difficult, though."

Harlex finds a table and he steps up onto the bench and turns to sit atop to observe the dancers and the music. He has his brandy, but its left closed. A gift, perhaps, for another. Instead he has a cup of whisky, some of that Oathlander stuff with the honey in it, while he eyes with those bright and cold hues the party-goers. Trying to capture that cheer for himself, in its small dose. Distilled, behind his grim countenance. Honed and dangerous, drying off finally, he tongues his back tooth with some consideration. Until he hears Rysen's comment. "Hey, that coffee is a mercenary trade secret. Wakes up all the senses. Grows hair on the chest, too." He /assures/ the Lord pulling down the loose collar of his umbra shirt, revealing a swath of coarse black hair over firm pectorals. Harlex the /children/! But they definitely aren't on campaign and the wolfish swordsman remains more in repose than on alert.

Rukhnis has joined the Comfortable Seating Near the Musicians and Dancing.

Elsbetta has joined the Seating Under a Canopy of Fall Leaves.

Rysen laughs when Harlex responds. And nods to Rukhnis. After watching the older couple dance a few turns, he says to Rukhnis, "You're right. Not too far from the folk dances in the North either." He takes Rukhnis's hand, and moves towards the center of the dancers, smiling. He does his best to follow the steps of the other dancers, and seems to have had enough ale to enjoy the turning and clapping as well.

Rysen has joined the Comfortable Seating Near the Musicians and Dancing.

"Sailors and Captains, come get ready to launch your vessels," Ouida calls out after a time, and there is a good mixture of people ready to participate, of all ages, all carefully making their selections and receiving their reeds and fans. "It is up to you and your lungs and your wits to move your boat around the isle," Ouida explains. "The only rule is that you may not touch the boat with your hand or implement to propel it forward. At the mark, good sailing!" There is a pause, and then she puts two fingers to her lips to signal the start with a whistle.

Elsbetta checked stamina + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Harlan calls out, "Well, you -did- say you were full of hot air, Eurion!" He grins, rooting his cousin on.

The first part of the course, from the harbor to open water and on the way is relatively free of obstacles, except for other boats, and the occasional terrified frog trying to leap and swim to more friendly waters. There are a couple of ducks perched on high on the island, watching things with great and predatory interest.

Lisebet looks a bit conflicted, but then she simply cheers for both her sister and her new cousin-in-law.

Elsbetta watches in amazement as her ship moves forward. She can't help but be amused and laughs as she claps.

Eurion checked stamina + sailing at difficulty 10, rolling 12 higher.

Eurion settles the boat down and just shakes his head with another chuckle "Well I guess I better live up to all my boasting of course."

Even though the first part of the course was relatively easy, there are mishaps--a few boats crash and tangle, one of the frogs hops out of the water to cling to the mast of another, leaving the woman who was fanning the sail running in fright and abandoning her ship. But amongst those emerging from the fray are Elsebetta's sailboat and Eurion's sailboat with a few others, now moving towards a narrower part of the water as they round the first half of the island.

Elsbetta checked stamina + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 6 lower.

Eurion checked stamina + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 27 higher.

Elsbetta watches with increasing amusement as one of the ducks wades over to her little boat and starts to see if the green sail might be edible after all. "Shoo silly thing" she mutters at it with no avail as the boat flounders and sinks.

Merek checked stamina + sailing at difficulty 15, rolling 20 higher.

Merek looks to the races, deciding if he wishes to do it, and he nods a bit while he moves to find a boat. He then settles to one and takes a moment to bein with them. He probably needs to catch up, but doesn't seem to mind. He's doing it for fun.

Eurion blows into the sail, his eyes rolling a bit as he shuffles along, another quick huff of air would send his little boat spinning around a lilypad and away from a frog

The ducks sense blood in the water--or maybe these strange people and little boats infringing on their territory, and they are NOT satsified with just taking out Elsbetta's boat! They swoop down to land amongst the surviving boats trying to wind their way around the other half of the island, bodychecking another child's boat and sending it to the bottom of the water feature, thankfully much to his delight. Eurion's boat is defintely the front runner as they they round the final pass, but Merek's boat is catching up quick. The final stretch is a maze of jagged rocks that the boats must make their way around to make it safely back to the harbor. Other defeated players still crowd around though, watching Eurion and Merek and seeing which man is full of the strongest and most agilely directed hot air!

Merek checked stamina + sailing at difficulty 25, rolling 17 higher.

Lisebet shakes her head, as she watches. "So do we get to call the winner the master of hot air?" she asks, teasing.

Harlan grins, "A blowhard, I think?"

"Elsbetta, well done," Lisebet calls. Because hey she tried! more than Lisebet did. She then chuckles at Harlan's suggestion, sitting by the duke with her hand securely in one of his.

Eurion checked stamina + sailing at difficulty 25, rolling 18 higher.

Merek does amazing for someone that started after others, but he is an Admiral that knows how sails work. Still, Eurion does manage to beat him, and he takes his time to tail up after the man, deciding to spend more focus on making his ship twirl in circles as he works on it, leaning forward to it while he does.

"I guess the duck's conspired against me" Elsbetta says as she watches the race from her spot. At least this time she hasn't gotten wet.

Merek is overheard praising Eurion.

It's a nailbiter down at the water feature, as the last person who was keeping up wtih Eurion and Merek's boats can't navigate the warren of jagged rocks and shallow areas to get through to the harbor on the other side, and her boat capsizes. Those final two boats are neck and neck, and in truth it is pretty amazing to see how well they can manipulate fanned or blown air even into a toy sail to make the craft go where they wish it to. They probably make it look easy, but the other competitors know how difficult it is! But Eurion keeps his leader position, and when his boat is the first to return to the little harbor, there's a cheer that goes up from others who have been watching, and then again for Merek, the people appreciating such a close show!

Rysen and Rukhnis seem to have adapted to the local dance, as they move about the field to tunes of the musicians. At the close of a song, Rysen makes his way back to his ale, and gulps down the rest.

Rysen then makes his way over to Ouida, and whispers something to her, and bows respectfully. He waits to make eye contact with Olivia and waves a farewell, before making his way to Harlex, and offering the Sword of Lenosia an arm clasp in the Northern style. "Take care, Harlex. You need any help with that brandy, I'm not hard to find," he grins, and begins to make his way from the festival grounds.

Rhiannon is overheard praising Eurion.

Ouida smiles as she steps forward to congratulate the winner. She a deep bow of her head to the Ashford lord, and then one again to Merek. "Well sailed, Sir Merek," she offers to him. And then a bright smile for the victor. "Congratulations to Lord Eurion Ashford, for his win! She take a small wooden chest, not unlike a minature pirate's chest, opens it, and offers Eurion a splendid and unexpectedly beautiful pouch that's quite full of coins. "To the victor goes the spoils!"

Harlan applauds his cousin as well as Sir Merek, "Very nicely done!"

Orvyn is overheard praising Eurion: A mighty wind issues forth from this man!

Harlan is overheard praising Eurion: Lord Blowhard for the win!

Harlan is overheard praising Merek: Very nicely done! Blow harder next time!

Ouida curtsies to Rysen. "Thank you so much for coming, my lord. I hope you enjoyed yourself. Safe sails back home."

Merek is overheard praising Ouida: Great hunting feast!

Merek is overheard praising Farshaw.

Jacali is overheard praising Ouida: Lookit her aaarrrse.

Rysen has left the Comfortable Seating Near the Musicians and Dancing.

Elsbetta is overheard praising Eurion: the best sailor of us

Ouida drops A black velvet pouch with Harthall's Stag and Coins embroidered on it.

Rukhnis accompanies Rysen off the dance-field with the faintest hint of regret, her expression losing the little bit of openness it might have held while dancing, and becoming shuttered and remote once again. She offers her own formal bows of farewell to everyone and follows Rysen as he makes his departure.

Ouida takes A black velvet pouch with Harthall's Stag and Coins embroidered on it.

Harlex returns the arm clasp for Rysen as its given and he nods, "I think I shall be sharing it with my princess back home. But whatever remains, it'd be fine to share a drink with you." He grins slightly for both him and Rukhnis. "Safe travels home."

Rukhnis has left the Comfortable Seating Near the Musicians and Dancing.

Rhiannon actually claps for her brother and a little smile curves on her lips. "Congratuations little brother. We always knew you were full of hot air."

"Well done," Lisebet calls out, cheering the competitors in general, as well as Eurion for his vicory. "Three cheers for House Harthall!"


Vandred stands there, having two cups, and looking exceptionally out of place. He gently clanks the two cups together as a cheer.


Rhiannon is overheard praising Eurion: So full of hot air!

Eurion gives one of his broad grins and raises up from the little ship "I still prefer my own ship to the little boat. But that was some fun and fine competition!" His eyes a light in amusement at the sight of the tiny treasure chest

Elsbetta is overheard praising Ouida: for being such a good hostess

Lisebet is overheard praising Ouida: great party! Congrats!

What's a party without a commoner or two drawn to it because of the music, free food and booze? Maja comes wandering into the festivities, a bright smile on her face even though it is clear that things are winding down. The curly-haired cutie looks around, trying to get a bead on things, and makes a bee-line over to wear the munchies are. Something roasted is grabbed in one hand, a mug of something alcoholic in the other and she gets to work. Gotta fill the tummy before everything gets packed up!

Orvyn is overheard praising Ouida: A marvelous hunt host!

Rhiannon is overheard praising Ouida: An entertaining hunt and party!

The festivities continue, but as the afternoon is starting to stretch into the time when the light is starting to dim, Ouida steps up one more time to try to gather the attention of the crowd. "Last but not least of this evening's congratulations, I wish to offer my congratulations to Captain Harlex Valtyr, for the hunting trophy judged most magificent, and one that I have not seen its like in my generation. He brought back the elusive White Hart that we thought was only legend and takes the grand title. But there are special congratulations awarded also to Duke Harlan Ashford, Duchess Consort Lisebet Ashford, Lady Olivia Ashford and Lady Rhiannon Ashford, who brought back another unusual and beautiful trophy--a black and sable stag, a most unusual color that is only rarely seen here on our islands. Thanks to all of our hunters that have helped us ensure there is room for the next generation of nature's bounty on our islands to flourish, and we hope to see all of you again here next year!"

Harlan applauds for Harlex and says, "Majestic beasts -- almost a shame to kill them, but the hunt was exhilirating!"

The lone huntsman, Harlex Valtyr, lifts a hand to wave as he's congratulated. "He fought well," the swordsman assures Harlan and nods in agreement nonetheless.

"Don't look at me, it was all Harlan," Lisebet says. "I just stood there and looked pretty."

Harlan grins towards Lisebet, "A very well you did that, indeed!"

Elsbetta is overheard praising Harlex: mighty hunter of animals and apples

Jacali points at Harlex on her way out, "Be here next year, diddums... we've a score to settle, us." Another broad grin before her hand lifts to fire off a lazy two-fingered salute, her head turning toward Vandred before she jerks her chin upward to point toward the way they came. "Right, that's us off, then. Toodle-pip-fu---er, cheery-bye, diddumses and chickadees all. Don't forget to send missives should you need anything for your most splendid events. Remember..." Her brows raise and she pauses, clearly having lost what it was she was going to say. "Er. No matter how spectacular you hope it might be," Shifty gaze, "... Ol' Jac can always make it better."

Jacali is also keeping the apples.

"I'll keep the fangs sharp," Harlex assures Jac with a mock-salute and a wolfish grin.

Oooooo! Captain Harlex! The one who is now rolling in silver thanks to his boon from the Crown? /That/ Captain Harlex? Maja looks over at him as she bites into the enormous turkey leg she's chowing on, the thing so big that it has to be giving her noodle-like arms a work out just from holding it. Her eyebrows lift up, her expression curious, as she looks the man over.


Vandred's lips purse as he considers the two cups that he has. He promptly finishes his cup, before he finishes off the other. He then promptly turns and begins following after Jacali, not uttering so much as a word. His empty hands smooth over his coat and tug it a bit more closed. "That was a lot of fun, Brewmistress."